Kotor, Montenegro was an almost accidental destination for me. The anchor destination for the trip was Italy but my wanderlust wanted me to go further to new places (even though Pompeii was new to me). So I added Croatia by visiting the gem of the Adriatic: Dubrovnik. But then I found out about day trips to Mostar (in Bosnia-Herzegovina) and Montenegro. It didn’t take much for me to say “sold!” Kotor was a very picturesque and “alive” town with its cafés and old architecture.
Kotor sits between the bay of the same and the mountain of St. John which was fortified as early as the 6th century. This town has passed from empire to empire from Roman times, Byzantine times, Republic of Venice’s time, Hapsburg times, Bulgarian times, Ottoman times and Yugoslav times among others (even if not all those officially had the name “empire”…). You get the picture of the changes this places must have gone through over two millenia!
Its architecture, heavily influenced by the Venetian style, contributed to it being named a UNESCO World Heritage Site which seconds my recommendation that this is a place that ought to be checked out – the trip to reach it is both, worth effort AND beautiful as Kotor Bay is a unique setting – in and of itself worth seeing in person.
Churches in Kotor
Kotor has quite a few churches from different times – 11 if I counted correctly on the tourist map for this town of around 13,000 inhabitants.
Getting lost in Kotor -and is true in many places – is a neat way to see this town and, trust me, you won’t be lost for too long as you are bound by the mountain, the moat or the Sea Gate!
What a beautiful place! My family is from Croatia, so I’ve been, but only in the North. I would love to make it further down, and also visit the surrounding countries as well. You’ve definitely brought Kotor, Montenegro to my radar. It’s really beautiful!
Erin at The World Wanderer recently posted..Why I Love Africa.
I didn’t know your family was from Croatia! You will need to give me tips on where to see, especially away from the coast – off-the-beaten path!
Raul recently posted..My Top 5 Inflight Pet Peeves
You had me at “cafes and architecture,” Raul! Your post reminds me that another trip to Croatia is overdue for me. It’s been over 10 years and I only got to see Zagreb. I’d love to explore some of the smaller towns, and this one looks beautiful.
Pola (@jettingaround) recently posted..Photo(s) of the Week: Steel wings of Milwaukee Art Museum
I need to explore other parts of Croatia and more about its neighbors! A Montenegro return is a must for me!
Raul recently posted..From Suite to Tent: What Made Accommodations Memorable in Jordan
Very cool…everyone told me that I had to go to Montenegro on my Croatia trip last summer, but I just didn’t have the time! Would love to go back – that entire region fascinates me so much after a 2 week intro!
Anita Mac recently posted..From Paris With Love
Isn’t that the challenge, Anita? Never enough time!!! I only could spare a day but that’s all it took for me to find Montenegro a place I would like to return.
Raul recently posted..My Top 5 Inflight Pet Peeves
Very lovely and looks quite off the beaten path. Reminds me a bit of Toledo, Spain.
Traveling Ted recently posted..Third annual Leinies Friendly Float down the Chicago River
It is a lovely town indeed. I love Toledo and a dish called carcamuza that my friends introduced me to!
Raul recently posted..Boarding Pass Stories: Little Rock, Arkansas
i love love loved kotor. we also went to budva for two days, and montenegro was one of my favorite stops on our trip. kotor was much less touristy than budva, though both were filling up with cruise shippers around mid-day. were you able to hike up to the castle?
the lazy travelers recently posted..ultimately sydney: wining & dining our way through a new city
Yes, Budva felt more touristy. Also more modern and big. While it may be fun to spend a day and night there exploring, Kotor is where the charm really is!
Raul recently posted..Boarding Pass Stories: Little Rock, Arkansas
so charming. i need to hit up some new places in the world. 😉
Lola recently posted..One Day Stay: New York, New York
Yes, you do! Paris and Prague are superb but these little jewels are so awesome to discover.
Raul recently posted..Boarding Pass Stories: Little Rock, Arkansas