Bay of Kotor

The Basics

Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a common day-trip outing from Dubrovnik in Croatia. Organized tours from the Croatian resort town typically include round-trip road transport, boat rides out on the bay, and free time in the historic towns of Kotor, Buda, Purist, and Risen. For a more active day out, consider a hiking, biking, or stand-up paddle boarding tour of the bay.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Bay of Kotor is a must for scenery-seekers.

• Day trips from Dubrovnik involve crossing the Croatia–Montenegro border, so be sure to bring your passport.

• Remember that while Croatia uses the kuna, Montenegro uses the euro, which can be withdrawn from ATMs across the border.

• The cobbled surfaces and steps common in the Bay of Kotor’s historic towns can be challenging for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The town of Kotor is about 59 miles (95 kilometers) from Dubrovnik. If driving, factor in extra time for the border crossing. Kotor-bound buses depart from Dubrovnik’s main bus station. Without a car or the dedicated transport provided as part of an organized tour, traveling around the bay can be time-consuming, with only limited bus services available.

When to Get There

During the busy summer months, delays at the border are not uncommon. Depart early in the day to avoid long lines. Kotor can be crowded on days when multiple cruise ships dock at port, so check the cruise ship schedule in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Highlights of the Bay

Climb to the top of the fortifications of Kotor’s medieval Old Town for views of the bay. Purist is known for its Venetian palazzos and architecture, while the seaside Erceg Novi offers a pretty waterfront promenade and a picturesque old town. Our Lady of the Rocks is a church-topped artificial island and Svelte Stefan is a former medieval fishing village turned luxury hotel connected to the mainland by a small strip of land.

Ways to explore

The Bay of Kotor offers something for every traveler, whether you’re admiring its beauty from the water or exploring Kotor on land. Boat trips across the bay visit the town of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, or call at sights such as the Blue Grotto and the Submarine Tunnels.

Alternatively, explore Kotor on a walking tour that finishes with a panoramic cable car ride. Other activities include food tours, kayak trips, paddleboard excursions, guided hikes, and bike tours. Some full-day tours combine the bay’s sights with trips to other Montenegro highlights, including Budva.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessibility varies across different bay locations. Many areas of Kotor are wheelchair accessible, though some of its streets and attractions are cobbled and stepped. While most boat trips aren’t accessible, a small number of operators offer wheelchair-friendly vessels.

Age limits

None; although check boat trips for any age restrictions.

What to pack

Bottled water, camera, sunscreen, cash for tips

What to wear

Non-slip shoes for walking tours, plus a brimmed hat, waterproof jacket, and water shoes for boat trips.

Not allowed

Littering, disturbing wildlife, wearing swimwear at religious sites

Address 

The Bay of Kotor’s easternmost point is about 14 miles (23 kilometers) north of Budva, and roughly 57 miles (90 kilometers) southeast of Dubrovnik in Croatia. You can travel here by car, bus, or on guided tours. The nearest airports are Tivat, Podgorica, and Dubrovnik.

Driving

From Dubrovnik, follow the Jadranska Magistrala (D8) south, then cross the border and take the E65 and E80 to Kotor. From Budva, take the E80/E65 northward and follow the signs to Kotor.

Public transportation

Regular buses run from Dubrovnik central bus station to Kotor, and take roughly two hours. From June to September, two ferries per week sail from Dubrovnik’s Gruz Port to Kotor. Frequent buses connect Budva and Kotor.

Best times to visit

Visit early morning for the most atmospheric light and fantastic photos free from the daytime crowds. Late afternoons and dusk are also picturesque.

Best days to visit

The bay gets very busy when cruise ships dock, so plan around the cruise schedule if you can. Generally, weekdays are quieter than weekends.

Best months to visit

Summer is best for sightseeing and boating, though it brings crowds and higher prices. Spring and fall boast mild temperatures with less tourists and fewer cruise ship arrivals.

Special events

Boka Night is a traditional local festival usually held on the third Saturday in August—crowds watch boat parades on the bay before enjoying food, music, and fireworks at the bayfront towns.