Bay of Kotor

Photograph by Anas Morsali, taken during his own trip

The Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska) is Southern Europe's deepest fjord-like inlet, a breathtaking natural harbour where the Adriatic Sea penetrates deep into the mountainous Montenegrin coastline. The bay is divided into four smaller bays connected by narrow straits, each offering distinct character and charm. At its innermost point lies the medieval walled town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose labyrinthine streets, Romanesque churches, and Venetian palaces have remained remarkably preserved since the 12th century. The town's fortifications climb dramatically up the steep mountainside behind — the 1,350-step climb to the Castle of San Giovanni rewards with one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Mediterranean. Across the bay, the charming town of Perast features elegant Baroque palaces and two tiny island churches: Our Lady of the Rocks, built on an artificial island, and the natural island of St. George with its Benedictine monastery shaded by ancient cypresses. The bay's unique microclimate, sheltered by mountains rising to over 1,700 metres, creates a lush, almost tropical atmosphere.

Planning the wider trip? The Montenegro planning guide covers how to get there, how to move around, where to stay, realistic costs and a day-by-day itinerary that includes Bay of Kotor.