Kotor, Montenegro, is a town that offers the perfect balance of history, stunning natural landscapes, and adventure. During our stay at Old Town Hostel, we were immersed in the vibrant culture of Kotor. The hostel was centrally located, making it easy to explore the town’s ancient walls, participate in bar crawls, and even embark on a full-day catamaran tour of the Bay of Kotor.
Exploring the City Walls at Dawn
One of the most memorable experiences during our time in Kotor was waking up at the crack of dawn to hike up the Old City Walls. Despite feeling under the weather, the breathtaking views made every step of the steep climb worthwhile. The walls snake up the mountain behind Kotor, offering stunning views of the bay and the city below. Along the way, we passed ancient ruins and the Church of Our Lady of Remedy, an impressive medieval church perched on the mountainside.
The hike itself was challenging—especially with the Mediterranean heat and my less-than-perfect health—but the view of Kotor’s bay, with its crystal-clear water surrounded by towering mountains, was absolutely worth it. It’s no wonder the Bay of Kotor is often referred to as one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
A Day on the Adriatic: Catamaran Adventure
Another highlight of our time in Kotor was a full-day catamaran tour around the bay. This tour was incredibly well-priced at just €30 per person for a whole day on the water. The Adriatic Sea is breathtakingly beautiful—its waters clear and calm, but surprisingly salty and chilly when you dive in!
We visited the iconic Our Lady of the Rocks, a small man-made island with a fascinating history. According to legend, sailors would drop a rock into the bay every time they returned safely, gradually forming the island. The Our Lady of the Rocks Church is home to beautiful murals and a treasure chest filled with foreign currencies left by visitors.
The boat trip continued as we explored Fort Mamila, another relic of the region’s turbulent history. This fort, now in ruins, once protected the bay from invaders. It was fascinating to wander through the crumbling stone walls, imagining what life must have been like for the soldiers stationed there.
Lunch at Porto Adriatic
One of the highlights of our catamaran trip was a stop for lunch at Porto Adriatic, a seaside restaurant nestled on the bay. The food was fresh and delicious, and I enjoyed an amazing prawn risotto while taking in the stunning views of the Adriatic. Seafood in Kotor is some of the best I’ve ever had, with rich flavors and fresh catches straight from the sea.
The History of Montenegro and Kotor
Kotor is a town steeped in history. Montenegro itself has been a crossroad of empires for centuries, from the Romans to the Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans. This history is reflected in Kotor’s architecture, where medieval stone buildings are nestled alongside Baroque palaces and Orthodox churches. The St. Nicholas Church is one of the many religious landmarks in Kotor, standing as a testament to the city’s diverse cultural and spiritual heritage.
As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kotor has maintained its medieval charm and preserved many historic landmarks. The town’s narrow alleyways and stone buildings tell stories of centuries past. Exploring the old town feels like stepping back in time, and everywhere you look, there’s something to remind you of Kotor’s long and storied history.
Reflections on Kotor
Kotor is a city that captivates you with its beauty, history, and the energy of the Adriatic. From climbing the ancient city walls to sailing through the bay, Kotor offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. It’s a place where the past meets the present, where the mountains meet the sea, and where every corner reveals something new and exciting.
Whether you're hiking up the old walls, marveling at ancient churches, or enjoying the fresh seafood along the Adriatic coast, Kotor is an unforgettable destination that leaves a lasting impression.
Here are some more photos from the trip:
