Kotor
Once one of the most influential towns on the Adriatic Coast, Kotor is today a gorgeous holiday destination with its stunning old town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It sits in northern Montenegro on Boka Kotorska Bay, the deepest fjord in the Mediterranean, opposite Bari in Italy, and amid some of the most dramatic scenery in Europe.
The town of Kotor
Despite the earthquake of 1979 which wreaked havoc, many buildings have been expertly restored and the architectural splendour is awe-inspiring, as is the backdrop of the towering limestone cliffs. The Stari Grad (Old Town) is surrounded by a wall built by the Venetians, but historians argue whether the Italians had more influence on Kotor, or whether the Kotor schools of architecture and design had a major impact on the look of Venice. Whichever is true, Kotor is an absolute charm, and it is certainly worth looking up tour companies (1) that offer trips to Kotor when you're in Montenegro.
When in Kotor, the best activity by far is sightseeing. Being small, it is easily traversed on foot, and the main sights are all accessible. The old town is accessible through 3 gates and the streets are cobbled, winding and narrow, filled with interesting buildings.
When in Kotor, the best activity by far is sightseeing. Being small, it is easily traversed on foot, and the main sights are all accessible. The old town is accessible through 3 gates and the streets are cobbled, winding and narrow, filled with interesting buildings.
Kotor - Island Monastery
Kotor Steps - If you have an hour or so, the 1,350 steps of the 1,200 foot climb to the fortifications of San Giovanni Fortress on the cliffs above the town, offers the most breathtaking views of Kotor, the bay and beyond.
Maritime Museum - Take a journey back in time to when the Venetian merchants ruled the routes of the Adriatic. The museum has 3 floors of exhibits of model ships, uniforms, weapons, and pictures.
St. Tryphon's Cathedral – Dedicated to the patron saint of Kotor, the cathedral dates back to the 11th century.
Maritime Museum - Take a journey back in time to when the Venetian merchants ruled the routes of the Adriatic. The museum has 3 floors of exhibits of model ships, uniforms, weapons, and pictures.
St. Tryphon's Cathedral – Dedicated to the patron saint of Kotor, the cathedral dates back to the 11th century.
Kotor - St. Tryphon's Cathedral
St. Nicholas Church – the largest orthodox religious building the old town.
Another favorite activity is a sailing trip. The view from the water is one of the best ways to view Kotor, and the experience of the calm, crystal waters of the Adriatic is part of the joy. This isn't mass tourism either. The yacht Monty B offers a great custom-designed trip and the chance to swim, or to stop off at the small islands in the bay, Gospa od Skrpijela and Sveti Djordje.
Another favorite activity is a sailing trip. The view from the water is one of the best ways to view Kotor, and the experience of the calm, crystal waters of the Adriatic is part of the joy. This isn't mass tourism either. The yacht Monty B offers a great custom-designed trip and the chance to swim, or to stop off at the small islands in the bay, Gospa od Skrpijela and Sveti Djordje.
The Bay of Kotor
Take a rest from the day's activities by enjoying lunchtime alfresco refreshments at any of the delightful cafes and restaurants along the walls of the old town, looking out across the bay. Stop by the open air market and pick up a souvenir, before getting back out into the streets for more sightseeing. Finish the day with a tasty meal on the waterfront.
Check out our accommodations section if you're planning to stay in Kotor.
[Image copyright Nenad Filipovic - 2012]
Check out our accommodations section if you're planning to stay in Kotor.
[Image copyright Nenad Filipovic - 2012]
