Kotor — Pearl of the Adriatic

Kotor (approx. 13,500 inhabitants) is the undisputed jewel of Montenegro and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The old town lies at the end of the bay of the same name, nestled between the steep Lovćen massif and the deep blue waters. The perfectly preserved city wall climbs the mountainside up to the San Giovanni Fortress at 1,200 meters — a sight that leaves even well-traveled visitors speechless.

Old Town (Stari Grad)

The old town, surrounded by massive walls, is a labyrinth of narrow alleys, Romanesque churches, and Venetian palaces. Kotor was Venetian for over 400 years (1420–1797), and this era still shapes the cityscape today. The main attractions:

• Cathedral of St. Tryphon (Katedrala Sv. Tripuna) — Kotor's landmark, built in 1166, one of the oldest Romanesque churches on the Adriatic. Inside: an impressive ciborium (canopy altar) from the 14th century and frescoes from the 14th–17th century. Admission: 3€.
• Square of Arms (Trg od Oružja) — The central square with the clock tower (1602), the guardhouse, and numerous cafés. Here, the life of the old town pulses.
• Maritime Museum (Pomorski Muzej) — In the baroque palace of the Grgurina family, the museum tells the glorious maritime history of Kotor. The city was once one of the most important naval powers of the Adriatic. Admission: 4€.
• Church of St. Luke (Crkva Sv. Luke) — A tiny Romanesque church from the 12th century, unique for having both a Catholic and an Orthodox altar — a testament to Kotor's religious tolerance.
• Cat Museum & Cats of Kotor — Kotor is famous for its cats, which roam everywhere in the old town. There is even a small cat museum and a "Cat Square" (Trg od Mačaka).

Ascent to San Giovanni Fortress

The ascent to the fortress is the highlight of any Kotor visit: 1,350 steps lead steeply up the mountain through the old city wall — past the Church of Our Lady of Health (Crkva Gospe od Zdravlja) with its distinctive dome. The ascent takes 45–90 minutes and is strenuous, but the view from above of the bay, the old town, and the surrounding mountains is breathtaking. Best in the early morning or at sunset — it's too hot at midday in summer. Admission: 8€ (during the day), bring water!