Some places are beautiful. The Bay of Kotor feels almost unreal. We only visited fjords in New Zealand and Kotor feels like it is a more tropical version of it.
Imagine waking up to still water framed by dramatic mountains, church bells echoing through ancient stone streets, and your children chasing pigeons across medieval squares while you sip a coffee overlooking the bay. That’s the feeling Kotor gave us.
For families, the Bay of Kotor is one of the easiest and most rewarding places to stay in Montenegro. Distances are short, the scenery is constantly changing, and there is a wonderful mix of culture, nature, and relaxed seaside life.
If you don’t have much time in Montenegro, Kotor is a great place to start!
Wandering Through Kotor Old Town
We loved simply getting lost here. Kotor’s old town is a maze of narrow alleys, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old stone buildings. Kids naturally turn it into a treasure hunt, while parents can enjoy the history and atmosphere.
Early mornings are especially magical, before the day-trippers arrive and the streets still feel quiet and local.
Walk Part of the Kotor Fortress Trail
One of the most famous activities in Kotor is climbing the old fortress stairs high above the town. The views over the bay are breathtaking and often featured on postcards of Montenegro.
We originally planned to make the climb ourselves, but during our visit the temperatures were simply too high for hiking with a toddler. Instead, we walked up to the viewpoint just before the ticket entrance, which already offered spectacular views over the red rooftops and sparkling bay below.
If you’re visiting outside the hottest summer months, the full hike is definitely worth considering.
Meet the Famous Cats of Kotor
One thing that immediately stood out to us in Kotor was the incredible number of cats roaming the old town. In fact, the city has become famous for them, and they are almost as much a symbol of Kotor as the medieval walls themselves.
For children, spotting cats around every corner quickly turns into a fun little game. Our toddler absolutely loved checking the cats, there is even a small “cat hotel” hidden beneath the bushes near the old town, where local volunteers care for many of the cats.
What we really appreciated was how well looked after they were. Despite their large numbers, they never felt intrusive and rarely approached us while eating or relaxing at a restaurant.
Take a Boat Trip to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks
One of the best ways to experience the Bay of Kotor is from the water. Many boat tours depart from Kotor and stop in the postcard-perfect village of Perast, where you can wander along the waterfront and admire the beautiful stone houses.
Most tours also visit Our Lady of the Rocks, a small man-made island topped by a charming church. Entry to the church museum requires an additional fee on top of the boat ticket. Along the way, you’ll pass Saint George Island, a cypress-covered island with a historic monastery that can only be admired from the boat.
For families, a boat trip is a relaxing way to explore the bay while enjoying spectacular views of the mountains rising straight from the water.
The Kotor Cable Car: The View Everyone Talks About
If there is one activity we would not skip, it’s the Kotor Cable Car.
The ride itself is exciting for children, but the moment the bay opens up beneath you is unforgettable. Tiny red roofs, sparkling water, and mountains stretching into the distance—it’s one of those views that makes you stop talking for a moment.
Family Tips for the Cable Car
- Check opening hours and weather before you go.
Strong winds can affect operations. - Arrive early in summer.
Queues can become surprisingly long, we heard summer can have a 3hour queue - Bring a light jacket.
It can feel cooler at the top than down by the bay.
Race Down the Alpine Coaster
At the top station you’ll find the Alpine Coaster, one of the most exciting family attractions in the bay. From age 3-7 years your kid needs to
Even though our one year old was too young to ride independently, he couldn’t stop watching the carts racing down the mountain. The combination of mountain views and thrilling turns makes this a fun activity for both children and adults. This might even be one of the top things to do in Kotor Montenegro with kids!
Let the Kids Burn Off Energy at the Mountain Playground
Also located near the upper cable car station is a large playground with stunning mountain views.
Some climbing structures are better suited to older children, but younger kids can still enjoy the trampolines and play areas. It’s a nice place to take a break while soaking up the scenery.
Be aware, this playground is not for free, you need to buy a ticket for it.
Visit Lovćen Mausoleum
The Lovćen Mausoleum is one of Montenegro’s most iconic landmarks and rewards visitors with some of the most spectacular views in the country. Although it isn’t located directly at the cable car station, a shuttle bus conveniently connects the two.
Once there, you’ll need to climb 461 steps through a tunnel carved into the mountain before reaching the summit. It sounds daunting, but the breathtaking panorama at the top makes every step worth it. On a clear day, you can see the Bay of Kotor, Lake Skadar, and the rugged mountains that make Montenegro so special. For us, it was one of the most memorable viewpoints of the entire trip.
Tivat: A Softer, More Relaxed Side of the Bay
While Kotor feels medieval and dramatic, Tivat feels airy and modern. The waterfront promenade is perfect for a stroller walk, and there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants where children are genuinely welcomed.
It’s a nice contrast and an easy half-day trip if you’re staying around the bay.
Relax at Plavi Horizonti Beach
After a few active days, Plavi Horizonti Beach is the perfect place to slow down.
Unlike many of Montenegro’s pebble beaches, Plavi Horizonti offers soft sand and shallow water, making it ideal for families with young children. We could easily have spent an entire day here.
There is a small beachside restaurant serving snacks and drinks, so there’s no need to pack a full picnic.
When you’ve had enough sun, follow the coastal path to the right of the beach. The shaded walking trail is beautiful and peaceful, making it perfect for a stroller walk or even a nap walk with little ones.
Why the Bay of Kotor Works So Well for Families
The Bay of Kotor combines dramatic scenery, easy day trips, walkable towns, and family-friendly restaurants in a way few places do. It’s easy to see why it belongs on any list of the Top things to do in Kotor with kids. You can spend the morning exploring a medieval fortress, the afternoon relaxing by the water, and the evening enjoying fresh seafood while the mountains glow pink at sunset. It’s the kind of destination that feels adventurous without feeling exhausting, making it perfect for families looking to combine nature, culture, and relaxation.
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