Kotor — 2 Hours North via the Adriatic Coast
From Ulcinj, drive north on the coastal road through Bar and Petrovac, past the Budva riviera, and into the Bay of Kotor. The drive takes roughly 2 hours but passes through some of Montenegro's most dramatic scenery — rocky headlands, beach coves, and eventually the fjord-like bay itself.
Kotor's UNESCO-listed Old Town sits at the head of the bay, enclosed by medieval walls that climb 1,200 metres up the mountainside to the fortress of San Giovanni. The town is car-free inside the walls, so park at the lots near the River Gate or the Tabacina multi-storey and explore on foot.
What to See in Kotor
St. John Fortress
The fortress sits 1,200 steps above the Old Town, offering panoramic views over the entire Bay of Kotor. Allow 45 minutes up and 30 down. The climb starts from the north-east corner of the Old Town walls. Bring water — there are no facilities on the path.
St. Tryphon Cathedral
Built in 1166, this Romanesque cathedral is Kotor's most important religious monument. The interior houses Byzantine-era frescoes, gold and silver reliquaries, and a treasury of medieval art. The twin bell towers are the most photographed feature of the Old Town skyline.
Day Trips from Kotor
Continue along the bay road to Perast (15 minutes from Kotor). Boats to Our Lady of the Rocks island leave from the waterfront — about 5 EUR return. The baroque village has a single waterfront promenade lined with stone palaces and cafes.
Head inland on the Kotor-Cetinje serpentine road — 25 hairpin bends climbing 1,000 metres above the bay. The viewpoint at the top offers one of the most photographed panoramas in Montenegro. Cetinje is 45 minutes from Kotor.
Cetinje's monastery holds religious relics and sits at the centre of Montenegro's former royal capital. Combined with the serpentine drive, this makes a solid half-day trip. Most visitors hire a car at Tivat Airport to reach Kotor.