While many travelers flock to Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast or the Greek islands for their Mediterranean adventures, few have discovered the medieval magic of Kotor, Montenegro. Nestled along the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, this UNESCO-listed town offers a stunning blend of history, dramatic landscapes, and authentic local charm. We visited it on a cool October evening on an Azamara cruise. The entire city wall was light up, high up the mountain. It was spectacular.

If you’re looking for a place that delivers the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, the charm of Dubrovnik, and the mystery of a lesser-known Balkan destination—all without the overwhelming crowds—Kotor should be on your travel radar.

Why Kotor Should Be on Your Bucket List

1. A Spectacular Natural Setting

The Bay of Kotor, often called Europe’s southernmost fjord, is a jaw-dropping landscape of dramatic mountains plunging into the deep blue waters of the Adriatic. The bay is actually a submerged river canyon, and its unique shape provides one of the most scenic coastal drives in all of Europe. Whether you approach by car, boat, or cruise ship, the first glimpse of Kotor Bay is an unforgettable experience.

2. A Medieval Old Town That Feels Frozen in Time

Kotor’s Old Town is a maze of narrow, winding streets, stone buildings, and hidden courtyards, all encased in well-preserved Venetian walls. Unlike Dubrovnik, which has become crowded with tourists, Kotor offers a more authentic and intimate experience.

Must-see highlights include:

• St. Tryphon’s Cathedral – A beautiful Romanesque church dating back to 1166.
• The Clock Tower – An iconic landmark standing in the heart of the Old Town.
• Maritime Museum – Showcasing the region’s rich seafaring history.

3. The Epic Hike to Kotor Fortress

One of the most rewarding activities in Kotor is hiking up to the San Giovanni Fortress. Kent did the hike up. I had an ice cream in the town below. The climb involves more than 1,300 stone steps, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. From here, you can see the entire bay stretching out beneath you, framed by steep limestone cliffs. It’s one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Balkans and a dream for photographers.

Pro Tip: Go at sunrise or sunset to avoid the heat and enjoy the most magical lighting over the bay.

4. A Perfect Base for Exploring Montenegro’s Underrated Wonders

Kotor is an excellent hub for day trips to some of Montenegro’s most spectacular sights, including:

• Perast – A charming baroque town just 20 minutes from Kotor, home to the stunning Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island church built on an artificial islet.
• Lovćen National Park – An incredible mountainous park with stunning hiking trails and the Njegoš Mausoleum, which sits atop a peak with panoramic views of the Adriatic and the Balkans.
• Lake Skadar – The largest lake in the Balkans, known for its floating lily pads, diverse birdlife, and traditional wooden boats.
• Durmitor National Park – A few hours away, this park is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and the Tara River Canyon, Europe’s deepest gorge.

5. A Fraction of the Crowds, a Fraction of the Price

Unlike nearby Dubrovnik, which is often packed with cruise ship tourists and high-priced restaurants, Kotor remains a hidden gem where you can still find affordable accommodations, authentic Montenegrin food, and fewer crowds.

Montenegro uses the Euro, but prices are often 50% lower than Croatia, making it one of the best budget-friendly Mediterranean destinations.

6. Local Cuisine That’s a Delightful Surprise

Montenegrin food is a delicious mix of Mediterranean, Italian, and Balkan influences. Some must-try dishes include:

• Njeguški pršut – A locally smoked prosciutto, often served with cheese and olives.
• Buzara-style seafood – Fresh mussels or prawns cooked in white wine, garlic, and parsley.
• Cevapi – Grilled Balkan sausages, often served with flatbread and kajmak (a creamy dairy spread).
• Kacamak – A hearty dish similar to polenta, made with cheese and potatoes.

Pair your meal with Vranac, a bold red wine from Montenegro’s vineyards, or try rakija, the region’s traditional fruit brandy.

Why Kotor is Still a Hidden Gem (For Now!)

Montenegro is slowly gaining popularity, but Kotor has remained relatively undiscovered compared to other Mediterranean hotspots. Travelers who want to experience an authentic, historic, and visually stunning European destination without the crowds will find that Kotor ticks all the boxes.

If you love:
✅ Charming Old Towns (but without the tourist overload)
✅ Breathtaking coastal landscapes
✅ Authentic Mediterranean cuisine
✅ Affordable luxury
✅ Epic hiking and outdoor adventures

… then Kotor should be at the top of your travel list.

For now, Kotor remains one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, but with more travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, it won’t stay that way for long. So, if you want to experience the magic of the Adriatic without the crowds, get there before the secret gets out!