Kotor is an incredibly picturesque harbor surrounded by mountains and hills. Thanks to its convenient location and numerous attractions, this marina attracts sailors from all over Europe for a reason.
The city of Kotor is located on the shores of the legendary Boka Kotorska Bay, which belongs to the water area of the Adriatic Sea. Kotor has all the infrastructure necessary for recreation and is well protected from the wind. Adjacent to it are: the cities of Tivat (the main airport and the most luxurious yacht marina of Montenegro are located here), Cetinje (the ancient capital of Montenegro), Herceg Novi (the famous Montenegrin resort with the cleanest air and sea), Perast (the ancient guardian of the entrance to the Bay of Kotor ) and Risan, as well as the settlements of Prichan and Dobrota. The city is quite small in terms of population, the majority of which are Serbs and Montenegrins.
Kotor was founded more than 2 millennia ago, at that time these territories belonged to the Roman Empire and the city was called Akruvium (Acrivium). In different periods of history, it was owned by: Byzantium, Austria-Hungary, France, Italy, Turkey, the Russian Empire, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and even the Golden Horde.
The city developed mainly thanks to active sea trade, and a powerful fleet was always present here. To protect the city from constant raids, the Kotor people had to enclose it with powerful walls and thereby turn it into a fortress. Today tourism is the main source of income in the city budget.
Kotor is one of the most popular places in Montenegro, and since medieval buildings are well preserved here, tourists come here to get acquainted with local historical sights. Most of the region's events take place in this city, and local restaurants delight with dishes worthy of even the most demanding gourmets.
The main attraction of Kotor is the medieval fortress and the 12-14 century walls hanging over the city. The walls that have defended the city for centuries are more than 4 km long. The fortress can be accessed through any of three gates: the Gurdich Gate, the River and Sea Gate with a bas-relief dedicated to St. Tryphon, the patron saint of Kotor.
In the Old Town, you should be amazed by the harmonious combination of different eras and styles. Be sure to stroll along the narrow medieval streets, exploring the architectural monuments closely located in a relatively small area. One of the symbols of Kotor is the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, which contains the remains of frescoes from the 14th century and a rich sacristy created by Venetian and local jewelers. Also on the main city square you can see the 16th century clock tower that survived many devastating earthquakes.
Top attractions include:
Also worthy of your attention are the mansions of local noble families: Grgurin (it now houses the Maritime Museum of Montenegro), Drago, Pima, Bizanti, etc.
In addition to architectural masterpieces, in Kotor there is a huge selection of cozy restaurants serving delicious fish dishes. In addition, the most stylish boutiques in Montenegro are located here. The city offers accommodation for all tastes: from luxury hotels and villas to inexpensive mini-hotels.
Some of the best hotels in Kotor:
If you are interested in shopping, then Kotor can also be interesting in this regard - almost all the first floors of buildings are occupied by boutiques and shops. The market behind the fortress walls enjoys well-deserved popularity. Various types of products are available here, including freshly caught fish, souvenirs and handicrafts. Also, events are annually organized here: carnivals, festivals, theatrical processions and fiestas.
There is a city beach not far from the ferry pier - and although the views are impressive, the water is not the cleanest. You will be provided with sun loungers and umbrellas for hire, and you can have a snack in the nearby small cafe and several fast food kiosks.
The closest beach with clear water is in Dobrota, a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. The 4 km long beach is equipped with toilets, showers, changing rooms and playgrounds, and there is also free parking. The beach is well suited for families with small children.
In addition, 2yachts experts note the well-maintained beaches located on the northern shore of the bay: pebble beaches in Risan and Orahovac, concreted beaches in Perast, and small sandy-pebble beaches in the village of Morinj.
Kayaking, canoeing and other water sports are popular in Kotor. Only 140 km north of the city is the Durmitor National Park, which is organized on the territory of the mountain range of the same name. On its territory there is a canyon of the Tara River with a length of 80 km and a depth of up to 1300 m - the first in Europe and the second largest in the world, after the Grand Canyon in Arizona. It is a good place to organize day trips if you arrive in Kotor by yacht.
We advise you to visit the observation deck on the Kotor-Lovcen road and drive along the picturesque Kotor Serpentine road, you can also contact the 360 Monte travel agency for organizing an active holiday. If you want to go on a boat tour of the coastal part of Croatia and Montenegro, you can contact one of the companies: Miro & Sons, Miki Travel, Kotor Bay Tours or Kotor Boat Tours. Also organizers of hiking and cycling tours - Montenegro travel club, Explore Montenegro, etc.
You can go on a boat excursion on a yacht along the Boka Kotorska Bay to see not only the city, but the entire bay from the side of the ship. We advise you to swim in the bay while watching yachts and cruise ships.
Kotor's two yacht marinas, Marina Kotor and Marina Prcanj, can be considered the best in the region. Marina Prcanj is located just 1.6 km from Kotor, in Glavati Prcanj, on the left bank of the bay. Relax and unwind in this quiet marina. The comfort of holidaymakers here is provided by a number of services, including the supply of electricity and water, Wi-Fi and assistance with mooring.
Kotor Marina (or Luka Kotor) can accommodate up to 80 yachts up to 30 m in length and with a maximum draft of up to 8 m. The list of services offered here includes:
The Marina is located at the entrance to the Old Town and is very busy in summer. There is a market on weekends, and the supermarket is about 15 minutes' walk from the pontoon. A bareboat charter company is based in Kotor Marina.
If you are interested in renting a yacht in Montenegro, 2yachts specialists are always ready to offer their services. With them, you can find the best deals on the yacht market and securely complete the deal. We wish you a successful rental or purchase of your dream yacht!