Is Kotor Safe for Solo Female Travellers? My Honest Take
So, is Kotor safe for solo female travellers? I definitely get why you’re asking. The idea of cobbled old town streets, sparkling blue bays and medieval city walls is the stuff of every solo female travellers dreams – but I’m guessing that if you’re planning to head to Kotor solo, you’re not just thinking about the views. You’re wondering if you’ll feel safe walking home after dinner, if local people are friendly, or if you’ll have to keep your keys clenched in your fist when exploring Kotor’s famous old town after dark…
Well, I’ve done all of that and more in Kotor, Montenegro. I’ve walked those backstreets alone, taken the local buses, explored the old town early in the morning with no one around, and I’m going to give you my full, honest take in this guide. No scare tactics but also no sugar-coating, I promise.
We’ll cover everything here – how safe Kotor really feels at night, what local attitudes and cultures are like in Montenegro, the vibe of Kotor old town, what to watch out for, crime stats, and the kind of experiences you can look forward to. Let’s get into it!
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Where is Kotor?
Kotor is a small, walled coastal town in the tiny country of Montenegro, which is a country right on the Adriatic Sea. It sits at the end of the stunning Bay of Kotor (aka Boka Bay,) which honestly looks more like a towering Norwegian fjord than a bay, with dramatic mountains rising straight up from the water. Kotor is around a 2 hour drive from neighbouring Dubrovnik in Croatia, so if you’re already planning a Balkan trip, it’s an easy hop over the border.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re planning a trip through the Balkans, don’t overlook Kotor just because it’s small. Montenegro uses the euro (even though it’s not in the EU,) which makes budgeting super straightforward, especially if you’re hopping over from neighbouring Croatia.
Basic Facts About Kotor Every Solo Female Traveller Should Know
Knowing a few key facts before you land somewhere new makes all the difference to how confident you feel as a solo female traveller, so here’s the lowdown on Kotor:
- Language: Montenegrin (which is a variety of the Serbo-Croatian language), but most people in the old town working in tourism speak at least basic English
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Timezone: Central European Time (CET)
- Plug Type: Type C and F (the same as most of Europe)
- Capital of Montenegro: Podgorica, but Kotor is the major tourist hub in Montenegro
- Safety Score: Montenegro ranks fairly high for safety in Europe, sitting at 35 on the Global Peace Index (for reference, that’s just one spot below the UK)
- Getting To Montenegro: The closest airport to Kotor is Tivat (10-15 mins drive from the old town,) but Podgorica and Dubrovnik airports are also common for travellers, especially in the off season
So, Is Kotor Worth Visiting?
Short answer: yes. Longer answer: absolutely yes – especially if you love beautiful views, slower travel, and magical places that haven’t been totally overrun by influencers or mass tourism (yet).
Kotor is often called one of the best-preserved medieval towns in this part of Europe, and it definitely shows from the moment you arrive. The atmosphere inside the old city walls is in a league of its own, especially in the early mornings or just after sunset, when the cruise ship crowds are long gone and the cobblestone streets fall quiet once again.
As an experienced solo female traveller in Europe, I fell hard and fast for charming Kotor because it’s walkable, feels very safe, and offers a rare travel combo I absolutely adore: you can explore the old town streets in the morning, lie on a golden, sandy beach in the afternoon, and still be back in your hotel or Airbnb before dark to take in the shadow of the mountains towering above your accommodation!
So, whether you’re a history enthusiast, a hiker, a beach lover, or just someone who loves discovering places that aren’t already everywhere on Instagram, my answer is yes. Kotor is so worth visiting.
Katie’s Top Tip: Try to stay at least two nights, if you can. Beautiful Kotor is so much more than just a day trip from Dubrovnik and feels so much more magical once the day-trippers leave and the streets get quiet again. I stayed for a week during my own solo trip to Montenegro and was never bored!
Things to Do in Kotor, Montenegro
Just because Kotor is a small town, that doesn’t mean you’ll be short on things to do. Kotor is one of those destinations where even just wandering around and getting lost is part of the activity. But if you love an itinerary (because same!) there are also some unmissable experiences to find here.
You can hike up to the top of the San Giovanni Fortress, wander the old town’s cobbled streets, take a boat trip to nearby Our Lady of the Rocks church, or just spend your afternoons hopping between charming old town cafés for some people watching. It’s also very easy to do Montenegro day trips, to places like Perast or even Lovćen or Durmitor National Park’s, if you want to explore a more rural side to this beautiful Balkan country.
I’ve written a full post all about the 14 best things to do in Kotor, which includes all of my personal favourite spots (as well as a few hidden gems,) so make sure you give that a read too if you’re planning your Montenegro itinerary!
Is Kotor Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Okay, let’s now get right into what you really came here for. Is Kotor safe for solo female travellers? From my personal experience: yes, it really is. And I definitely don’t say that about everywhere I visit!
I felt safe walking around the old town alone, even at night, and I never once felt stared at or uncomfortable just because I was a woman travelling alone.
The only time I did feel a little uncomfortable was when the narrow old town streets started to fill up at around 10/11am, but this is because I’m personally not a big fan of crowds. And anyway, this can be easily avoided by exploring Kotor old town early in the morning and planning to spend the rest of your Montenegro itinerary away from the hustle and bustle of the old town streets during peak busy times.
The town of Kotor itself is a tiny, peaceful coastal town tucked inside a dramatic bay, and the overall vibe here is definitely slow and relaxed – the polar opposite to popular tourist cities in Montenegro’s neighbouring country, Croatia. (I’m looking at you, Dubrovnik and Split!) Violent crime is also extremely rare in Kotor, and the most common issues you might encounter are low-level things like tourist scams or the occasional pushy street seller during peak season.
However, no place is completely risk-free, and travelling alone in Montenegro, like with anywhere in Europe, means staying aware of your surroundings and always trusting your gut. Seriously, maybe I should get a trust your gut t-shirt printed at this point! I mention it in every single blog post because it really is that important.
What makes Kotor feel especially manageable as a solo female traveller is its size. The charming old town is compact, walkable and always full of other tourists (especially in the peak summer season,) so you’re rarely far from other people. Plus, in my experience, Kotor’s locals are very used to tourists by now, and they’re respectful and mostly keep to themselves unless you start a conversation.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re arriving by bus or ferry, be extra cautious around the station area, especially when grabbing taxis. Always agree a price before you get in or, ideally, use a trusted taxi service if possible. That first impression can shape your whole experience! And trust me, as someone who was recently taxi scammed in Zadar, Croatia, I know!
Understanding Kotor’s Culture
In terms of its local culture, Kotor is proudly Montenegrin, which basically translates to a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle with a strong sense of local tradition and family values. You’ll find that local people tend to move at a slower pace here and there’s also a strong café culture. Locals love to sit by the sea or in an old town square, relaxing with a drink, and you’ll never look out of place doing the same alone.
You should also know that while tourism plays a big role in the local economy, this is still relatively new for Montenegro, and so Kotor isn’t at all flashy. It’s more reserved and just a lil bit grittier, compared to some of its Balkan neighbours like Croatia. Local people are polite and helpful, but generally won’t start a conversation unless you speak first.
Just remember to explore quietly and with respect, for both the town and the locals who still live and work within the old town walls.
Katie’s Top Tip: Learning a little bit of the local language goes a long way to showing this respect. Try learning hvala, which means thank you, and bok or dobar dan, which means hi or good day, respectively.
Attitudes Towards Women in Kotor
One of the first things I noticed when I arrived in Kotor is how relaxed and respectful the atmosphere felt as a woman travelling alone. Kotor sees thousands of international visitors during peak season, so locals are very used to seeing women from all over the world travelling through their town solo.
During my own trip to Montenegro, I didn’t experience any catcalling, uncomfortable stares, or unsafe encounters, which honestly felt so refreshing compared to other European destinations.
However, Montenegro is still a fairly traditional country when it comes to gender roles. You’ll notice that local women often dress more modestly and tend to socialise in groups, especially in the evening. But as a tourist, you won’t feel or look out of place for doing your own thing either.
I’ve found that the key to solo travel safety is to walk with confidence, even if you don’t feel it. People generally mind their own business anyway, and you’re unlikely to draw much attention as long as you’re respectful and aware of your surroundings.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re ever unsure or feeling uncomfortable, head into a café, restaurant, shop or hotel, as workers in Kotor are trained for hospitality and are usually friendly and helpful. It’s also a good way to give yourself a safe space to regroup.
How to Dress in Kotor
When it comes to what to wear in Kotor, the good news is that there are no strict dress codes. The town has a casual, coastal vibe, and you’ll see everything from summer dresses and shorts, to jeans and comfy trainers (which are a must on those cobbles!) In the old town and around the waterfront, people mainly dress for the weather, especially during the hot summer months. So you’ll be totally fine wearing your personal style.
The only time that changes is if you plan to visit religious or historical sites. In that case, make sure you’re carrying something to cover your shoulders and knees. You should also know that locals do tend to dress more modestly outside of tourist hotspots, particularly in smaller towns and villages. So if you’re planning to take a day trip inland, you might want to choose outfits that feel a little more covered-up.
Katie’s Top Tip: Bring a lightweight scarf in your day bag. It’s perfect for throwing over your shoulders at churches, works as a beach cover-up, and doubles as a shawl in the evening when it cools down. I never travel without one now!
Kotor Crime Rates
If you’re feeling nervous about crime in Kotor, let me reassure you: Kotor is one of the safest places to visit in Montenegro. Kotor’s crime rates are very low, especially when it comes to violent crime. And most of the issues you’ll hear about are the usual, sadly common, tourist pitfalls like overpriced taxis or overcharged restaurant bills. Annoying, but not unsafe.
As someone who’s walked alone through the old town a lot, and at all times of day, I can say that I felt incredibly safe and unbothered. The streets are well-lit at night, there is a local police presence and I didn’t experience or witness any trouble. Still, it’s always smart to keep your usual solo female travel safety habits in place.
Katie’s Top Tip: Always check your bill before paying, especially in very touristy spots. And if you’re ever unsure about prices, whether it’s for a taxi, souvenir, or meal, don’t be afraid to ask.
Risk of Theft in Kotor
The risk of theft in Kotor is generally low, but not non-existent. As with any tourist destination, opportunistic theft can happen, especially when cruise ships are in port and the old town gets crowded. You don’t need to stress about it though. Using a crossbody bag that zips up and keeping your phone out of your back pocket will do just fine. It’s also worth using your hotel safe or a travel safe, if you have one, for valuables like your passport and travel documents.
Katie’s Top Tip: At restaurants, get into the habit of looping your bag strap around your chair leg or placing your bag between your feet. It’s a small habit that helps prevent sneaky grab-and-go thefts.
Risk of Terrorism in Kotor
The risk of terrorism in Kotor is extremely low. Montenegro hasn’t experienced any recent terror-related incidents and Kotor, being a small town, isn’t considered a high-risk target. Of course, as things stand, no destination is 100% risk-free. But if this is something you’re worried about, know that Kotor doesn’t make international security watchlists, and travel advisories from major countries don’t flag it for elevated terrorism risks.
Katie’s Top Tip: If peace of mind is important to you, check your government’s advisory page for Montenegro before you travel – and it’s always smart to know where your embassy is, even if you’ll probably never need it.
Risk of Violent Crime in Kotor
Kotor isn’t a town where you need to worry about violent crime against tourists. And if violent crime does occur in Montenegro, it’s usually linked to gangs or local rivalries, and not in Kotor old town itself. Kotor is a small, peaceful coastal town that thrives on tourism, so keeping the old town safe is a priority for the authorities.
Of course, isolated violent crime incidents can happen anywhere. But the kind of violent crime you might worry about in bigger cities just isn’t a common occurrence here. Most solo female travellers (including myself) report feeling completely safe walking around both day and night. But I will say that Kotor’s old town feels particularly secure, compared to outside the city walls, thanks to its pedestrianised streets and steady flow of tourists.
Katie’s Top Tip: Stick to well-lit areas at night and trust your gut (again!) just like you would anywhere else.
Risk of Harassment in Kotor
This is a question I always take seriously because I know experiencing harassment can make or break a solo trip. So here’s my honest truth: in my experience (and in the experience of many other solo female travellers I met on my travels through Montenegro,) street harassment in Kotor is extremely rare. During my stay, I didn’t experience any catcalling, intrusive comments, or unwanted attention – and I wandered around solo a lot, including in the early mornings and evenings with very few people around.
It’s also worth explaining that the local culture is typically reserved, so if you do experience harassment, it’s unfortunately more likely to be from a fellow tourist than a local. It’s wise to stay aware of the people around you, especially in nightlife settings or when alcohol is involved.
Katie’s Top Tip: If someone ever does make you uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to walk into a nearby shop, café, or hotel to get support. Faking confidence until you feel it and making brief, direct eye contact (without engaging) can also shut things down quickly.
Risk of Pickpocketing in Kotor
Pickpocketing isn’t a major issue in Kotor, but like most popular tourist destinations in Europe, it’s something to stay mindful of – especially during the summer when cruise ships dock and the old town fills up. The narrow streets, crowded squares and local transport hubs are ideal spots for opportunistic theft, but it’s easy to stay safe with a few precautions:
- Wear a zip-up crossbody bag
- Keep your phone secure in your bag when walking
- Avoid leaving bags open or unattended (even briefly)
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re wearing a rucksack, wear it on your front in very crowded spots. And for a little extra peace of mind, consider carrying an anti-theft wallet with an RFID-blocking pocket. This is great for keeping your bank cards safe from digital skimming too.
Risk of Scams in Kotor
Most scams in Kotor are minor, like taxi drivers overcharging, souvenir prices suddenly doubling, or restaurants adding sneaky items to your bill. These are annoying, not dangerous, but they can still leave a bad experience.
One scam other travellers have experienced, during cruise ship hours, is prices in the old town becoming a bit… elastic (!) in some places. Tourists arriving for a few hours tend not to question it, but you can absolutely advocate for yourself. Ask for a menu with prices, clarify costs upfront (especially with taxis or boat tours,) and don’t be afraid to walk away if something feels off.
Katie’s Top Tip: Save the details for a trusted taxi firm (like Red Taxi or Dijr Taxi) if you’re planning to use local transport. It’ll help you avoid the unmetered taxis that sometimes quote tourists inflated prices.
Kotor’s Emergency Number
If you’re ever in an emergency in Kotor, it’s helpful to know that Montenegro uses 112 as its universal emergency number, like most of Europe. This one number connects you to police, fire services and medical help, and operators speak English. It’s also a good idea to have the number of your country’s embassy in Montenegro saved in your phone, just in case you lose your passport or need help.
Other emergency numbers in Montenegro are:
- Police: 122
- Medical: 124
- Fire: 123
Katie’s Top Tip: Save key numbers in your phone and write them down somewhere offline, just in case your phone dies or gets lost.
Places to Avoid in Kotor
Kotor doesn’t have a dangerous neighbourhood you need to completely avoid. It’s a small, calm town and most areas feel relaxed, especially during the day. However, there are a few things worth being aware of as a solo female traveller, especially when you’re leaving the old town walls.
Dobrota, for example, is a lovely coastal neighbourhood just outside the main centre. Many solo travellers choose to stay here for a quieter, more residential vibe, and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. But just know that Dobrota can feel very quiet at night. The streets are darker, signage is limited, and there’s not much foot traffic after dark, which can feel isolating as a woman walking alone. If you’re worried about this, it’s worth paying a little extra to stay within the old town walls.
Also, as with many countries in the Balkans, you might notice some signs of poverty in the more local, less touristy neighbourhoods beyond the old town walls. This isn’t a reason to be fearful and I never felt unsafe walking to the bus station or the supermarket, for example, but I just wanted to acknowledge that walking through the quieter, residential areas might not feel as comfortable, especially in the evenings or if you’re not sure where you’re going.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re staying outside the old town, try to plan your evenings so you’re back before it gets very dark, or take a trusted taxi if you’ve been out late.
Is Kotor Safe at Night? What About Nightlife in Kotor?
Kotor is generally very safe at night, especially within the old town, which stays lively well into the evening during peak season. The cobbled streets are usually still full with tourists out to dinner, enjoying a drink and live music, or exploring the streets by lamplight.
However, once you step outside the old town walls, the atmosphere definitely changes. The surrounding roads and residential areas get quiet quickly, and street lighting is patchy.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that these areas are unsafe for solo female travellers, it’s more about comfort and visibility. If you’re heading back to your accommodation in a quieter area like Dobrota, just make sure you have a clear route planned and skip the headphones so you can stay alert.
Kotor also isn’t known for wild nightlife and, in my opinion, that’s a big part of its charm. The vibe in the old town is wine bars, outdoor dining and chill live music, rather than nightclubs and big parties. You will still find bars in the old town that stay open late though, especially in the summer months.
Katie’s Top Tip: When I’m solo travelling in Montenegro (or anywhere!), I always screenshot my route before leaving reliable WIFI and aim to get back to my accommodation before it’s too late. And if I’m ever unsure, I have zero shame in calling a trusted taxi, even if it’s only a five minute walk.
Safest Time of Year to Visit Kotor
Kotor is generally safe year-round, but the summer months (between late May and early September) are the most popular. During this season, the town is full of tourists, cruise ship passengers and also plenty of solo travellers. There’s safety in numbers at this time and a livelier atmosphere. Streets are well-lit, businesses are open later, and there’s always someone around if you need help or directions.
If you prefer a more peaceful experience, the shoulder seasons (April or, when I visited, late September/early October,) are great choices. Kotor still feels safe, but it’s a lot quieter. Just be aware that some businesses may have reduced hours, and public transport may be less frequent.
Winter (November to March) is the off-season and during this time, Kotor can feel very sleepy, with some tourist places closed.
Katie’s Top Tip: For a balance of safety, atmosphere and affordability, aim for early May or late September/early October. You’ll still get the sunshine, but with fewer crowds. Win win!
Is English Spoken in Kotor?
Yes, Kotor is a town that’s very used to tourists, so English is widely spoken. Hotel staff, restaurant servers, tour guides and shop owners are all used to working with international travellers. Many younger Montenegrins also learn English from school and media, so don’t be surprised if they speak it fluently!
If you’re travelling outside of Kotor to more rural areas, you should know that English isn’t as common, so it’s always appreciated when travellers learn a few basic words in the local language.
Katie’s Top Tip: Before you travel, download the local language on Google Translate so you can access it offline if needed. It’s a great tool when signage or menus get confusing. In Google Translate, you need to search for Croatian or Serbian, as Montenegrin isn’t an option.
Is Public Transport Safe in Kotor?
Public transport in Kotor is generally safe to use as a solo female traveller. Local buses are the main option, especially for regional journeys to nearby Perast or Budva, or even longer journeys to the capital, Podgorica.
You’ll find buses in Kotor to be affordable, relatively reliable and used by both locals and tourists. But Kotor’s bus service is not exactly the most polished system. Buses may not run on strict timetables (or even have a timetable at all,) and there is rarely information available at stops unless you’re at a bus station. I also found that most drivers aren’t fluent in English, but knew enough to check my ticket, say hello and let me board.
There are also occasional reports (though rare) of bus drivers prioritising locals over tourists – particularly on busy routes like the one between Kotor and Dubrovnik. Some drivers can also come across as abrupt, especially if they don’t speak English, but don’t take it personally. It helps to be clear, polite and have small cash (in euros) ready for your fare. If a bus doesn’t show or leaves you behind, taxis are also affordable and safe in Kotor, as long as you book through a reputable company like Dijr Taxi or Red Taxi.
Katie’s Top Tip: If you’re planning a bus journey from Kotor, head to the bus station early or book online if possible, especially in summer. Also don’t rely too heavily on any online schedule you may find. Instead, confirm the timings locally and have a screenshot of your destination in case you need to show the driver.
Top Solo Female Travel Safety Tips for Kotor
Is Kotor safe for solo female travellers? Yes, if you follow these simple solo travel safety tips I swear by:
- Stay in or near the old town if it’s your first visit. It’s well-lit, full of people and still has a buzz into the evening. It’s also where you’ll find most of the things to do in Kotor.
- Always trust your gut instincts. If something feels off – like a quiet street, a pushy taxi driver or a poorly lit shortcut – don’t second-guess yourself. Turn around, ask for help or choose the safer option.
- Use Google Maps offline and use only one earbud to listen to directions instead of walking around staring at your phone and looking distracted.
- Avoid walking home alone late at night in quieter areas like parts of Dobrota. Instead, head back early before it gets really late or take a local taxi back to your accommodation.
- Keep your valuables close – especially in crowded areas or when you’re distracted by those gorgeous mountain views!
Katie’s Top Tip: And my golden solo female travel rule? Always tell someone you trust where you are. Whether it’s a quick WhatsApp to a friend or a shared live location link, it gives you and your people peace of mind.
So, Is Kotor Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
So, is Kotor safe for solo female travellers? Yes. Kotor is a small, welcoming town that allows solo women to explore freely, relax, and fall more than a little bit in love with the Balkans. But that doesn’t mean you should let your guard down completely. Like anywhere, being aware of your surroundings, trusting your gut and taking smart travel safety precautions is key to staying safe as a solo female traveller in Kotor.
But if you’re looking for a European solo travel destination that combines history, natural beauty and calm? Kotor might just be your perfect match. It’s definitely one of the safer spots for travelling alone in Montenegro, and is absolutely worth a spot on your Montenegro itinerary!
Have you been to Kotor, Montenegro before? What was your trip highlight? Let’s trade travel stories in the comments!
Read More About Montenegro:
- Is Kotor Safe for Solo Female Travellers? My Honest Take
- Is Montenegro Safe for Solo Female Travellers? An Honest Guide
- How to Plan the Perfect Montenegro Day Trip from Dubrovnik
- 10 Magical Day Trips from Kotor, Montenegro You’ll Never Forget
- 14 Best Things To Do in Kotor, Montenegro (Don’t Miss These!)
