Plizio Visual Lab
City Walls of Kotor
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The City Walls of Kotor constitute one of the most formidable medieval defense systems in the Mediterranean basin. These fortifications stretch for approximately 4.5 kilometers, winding steeply up the slopes to the San Giovanni Fortress at an altitude of 260 meters above sea level. Construction began in the 9th century and was continually expanded and reinforced over nearly a millennium by Byzantines, Serbians, and most significantly, the Venetians. The walls range in thickness from 2 to 16 meters and reach heights of up to 20 meters, designed to withstand both naval bombardments and land sieges. In 1979, the walls were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site as part of the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. Climbing the 1,350 steps to the summit has a wide-open perspective of the Bay of Kotor, reflecting the strategic importance of this maritime stronghold throughout history.
- Location: Montenegro
- Top sights: River Gate (North Gate) · Church of Our Lady of Remedy · Svete Marije Koleđate
- Nearby: Lovcen National Park (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 4 | 5 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 20 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 14 | 10 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 156 | 152 | 138 | 103 | 89 | 67 | 42 | 43 | 116 | 138 | 187 | 178 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The city walls of Kotor can be walked along a hiking path - the climb is strenuous but the view is panoramic. Access is via a ticket purchased at the old town entrance.
Typical hours
The walls are typically open from 9am to 5pm, often until 7pm in summer. In rain or icy conditions, the path may be closed - check on-site.
Photography
The walls offer spectacular photo opportunities - the upper section provides a fantastic view of the Bay of Kotor. A tripod is helpful for dusk shots.
Time needed
The ascent and walk along the walls take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Allow an extra half hour for the descent and breaks.
Combine with
Kotor's city walls combine perfectly with a visit to the old town and St. Tryphon Cathedral. A trip to the San Giovanni fortress above the walls is also worthwhile.
Getting there
The entrance to the city walls is at the eastern end of the old town, near the Škurda River. Follow signs for 'City Walls' - the climb starts behind St. Mary's Church.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear and bring plenty of water - the climb is steep with no shade. Start early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
Geography
Facts
- The total length of the fortification system is approximately 4.5 kilometers.
- The walls ascend to a peak altitude of 260 meters at St. John's Fortress.
- A total of 1,350 steps lead from the Old Town to the highest ramparts.
- At their base, the walls reach a maximum thickness of 16 meters.
- Kotor's walls have been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979.
- The fortifications were primarily built between the 9th and 19th centuries.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town City Walls of Kotor (10)
Summer Stage
Open-air stage in Kotor, used for cultural events.
The Grgurina Palace🏰 castle
18th-century Baroque palace built for the noble Grgurina family.
Church of St Paul
Church in Kotor, dedicated to Saint Paul.
Maritime Museum (Former place of Grgurina family 18th century)🏛 museum
Maritime Museum in Kotor, Montenegro, housed in the former Grgurina Palace.
Karampana
Attraction in Kotor, a square or fountain in the old town.
The Drago Palace🏰 castle
Palace in Kotor, a historic building in the old town.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How many steps must you climb to San Giovanni fortress?
There are approximately 1,350 steps to reach the top at an altitude of 280 meters.
Does it cost money to climb the city walls?
Yes, during the high season, the entrance fee is about 8 Euros per person.
What is the best time of day for the climb?
Early morning or late afternoon to avoid direct sun and the crowds from cruise ships.
How long are the entire city walls of Kotor?
The entire fortification system extends over a length of about 4.5 kilometers.
Is there drinking water along the way?
No, there are no official fountains; make sure to bring plenty of water with you.
City Walls of Kotor: where is it located?
City Walls of Kotor is located in Montenegro.
City Walls of Kotor: what is there to see?
Highlights include River Gate (North Gate), Church of Our Lady of Remedy, Svete Marije Koleđate.
City Walls of Kotor: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
City Walls of Kotor: why is it worth visiting?
The City Walls of Kotor constitute one of the most formidable medieval defense systems in the Mediterranean basin.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Europe
More places in Montenegro →
Nearby cities
Podgorica Commerce Center
Main business district of the Montenegrin capital with many office complexes and banks.
Zagora
Zagora is a quiet coastal village in Montenegro, offering a peaceful retreat away from the busy tourist hubs with stunning Adriatic sea v…
Bar
A major port city blending modern infrastructure with the fascinating ruins of the ancient Stari Bar.
Ulcinj
The southernmost city in Montenegro, known for its oriental flair and the 13 km long sandy Velika Plaza beach.
Ulcinj Agricultural Area
Region around Velika Plaza beach, known for intensive vegetable growing and olive groves.
Donji Štoj - Shtoji i Poshtëm
Donji Štoj is a popular holiday resort in Montenegro near Ulcinj, famous for its stunning sandy beaches and vibrant summer atmosphere.
Gošići
Gošići is a tranquil village on Montenegro's Luštica Peninsula, surrounded by lush olive groves and stunning natural coves along the Adri…
Tuzi Agricultural Region
Tuzi is a significant agricultural center, especially for wine and fruit growing.
Tuzi
Tuzi is the center of the municipality of the same name in southeastern Montenegro.
Golubovci
Golubovci is a town near Podgorica and the administrative center of the Golubovci city municipality.
Canj
A peaceful bay famous for its stunning 'Pearl Beach' and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Sutomore
A popular Adriatic resort town famous for its long sandy beach and vibrant summer atmosphere.
Petrovac
A picturesque resort town known for its red sand beaches, Venetian fortress, and relaxed family atmosphere.
Buljarica
A coastal village near Petrovac featuring a 2.2-kilometer-long pebble beach and campsites.
Spuž
Spuž is a settlement in the Danilovgrad municipality of central Montenegro.
History & landmarks
Lipa Cave
One of Montenegro's largest caves, featuring stunning stalactites and massive underground halls near Cetinje.
Goražda Fortress
Goražda Fortress overlooks the Bay of Kotor.
Vrmac Fortress
Vrmac Fortress is located on the mountain ridge of the same name.
Upper Vrmac Fortress
The Upper Vrmac Fortress complements the defensive systems in the Bay of Kotor.
Nature
More places
Napoleon Theater Kotor
The theater in the old town of Kotor has a long tradition.
Krstac Saddle
An important mountain saddle in the Lovćen massif.
St. Nicholas Church Kotor
The Serbian Orthodox church in the center of Kotor was built in the early 20th century.
St. Tryphon Reliefs Kotor
The facade of the St.
Cathedral of Saint Tryphon
This Romanesque cathedral in Kotor dates back to 1166.
Clock Tower of Kotor
The clock tower stands in the main square of Kotor.
Port of Kotor
An important port of call for cruise ships in the Bay of Kotor.
Stavor Hill
A prominent hill near the Bay of Kotor.