The beautiful Kotor Port is located in Montenegro, a Mediterranean country with a population of about 650,000. The region is rich in ancient history and also enjoys a climate of warm summers and mild winters. Daytime summer temperatures hover in the 70s or low 80s and overnight temperatures in the winter seldom fall below 40.
From the 15th through 18thCentury, Kotor was governed by the Republic of Venice. Much of the port’s stunning architecture is in one way or another influenced by Venice. In addition to great history, there are also plenty of excellent shopping and dining opportunities that are not far from the Kotor cruise port.
Shopping
The best shopping in Kotor lies within the port’s centrally located Old Town. There you will find dozens of small shops and boutiques offering the latest in European designer clothes and shoes.
Also in the old part of town you’ll find rows of shops that carry the best in souvenirs, jewelry and pottery. The area also has book stores which carry a wide variety of books in various languages. There is also a large department store not far from the Kotor cruise terminal that carries the latest in stylish clothing at reasonable prices.
Things to Do
The beaches are somewhat rocky yet pleasant in Kotor, but the historical exploring is definitely a good way to spend your time while at port. The region has some of the most breathtaking buildings and churches. The most notable, which stands as a great symbol of Kotor, is Cathedral of Saint Tryphon. The church is a true monument of Roman culture and worthy of a tour.
Other great churches and structures you would enjoy seeing include the Church of Saint Luke from the 1200s, and the Church of Saint Mary, which was built about a century later. The port also sponsors lovely carnivals and street fairs which bring out the best in culture of the port.
Kotor has also come to be known as an athletic place. The city has its own water polo school that draws students from around the world. Sailing is also big, as Kotor sponsors its own Regatta in the spring. The hiking is also great near the port, especially around the peak of Saint Ivan.
Restaurants and Bars
The food of choice among locals in Kotor is of a Mediterranean style popular across the entire country of Montenegro. Most dishes are made of smoked ham or fresh fish and come with tasty salads and soups. Kotor’s thick fish soups are extremely popular and can be found in most of the port’s finer restaurants. You also won’t want to miss the signature octopus salad.
Locals and tourists alike enjoy eating at Stari Milini, a locally inspired restaurant that offers outdoor dining under a canopy of trees. The food is great and the service is superb.
Kotor is also known for its vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of good bars in Old Town. If you’re looking for a good night dancing, try the disco club known as Secondo Porto.