How to Get Around Kotor Without a Car
Want to know if you can get around Kotor without a car? You absolutely can.
As someone who’s explored Kotor and Montenegro extensively without a car, I know how daunting it can feel to plan your transport in a new place.
But don’t worry, getting around Kotor is simpler than you might think. This guide is packed with practical tips and personal recommendations to help you navigate Kotor.
Perfect for first-time visitors, this is everything you need to travel confidently and enjoy the best of Kotor without a car.
Some posts on this site contain affiliate links to products or services I’ve found useful. If you make a purchase through these links I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). This helps keep the travel blog running, so thank you.
Planning a trip to Montenegro? Check out these key services
🚖 How to book an airport transfer?
Get picked up and go directly to your location in Kotor with Kiwitaxi.
📌 What’s a great site to find tours and experiences?
Check out the best tours and activities in and around Kotor with Get Your Guide.
🚗 How to hire a car?
Explore Montenegro at your own pace with a rental car from Discover Cars.
🛌 How to find hotels?
Find a great deal for your accommodation in Montenegro with Booking.com.
Walking in Kotor
Walking is the best way to get around Kotor, especially in the Old Town, where cars aren’t allowed.
The Old Town is a compact, walled area filled with cobbled streets, which are mostly flat but can feel a bit uneven underfoot. Wear trainers or comfy flip flops to stay comfortable.
Top walking routes:
- Old Town and the lower ramparts: the narrow streets are packed with historic sights, from ancient churches and villas to lively squares. The lower ramparts provide some good views of the bay, without having to climb too high.
- Ladder of Kotor and St. John’s Fortress: if you’re up for a challenge, hike the Ladder of Kotor or head up to St. John’s Fortress. The climb can be steep, but I thought the incredible views over Kotor Bay were absolutely worth it.
- Vrmac ridge: for a quieter hike, cross to the other side of the bay and follow the trail up to Vrmac ridge. You’ll get more stunning views and the chance to explore a derelict military fort.
Walking in Kotor is straightforward, and it’s a great way to take in the town’s history and architecture at your own pace. Follow this guide to easily get around, even if you’ve only got one day in Kotor.
Kotor Cable Car
The recently opened Kotor Cable Car is one of the most exciting new ways to explore the area, offering a unique perspective over Kotor Bay. It’s a great way to take a break from walking.
I’ve taken the cable car myself, and the 15-minute ride was smooth and enjoyable. Take a look at my full Kotor Cable Car review for all the details, including tips on what to expect and prices.
The cable car connects Kotor to Lovćen National Park, whisking you up the mountainside to panoramic views of the bay and beyond. It’s ideal if you’re not up for a hike but still want to experience the incredible scenery.
Explore beyond Kotor’s Old Town
While Kotor’s Old Town is made for walking, there’s plenty to explore beyond its walls. To visit the surrounding areas, you’ll need to use transport options like buses, taxis or even bikes and kayaks. Here’s how to get around:
Car hire
Hiring a car is the most flexible way to explore beyond Kotor. You can rent a vehicle from Discover Cars, but remember that cars aren’t allowed inside the Old Town.
Plan to park in designated spots just outside the walls like the car park at Shopping Centre Kamelija.
Taxis in Kotor
If you trave without a car, taxis are a convenient option for short trips or airport transfers. I used Red Taxi several times during my visit to Kotor and found them reliable, affordable, and easy to book via WhatsApp. There is no Uber in Montenegro.
They’re ideal for getting to places like Perast, Tivat, or other nearby spots without the hassle of driving yourself.
Local buses (Blueline)
Blueline buses provide the local public transport around Kotor Bay. They run regularly between towns like Dobrota, Perast, and Herceg Novi, with routes and stops along both sides of Kotor Bay.
The main bus station is to the south of the Old Town, at Skaljari, Kotor, making it easy to hop on for a day out.
Long-distance buses
For trips further afield, Montenegro’s long-distance buses are a cheap and practical choice. During my trip, I used them to visit Budva and Durmitor National Park.
They varied from on time, clean and spacious, to late, overcrowded and uncomfortable. One three hour trip in a mini-bus back from Montenegro’s Black Lake was particularly memorable for a spontaneous passenger revolution demanding a toilet break.
Despite some less than great journeys, Kotor’s buses are a budget-friendly way to see more of the country. Book tickets in advance online via busticket4.me.
Active ways to explore Kotor Bay
If you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, there are some fantastic ways to actively explore the Bay of Kotor. These options let you experience the bay’s beauty up close.
Kayaking
Getting out on the water in a kayak is an unforgettable way to take in the stunning scenery. I hired a kayak from Montenegro Hostel 4U, near Kotor Beach, and loved how peaceful the experience was.
You can paddle at your own pace or join a guided kayak tour to learn more about the bay’s history and meet other travellers.
Cycling
Biking around the bay is both scenic and fun. I hired an e-bike, which meant I could complete a loop around the bay in half a day.
The ride takes you past picturesque villages and offers some incredible photo stops. A highlight for me was taking the bike on the short ferry crossing at Lepetane (which was free).
Bikes are available to rent from the Multisport Shop and Cafe in Dobrota.
Boat trips
If you prefer to be on the water rather than in it, a Kotor boat trip is a great option. Popular tours include stops at the historic town of Perast and the iconic island of Our Lady of the Rocks.
Some tours even visit the Blue Cave, giving you the chance to swim in its glowing waters.
Getting to and from Kotor Airport (Tivat)
The closest airport to Kotor is Tivat Airport, which is about 15 minutes by car from the town. However, traffic around the outskirts of the Old Town can get busy, especially in summer, so it’s a good idea to allow plenty of extra time for your journey.
Taxi
Taxis are a convenient option for getting to and from Tivat Airport. I booked a taxi with Red Taxi via WhatsApp.
Expect to pay approximately €30 for the trip, but confirm the fare in advance to avoid surprises.
Airport transfer
If you prefer the peace of mind of having everything arranged ahead of time, consider booking a private airport transfer.
Someone will pick you up directly from Tivat airport and drop you at your accommodation in Kotor. It’s a hassle-free option, especially if you’re arriving late or travelling with lots of luggage.
Bus
There are local buses that run between Kotor and Tivat town, but they don’t stop at the airport itself.
The closest stop is in the centre of Tivat, about 1.5km from the airport. From there, you’d need to take a taxi to complete your journey, so it’s not the most convenient option if you have luggage or limited time.
Check times on the busticket4.me website.
Car hire
If you’re planning to explore more of Montenegro, hiring a car from the airport is a good option. The drive to Kotor is short and straightforward, but remember you’ll need to park outside the Old Town.
Wrap up: transport in Kotor
There’s no shortage of ways to explore Kotor. Choose what works best for you.
Exploring Kotor is as much about the journey as the destination, so embrace the mix of outdoor adventures that make this area so special. However you choose to get around, you’ll find that Kotor’s appeal lies in its blend of history and nature.
There’s much more to Montenegro than just Kotor though. Discover how you can even combine a visit to Monenegro with a trip to Dubrovnik, Croatia.