Views of the Fortress of Kotor & Surrounding Mountains

Why to Visit Kotor

Kotor, a historic Balkan gem on Montenegros Adriatic coast, is the oldest town in the country. It's nestled into the Bay of Kotor, a stunning body of water in the most breathtaking shade of blue part of the UNESCO-listed Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor. From adventurous outdoor activities like boat tours and hiking to sightseeing around its fortified old town, Kotor is a must-visit for budget travelers seeking nature and culture. Arguably, the most iconic attraction is the Fortress of Kotor - a highlight of Kotor Old Town with panoramic views.

The Fortress of Kotor

One of the best free things to do in Kotor is to see the historical sights. 4.5 km of stone walls wrap around Kotor Old Town and weave up the rugged slopes of Mount Lovćen, ultimately reaching the Fortress of Kotor (also called St. John’s Fortress). It sits at the highest reaching point of the walls at 260 meters above sea level, a testament to the city’s strategic importance in the Adriatic. Built during the Illyrian era (3rd century BCE) and expanded by the Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans, the fortress was a key defensive structure protecting Kotor from invasions.

There are breathtaking panoramic views that overlook Kotor Old Town, the sparkling waters of the Bay of Kotor and out at the surrounding mountainous Montenegrin landscape.

Top of Kotors Ancient Fortress

As of summer of 2025, the prices to get into the fortress through the official entry points were €15 per person which is quite expensive. If you're feeling adventurous, you can skip this high entry fee and instead get into the fortress for free! Let me tell you how.

How to Hike the Fortress of Kotor for Free: Steps for Entry

1- Start the Ladder of Kotor Hike & Follow it 1/3 of the way up the Mountain

This hiking trail begins just outside of the old town behind the old hydroelectric power plant (google maps link here). When you get to the power plant, there is a different trail that heads straight towards the canyon. Be sure to follow the path that goes uphill past the old power plant building.

The Ladder of Kotor, a zig-zag (serpentine) trail with over 70 switchbacks, leads to the very top of the mountain. I highly recommend hiking this entire trail while visiting Kotor as it has breathtaking panoramic views. However, for the purposes of visiting the Fortress of Kotor for free, you'll only follow it about 1/3 of the way up the mountain (45-55 minutes).

The 'Ladder of Kotor' Hike in Montenegro

This trail is pretty challenging especially in the summer sun as there is hardly any shade and it's consistently uphill, so be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

2- Switch From the Serpentine Trail to the Straight Trail Once You Reach the Cabin That Sells Cold Drinks

The first landmark you'll reach is a mountain cabin, called 'Kuca Milenko Franovič' (google maps link here), that has a large sign saying 'cold drinks'. There is a path that goes in a straight direction up the mountain next to it. You'll leave the serpentine Ladder of Kotor trail and instead walk up this path for around 5 minutes.

(L): The 'cold drinks' sign at the mountain cabin; (R): The straight path that veers off the Ladder of Kotor

3- Turn Right at the Ancient Ruins of St. Juraj Church

The second landmark you'll come across is St. Juraj Church (also referred to as Sveti Juraj or St. George Church) which is surrounded by ancient ruins of the abandoned village of Špiljari. It offers a glimpse into Kotor’s medieval past, surrounded by rugged Dinaric Alps and lush greenery - a scenic stop on the hike to the fortress. The inside of the church, though old and unkempt, is still quite beautiful with brightly colored domed ceilings and fading frescoes, so feel free to check it out before continuing.

St. Juraj Church Ruins

Ruins near the church

When you first approach the church, there is a path to the right leading in the direction of the fortress. You may see a large rock spray-painted with a red 'F' and an arrow indicating which direction to go - it may or may not be there anymore, but either way follow the path until you eventually reach the fortress walls.

The path to the Kotor Fortress window

4- Climb Through the Window!

The path ends where there is a window about 6.5 feet up, and the last task you have is to get yourself through it. I was told there is sometimes a chair or small wooden ladder under the window, however at my time of arrival there was only a log placed against the wall that was impossible to use to climb. I could barely reach the window and had no chance of pulling myself up due to the lack of grip. Luckily I was with my boyfriend who lifted me so I could crawl in, and then he pulled himself up.

The Fortress of Kotor window

Without something to climb on, if you are shorter and/or alone, you may not make it up. The rocks below the window are pretty slippery and you definitely don't want to fall down while attempting this. Only do it if you're very confident, but I have to admit it looks more dangerous than it actually is. We saw a few people turn back after seeing it. Once you climb through, you've successfully breached the walls of the fortress and can allow yourself to feel like an ancient invader!

Important Information for Free Kotor Fortress Entry

You have to leave the fortress the same way you entered - through the window. It is marked with a black 'X' on the inside part of the fortress so you don't forget which window you came from. If you try and walk down the steps to the official entry/exit point, the chances are high that the attendants may ask to see your tickets and charge you if you do not have one, thus defeating the purpose of going the free way. Also, once you're inside, be mindful about telling anyone you snuck in for free - it's not exactly 'allowed', but more so 'accepted'.

Other Free Things to Do in Kotor

• Explore Kotor Old Town: Wander the medieval streets down the cobblestone alleys, passing Venetian-era palaces and historic churches like St. Tryphon’s Cathedral
• Stroll Along Kotor Bay: Walk the scenic waterfront promenade for stunning views of the bay and surrounding mountains—no cost, just beauty
• Swim at the Beaches: Cool off at public beaches in Kotor or Dobrota, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Bay of Kotor
• Hike to Vrmac Ridge: Take the Vrmac Trail, a scenic 2–3-hour hike starting near Kotor’s Old Town, for more panoramic views

Visiting the Fortress of Kotor for free is a great way to experience Montenegro’s history and stunning landscapes. Pair it with Kotor’s other free attractions, like its charming Old Town or scenic bay, for a budget-friendly Montenegro trip packed with culture and nature. Be careful, have fun, and enjoy this travel hack at your own risk! Subscribe to BlondeVelvet Travel for more travel tips. 🩷