If you’ve got just one day in Kotor, then there’s plenty to pack into your itinerary. From azure beaches to ancient city walls, it’s amazing how much this compact little place has to offer.
In this article – we outline how to spend one day in Kotor, whether you’re into history, culture, or beachside relaxing.
We spent a week exploring Kotor Bay in July 2023 and this city was a highlight of the trip. You know a place is good when it hammers down with rain yet you’re still totally smitten with it! Despite the weather being terrible (the only rainy day of our whole week) we loved spending the day exploring Kotor and discovering all its hidden gems!
One Day Kotor Itinerary
Nestled along the scenic Bay of Kotor, the ancient (tiny) city of Kotor in Montenegro is a treasure trove of history, natural beauty, and architectural wonders. While Budva is the more popular option for tourists, Kotor has the same charms but without the crowds. If you’re short on time but eager to explore, we’ve got the perfect itinerary for you…
- Morning – Ancient Roman settlement, old town, city walls, Ladder of Kotor hike
- Afternoon – Kampana Tower, Kotor beach or lido, and Dobrota Riva Promenade (or half day boat trip of the bay)
Whether you’re spending one day in Kotor from a cruise ship, doing it as a day trip from Tivat, or just there for a flying visit, you can tick off all the best bits by following this guide…
Morning: Old Town & Ladder of Kotor
Start your day with a visit to the Ancient Roman Settlement, the incredible ruins of a civilization long past. If you’re coming from Tivat or Budva, then this will be the first attraction on the road into Kotor. Marvel at the remnants of history and explore what’s left of this ancient coastal town.
Next, head to the Sea Gate, the impressive entrance to Kotor’s old town. As you walk through it you’ll find yourself transported to a bustling historic centre with beautiful architecture at every turn. From here you can explore the iconic Clock Tower, a symbol of Kotor’s medieval charm, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and the bay.
Explore the maze of tiny cobbled back streets and independent retailers. There are lots of charming alleys adorned with brightly coloured flowers that’ll lead you to quaint cafes, art galleries, and local shops. Wander around at your own pace and discover the city’s artistic soul.
Then stop for a coffee at Mone Caffe Bar, an incredible cake shop hidden up one of these cobbled alleys. Try the giant-sized vanilla slice or lemon meringue pie – both will change your life. We sat at the window mesmerised by the crazy rain on our trip (actually way more fascinating than it sounds) but it’s the perfect spot for a break and some people watching.
Once you’ve recharged, head to the City Walls and Old Town Fortress. From here, you can cross the bridge and start the circular Ladder of Kotor hike. It’s a steep walk and takes about an hour but the awe-inspiring views will be worth it.
Hike up the well-worn paths, past the ruins of old fortifications, and absorb the panoramic vistas of Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains. Follow the path back down to the old town where you can enjoy some well-earned lunch at one of the local cafes. Or stop off for a craft beer and some food at the awesome Nitrox Bar & Eatery. It’s worth it to look at the rock album artwork collection alone.
Afternoon in Kotor: Sun, Sand & Swimming
After lunch, head to the Kampana Tower, another architectural gem on the edge of the old town. Then it’s time for a siesta by the water…
Relax and unwind at Kotor Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore. It’s an ideal spot for beach lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. If you’re not a fan of open water swimming, then there’s also a lido nearby where you can swim in an enclosed area.
Alternatively, you can spend the afternoon exploring Kotor Bay by boat. There are plenty of tours available that leave from the marina near the Roman settlement. Most itineraries include a stop at the Blue Cave, but you can also visit the incredible Mamula Island and Our Lady of the Rocks near Perast depending on your budget and time available.
After an hour or two enjoying the views and tranquillity by the water, head north to Dobrota Riva Promenade. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and watch the boats gently bobbing in the harbour. This is a great spot to enjoy the sunset as it faces west so you’ll see the golden hues reflecting on the bay and mountain skyline.
End your day with a tasty dinner at one of Kotor’s traditional restaurants. Take your pick from fresh seafood, hearty stews, and traditional grilled meat dishes, plus a cheeky glass or two of Montenegro’s great wines.
You might also like… these day trip ideas from Kotor or the best things to see and do in Tivat.
It’s always worth checking whether there’s an event on while you’re in Kotor too. There might be a local performance, concert, or art exhibition happening that you can attend. The city’s known for its vibrant creative community so you might get lucky with what’s on while you’re there.
For us, the main show was a spectacular lightning storm against the mountain backdrop but hopefully you’ll enjoy something a bit drier! Whatever you end up doing with your day in Kotor, you’ll have a brilliant time.
Doing Kotor in one day is totally feasible thanks to its compact size. It’s a city that’s easily walkable and has something for everyone, whether you’re after history, beaches, or great pastries…
Getting There & Away
Tivat is the nearest airport to Kotor (20 mins drive) with direct flights to many European cities. You can also drive or get buses from Budva, Tivat, Podgorica, Dubrovnik, and lots of other cities in Montenegro and neighbouring countries. Google Maps doesn’t currently provide public transport information but we’ve been to the bus station in Kotor and know that lots of buses run daily. The Montenegro Hostel website has a comprehensive bus timetable.
Yes, one day in Kotor is enough to see all of its sights without feeling rushed. You can take in the old town, Ladder of Kotor hike, and do a boat trip or relax at the beach. It’s not a big place so one day is just the right amount of time.
If you’re visiting Kotor as part of a cruise and time is limited, then prioritise visiting the old town and hiking the Ladder of Kotor (a 60-min circular route). The beaches and promenade are also beautiful, but you’ll likely see them from the cruise so if time is really limited these things can be skipped.
If you have two days in Kotor, then spend day one exploring the old town, hiking the Ladder of Kotor, and enjoying the beaches. On day two, take a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor that includes the Blue Cave, Mamula Island, and Our Lady of the Rocks near Perast.
