Kotor is one of those addictive places that you visit once and can’t help but go back to. I always try to convince myself that “I should go somewhere new”, but I always end up being perched back up in Dobrota at my favourite lakeside apartment. What can I say… I’m a creature of habit.
The reason I keep returning to Kotor is that it has a perfect mix of everything that you could want. If you’re an adventure junkie, you can cycle, hike, kayak, boat and more! However, if you enjoy a slower get-away, the scenery is stupidly gorgeous, you could sit out with a cuppa and marvel at it for hours.
Kotor is known for being a medieval maze, filled with winding streets brimming with hidden gems, from cafes to churches to palaces to museums. It’s also full of cats, which are celebrated and considered a symbol of the city. You’ll even find a cat museum and a Cats’ Square in the city!
During my many visits to this wonderful slice of the world, I’ve had the opportunity to stay in nearly all of the areas. Although my favourite spot to perch up is Dobrota, each area offers something a little different. In this guide, I’ll take you through the best places to stay and what kind of traveller they are best for.
So, let’s get into the good stuff.
Photo: Nic Hilditch-Short
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Dobrota
Dobrota is a long, narrow part of Kotor , that is actually around 4 kilometers long, It can be between a ten minute walk to a thirty minute walk to get to the center of Kotor from Dobrota, depending on where you decide to stay. It’s the more residential side of Kotor, so you can expect to have a quieter stay.
Prcanj
Prcanj is a small town along the Bay of Kotor, and is a truly lovely maritime town full of old stone buildings. It’s a little less than 5 kilometers away from Kotor city center and lies opposite of Dobrota.
Kotor Old Town
Make no mistake, Kotor Old Town is definitely where the action is. The area is positively jammed with people. You might even need to make a line to just to navigate the streets or make your way down a narrow lane.
Perast
Perast is just a few kilometers northwest of Kotor, and is easily reached by taxi and bus. It is known for its closeness to the islets of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. The population of the town is just around 400 people and is the perfect place to go if you are looking for the coolest place to stay in Kotor.
Risan
Risan has a beautiful beach and a more modern feel than Kotor Old Town and some of the other surrounding areas.
A Guide to Kotor’s Best Neighbourhoods
A stop into Kotor is not always on the usual backpacking Europe trail, but it should be. Nestled between the mountains at the corner of the Gulf of Kotor, this idyllic coastal town in Montenegro is sitting pretty and waiting to steal ya heart!
Without further adieu, let’s dive into the Kotor’s best neighbourhoods.
1. Dobrota – Where to Stay in Kotor for the First Time
I’ve already let you in on the fact that Dobrota is my favourite to stay when visiting Montenegro. So, now let me fill you in as to why I keep heading back here!
Dobrota is a long, narrow part of Kotor, that is actually around 4 kilometres long, It can be between a ten minute walk to a thirty minute walk to get to the centre of Kotor from Dobrota, depending on where you decide to stay. It’s the more residential side of Kotor, so you can expect to have a quieter stay.
My favourite part about staying in Dobrota is that is away from the cruise shippers, but it’s not completely isolated or deserted. Relax and wander along the coast at whatever pace you desire, not being pushed or flanked by swarms of tourists.
You’ll also love that you don’t have to fall asleep to loud bar chatter or club music at night. A good night’s sleep and a little bit fewer crowds is all a first-time traveller to Kotor needs – a recipe for sure success!
- Best For: Waterfront scenes, scenic bay strolls, swimming spots, first-time visitors
- The Vibe: Calm, picturesque, chill vibes, residential
- Proximity to Airport: ~20–25 mins from Tivat Airport (TIV)
- Transport Level: Easy. Taxis, local buses, and rental cars are available.
- Budget: Mid-range to high. Waterfront stays and gorgeous views will increase prices
- Crowds: Moderate to high in summer, quieter than Kotor Old Town
Things to See and Do in Dobrota
- Take a sailing excursion on a yacht around Kotor Bay and top in at Our Lady of the Rocks
- Soak up some sunshine at Kotor Beach, located in Dobrota, or jump in the bay and have a nice swim
- Swim from the Concrete “Pontos” (platforms)
- Check out St Matthew’s Church with it’s super tall steeple and bright chiming bells
- Go for a swim along the pebbly beach at Zuta Plaza
- Enjoy the waterfront restaurants and cafes
- Visit Kotor Old Town, just 5-10 minutes away and hike the Kotor Fortress
Luxury Loft with beautiful balcony | Best Airbnb
This luxury loft comes locked and load with some stunning views. Enjoy sipping on your morning coffee from your beautiful balcony overlooking the bay. This place is perfect if you’re travelling as a couple, kitted out with a spacious bedroom, bathroom and cosy living room. You’re just a few minutes walk from Kotor Old Town where you’ll find heaps of cafes, bars and restaurants. Given the price, location and comfort, this place is an absolute steal.
Apartments Željka-Dobrota | Best Apartments
If you’re looking for a no thrills apartment that does the job but isn’t going to break the bank, this spot is perfect. Enjoy a comfy bed, fully equipped kitchen and seating area perfect for your morning coffee or firing up the laptop and make some dolla. You’re located just outside the town but can easily reach it by walking. If you’re travelling on a budget this place has all the home comforts without a hefty price tag.
Themis Apart Hotel | Best Hotel
This apartment is a great spot to perch up if you’re travelling as a couple or solo backpacker looking for a place to recharge the social batteries. The rooms are spacious, clean and the bed wont have your back in buts the next day.
There is a little balcony to have a coffee and watch the ships roll in and out of the bay. The location is ideal, nestled on a calm street that’s walking distance to both Old Town and the beach.
2. Prcanj – Where to Stay in Kotor on a Budget
Prcanj is a small town along the Bay of Kotor, and is a truly lovely maritime town full of old stone buildings. It’s a little less than 5 kilometres away from Kotor city centre and lies opposite of Dobrota.
Walking along the waterfront is a dream, as it is filled with a long line of stoic stone villas. They are actually separated by gardens and olive orchards as if you needed something more idyllic! It’s a bloody gorgeous place to stay in Montenegro.
Walking to Kotor city centre from Prcanj isn’t an option, given its distance. However, the public transportation is reliable and the taxis are cheap to Kotor Old Town, so you won’t have to worry about missing out on all that Kotor Old Town has to offer.
Prcanj is where to stay on a budget because it’s a little more out of the way. Its distance from Kotor Town offers not just peace and quiet, but more budget-friendly options too!
- Best For: Relaxed waterfront stays, swimming spots, scenic bay views, couples and laid?back travellers
- The Vibe: Peaceful, slow-paced, traditional stone-village energy
- Proximity to Airport: ~20–25 mins from Tivat Airport (TIV)
- Transport Level: Easy. Taxis, local buses, and rental cars are available to get around.
- Budget: Mid-range (good value compared to Dobrota and Kotor Old Town)
- Crowds: Moderately busy in summer, generally quieter and more spread out than Dobrota or Old Town
Things to See and Do in Prcanj
- Visit the smaller historic Catholic churches scattered throughout Pr?anj’s old stone streets
- Hike the Vrmac Ridge for sweeping bay views – trail access is a short drive or a steep uphill walk from Prcanj
- Enjoy a seafood dinner at Bokeški Gušti, a much loved waterfront restaurant
- Pick up everyday essentials or local products at Aroma Market
- Dine right on the water at Marius, known for its great setting and relaxed atmosphere
Cosy apartment in the Old Village | Best Airbnb
Soak in the incredible mountain and sea views from the balcony and from nearly every window in the apartment! With this apartment you’ll get a glimpse into like as a local staying in the old village of Prcanj. Feel at home with the entire apartment to yourself with a spacious bedroom, equipped kitchen and bathroom.
Mejic Apartments | Best Apartments
Welcome to your home away from home. These apartments have everything you need and more. Enjoy a comfy bedroom, spacious bathroom and cosy living room. Plus, there’s a fully equipped kitchen if you feel like whipping up a feast. Spend your days catching some rays around the pool before heading into town and exploring everything Kotor has to offer.
Montebay Perla | Best Hotel
The Montebay Perla faces the beachfront so that you can enjoy a lush view across the lake. Guests can enjoy a large continental breakfast and large, spacious rooms.
The sunbeds are free and are the perfect place to pass the time with a book, soaking up some sunshine. You can’t go wrong with Montebay Perla.
3. Kotor Old Town – Best Area to Stay in Kotor for Nightlife
Make no mistake, Kotor Old Town is definitely where the action is. The area is positively jammed with people. It’s a hot spot for anyone travelling in the Balkans. You might even need to make a line to just to navigate the streets or make your way down a narrow lane. Yes, things are truly that busy in Kotor Old Town. The maze-like streets are charming, but waiting in a queue isn’t always your favourite way to explore a city.
However, once the cruise ships pull out of the bay (which is around 4:00pm each day) then the crowd certainly thins out and the energy shifts. There’s still a buzzing atmosphere, but it’s certainly more manageable. This energy is what makes Kotor Old Town the best area to stay in Kotor for nightlife.
Kotor’s Old Town is actually one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its fortified walls are twenty meters tall, and 4.5 kilometres long. Staying inside Kotor’s walls makes it one of the coolest places in Kotor to stay in.
- Best For: History, nightlife, food, photography, first-time visitors
- The Vibe: Medieval, atmospheric, lively, maze-like streets with cafés, bars, and music
- Proximity to Airport: ~15–20 mins from Tivat Airport (TIV)
- Transport Level: Easy peasy. Taxis, buses, and tours are available; it’s fully walkable inside the walls
- Budget: Mid-range to high. The tourist demand here increases prices, especially over the summer
- Crowds: Extremely high in summer, especially during cruise ship hours and weekend nightlife
Things to See and Do in Kotor Old Town
- Tour St Tryphon’s Cathedral, one of the most important landmarks in the Old Town
- Visit the smaller historic churches, including the Church of St Luka and the Church of St Nicholas
- Walk to the three Old Town gates and take photos of the walls and surrounding squares
- Stop by the Cat Museum and meet the friendly cats that roam the Old Town
- Explore the historic palaces, especially the distinctive Pima Palace
- Stroll along the Port of Kotor just outside the walls and admire the boats in the marina
- Hike up the Kotor Fortress for epic views across the bay
Three Square charming apartment | Best Airbnb
This Kotor Old Town Studio Apartment in Karampana Square is a rare find. Get the unique experience of staying with the walls of the Old town. Enjoy a home away from home with a fully equipped kitchen, cosy living room, spacious bathroom and comfy bed, plus If you need to get some work done there is high speed WIFI and air-conditioning. How gooood!
Old Town Hostel East Wing | Best Hostel
The Old Town Hostel East Wing in Kotor’s Old Town is where the party is at! It’s not just where to stay in Kotor on a budget, but it’s definitely where to stay in Kotor for nightlife.
The communal areas are nicely kept and well equipped, and the pool is a true delight. Having access to a shared kitchen is the best if you’re looking to pop some popcorn or make your own morning porridge! It’s a great hostel in Kotor.
Old Town Clock Tower Apartment | Best Hotel
This Old Town Clock Tower Apartment is an incredible find! It’s a fully furnished apartment that is spacious and stylishly decorated with lovely wood floors and a bright white kitchen. The washing machine is an added bonus.
It’s close proximity to all the great restaurants and bars downtown make it the perfect option for you. When wondering where to stay in Kotor for nightlife, look no further than this apartment!
4. Perast – Coolest Place to Stay in Kotor
Perast is just a few kilometers northwest of Kotor, and is easily reached by taxi and bus. It is known for its closeness to the islets of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. The population of the town is just around 400 people and is the perfect place to go if you are looking for the coolest place to stay in Kotor.
Here in Perast, you will be surrounded by the most incredible scenery. There are a few churches to visit, a bell tower to climb, and a museum to visit, but hands down the most popular thing to do is to take a boat ride out to the tiny man-made island of Our Lady of the Rocks, which was actually created by sinking old ships and reinforcing the base with large stones. Talk about cool right?!
As Perast is on the cape that divides the Bay of Risano from the Bay of Kotor, it overlooks the Verige strait, which is the absolute narrowest part of the Bay of Kotor. Enjoying a glass of wine or a nice meal along the water is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or evening.
- Best For: Romance, history, relaxed waterfront stays, photography
- The Vibe: Quiet, elegant, timeless, baroque village energy right on the bay
- Proximity to Airport: ~25-30 mins from Tivat Airport (TIV)
- Transport Level: Moderate. Taxis and buses available; very walkable once there but limited parking
- Budget: Mid-range to high. The heritage buildings and waterfront views increase prices
- Crowds: High in summer daytime due to boat tours, peaceful in mornings and evenings
Things to See and Do in Perast
- Take a boat to visit the small chapel on the manmade, sinking ship island – Our Lady of the Rocks
- Take a boat to visit the chapel on the St. George island
- Hike to the top of the bell tower and take in the gorgeous views from on up high
- Visit the Muzej grada Perasta, the Museum of Perast, that documents the town’s seafaring history and is housed in the lovely Renaissance-baroque Bujovi Palace
- Walk along the Peskovita plaza to the Perast public beach
- Enjoy a delicious meal at Konoba Skolji
Conte Hotel & Restaurant | Best Hotel
Newly refurbished, the Conte Hotel and Restaurant makes for a lovely stay. Just a few meters right off the sea, the location is picturesque. In fact, the Conte Hotel is actually a protected heritage building.
Don’t let that alarm you though, the rooms have been carefully renovated and are completely above and beyond modern standards!
Charming Old Town Home | Best Airbnb
Are you looking for a beachfront home in a scenic and quiet location? Well, look no further Amigo.
You literally couldn’t get more beachfront than this charming studio, located just 20 meters from the calm, clear water of the breath-taking Kotor Bay. This medieval house has private sea view terrace, fully-equipped kitchen, queen-size bed, living room and strong WiFi if you need to get some work done.
Apartments Jovanovic | Best Hotel
Now the view from these apartments is pretty spectacular. Enjoy a sunset drink on the terrace watching the ships cruise in and out of the bay.
This place is a home away from home with a fully equipped kitchen, spacious bedroom and clean bathroom. You’re in a ideal location to walk into town and grab a coffee or check out some of the local restaurants.
5. Risan – Best Neighbourhood in Kotor for Families
Risan has a beautiful beach and a more modern feel than Kotor Old Town and some of the other surrounding areas. Risan also has a road that leads up into the mountains, which makes for an incredible road trip should you feel called to wake in some mountain air and views of the Bay of Kotor below.
Risan is actually the oldest settlement around the Bay of Kotor. It used to be the capital of a kingdom! However, despite being the oldest area and the past capital, it actually has the least amount of historic remnants. Risan is actually most famous for its mosaics. The Roman Mosaic Villa, which dates all the way back to the 2nd and early 3rd centuries, calls Risan it’s home.
There are five absolutely epic mosaics to check out. The kids will love the intricate designs! Despite the mosaics and the Banja Monastery, these days Risan is known for being the area of Kotor that feels most like a seaside resort. It has the most opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
The beach is a pebble beach though, so don’t expect soft golden sands or anything. Overall, the beach and the more modern resort-style vibes make Risan a great place to stay with kids.
- Best For: Families, history, quiet stays, budget-friendly travel, exploring ancient sites
- The Vibe: Peaceful, low-key, authentic, small town coastal atmosphere
- Proximity to Airport: ~25–30 mins from Tivat Airport (TIV)
- Transport Level: Easy. Buses and taxis available; and it’s very walkable within the town
- Budget: Affordable to mid-range (generally cheaper than Perast and Kotor)
- Crowds: Low to moderate in summer, much quieter than the bustling Perast or Kotor Old Town
Things to See and Do in Risan
- Let your jaw drop at the stunning Roman Mosaic Villa making sure to see all 5 mosaics
- Stop by the Banja Monastery, which lies right along the coastline on the road from Risan to Perast
- Enjoy the sunshine and go swimming or sunbathing on the pebble beach
- Dine in style at Beach Bar El Cortez, located directly on the water – so close the water almost touches your feet during dinner!
- Experience a cosy ambiance and seafood delights at Stari Mlini
3 BDR Apartment | Best Airbnb
This stunning apartment is ideal if you’re travelling with friends or family. It’s got enough room for the whole gang, with three beds and one bathroom. Located in the peaceful part of Risan but walking distance frmo city centre.
Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen ideal for cooking up a feast, cosy living room and balcony with some of the best views in Kotor. If you’re heading to Kotor with a group, this place is perfect.
Lorena Rooms | Best Hotel
Located in Risan just 700m meters from the beach Lorena rooms is the peaceful escape you’ve been searching for. Not only is the location top tier but the apartment has everything you need for an EPIC stay. Enjoy a simple, yet comfortable room, perfect for relaxing after a busy day exploring. You’ve got a spacious, clean bathroom and a balcony to enjoy your morning coffee. This place isnt fancy but does the job and best of all staying here isn’t going to empty the travel fund.
FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Kotor
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Kotor and where to stay:
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Kotor
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Which Part of Kotor Should You Choose?
If you like history, mountains and cats – you’ll love Kotor! It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Europe with the perfect mix of history, culture and adventure. You can spend your day hiking the hills, boating around the lake, perusing the historic churches or hanging out in the cat museum!
Surrounded by fortified walls, erected during the Venetian period, only adds to its atmosphere of isolation and romance. At night, the walls are illuminated, which gives the night-time a magical ambiance. With a humble population of around 13,500 people, Kotor is both historic and homey.
From the beautiful architecture and atmosphere of popular Perast, to the more modern feel of the beach area of Risan, to the more tranquil energy of Prcanj, there are plenty of incredible neighbourhoods in Kotor to perch up. I hope this guide as helped to give you an insight into which spot will suit you best 🙂
And who knows, you might end up returning time and time again to explore some more!
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Kotor.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
