Unforgettable Things to Do in the Kotor Cruise Port
When your Adriatic cruise itinerary lists Kotor, Montenegro, you might wonder what there is to see and do at the Kotor cruise port in just one day.
Kotor sits along the Bay of Kotor, a fjord-like bay surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs on the Adriatic Sea. It was one of our cruise ports between Split, Croatia, and Corfu, Greece.
Surprisingly, Kotor is one of the most beautiful destinations on any Mediterranean cruise, and it’s small enough that you can truly experience it in a single day.
I visited Kotor on a Holland America Adriatic Cruise, and it quickly became one of my favorite ports.
The mix of history, scenery, and coastal charm makes it unforgettable.
Couples will love the romantic views over the bay, while families can find plenty of fun things to do within walking distance of port.
This post breaks down the best things to do in Kotor from a cruise ship, based on my own visit and the most popular excursions.
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Getting to Know the Kotor Cruise Port
Smaller cruise ships like the Oosterdam, the Holland America Adriatic cruise I was on, dock at the cruise terminal, which is conveniently located right across the street from the Sea Gate—the main entrance to Kotor Old Town.
It couldn’t be more convenient. You’ll leave the ship and be ready to explore within minutes.
For those of you on larger ships, you’ll have to tender in, which means taking smaller boats to shore.
While it’s not a big deal, it can take some extra time.
We couldn’t believe how clean Kotor is. Our ship’s captain told us the streets are shampooed twice a day, and honestly, it shows.
Kotor uses the Euro even though Montenegro isn’t part of the European Union.
Summers are hot and humid, so dress light, carry water, and plan to spend some time in the shade.
As soon as you step into town, you feel like you’ve wandered into a living museum.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with history, from its architecture to its fortified medieval city walls that still stand strong today.
You don’t need a guide to see why this place is special.
You can just walk around, take in the history, and let your imagination run wild with what it must have been like centuries ago.
What to Do in Kotor in One Day
Old Town Kotor, Montenegro, is the ideal starting point for anyone short on time. It’s less than a five-minute walk from the pier.
Take the escalators underground from the terminal, which will take you to a wide and welcoming promenade leading to the Sea Gate, a historic entrance to Old Town.
Sea Gate
Stop at the visitor’s kiosk for a map and head through Sea Gate, admiring the main entrance’s architecture.
The structure features a winged lion, representing a Venetian rule. It also features a post World War II inscription from a former Yugoslavian leader that reads, “What belongs to others we don’t want, what is ours we will never surrender.”
After entering through the Sea Gate, you’ll enter Arms Square, Kotor’s largest city square with a wide courtyard, shops, and restaurants.
Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is the most prominent structure in this area. You will find ATM machines here if you need to withdrawal Euros. I safely used the machines in this square with no problems.
From this point, you can easily spend a couple of hours wandering through the other charming squares, visiting some of the churches, or stopping in the Maritime Museum.
Saint Tryphon Cathedral
The town is filled with ancient churches, and the Saint Tryphon Cathedral is definitely worth a peek. This 12th-century Catholic church is one of Kotor’s greatest structures and top sites.
Gurdic Gate
As you wander through Old Town, you will come upon the Gurdic Gate, also known as the South Gate. This historic structure has been on the bay’s edge since the 16th century.
Fewer tourists are in this part of Old Town, making exploring the passages, walkways, and views easier.
Cats, Cats, Cats
One thing you will definitely see in Old Town is the cats. Yes, the cats!
Kotor has cats everywhere, and they are practically a part of the local culture.
The cats make themselves at home in the shops, streets, and almost everywhere.
Cat lovers will find cat-themed souvenirs in nearly every shop.
Chances are, you’ll make a few furry friends as you stroll through town. And, if you are allergic to cats, make sure to take an allergy pill before coming to town.
Food and Drink in Old Town Kotor
Like most other European towns, Kotor’s water is safe to drink. Water wells are located throughout town, and you can fill your water bottle for free.
Not surprisingly, you will also find some great restaurants and cafes in Kotor.
While wandering through the center of Old Town, I found a fantastic pizza shop called Pronto Pizzeria with slices for €2.
Old Town offers so many things to do in Kotor, Montenegro, from a cruise ship that you may feel tempted to linger here all day.
However, once you’ve explored Old Town, it’s time to check out some of the best sights around the Kotor cruise port.
Plenty of activities nearby let you enjoy both the natural beauty and historical richness of this place.
Kotor Shore Excursions
Take a Speedboat Tour to the Blue Caves
Hands down, my favorite thing to do in Kotor was a speedboat tour to the Blue Caves.
But don’t book this as a cruise excursion! You can find the same tour that the cruise ships offer, but at a much lower price through Viator or in person when you dock.
The tours meet at the marina near Slobode Park, just a short walk from the cruise port. You can get there by heading north after exiting your cruise ship. Then, it’s a flat, paved ten-minute walk across the pedestrian bridge.
Most tours last around three hours, leaving plenty of time to explore on your own afterward.
The ride itself is part of the fun, zipping along the bright blue water surrounded by steep cliffs. The tour usually includes several highlights:
- Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a small church and museum
- The Blue Cave, where the sunlight makes the water glow an unreal shade of turquoise
- The Secret Yugoslavian Submarine Tunnels
- The charming waterfront town of Perast
This tour gives you a taste of the area’s history and incredible views—all without feeling rushed. Just don’t forget sunscreen and a swimsuit if you plan to swim in the Blue Caves.
Speedboat tours are fun, budget-friendly ways to see more of Kotor’s stunning bay and coastline, including the blue caves.
You will be on a speedboat, though, so the ride will be fast and choppy. I had a blast, but if you want something more subdued, just communicate that to your captain from the beginning.
The Blue Caves in Kotor are an absolute must if you’re a water lover.
You can swim in the crystal-clear, electric-blue water inside these caves, and it’s just as magical as it sounds.
See Our Lady of the Rocks
As part of the speedboat tours, you’ll check out another Zadar must-see spot, Our Lady of the Rocks.
Our Lady of the Rocks is a unique and beloved landmark just off the coast of Kotor.
According to local legend, the island was created by seamen who, after discovering an image of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the bay, pledged to drop stones in that spot every time they returned safely from a voyage.
Over centuries, this ritual grew the small island into a stable foundation on which the beautiful church, built in the 17th century, now stands.
Get a Peek of St. George Island
Local speedboat tours from the Kotor cruise port or from nearby Perast offer a closer view of another beautiful spot in the Bay of Kotor, the serene St. George Island. This little island across the water from Perast feels like a scene from a storybook.
Unlike Our Lady of the Rocks, this island is natural, and its small size only adds to its charm.
This quaint 12th-century Benedictine monastery and centuries-old cemetery are shaded by tall cypress trees and steeped in mystery and legend.
Locals often call it the “Island of the Dead” because of its historic cemetery, giving it a mystical feel that draws the curious.
Visitors aren’t allowed to actually set foot on St. George, as it’s privately owned and preserved to protect the monastery and the fragile ecosystem.
But trust me, the water views are worth it.
Enter Secret Submarine Tunnels
One of the most fascinating spots on a speedboat tour is the secret submarine tunnels from the Yugoslav era.
These hidden military sites are a bit eerie, but they’re super cool to see up close.
They’re also a unique part of Kotor’s history that most people don’t know about.
A Glimpse of Perast
If time allows, there’s Perast, a quiet little village near the Kotor cruise port.
Although I only had a chance to see it from the water, Perast looked picturesque, with a quiet waterfront and stunning views that feel like something out of a postcard.
I imagine it’s the perfect spot to wander, grab a coffee, and enjoy a slower pace.
There are several ways to get to Perast. The cheapest way to get to Perast from Kotor is to take a Blue Line city bus that stops in front of the Sea Gate in Old Town.
The second option is to book a boat tour that includes Perast and Our Lady of the Rock.
Ride the Kotor Cable Car
A newer addition to Kotor’s attractions, the Kotor Cable Car offers one of the best views in the Balkans.
You can catch a shuttle from the Kotor bus station to the cable car base. The ride takes you up Mount Lovćen and into Lovćen National Park, home to hiking and biking trails, a scenic alpine roller coaster, and the Njegoš Mausoleum, dedicated to Montenegro’s beloved poet-prince.
The panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor from the top are breathtaking. It’s also several degrees cooler up there, which is a welcome break from the summer heat.
Plan for about 2 hours round-trip time if you include time for photos and a coffee at the top café.
While I didn’t get a chance to try the cable car or coaster myself, I’ve heard it’s a fun way to see Kotor from above and adds a touch of excitement to the day.
I would hold off on buying your tickets for this until you arrive. If it is a cloudy day or inclement weather, you may not want to go up.
Hiking the Kotor Fortress (San Giovanni Castle)
The hike up to the San Giovanni Fortress, also called Castle of St. John, is one of Kotor’s most popular activities. It’s also one of the steepest.
The trail climbs 1,350 steps up the mountain behind Old Town, rewarding you with an incredible view over the bay.
That said, it’s not for everyone. The path is rocky and exposed, and in the summer heat, it can be tough.
Entry costs around €15 per person, and you’ll need at least 90 minutes for the round trip.
I skipped it on my visit, but friends who hiked it said the view was worth the sweat.
Go early in the morning if you decide to tackle it.
Tips for Hiking in Kotor
- The trail is a series of steep switchbacks.
- It’s not shaded, so it gets hot in the summer.
- It’s definitely not a casual stroll, mainly if you’re not used to hiking.
But if hiking is not your thing, don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do down in town.
Weather in Kotor: Expect Humidity
Kotor’s humid subtropical weather means warm, sticky days, especially in summer.
Visitors looking to avoid the heat will find spring and fall the ideal times to visit, as the weather is milder, and the streets are slightly less crowded.
No matter when you visit, use my tips for a Mediterranean cruise to guide your planning.
Practical Tips for Visiting Kotor
Getting Around: Kotor is very walkable, especially Old Town. You won’t need a taxi unless you’re going to places like Perast.
Currency: Even though Montenegro isn’t part of the EU, they use the Euro. It makes life a lot easier for those of us cruising from European ports.
Cruise Essentials: Having some essential cruise accessories can make your day in port even more enjoyable.
Language: The local language is Montenegrin, but you’ll find that most people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
Food: You can find affordable meals here, with lots of fresh seafood options. There’s no shortage of cute little cafes and restaurants. Pro tip: Try the local wine if you get the chance!
Wrapping Up Your Day in Kotor
The Kotor cruise port is one of those places that takes you by surprise.
Like other ports on many Adriatic Cruise itineraries, you step off your ship, unsure what to expect, and by the time you leave, you’re completely in love.
Something about the mix of history, charm, and scenery makes Kotor feel like a hidden gem.
Wandering Old Town Kotor, Montenegro, or hopping on a speedboat to explore the Blue Caves Kotor shows just a fraction of what makes this port unforgettable.
I hope this Kotor, Montenegro cruise travel guide inspires you to add Kotor to your own adventure. Enjoy every moment in this beautiful port!
Before you leave, make sure to check out my other port guides for Adriatic cruise ports, including Olbia, Split, Corfu, Zadar, a Taormina sailing excursion, and how to see the Amalfi Coast from the Naples cruise port.
