I Spent Hours Choosing Where to Stay in Kotor – Here’s What Solo Travellers Should Know
Choosing where to stay in Kotor isn’t just about price or views – it’s about how you want your trip to feel.
Do you stay inside the atmospheric Old Town walls, where everything is walkable but lively?
Or choose somewhere quieter along the waterfront in Dobrota or even nearby Perast, where life feels a lot calmer and more local?
Before my first solo trip to Kotor, I spiralled a little – okay, a LOT!
I spent hours reading reviews, checking Google Maps, comparing neighbourhoods, and asking myself the one question every solo female traveller asks:
Will I feel safe and comfortable walking back here at night?
Now that I’ve done it, I can tell you exactly how the different areas feel – what’s genuinely worth it, what’s just hype, and how to choose the right base for you.
In this guide, I’ll share the hotel I booked, the others I seriously considered, and how to decide where to stay in Kotor based on your solo travel style.
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Best Hotels in Kotor Overall
If you just want the best places to stay in Kotor, these are my top recommendations for solo travellers:
1. Cattaro Studio Apartments, Kotor Old Town (Where I Stayed!) – Located right inside the historic old town, close to restaurants, cafés, things to do and tour pickup points. Plus, the studio offers total privacy and a kitchen to make your own meals!
2. Hotel Monte Cristo, Kotor Old Town – If you want old town charm, but prefer a hotel over an apartment, Hotel Monte Cristo is perfect! Set inside a historic building in the heart of the old town, the rooms are cosy and comfortable. Plus, the hotel has a great restaurant and rare on-site parking.
3. Solaris Lux Apartments, Dobrota – This modern, spacious apartment offers some of the best bay views in Kotor and a calmer, more residential feel. You’ll be about a 15-minute walk from the old town, but it’s a great option if you want more space.
4. Galathea Hotel, Prčanj – Perfect if you want to slow down and relax rather than sightsee non-stop. It’s located on the waterfront with its own private beach for guests to enjoy! Just keep in mind that you can’t walk to Kotor from Prčanj.
5. Heritage Grand Perast by Rixos, Perast – This is the ultimate bucket-list stay on the Bay of Kotor! This hotel offers 5-star luxury, amazing spa facilities, an outdoor pool and a 24-hour front desk for extra peace of mind as a solo traveller!
Where Is Kotor Located
Kotor is a small, historic town tucked into the spectacular Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, surrounded by steep mountains and atmospheric medieval walls.
On a map, it looks super compact (and it is!), but choosing where to stay in Kotor isn’t always as simple as booking somewhere within the old town walls – where prices are notoriously high, and availability can be limited in summer.
Kotor Old Town itself sits right on the water, and it’s where you’ll find all of the best things to do in Kotor, plus restaurants, cafés, little shops, and tour pickup points.
For first-time visitors, it’s by far the most convenient base in Montenegro.

But Kotor isn’t your only option.
Neighbourhoods like Dobrota stretch along the water just outside the old town, while villages like Muo, Prčanj and Perast are tucked further around the bay, offering a much quieter break.
Ultimately, where you choose to stay in Kotor will depend entirely on the kind of trip you want and how comfortable you feel as a solo traveller when it comes to walkability, public transport, and evenings out.
Katie’s Top Tip: When deciding where to stay in Kotor, location really is everything. So think about how easy and relaxed your days (and evenings!) will feel, not just the cost. Being able to walk home after dinner and start early tours without stress makes a huge difference when you’re travelling solo!

Things To Consider When Booking Kotor Accommodation as a Solo Traveller
Choosing accommodation in Kotor isn’t just about finding a nice hotel, but about finding a location and style that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
For me, the biggest factors I considered were:
- Walkability
- Safety at night
- Proximity to things I actually wanted to do
- How the area feels after sunset
You’ll also want to think about tour logistics, as most boat trips and day tours meet in or very close to the old town – so staying nearby means no early-morning stress!
And another big consideration is the type of accommodation.
Consider whether you’d be okay with an apartment that’s fully self-check-in, or whether a hotel would feel more reassuring for you because there are always other people around.
Kotor felt very safe for me as a solo female traveller overall, but that absolutely doesn’t mean that every area, neighbourhood or accommodation type feels the same.
Katie’s Top Tip: For solo travel in Kotor, prioritise location over everything else!

Best Areas in Kotor for Solo Travellers
Your choice for where to stay in Kotor comes down to:
- Staying inside the old town walls
- Staying just outside them along the bay (like the neighbourhood of Dobrota)
- Or staying slightly further away in nearby towns like Muo, Prčanj or Perast
Each option suits a different type of solo traveller AND a different kind of Montenegro trip.
For example, you might want energy, easy walkability, and constant life around you. But equally, you might be visiting Montenegro for calm mornings and beach days.
So, in the rest of this guide, I’ll break down the best places to stay in Kotor for solo travellers, starting with the area I personally think works best for first-time visits to Montenegro!
Kotor Old Town: The Best Place to Stay in Kotor
If it’s your first time visiting Montenegro, Kotor Old Town is, in my opinion, the very best place to stay in Kotor as a solo traveller (and it’s where I stayed myself!)
Kotor Old Town is home to almost everything you’ll want to see and do on your trip: San Giovanni Fortress, Bay of Kotor boat tours, Kotor’s famous cats, cafés, restaurants, bars, little shops, museums, tour pickup points…
I could go on, but you get the idea!

But what I personally loved most about staying in the old town is that I never felt isolated.
Even when I visited in late September, Kotor was lively, touristy and well-lit, with near constant foot traffic.
And this was exactly what I wanted as a solo female traveller in Montenegro (especially walking alone in the evenings).
Plus, staying in the heart of the old town allowed me to easily get out and explore Kotor early (before the cruise ship crowds arrived and the old town felt kinda overwhelming!)
For the rest of my days, I would then join a guided tour or hop on a bus from the nearby bus station to explore more of Montenegro during the day.
It was the perfect balance for me!

Kotor Old Town is best for solo travellers who:
- Are visiting Kotor for the first time
- Want to walk everywhere without relying on public transport or taxis
- Want to be close to tour meeting points
- Feel more comfortable staying somewhere lively and central
Best Hotels in Kotor Old Town
These are the best places to stay in Kotor Old Town, based on location, comfort and safety (including where I stayed myself!)
Cattaro Studio Apartments (Where I Stayed)

Cattaro Studio Apartments are located right in the heart of Kotor Old Town, just a few steps away from the impressive St Tryphon Cathedral.
And honestly, the amazing central location alone makes this apartment one of the best places to stay in Kotor Old Town as a solo traveller!
I stayed here during my own solo trip to Kotor in September and was lucky enough to get one of the studio apartments overlooking the cathedral square.
The view was incredible, with the mountains rising above the old town and the cathedral opposite – plus a tiny balcony where I could sit and enjoy it all!
There’s also a small kitchenette, which I really appreciated for making most of my meals (and saving money!), plus a private bathroom and free WiFi.
In the evenings, I especially loved opening the doors and listening to the live music from the restaurants below.
But, one thing to know is that the St Tryphon Cathedral bells ring on the hour (from around 6am). It didn’t bother me, but if you’re a light sleeper, it’s something to be aware of.
Antika Guesthouse

Antika Guesthouse is another great option if you want to stay in Kotor Old Town but prefer something a little quieter than the main cathedral square.
It’s still inside the walls, so close to everything you’ll need, but it is also far enough away from the busiest areas that the atmosphere is calmer.
Rooms here are comfortable and simple, all with private bathrooms and free WiFi. Plus, some rooms even have lovely views over the bay (quite rare for the old town!)
You can also upgrade your stay to include breakfast, which is super convenient if you don’t want to think about where to eat first thing every morning!
Studios Belvi

Studios Belvi is one of the most practical options for accommodation in Kotor, especially for longer stays or if you value privacy.
It’s again located inside the old town walls, but also offers something incredibly rare for Kotor: free parking! This is a huge plus if you’re using a car to see more of Montenegro.
The studio apartments themselves are fully equipped with a kitchenette, private bathroom, and free WiFi. And while the décor isn’t super modern, everything is comfortable and clean.
You can choose a standard studio with a city view or upgrade to a duplex apartment, which gives you extra space and a separate living area (perfect for longer stays!)
Plus, another underrated benefit for solo travellers is having access to a laundry room.
Hotel Villa Duomo

Hotel Villa Duomo, in the heart of the old town, is an amazing choice if you want the extra reassurance and peace of mind that comes with staying in a hotel with a 24-hour front desk.
The hotel also offers a delicious free breakfast (which is actually consistently rated as one of the best in Kotor!), which makes mornings easy and stress-free.
Plus, all rooms come with a private bathroom and free WiFi, while the suites also include their own kitchenettes, which is great if you want flexibility with meals.
There’s even a small communal garden – the perfect, quiet place to unwind after a busy day!
The hotel also offers a 24-hour airport transfer service, which is a big plus if you’re arriving late or leaving early and don’t want to organise your own taxi or transfer.
Hotel Monte Cristo

Hotel Monte Cristo is one of the most beautiful hotels in Kotor Old Town!
The hotel has a traditional feel, with comfortable rooms that all offer private bathrooms, free WiFi, and (very rare for an old town hotel): free parking!
Breakfast is also included and served buffet-style for a stress-free morning.
Plus, there’s a restaurant on site, which is great if you don’t feel like heading out every evening for dinner.
The hotel even has a lovely communal garden, perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. As well as a 24-hour front desk for extra peace of mind!
Hotel Hippocampus

The modern and stylish Hotel Hippocampus is the most luxurious hotel in Kotor Old Town!
Rooms are beautifully designed, with a private bathroom, daily housekeeping, and free WiFi.
Plus, some rooms even have their own private balconies, which is so nice for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing!
A delicious breakfast is also included. And there are two restaurants on site, so you don’t have to worry about where to go out for dinner each night.
There is even a beautiful rooftop terrace where you can unwind in the evenings!
You can also book airport transfers, beach shuttles and transport to surrounding areas directly from the hotel, which is so helpful if you don’t want to organise everything yourself!
Plus, with a 24-hour front desk, Hotel Hippocampus is a great choice if you want to feel looked after during your stay, while still being right in the heart of the old town.
Dobrota
Dobrota is a quieter, residential neighbourhood that stretches along the bay just outside Kotor Old Town.
On paper, it looks ideal – it’s walkable to central Kotor, peaceful, more affordable, and most apartments have gorgeous views over the water!
Dobrota is actually where I first booked my accommodation when planning my trip to Kotor, because it offers space, affordability and a calm, local feel.
But before finalising my booking, I checked the walk back at night using Google Street View.
And that’s when I noticed that large parts of Dobrota have limited street lighting, very little evening foot traffic, and long, quiet stretches of road.
Completely fine during the day (and probably fine at night too), but I couldn’t ignore the little voice telling me I’d feel uncomfortable walking back alone after dinner.
I also knew I wanted to do a couple of longer day trips from Kotor, including to Durmitor National Park, which gets back after dark.
The idea of finishing a long day trip and then taking a quiet, dimly lit walk back to a private apartment was enough for me to cancel and rebook inside the old town instead.
And honestly? It was 100% the right decision for me.
Dobrota is best for solo travellers who:
- Want more space and better value accommodation
- Prefer apartment-style stays with bay views
- Are comfortable walking quiet roads or using taxis at night
Best Hotels in Dobrota
If you like waking up by the water, having supermarkets nearby, and staying somewhere that feels more local than touristy, these are the best places to stay in Dobrota.
Kotor Bay Guesthouse

Kotor Bay Guesthouse is one of the most affordable accommodation options near Kotor, which is great if you’re travelling solo on a budget!
It’s located in the neighbourhood of Dobrota, but only around a five-minute walk from the old town. Plus, it is just steps away from the shopping centre and supermarket.
You can choose between a dorm bed or a private room, which gives you total flexibility depending on whether you want a more social solo trip or complete privacy.
Some of the private rooms even have beautiful sea views, and there’s a communal terrace overlooking the bay that’s lovely for a quiet evening alone or to meet new people!
In terms of facilities, bathrooms are shared, but there is free parking and free WiFi included.
Apartments Tea Kotor

Apartments Tea Kotor is one of the closest Dobrota options to the old town and also to the start of the famous Ladder of Kotor hike, around a five-minute walk away.
The apartments are simple but well thought out, with a private bathroom, free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchenette, and a relaxing garden view.
There’s also a small garden space to enjoy, which is a nice bonus if you want somewhere peaceful to unwind after a long, busy day of sightseeing!
Location-wise, it’s close to supermarkets and the shopping centre, which is perfect for a stay in a self-catering apartment.
But like all Dobrota accommodation, keep in mind that the surrounding area is quieter and more residential.
Apartments Marilu

Apartments Marilu is a comfortable, practical choice if you want to stay near the water and don’t mind being a little further from the old town.
It’s around a 15-minute walk into the old town, but much closer to Kotor Beach, which is perfect if you’re looking for a more laid-back, relaxing beach getaway during your stay!
Each apartment includes a private bathroom, free WiFi, a fully equipped kitchenette to make your own meals, a separate sitting area and a beautiful garden view.
Plus, free parking is available, which is perfect if you’re exploring Montenegro by car!
This is a good option if you’re planning a slower-paced trip to Kotor, with swimming, relaxed waterfront walks, and quiet evenings in.
Solaris Lux Apartments

Solaris Lux Apartments are one of the most luxurious apartments in Dobrota and a great pick if you want extra space, comfort and the most incredible views across the bay.
Located about a 15-minute walk from Kotor Old Town, the apartment is spacious and bright, with a separate bedroom and living area, as well as a private balcony.
Plus, the apartment also offers guests a fully equipped kitchenette, a private bathroom, free WiFi and free parking.
Everything in the apartment is modern, clean and comfortable – perfect for longer stays when you want to feel like you’re staying in a home base rather than a hotel room!
Palma Apartments

Palma Apartments are honestly some of the most impressive apartments I’ve seen in Dobrota – especially the sea view apartments with their own private balconies!
Again, the Palma Apartments are around a 15-minute walk from the old town, and offer free parking, free WiFi, a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchenette.
There is even a washing machine in the apartment, which is such an underrated perk for longer trips!
You can choose between a partial sea view or a full sea view with a balcony.
But I would 100% recommend booking a full sea-view apartment, as they genuinely have the most spectacular views over the Bay of Kotor I have ever seen!
Prčanj
Beautiful and calm Prčanj is a sleepy village located just a short, 10-minute drive from Kotor, on the opposite side of the bay to Dobrota.
Prčanj is not easily walkable to Kotor Old Town, so if you’re staying here, you’ll need to rely on taxis, public buses or having your own car to get around.
If this is your first time in Montenegro or you want the convenience of easy walkability, it’s probably not the best place to stay.
However, it is the perfect base for slower travel, beach days and relaxing over constant sightseeing – so it really depends on the kind of trip you want!
Prčanj is best for solo travellers who:
- Want a peaceful, slower stay
- Are happy using taxis or driving
- Don’t plan to join many organised tours
- Prefer quiet evenings to nightlife
Best Hotels in Prčanj
If you like calm mornings, swimming and slow travel (and don’t mind not being within walking distance of Kotor), these are the best places to stay in Prčanj.
Galathea Hotel

Galathea Hotel is located right on the water in Prčanj, and feels calm, peaceful and quiet.
The rooms are comfortable and bright, with private bathrooms, free WiFi, and either garden views or partial sea views.
Some rooms even come with a private terrace, which is perfect if you love slow mornings or for winding down in the evening, looking out at the mountains!
Plus, breakfast is included, and there’s a restaurant and bar on site, so you never have to worry about where to find food in this tiny village!
And the 24-hour front desk adds peace of mind, knowing that someone is always around.
But the biggest highlight is direct access to a private beach (!!) with sun loungers and umbrellas – where you can literally step outside and swim in the bay!
The downside is location, as you can’t walk to Kotor from the hotel.
So to get around, you’ll need to rely on taxis or have your own car, or simply just enjoy a slower-paced itinerary rather than packing in lots of sightseeing!
MonteBay Perla

MonteBay Perla is a luxurious hotel, located right by the beach in Prčanj!
Rooms are modern, spacious and thoughtfully designed, all with sea or mountain views, private bathrooms, and free WiFi throughout.
Plus, breakfast is included, there’s an on-site restaurant and bar, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and even a gym – which is especially nice to have for a longer stay!
Parking is available for a small fee, which is helpful if you’re driving around Montenegro.
The only thing to be aware of is that the front desk doesn’t operate 24/7.
And, like other accommodation in Prčanj, you won’t be able to walk into Kotor, so this is best if you’re happy using taxiS, or if you want a more relaxed trip to Montenegro.
The “Best Terrace in Prčanj!”

I had to include this one because I’m a huge “A Place in the Sun” fan, and this beautiful beachfront apartment was recently featured on the show!
(But also because the terrace really is that beautiful!)
This is a three-bedroom apartment with a fully equipped kitchen, private bathroom, free WiFi, a washing machine, and plenty of space to properly settle in and feel at home.
But the real standout is the terrace, offering panoramic views across the bay, with the mountains rising behind and tiny communities dotted along the banks of the water.
Honestly, it’s one of those places where you don’t even need to leave – I could just stare at that stunning, ever-changing view for ages!
This is definitely more of a splurge, but it’s also a bucket-list stay if you want privacy, space, and one of the best views in Montenegro – from your own private terrace!
Muo
Muo is another small village close to Kotor, and one of the most underrated options when deciding where to stay in Kotor.
It’s quieter and more local than the old town, but unlike Prčanj, some accommodation options are walkable in around 15-30 minutes, depending on where you’re staying.
Plus, many of the beautiful apartments here offer spectacular views across the bay, and there are small beaches and swim spots dotted along the waterfront!
But, of course, the walk back from Kotor isn’t something most solo travellers will want to do after dark. So this is something to consider if you want to join tours or go out for evenings.
Muo works best if you’re a confident solo traveller or don’t mind taking a taxi in the evening.

Muo is best for solo travellers who:
- Want great value accommodation
- Enjoy scenic walks and bay views
- Are comfortable with a 15–30 minute walk or taxi
- Prefer quieter evenings
Best Hotels in Muo
If you like a more relaxed pace when travelling, beautiful views of the old town and bay, and don’t mind a bit of a walk into town, these are the best places to stay in Muo.
Apartmani Markovic

Apartmani Markovic is a great, more affordable option if you want incredible bay views without paying old town prices.
The apartment offers a private bathroom, free WiFi, an equipped kitchen and, my favourite part: a balcony that looks straight across the bay towards Kotor!
There’s also a communal outdoor pool and free parking.
But, this apartment is on the outer edges of Muo, which means walking into Kotor from here would take around 40 minutes.
Apartments Vukovic

Apartments Vukovic is very similar in location and style to Apartments Markovic.
Each apartment is comfortable and well-equipped, with a kitchenette, a private bathroom, free WiFi, and a balcony with breathtaking sea and mountain views!
There is also a laundry room at the apartment and free parking.
But again, it’s about a 40-minute walk into Kotor, so realistically, you’ll want a car or plan to use taxis if you stay here.
Apartment Carla

Apartment Carla is a great middle-ground option if you want to stay outside the old town walls but still be easily walkable to Kotor.
It’s closer than most options in Muo, at just a 15-minute walk from Kotor.
The apartment itself is perfect for longer stays, with a separate bedroom, an equipped kitchen, a private bathroom, a washing machine, free WiFi, and a balcony with beautiful sea and mountain views.
Plus, parking is also available here, which is a huge bonus.
What I like most about Apartment Carla is that you get more space and calm than most accommodation in Kotor Old Town, without feeling isolated or being dependent on a car!
Perast
Perast completely stole my heart!
I only visited for the day, but I immediately added it to my (very long!) list of places I want to visit again – this time to stay overnight.
Perast is a small, historic town on the Bay of Kotor, with stone buildings that used to be palaces lining the promenade, adorable cats, relaxed waterfront cafés, and amazing views!
This tiny town is still touristy, but in a very different way from Kotor. And once the day-trippers leave, it feels peaceful and atmospheric!
Because of this, Perast is not the best base if you want a packed itinerary or to join lots of day tours – but it is perfect for a slower, more relaxed solo getaway!
You can’t walk to Kotor from Perast, but there is a regular public bus and affordable taxis.

Perast is best for solo travellers who:
- Want a peaceful, scenic solo trip
- Enjoy slower travel
- Don’t need constant sightseeing
- Are happy using buses or taxis to get to Kotor
Best Hotels in Perast
If you want somewhere peaceful, incredibly scenic, and bucket-list worthy in its own right, these are the best places to stay in Perast.
Heritage Grand Perast by Rixos

If you’re looking for a true bucket-list stay, the Heritage Grand Perast by Rixos isa five-star hotel located right on the waterfront, in a beautifully restored historic palace!
The rooms are spacious and elegant, with private bathrooms and free WiFi. And some even have spectacular sea views or their own private gardens, to really get out in nature!
Breakfast is also included, which instantly makes mornings feel easy and relaxed (especially when you’re staying somewhere smaller like Perast, where options are more limited).
And there’s also a full spa, gym, indoor pool, seasonal outdoor pool, sun loungers, three restaurants and a bar on-site – so you truly have everything you need to enjoy your stay!
From a solo traveller’s perspective, I really like that this hotel has a 24-hour front desk. It adds an extra layer of reassurance, especially if you’re arriving late or leaving early.
Heritage Hotel Leon Coronato

Heritage Hotel Leon Coronato is a beautiful mid-range option that still offers a truly memorable getaway (without the full five-star price tag!)
It’s again located right on the waterfront in Perast, and offers a free buffet breakfast, free WiFi, private bathrooms, and beautifully decorated rooms – some even with lovely sea views.
You can also choose to enjoy lunch and dinner here, which are served at Djardin, the hotel’s amazing beachfront restaurant!
The front desk only has limited hours, which is worth knowing if you’re arriving late. Plus, parking and airport transfers are available for a fee, for easy, stress-free logistics.
Hotel and Restaurant Conte

Hotel and Restaurant Conte is one of the most popular places to stay in Perast.
It offers amazing value compared to some of the more luxurious options, while still feeling charming and comfortable in an incredible waterfront location!
Rooms come with private bathrooms, free WiFi and a delicious breakfast included, and some even have beautiful sea views or private gardens to relax in.
There’s also a seasonal outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and even the option to stay in a truly luxurious private villa with its own swimming pool and garden!
I like this option for solo travellers because it gives you flexibility to keep things simple or go all-in on a once-in-a-lifetime villa stay!
How to Choose Where to Stay in Kotor (Easy Decision Guide)
If you’re feeling stuck choosing where to stay in Kotor, Montenegro, use this:
If you want easy walkability and everything you need on your doorstep:
→ Hotel Monte Cristo, Kotor Old Town
If you want somewhere quieter and more local, but still walkable to the old town:
→ Solaris Lux Apartments, Dobrota
If you want to enjoy a private beach and don’t mind using taxis, buses or a car:
→ Galathea Hotel, Prčanj
If you want a calm, luxurious and truly bucket-list worthy stay:
→ Heritage Grand Perast by Rixos, Perast
If you’re looking for a more affordable stay:
→ Apartmani Markovic, Muo

8 Quick Tips for Booking Hotels in Kotor
- Location matters more than anything. Being somewhere you feel comfortable walking home at night is so worth paying the extra for.
- Old Town = convenience, not quiet. In the old town, don’t expect silence – the bells of St Tryphon Cathedral ring from ~6am and there are always people around.
- Read recent reviews, not just star ratings. Things change fast, and the number you see may not reflect the recent experiences, so always take the time to READ reviews.
- A private bathroom is so important. For me, as a solo female traveller, I always feel more comfortable when I have a private bathroom at my accommodation.
- Check how you’ll get home at night. Go on Google Street View and check if the route looks walkable and well-lit, with foot traffic. Or if you’ll need a taxi.
- If you’re staying outside the old town, budget for taxis. Taxis in Montenegro are relatively affordable, but it will still all add up if you don’t plan for it.
- A 24-hour reception adds peace of mind. It’s not essential, but it can help if you’re arriving late or travelling solo for the first time.
- Don’t book purely on price. Very cheap accommodation in Kotor Old Town doesn’t exist – always book through reputable sites and check reviews.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Where to Stay in Kotor as a Solo Traveller
Choosing where to stay in Kotor really comes down to what kind of solo trip you want.
Kotor Old Town is unbeatable for walkability, the bucket-list experience of staying within the famous walls, and the convenience of having everything on your doorstep – especially if it’s your first time in Montenegro.
Whereas staying just outside, in places like Muo or Dobrota, gives you more space, spectacular views across the bay, and often more affordable prices. But equally, these locations require more transport planning and logistics to feel safe.
And then there’s beautiful Perast, which is an undeniably beautiful and popular day trip from Kotor – but is even more magical and peaceful in the evening, when the day-trippers leave! It’s perfect if you want a relaxed stay rather than constant sightseeing.
There isn’t one single best place to stay in Kotor for every solo traveller, but there is always the best choice for you.
I hope this post has helped you think about what you want from your trip, how comfortable you are in quieter streets at night, and how much you want to rely on taxis to get around.
But if you want my honest opinion, based on my own solo trip to Montenegro?
For your first trip to Montenegro, book accommodation within Kotor’s Old Town walls.
→ For apartment-style living, I recommend Cattaro Studio Apartments (where I stayed!)
→ And for a hotel stay in the old town, I recommend Hotel Monte Cristo.
FAQs: Where to Stay in Kotor
Is it worth paying extra to stay in Kotor Old Town?
Yes, absolutely – especially if this is your first trip to Montenegro or your first solo trip.
Staying inside the old town walls makes everything easier, as you have all of the best things to do, restaurants, little shops, cafes and tour pickup points on your doorstep.
If you’re on a tighter budget or staying longer in Montenegro, nearby Dobrota can be a great compromise, but keep in mind that it is more isolated in the evenings.
How many days should you stay in Kotor?
I personally spent 7 days in Kotor, and then took day trips from there to explore more of Montenegro (so I didn’t have to keep changing hotels!)
However, if you are road-tripping in Montenegro or want to stay in different areas, I recommend you spend at least 2–4 nights in Kotor.
That gives you time to explore the old town, hike up to the fortress, do a boat trip and take at least one nearby day trip (like Perast or Budva).
Is Kotor safe for solo female travellers?
In my experience, yes, Kotor felt very safe. And you can read all about my honest experiences of safety as a solo woman in Kotor here.
To summarise, the old town is compact, well-lit and busy (even in the evenings in September), which made walking home after dinner or a late tour feel comfortable for me.
But choosing well-reviewed accommodation in a central, well-lit location (like within the Kotor Old Town walls) still makes a huge difference to how safe and relaxed you’ll feel during your trip.
Should you stay in Kotor or Perast?
It all depends on your travel style!
Kotor is better if you want everything on your doorstep, including all of the amazing things to do in Kotor, restaurants, cafes and tours to easily explore more of Montenegro without a car.
Perast is better if you want a more peaceful, relaxed getaway, with spectacular bay views, a quieter pace of life and slower travel, but still easy access to Kotor via bus or taxi.
A lot of solo travellers do both, staying in Kotor for the majority of their trip and then moving to Perast for a few quieter nights, and honestly, I would highly recommend it!
Is Dobrota walkable to Kotor Old Town?
Yes, most of the apartments in Dobrota are an easy 5-15 minute walk from Kotor Old Town.
This is perfect during the day, but keep in mind that in the evening, the streets are quieter and less well-lit than staying in the heart of the old town, which is definitely something to consider.
Read More About Travel in Montenegro:
- Is Montenegro Worth Visiting? 10 Things You Need To Consider
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