Looking for a romantic holiday or a relaxing break from the hubbub, hustle, and bustle of busy city life? Then head on over to Kotor, Montenegro. Known for its beautiful bay and mountains, which give it an almost zen-like atmosphere, Kotor is a true gem.
Close enough to lots of other popular cities, you can pack in lots of day trips should you wish with Kotor as your base. Staying in Kotor, though, now that’s a real treat. Deciding where to stay in Kotor is a little bit trickier.
That’s why we put our expert travel writers to work. We wanted to solve the where to stay in Kotor riddle and be the magical answer to all your problems. While we are not exactly a genie in a bottle, we are a team of expert travel writers who put together this magical Kotor neighborhood guide for you.
Abracadabra! Alakazam!
And with a dramatic poof of colorful smoke, presto magico here is our Kotor neighborhood guide. It’s full of all the best places to stay in Kotor, categorized by budget, nightlife, cool factor, first-timers, and families.
We wanted to make your wish come true with our list of where to stay in Kotor. Sorry, we don’t grant any more wishes. Just this one. Sorry, folks!
Looking for a real magic trick? How about making your decision as easy as one, two, three? Here is our highest recommendations for Kotor accommodations.
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Kotor Old Town Studio Apartment in Karampana Square | Best Airbnb in Kotor
This Kotor Old Town Studio Apartment in Karampana Square is a rare find. Guests will rent the entire studio apartment—one bed and one bathroom.
We adore this modern and trendy apartment, complete with bright white walls and exposed wooden beams. You’ll enjoy the high speed wifi and airconditioning when you need a break from the heat! Yes, we definitely stand by our words when we say that this Airbnb is one of the best places to stay in Kotor.
Old Town Hostel East Wing | Best Hostel in Kotor
Old Town Hostel East Wing was featured as one of the top 10 European hostels in the UK’s Telegraph, and it’s actually Trip Advisors #1 recommendation for hostels in Kotor. We’re not alone here by saying that Old Town Hostel East Wing is one of the best places in Kotor to stay! From tons of social activities to a beautiful pool, this hostel is one of the coolest places to stay in Kotor.
If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Kotor!
Conte Hotel & Restaurant | Best Hotel in Kotor
The Conte Hotel and Restaurant in Perast is a truly superb hotel. Located in a renovated historic building, the ambiance is charming.
However, the rooms are spacious and modern. We love the restaurant that serves hearty portions right on the dining terrace that overlooks the Kotor Bay. The Conte Hotel is indeed on the waterfront and is a quick and easy walk to everything to do and see in Perast.
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.
Kotor is nestled between the mountains at the corner of the Gulf of Kotor. It’s an idyllic coastal town in Montenegro that has an atmosphere of seclusion. With a humble population of around 13,500 people, Kotor is both historic and homey.
It is surrounded by fortified walls, erected during the Venetian period, which only adds to its atmosphere of isolation and romance. At night, the walls are illuminated, inducing an unbelievably special nighttime ambiance.
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.
If you’re trying to figure out where to stay in Kotor, there are plenty of beautiful and peaceful places to consider. From the beautiful architecture and atmosphere of popular Perast, which is a hotspot for tourists, to the more modern feel of the beach area of Risan, to the more tranquil energy of Prcanj, there sure are incredible neighborhoods in Kotor to explore.
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5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Kotor
Oh the magic of Kotor’s neighborhoods! You’re sure to feel enchanted with any of our top 5 picks. Without further adieu, let’s dive into the Kotor’s best neighborhoods.
1. Dobrota – Where to Stay in Kotor for the First Time
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.
There is reliable public transportation available as well, costing just around €1. Taxis are also known to be very cheap, making it one of Montenegro’s best places to stay.
Our favorite part about staying in Dobrota is that is away from the cruise shippers, but it’s not completely isolated or deserted. It’s what makes it one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Kotor to stay in.
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.
Ah, after a good night’s sleep you’ll likely agree that Dobrota is the best area to stay in Kotor. In fact, it’s what makes this area where to stay in Kotor for the first time. A good night’s sleep and a little bit fewer crowds is all a first-time traveler to Kotor needs— a recipe for sure success!
Center Studio with Terrace and City view | Best Airbnb in Dobrota
This Center Studio with Terrace and City view in Dobrota is one of the best AirBnB’s there is to find in the Kotor area! For around $45 per night, you get this entire one bedroom and one bathroom apartment that is just a few minutes walk from Kotor Old Town.
Given the price, and the absolutely modern amenities and style of this Airbnb, it’s a winning combination that makes this studio one of the best places in Kotor to stay!
Bocche di Cattaro Apartments | Best Hostel in Dobrota
While there are no hostels located in Dobrota, Hostelworld has been kind enough to feature the Bocche di Cattaro Apartments as a wonderful budget option in Dobrota. All apartments have air conditioning, wifi, and overlook the sea. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen with dining area, plus a backyard garden with BBQ facilities.
Apartment Dobrota View | Best Hotel in Dobrota
Rather than choosing a standard hotel, we decided to recommend this exceptional apartment. It is very close to the beach and the main promenade.
You will be sure to fall in love with the views and the stunning turquoise blue pool guests can relax and take a swim in! There are two bedrooms and a kitchen that will make you feel right at home in one of Kotor’s best neighborhoods.
Things to See and Do in Dobrota
- Take a 4 hour sailing excursion on a gorgeous yacht all around Kotor Bay
- Soak up some sunshine at Kotor Beach, located in Dobrota, or jump in the bay and have a nice swim
- Visit St Eustace Church, that houses a stunning collection of paintings, including an impressive work by Bellini
- 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 a delicious meal at Caffe del Mare— pizzas, pastas, and seafood galore!
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View on Osprey View on REI2. 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 kilometers away from Kotor city center 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!
Walking to Kotor city center from Prcanj isn’t an option, given its distance. However, the public transportation is reliable and the taxis are cheap; just €3 to Kotor Old Town, so you won’t have to worry about missing out on all that Kotor Old Town has to offer.
Yet, Prcanj has an incredible history and a heartwarming beauty in and of itself, which makes it one of the best places in Kotor to stay. Seated at the foot of the Vrmac mountain, and facing the Kotor Old Town across the bay, you won’t be lacking a beautiful view anywhere you turn in Prcanj.
Prcanj is where to stay in Kotor 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!
“You Can’t Beat This View” Apartment | Best Airbnb in Prcanj
The “You Can’t Beat This View” Apartment in Prcanj indeed offers guests incredible mountain and sea views from the balcony and from nearly every window in the apartment! With this AirBnB rental, you will get the entire apartment with two bedrooms, and one bathroom.
This sparklingly clean and modern apartment will make you feel right at home. Being able to check yourself in with the lockbox is an added bonus!
Apartments Cirkovic | Best Hostel in Prcanj
While there are no hostels in Prcanj, Hostelworld features the Apartments Cirkovic as an excellent budget-friendly option for Kotor travelers. These apartments normally cost around less than 12 euros a night, making it where to stay in Kotor on a budget.
Consider staying in Prcanj for some peace, calm, and quiet. Not to mention much-appreciated privacy! The apartments face a small beach and beach bar, which is just a mere 50 meters from the apartment.
Montebay Perla | Best Hotel in Prcanj
The Montebay Perla faces the beachfront and touts a wonderful 3-star rating for Kotor accommodation in Prcanj. 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.
Things to See and Do in Prcanj
- Tour the immense Nativity of the Our Lady Church: Bogorodicin Hram, which is an architectural feat
- Visit the other historic Catholic churches in the area
- Walk along the Vrmac, an elevated walkway with sweeping vistas that is a short drive from Prcanj in the mountains
- Chow down on a seafood dinner at Bokeski Gusti
- Pick up some local products Aroma Market
- Dine in delight at Marius, right along the coastline
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. 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 favorite 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 kilometers long. Staying inside Kotor’s walls makes it one of the coolest places in Kotor to stay in.
Feel snazzy at the Old Winery Wine Bar or jazzy at the Jazz Club Evergreen. There is an incredible variety of bars and clubs snuggled into the winding side streets of the Kotor Old Town. Put your hands up in the air because Old Town is the best area to stay in Kotor for nightlife.
Kotor Old Town Studio Apartment in Karampana Square | Best Airbnb in Kotor Old Town
This Kotor Old Town Studio Apartment in Karampana Square is an incredible find. It gives guests views over rooftops to the walls of the Old Town itself.
This large, bright studio is charmingly decorated and is fully equipped with all you could need. If we were moving to Kotor, we might just snag this apartment for ourselves!
Old Town Hostel East Wing | Best Hostel in Kotor Old Town
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!
Old Town Clock Tower Apartment | Best Hotel in Kotor Old Town
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!
Things to See and Do in Kotor Old Town
- Tour the stunning St Tryphon’s Cathedral
- Wander through the rest of the churches in Kotor from the Church of St. Luka to the Church of St. Nicholas
- Trek over to the Three City Gates and snap some stunning photos
- Visit the Cat Museum and pet a few friendly felines around town too
- Check out as many palaces as you can, especially the eye-catching Pima Palace
- Walk around the Port of Kotor and check out the beautiful boats at the marina
- Enjoy the great cocktails at Letrika Caffe Bar
- Feel the good music vibes at the Jazz Club Evergreen
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Grab an eSIM!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.
Given Perast also enjoys nearly 240 days of sunshine a year, you’re almost guaranteed to enjoy your time outside along the Bay taking in the picturesque views, which is what makes Perast one of the best places to stay in Kotor.
Conte Hotel & Restaurant | Best Hotel in Perast
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!
Perast Window View-two bedroom apartment | Best Airbnb in Perast
This Perast Window View two bedroom apartment is yours for the taking. The windows of the apartment face the sea, which offers beautiful views all day long. Wake up to the sunshine and the fresh sea air! You’ll love relaxing in this cozy apartment in Perast that will make you feel right at home.
Seaview rooms in Perast | Best Hotel in Perast
Completely modern facilities can be expected at this charming guesthouse in Perast. The rooms have a chic feel, with thick stone walls and crisp white linens. You’re sure to enjoy the views as well, as they all face the sea outside. Lie in bed and soak up those views!
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
5. Risan – Best Neighborhood 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.
It’s the best neighborhood in Kotor for families given its vibes and the fact that you won’t be fighting droves of tourists and cruise shippers while just walking around town!
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 where to stay in Kotor with kids.
Flat & Pool & Stunning View | Best Airbnb in Risan
This Flat & Pool & Stunning View Airbnb rental is a luxury flat with three beds and one bathroom. It can comfortably fit four guests.
The apartments are very peaceful and private. Make sure to enjoy the pool right by the sea, that is completely surrounded by nature!
On Airbnb 100% of guests gave this location a 5-star rating. With ratings like that, it’s hard to deny that this is the best Airbnb in one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Kotor or Risan!
Apartments Risan Club Family | Best Hotel in Risan
The Apartments Risan Club Family is an entire apartment rental with a sea view. This Kotor accommodation in Risan is fully equipped, complete with a kitchen, oven, stovetop, and refrigerator. Make sure to enjoy the outdoor barbecue facilities and the ping pong table!
Deluxe Apartment Risan | Best Hotel in Risan
The Deluxe Apartment Risan located in Risan, one of Kotor’s best neighborhoods. It is fully air-conditioned and has excellent wifi.
It also has a patio and a washing machine for guests to use. This apartment is well positioned and there is a park in the vicinity which would be perfect for after-dinner walks!
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 cozy ambiance and seafood delights at Stari Mlini
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Kotor
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Kotor and where to stay.
What To Pack For Kotor
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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.
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Final Thoughts on Where To Stay in Kotor
Kotor, Montenegro is brimming with gorgeous historic areas and incredible views of the bay and the surrounding mountains. There are breathtaking views to enjoy in all of Kotor’s best neighborhoods.
If you’re looking for the coolest place to stay in Kotor, Perast is our highest recommendation. The Conte Hotel and Restaurant in Perast is located in a historic building. The beauty of it is timeless.
Our favorite hostel in Kotor is the highly social Old Town Hostel East Wing, located in Old Town Kotor. With tons of opportunities for socializing and a huge pool to enjoy, this hostel is the way to go.
If you’re looking for the best Airbnb option, the Kotor Old Town Studio Apartment in Karampana Square is a wonderful find. The location is hard to beat if you’re looking for the best base to take advantage of Kotor’s nightlife.
Do you have any Kotor travel tips to share? Write us a note in the comments below.
- 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.
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