As you’ll know I’ve recently spent a wonderful week in Dubrovnik. One of the things that I loved about the city, is its proximity to other interesting spots such as Kotor in Montenegro and Mostar in Bosnia-Herzegovina. As I wasn’t going to pass on a chance to scratch off two more countries from my scratch map, I just had to go there! Luckily for me, I was able to book all our excursions directly at the hotel. So thanks again, sweet Marina for helping with that! 😉 For the daytrips to both Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina, Hotel Perla works with Perla Adriatica, a company that organizes excursions for small groups. Early in the morning, our very friendly driver, Toni, picked us up at the hotel and off we were for a great trip to Montenegro.
PERAST
After a 1,5 hour drive in the comfort of our minivan, we arrived in Perast, a lovely little town in the Bay of Kotor and nowadays one of Montenegro’s popular holiday destinations. Throughout history, the Byzantine, Venetian, Hungarian and Austrian empires have tried to conquer this place and put it under their ruling, which is clearly visible in the cultural heritage. The town is filled with impressive catholic and orthodox churches, defensive towers and Baroque palaces and is therefore part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Upon our arrival a boat was already waiting to take us to the island of Our Lady of the Rock, one of Perast most remarkable landmarks. According to the legend, on 22 July 1452, two fishermen, one of whom was crippled, sailed by the Monastery of St George, passing a small crag coming out of the water. On top of it was a painted icon of the Virgin Mary and Child. The crippled man removed the icon from the crag and took it home with him, paying it no further attention. Waking up the next morning, the fisherman noticed two things. First, the icon of the Mother and Child was gone. And second, he was no longer crippled. As from that day, all fishermen returning from a successful journey, laid rocks on the place from the crag. In the beginning all rocks sank to the bottom, but eventually an island was formed, on which they later built the church of Our Lady of The Rock. Or so they say… ?
KOTOR
The city I was most looking forward to visiting in Montenegro, was Kotor. It’s been popping up on my Instagram and Pinterest for a while now and I was happy to see it for myself.
After parking the minivan, Toni walked us to the Sea Gate, the entrance of Kotor’s Old Town. From thereout you can easily wander around the narrow streets and beautiful squares. The Old City of Kotor is a well preserved city center of the Middle Ages, built between the 12th and 14th century. Thanks to its Medieval architecture and numerous monuments, Kotor is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The first square we came across on, was the Piazza of the Arms. A charming square with plenty of terraces and the Leaning Clock Tower of Kotor. Yes, Kotor also has its own leaning tower. And although it’s not as famous as his leaning friend from Pisa, it’s definitely worth seeing. Since the Clock Tower’s construction in 1602, it has suffered through several earthquakes and its leaning facade serves as a reminder of that.
One of the most impressive buildings on Piazza of the Arms Square is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. This Catholic cathedral was consecrated in the 12th century but reconstructed after several earthquakes.
Make sure not to miss the lovely Piazza Greca either, where you’ll see the Saint Luke’s Church, which was built in a 1195 as a Catholic Church. But which nave held both a Catholic and Orthodox alter, allowing the two faiths, to experience their religions next to each other. Across the street you’ll find the Byzantine Church of Sveti Nikola. The building of that church was terminated in 1909.
One of the most important landmarks in Kotor, are the City Walls, which date back to when Kotor was under the rule of the Venetian Republic. Unfortunately I wasn’t able to do that, as their wasn’t enough time, which was a pity.☹ From what Toni told us the hike up to the St-Johns Fortress is challenging, but so worth it because of the amazing views upon the Old Town and Kotor Bay. I guess I just have to go back someday!
Kotor is one of these places where you can simply be, walk around and stumble upon one beautiful corner after the other. It reminded me a lot of Italy in some ways, so maybe that’s one of the reasons why I loved it so much! ? The natural landscape is also to beautiful to be true! The limestone cliffs are overhanging the Bay of Kotor. It kind of looks like a fjord, but is actually a submerged river canyon.
Stop number 3: Budva. But before heading there, we made a two minute pitstop along the way, to make some pictures of Kotor Bay. I was so happy that Toni suggested that, because the view from up there was truly beautiful! And that kinda made up, for the lack of pictures from the St-Johns Fortress.
BUDVA
When arriving in Budva, it was already 2 PM and we still hadn’t eaten, so Toni guided us through the main boulevard and showed us his favorite spot for lunch near the waterside, Jadran Kod Krsta. As we were only in Budva for 2 hours, we ordered a salad, and went back on our way.
Budva’s Old Town is located on a small peninsula and represents a treasure chest of culture heritage. Inside the maze of narrow streets and squares lay beautiful historic buildings and churches. But unfortunately that is not the main reason why tourist seek their way into town. Thanks to its lovely beaches Budva Bay quickly became the most popular holiday destination in Montenegro. Which lead to the fact that the offer in hotels, restaurants, bars, clubs and stores is enormous and is now dominating the streets. Making the area feel really touristy, and not in a good way. I’m sure many people will love that, but I don’t. So after a quick stroll around town, it was time to go back to the Dubrovnik.
The excursion to Montenegro was absolutely lovely. I can only recommend to go on a daytrip with Perla Adriatica. The driver is super nice and very informative about the places that you’re going to visit, restaurant recommendations and basically everything you want to know about the region. I found the itinerary also very satisfying. Although, I would have preferred to spent more in Kotor, rather than a visit to Budva, but that’s me. But, always look on the bright side of life… At least now I’ve seen 3 places in Montenegro. So make sure to check out their Facebook page.
Practical information
- Don’t forget your passport, you will need it to cross the borders. And as a bonus you will get some more stamps in it as well!
- Currency: Euro (€)