Kotor, Perast, Budva Review: See Montenegro’s Best Spots

Montenegro, that gem on the Adriatic Coast, packs quite a punch for such a compact place! So, if you’re thinking about hitting up Kotor, Perast, and Budva, you’re in for a treat. It’s almost like each town offers its own distinct flavor, yet they’re all connected by that stunning Montenegrin coastline. Here’s what makes them worth your precious vacation days, just a little breakdown.

Kotor: Where History Hugs the Bay

Kotor is a fortified city that sits nestled at the end of a dramatic bay. The Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets and that’s practically teeming with history. We’re talking Venetian architecture, cute little churches, and plenty of spots to grab a bite. A good climb up to St. John’s Fortress is an absolute must, anyway it gives you crazy views of the bay, too it’s something else!

What to Do: First, wander the Old Town. It’s almost impossible to get totally lost, so don’t sweat it, anyway! Next, climb to St. John’s Fortress. Yes, it’s a hike, but you’ll totally be rewarded. After that, take a boat tour of Kotor Bay. That really shows you the landscape from a totally different angle. Don’t skip the Cats Museum if you’re, like, an animal lover. Finally, check out the local markets for souvenirs and produce, pretty good to experience a culture!

Where to Eat: Restaurant Galion is a place where you could dine with an unbeatable view of the bay. It tends to be slightly upscale, yet that setting alone makes it worth it. For something more casual, try Cesarica. This tends to have awesome seafood dishes, like your typical, perfectly grilled fish. For that quick and tasty bite, head to Tanjga, more or less a tiny place that dishes out grilled meats. The local restaurants around here also often feature fresh seafood which adds a culinary taste.

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel Astoria is, in some respects a stylish option in the heart of the Old Town. For apartment-style stays, check out Apartments Los Olivos, too it offers a great alternative and really some pretty great views. The location here is conveniently right outside the city walls. Hostel Old Town Kotor is also there, more or less offering wallet-friendly options.

Perast: Baroque Beauty by the Bay

Just a quick drive up the coast from Kotor sits Perast. This is a super small, super charming town. In the bay here you get two beautiful islands: St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. That adds an extra touch of magic, apparently! It is arguably much quieter than Kotor, pretty cool if you’re really looking to chill.

What to Do: The main draw is, too it takes that boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks. So it’s almost an artificial island with a striking church. After that, you could just wander the waterfront, actually this tends to be a delightful experience! Don’t skip a visit to the Maritime Museum, that, that actually tends to be surprisingly interesting if you are into seafaring history. Finally, check out St. George Island, that’s a little more serene because it actually features a monastery and cemetery.

Where to Eat: Restaurant Conte tends to be well-regarded for its excellent food and atmosphere. It’s right on the water, more or less. For a more casual option, give Konoba Skolji a try. You tend to get some simpler, yet very tasty, dishes there, kind of local favorites. The overall experience tends to also revolve around really awesome views.

Where to Stay: Hotel Perastra actually offers luxe accommodations with amazing views. For more, like your apartment vibe, consider Apartments Zlokovic, a bit comfortable. Those visiting Perast actually find there tends to be many local stores around for convenient shopping. Guest House Mrdak, kind of a cheaper alternative, still that maintains comfort.

Budva: Beaches and a Bit of a Buzz

Budva is arguably the place you go to if you need that combination of beach relaxation and a bit more of that lively nightlife. This also has an Old Town that actually has its own charm, just that tends to be with that younger, more modern vibe compared to Kotor. Plus, the beaches are a major draw, too they’re great spots to just chill or partake in some watersports.

What to Do: Spend that time on the beaches. Mogren Beach and Jaz Beach tend to be two super popular picks. Then there’s Old Town, to check out its cute shops and cafes. After that, Sveti Stefan, just that picturesque island resort near Budva. Finally, that’s going to the nightlife in Budva, apparently pretty solid, mostly through summer!

Where to Eat: Jadran kod Krsta is there and that is very regarded for the local seafood and, in fact, also features outdoor seating. For some fancier experience, there’s Porto. It’s actually been known for a cool spot, arguably also having good Mediterranean cuisine. As for trying Montenegrin cuisine then try Konoba Stari Grad. So the Old Town restaurants and shops tend to give it an appealing cultural ambiance.

Where to Stay: Hotel Avala Resort & Villas usually offers all-out luxury with, arguably featuring pools and a private beach. For apartment digs, then check out Dukley Hotel & Resort, with a fancy spot outside Budva. For an awesome choice in the center there is Hotel Moskva. These hotels provide convenient access, in fact also have various food choices.

Getting Around: Making the Most of Your Trip

The, like your best way to see these towns is by car. This arguably gives you the flexibility to really hop around. Plus you also have buses. You get connections here and there are also, like, ride-sharing, really common! Or that water taxi is another super option between the coastal towns.

Some Extra Pointers for Your Getaway

Montenegro uses the Euro (€). English is fairly spoken, mostly that you will find also many speak other, arguably some main European languages. Peak season (summer) that, expect the crowds and arguably the higher prices, but otherwise that just great vibes! In order to really respect the local culture, then dress modestly. Especially that tends to apply to religious sites, like your standard!

So is Kotor, Perast, and Budva Worth It?

In short, so heck yes! It is actually almost worth it to just see, just so great these places are. That’s not including Montenegro. That tends to really deliver, basically something for every type of traveler. Anyway go for some crazy old town vibes in Kotor to like a relaxed, really classy experience with some beach chill in Budva and maybe just some historical richness in Perast and you will be getting that memorable Adriatic experience. Make, like your plans, get ready and have that really awesome time!