Kotor, Montenegro

08:00 AM - 06:00 PM, local time

Requires tender boat to reach shore

Nestled into Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Kotor is a breathtaking gem of the Balkans. A medieval maze where museums and churches weave in and out of cafe-strewn squares and Venetial palaces — the intricacies of the city are only matched by the stunning scenic terrain in the backdrop.

A river canyon’s medieval maze

While Kotor’s history is steeped in medieval lore, its past extends all the way back to both ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. Like the age of a vintage Hollywood starlet, an exact date to the city’s origins is impossible to pinpoint, but with the 12th-14th centuries being widely accepted as the golden age of Montenegro’s development, this is probably a good starting place to fix your mind upon entering the city’s renowned gates.

The city’s various religious dwellings, such as the Roman Catholic Saint Tryphon (often said to be Kotor’s most beautiful building,) or the Eastern Orthodox Church Our Lady of the Rocks are just as fascinating as its whimsical Cat Museum. The best way to see the collection of landmarks that call Kotor home is by putting down your phone (and your inhibitions) and exploring them for yourself. 

Hiking through the Lovcen National Park provides a natural world that’s existed here for millennia – plus offers some epic photo-ops, all while offering you a peek into the very land where dueling kingdoms would prepare before heading off to conquer new territory for their crowned leader. 

Whether you’re looking to uncover ancient hidden caves from the comfort of a boat or to spend the day taking advantage of the excess healing marine minerals while getting pampered, Kotor has just what you’re craving. When it comes to self-care, Kotor doesn’t only offer treatments for your body, but for your soul – through your stomach. 

Traditional recipes being passed down for generations is prevalent in the many inspired restaurants, cafes and tavernas who have both perfected the traditional while giving it a twist. For proof of just how fresh the ingredients are, take a day trip into the countryside and meet the farmers and artisans whose celebrated products are used daily throughout the city’s impressive culinary scene.