Kotor's medieval Old Town is one of the best preserved in the Mediterranean - a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, Venetian palaces and Byzantine churches enclosed within massive 4.5 km walls. This complete guide reveals everything worth knowing before you visit.
Getting There
Kotor Old Town sits at the innermost point of the Bay of Kotor, about 90 km south of Dubrovnik by road and 85 km northwest of Podgorica. From Budva it is just 22 km. Most visitors arrive by cruise ship (Kotor is a major Mediterranean port), by car via the coastal highway, or as part of a guided day trip from the surrounding resorts.
The City Walls
Kotor's city walls are one of the best preserved medieval fortifications in the Adriatic. The walls stretch for 4.5 km and rise to a height of 20 metres in places. Construction began in the 9th century and continued under Venetian rule (1420–1797). The walls run from the Sea Gate on the waterfront, up the steep hillside to Saint John's Fortress at 260 metres above sea level.
The full wall climb involves approximately 1,350 steps. Allow 45–60 minutes for the ascent and the same for the descent. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The entrance fee is currently €8 per person.
The Main Gates
Kotor Old Town has three historic gates. The Sea Gate (Vrata od Mora), built in 1555 during Venetian rule, is the main entrance from the waterfront - look for the carved Lion of Saint Mark above the arch. The North Gate (Gurdić Gate) and the River Gate are older and less visited, but equally atmospheric.
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon is the oldest and most important monument in Kotor. Construction of the current structure began in 1166, though a church has stood on this site since 809. The cathedral blends Romanesque and Byzantine architectural styles and houses a remarkable collection of religious art, including a 14th-century silver bas-relief screen. The treasury contains centuries of accumulated votive offerings from Kotor's seafaring families.
Saint Luke's Square
At the heart of the old town, Saint Luke's Square is one of the most atmospheric spaces in Kotor. The square is flanked by two remarkable churches - the Catholic Church of Saint Luke (12th century) and the smaller Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas. Both churches have been used by both Catholic and Orthodox Christians at different points in their history, reflecting Kotor's complicated multi-faith past.
Practical Tips
Visit early morning (before 9am) or late afternoon to avoid cruise ship crowds. Most of the old town is free to explore - only the city walls require a ticket. Café-restaurants in the squares can be crowded; walk one or two streets back from the main squares for more authentic and better-value options. The old town is compact enough to explore thoroughly in half a day, leaving the afternoon free for a boat trip to Perast.