Tucked away along Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Kotor is a historic and charming Old Town that offers more than just picturesque architecture and medieval charm. Surrounded by rugged limestone mountains and overlooking the serene Bay of Kotor, this destination is a hiker’s dream. My eyes lit up when I first saw the spectacular mountain scenery meet the sparkling sea. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a casual explorer, the best hikes in Kotor promise stunning vistas, ancient paths, and unforgettable adventure. They're also a great way to explore a quieter side to Montenegro, away from the cruise ship crowds.
In this comprehensive hiking guide, we’ll explore the top 5 hikes in and around Kotor, along with essential tips for hiking in Montenegro. Let’s lace up those boots and hit the trails! Before you go, make sure you read Solo Hiking – Staying Safe & Planning Your First Hike and Is a hiking holiday for you?
If you're planning to stay in or near Kotor, check out these blog posts to help plan your stay:
- The Best Place to Stay in Kotor, Montenegro
- 20 Amazing Things To Do In Kotor, Montenegro
- 10 Best Restaurants in Kotor, Montenegro
Planning a hiking trip to Kotor? Here's where you'll find:
- Why Hike in Kotor?
- 5 Best Hikes in Kotor, Montenegro
- Kotor Fortress Hike
- Ladder of Kotor Hike
- Vrmac Ridge Hike
- St. Andrew’s Trail
- Lovćen National Park Hike
- Essential Tips for Hiking in Montenegro
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Why Hike in Kotor?
Before diving into the top trails, here’s why hiking in Kotor should be on your travel radar:
- Panoramic Views: Get bird’s-eye views of the Bay of Kotor, often compared to a fjord.
- Cultural Heritage: Trails pass through ancient fortresses, stone villages, and Venetian-era ruins.
- Wild Beauty: Montenegro’s untouched nature is teeming with wildflowers, pine forests, and rocky cliffs.
>> Before you hit the trails – don't forget to check out my hiking packing list and make sure you have some sturdy hiking shoes or boots!
5 Best Hikes in Kotor, Montenegro
1. Kotor Fortress Hike (San Giovanni Fortress)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Distance: ~2.5 km (round trip)
- Trail Type: Out and back
- Start Point: Kotor Old Town
Description:
Easily the most iconic hike in Kotor and while it is a sweaty one – it's probably the most accessible hike for those who are less experienced hikers. Starting inside the walled Old Town, you’ll climb over 1,300 stone steps up to the ruins of San Giovanni Fortress. Along the way, you'll pass the Church of Our Lady of Remedy, and the higher you climb, the more breathtaking the view becomes. I really, really recommend if you're staying in or near Kotor, to make the effort to get up early and complete the hike either for sunrise or soon after while it is cooler. From 9am, the cruise ships dock at Kotor Old Town and the trail becomes very busy with cruise ship guests – if you start super early, you also dodge the €8 entrance fee.
Why It’s One of the Best Hikes in Kotor:
From the top, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Bay, the Old Town's orange-tiled roofs, and the surrounding cliffs. It's especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
Tips:
- Go early to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Wear shoes with good grip—the stones can be slippery.
- There’s a €8 entrance fee during peak season.
>> Love hiking? You should check out 10 Best Destinations for Solo Hikers in Europe
2. Ladder of Kotor (Kotor Serpentine Road)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Distance: ~9 km round trip
Trail Type: Out and back
Start Point: Near the north wall of Old Town Kotor
Description:
Another really popular hike for the area is The Ladder of Kotor, also known as the Kotor Serpentine, is an old mule trail that zigzags up the mountainside. With 70 switchbacks, it was once a trade route connecting Kotor with Njeguši and Cetinje. This iconic trail boast spectacular views and a taste of Kotor's history.
Why It’s One of the Best Hikes in Kotor:
As you ascend, you’ll get uninterrupted views of the entire bay, and the higher elevation gives you a true sense of Montenegro’s dramatic geography.
Tips:
- Bring plenty of water—there are no refill stations.
- Consider continuing to Njeguši for a full-day adventure and enjoy local prosciutto and cheese in the village.
- A hat and sunscreen are essential in warmer months.
3. Vrmac Ridge Hike
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 4 to 5 hours
Distance: ~10 km round trip
Trail Type: Loop
Start Point: Tivat or Kotor side of the Vrmac Tunnel
Description:
If you prefer a quieter hiking trail, check out this lesser-known hike which traverses the Vrmac Peninsula, offering peaceful trails through pine forests and old Austro-Hungarian fortifications. One of the best hikes in Kotor, the trail leads to the Vrmac Fortress, a relic of Montenegro’s military past.
Why It’s One of the Best Hikes in Kotor:
You get incredible panoramic views of both the Kotor and Tivat bays. The contrast between the sparkling sea and the rugged mountains makes this hike especially photogenic.
Tips:
- Start from the Tivat side if you want a gentler incline.
- Wear layers—the forested areas can be cooler than the exposed ridges.
- Great trail for those looking to avoid crowds.
>> Love hiking? You should check out Amazing Solo Hiking Destinations Around the World
4. St. Andrew’s Trail (Via Ferrata Option Available)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Distance: ~4 km round trip
Trail Type: Out and back
Start Point: Near Kotor’s northern gate or Škaljari
Description:
For my adventurous hikers who love a challenge – check out St. Andrew’s Trail which comes with the opportunity for a via ferrata (protected climbing route) you can book with a local guide. This trail leads up to the Church of St. Andrew and St. John’s Fortress, overlapping with parts of the Ladder of Kotor, and is perfect for thrill-seekers.
Why It’s One of the Best Hikes in Kotor:
You're far more likely to enjoy this trail to yourself (or bump into just a few other adventurous souls) so make the most of the blend of hiking and climbing with stunning payoff views.
Tips:
- Via ferrata gear is essential—book with an experienced outfitter.
- Best avoided during wet weather due to slippery conditions.
- Not recommended for those with a fear of heights.
5. Lovćen National Park Hike (Njegoš Mausoleum Trail)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
Distance: ~3 km round trip
Trail Type: Out and back
Start Point: Ivanova Korita or the parking area at the base of the stairs
Description:
If you've hired a car and you're keen to explore the trails beyond just Kotor, don't miss Lovćen National Park, which is just an hour's drive away and offers spectacular hikes. Enjoy one of the best views in Montenegro when you take the short trail to the Njegoš Mausoleum, perched atop Mount Lovćen.
Why It’s One of the Best Hikes Near Kotor:
If you love conquering a peak in every country you visit, this is the hike for you. Standing at 1,660 meters, you can see over 80% of the country on a clear day! The mix of cultural and natural significance makes it a must-do.
Tips:
- Entry fee applies to the mausoleum.
- Bring a jacket—it’s significantly cooler at this altitude.
- Combine with a visit to Njeguši village for a full-day trip.
Essential Tips for Hiking in Montenegro
- Weather Awareness: Montenegro’s weather can change rapidly, especially in mountainous areas. Always check the forecast before your hike.
- Footwear: Trails can be rocky and uneven. Sturdy hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended.
- Water & Snacks: Many trails don’t have water refill points. Bring at least 1.5L of water and high-energy snacks.
- Respect Local Wildlife: You may encounter snakes or other wildlife. Stick to marked paths and be cautious.
- Cell Signal: It’s good in most areas near Kotor, but download offline maps or use apps like Maps.me just in case.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat are your best friends on sunny hikes.
From ancient fortress stairs to rugged ridgelines, the best hikes in Kotor offer a mix of history, nature, and challenge that few destinations can match. Whether you're chasing panoramic views of the Bay or seeking quiet solitude in the hills, hiking in Kotor is a must for any outdoor enthusiast visiting Montenegro.
So pack your gear, plan your routes, and prepare for some of the most rewarding hikes in the Balkans. And don’t forget—Kotor’s trails are best explored with curiosity, respect for nature, and a sense of adventure.
