Exploring Kotor Montenegro with Kids
Kotor, Montenegro, is a treasure trove of medieval charm, stunning scenery, and family-friendly adventures. During our visit, our kids loved exploring the Old Town, climbing part of the city walls, and indulging in gelato. As parents, the serpentine roads and incredible views of the Bay of Kotor were equally unforgettable.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Kotor with kids and making the most of your family adventure.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read) Summary:
Why Visit? A stunning coastal town with medieval charm, scenic bay views, and rich history.
Top Things to Do: Explore Kotor Old Town, hike Kotor Fortress, take a boat tour to Perast, visit the Maritime Museum, and enjoy the waterfront.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds; summer for peak activity.
Getting Around: Walkable Old Town, taxis for short distances, car rental for exploring beyond Kotor.
Family-Friendly? Yes! Safe for kids, with lots of parks, easy hikes, and fun boat trips.
Why Visit Kotor with Kids?
Kotor has a little something for everyone. Its a quirky compact Old Town, with cobblestone streets, its perfect for families to explore. From the fascinating history and architecture to gelato stands everywhere you look, which our kids always spotted a mile off, it became a daily activity and expectation they were going to get ice cream.
Kotor is as fun for kids as it is for parents. Plus, the town’s proximity to nature and the iconic serpentine roads makes it easy to mix cultural and outdoor activities.
Top Things to Do in Kotor Montenegro with Kids
1. Exploring Kotor Montenegro’s Old Town with Kids
The Old Town of Kotor feels like stepping into a fairy tale. With its narrow, winding streets and quaint squares, there’s so much to discover. Kids will love the sense of adventure, Atty and Aurie loved to explore the medieval buildings and stumble across hidden alleys. Early mornings are the best time to visit before the crowds arrive, making it easier for little ones to roam freely.
Parent Tip: Let the kids lead the way through the Old Town. You’ll all enjoy the spontaneity of getting “lost” in its maze-like streets (you’ll always find your way back!).
2. Climb the Kotor City Walls
While hiking all the way up to Kotor Fortress might be too much for young children, climbing a short section of the city walls is both manageable and rewarding. The views over the town and the Bay of Kotor are breathtaking, even if you don’t go far. We took the back route and went slightly off track and found a stream the kids couldn’t but help to play in.
Safety Note: Some sections of the walls are uneven, so keep a close eye on little ones. Kampana Tower is a great spot to start as it’s more family-friendly.
3. Drive the Serpentine Road
For an unforgettable adventure, take a drive along the famous Serpentine Road, we did this on our way to centinje. The winding switchbacks offer stunning views of the Bay of Kotor at every turn and slightly take your breathe away. We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, which the kids loved for photo ops and snack breaks.
Pro Tip: Start your drive early to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler morning weather. Theres also a cafe with views right at the top.
4. Ice Cream and Playgrounds
No family trip is complete without ice cream! Kotor’s Old Town has plenty of gelato stands, and our kids made it their mission to try as many flavours as possible. Between exploring, we also found a few small parks where the kids could burn off some energy.
5. Hike to Kotor Fortress (Optional)
If your kids are up for a challenge, consider hiking to Kotor Fortress. It’s a steep climb with over 1,300 steps, but the panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor are worth it. Even if you don’t make it to the top, make sure to stopmhalfway to enjoy the views, we tracked halfway up as we knew we were going to do the drive to the top..
Tip for Families: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring plenty of water and take breaks as needed.
Tips for Visiting Kotor Montenegro with Kids
- Timing is Everything: Visit the Old Town early in the morning or in the evening to beat the midday heat and cruise ship crowds.
- Leave the Stroller Behind: The cobblestone streets and steps are not stroller-friendly. Opt for a baby carrier for younger children.
- Pack Snacks and Water: There are plenty of restaurants and cafes, but having snacks on hand will save you during long walks or drives.
- Stay Close to Old Town: Look for accommodations within walking distance of the Old Town to minimise travel time and keep everything accessible.
What We Loved Most About Kotor
- The Gelato: Affordable and delicious, it became a daily treat for the kids (and us!).
- The Cats of Kotor: The town is filled with friendly stray cats, much to the delight of our kids.
- The Views: Whether from the city walls or the serpentine road, the views of the Bay of Kotor are unforgettable.
My son really wanted me to include this video of him looking like a super hero i nedited for him.
How to Get Around Kotor Montenegro
Kotor is compact, so most of the Old Town can be explored on foot. However, for trips outside the city, here are your best options:
Walking: The best way to experience Kotor’s Old Town, as no cars are allowed inside.
Taxis: Taxis are available but can be expensive if not prearranged. Always ask for the price before getting in.
Car Rental: Ideal if you plan to explore beyond Kotor, like visiting Lovćen National Park or Perast.
Buses: A budget-friendly way to get to other Montenegrin towns like Budva or Podgorica.
Final Thoughts
Kotor is a fantastic destination for families, combining history, adventure, and fun. Whether you’re wandering the Old Town, climbing the walls, or taking in the stunning views, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Ready to plan your family adventure?
Check out our other post: Exploring Montenegro: A family Adventure
FAQs: Visiting Kotor Montenegro with Kids
Is Kotor Montenegro good for kids?
Yes! Kotor is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The traffic-free Old Town, interactive museums, boat tours, and accessible hiking opportunities make it a great place to explore with kids. Plus, there’s plenty of ice cream to keep them happy!
What are the best things to do in Kotor with children?
Some of the best kid-friendly activities include:
Wandering through the Old Town and playing in the squares.
Visiting the Cats of Kotor and the Maritime Museum.
Taking a boat tour to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks.
Climbing up Kotor Fortress for an adventure (best for older kids).
How many days do you need in Kotor Montenegro?
For families, 2-3 days in Kotor is the perfect amount of time to explore the Old Town, take a boat trip, and enjoy a hike. If you plan on visiting surrounding areas like Budva, Lovćen, or Perast, consider staying longer to experience more of Montenegro’s stunning landscapes.
Check out our Montenegro Travel Guide for a detailed seasonal breakdown.
