The jewel of Montenegro, Kotor, is an enchanting city along the south coast of the country, surrounded by lofty mountains and the shimmering Adriatic Sea. Alongside its stunning scenery, the city’s cobblestone streets are lined with fascinating monuments that showcase its long-standing history, which stretches back to the 5th century B.C.

One of the best ways to explore this remarkable destination is on a free walking tour in Kotor. Strolling through charming squares and historic fortresses side by side with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll discover the very essence of the city, and why it is often referred to as “Little Dubrovnik”.

Here's all you need to know about free walking tours, one of the most engaging sightseeing tours in Kotor.

How do free walking tours work?

Free walking tours in Kotor have become increasingly popular in recent years as they provide tourists with an affordable and authentic way of experiencing this incredible city.

In comparison to standard walking tours, these tours are completely free to book and participate in, but it is encouraged that you tip your tour guide at the end of the tour. The amount you decide to tip is completely up to you.

How much should you tip?

When deciding how much to tip, think about the effort that your guide put into the tour and how much you enjoyed the tour overall.

Most tour participants tend to tip between €10 and €15 per person, but some people tip as much as €50 for outstanding tours.

What are the best free walking tours in Kotor?

Free walking tour in Kotor

This free walking tour in Kotor begins at the Maritime Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, from ornate weapons to uniforms and detailed model ships, inside an exquisite 18th-century palace. From there, you’ll make your way to the city’s main entrance — the Sea Gate.

Originally built in the 16th century under Venetian rule, the gate once featured the symbol of the Venetian Republic — a winged lion. However, this was replaced in the 20th century with the coat of arms of Yugoslavia, of which Montenegro was a part of, to mark Kotor’s freedom from Nazi reign in the November of 1944.

Moving on, you’ll see the city’s 17th-century clock tower, located upon the Square of the Arms — Kotor’s main plaza. This monument is built in a combination of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles, and is set behind a medieval pillory, once used for publicly humiliating criminals.

Bizanti Palace is the next stop on your free walking tour, named after the noble family who built the grand landmark as their home in the 14th century, followed by the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, which was seriously damaged by the 1979 earthquake that shook the city.

Discover the churches dedicated to St. Luke and St. Nicholas, both of which are set upon St. Luke’s Square, and help visitors to learn the broad history of religion in Montenegro. Finally, head to the Square of Wood where you’ll explore the city’s fortress, built under the rule of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, which offers spectacular views over Kotor and its bay beyond.

Historic free walking tour in Kotor

This historic tour of Kotor enables you to gain a deeper insight into the city’s roots, from its original Roman rule to its Venetian occupation and Nazi takeover. Your guide will fill you in on the background of the city, as well as the myriad legends that surround it, leaving you feeling like an expert by the end of your excursion.

You’ll discover many of the same sites as on other tours, such as the Sea Gate, Square of the Arms and the city’s clock tower, all of which showcase spectacular architectural styles, and how they have changed over the centuries.

However, you’ll also visit additional sites, including Pima’s Palace, situated on Flour Square. This grand building was once the home of the respected Pima family and is one of the few landmarks in Kotor that has survived all of the earthquakes that have affected the city since its construction in the 17th century.

Another attraction you’ll explore on this tour is the Church of St. Clare, which is built upon an older, 14th-century Benedictine monastery. While the exterior of this church is humble, its interior is designed in a classic Venetian Baroque style, featuring intricate sculptures and an ornate altar. Lastly, you’ll see Kotor’s Cat Park, which honors the numerous feline friends that can be seen around the city.

In which languages is it operated?

Free tours in Kotor currently only operate in English. While this appeals to a wide range of international tourists, it does limit some from participating. As the demand for these guided walks grows, the language options on offer may expand.

Where does it start?

Free walking tours in Kotor usually begin at or around the main Sea Gate, which is easily reached from other parts of the city. You can find out the exact meeting location before booking so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation in advance. While Kotor is a city, it is a small destination that is easily walkable, and its web of cobblestone streets is simple to navigate.

Upon arrival at your starting point, you’ll find your guide either wearing or holding an item that makes themselves easily recognizable.

It’s worth noting that the end point of Kotor free walking tours is usually different from the starting point.

How long does it last?

Free tours in Kotor typically last between 1 and 1.5 hours. While you won’t cover the entire history of the city or see every landmark during this time, Kotor’s small size means that this is the perfect time frame to explore its more remarkable highlights. The length of these tours also means that most travelers, even those with a very limited itinerary, will have time to sneak one in.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Kotor is a relatively accessible destination meaning that everyone, including persons with disabilities, can enjoy this breathtaking city. However, it’s always best to consult the booking page of your selected excursion to double-check check it is suitable for all members of your party.

When is the best time to join a free walking tour in Kotor?

The best time for a free walking tour is spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). The temperatures are mild, and you can enjoy the town without the intense heat of summer. Moreover, these periods usually see fewer tourists than the peak summer months.

Consider booking your tour near the beginning of your stay, to orient yourself around the city and gain valuable knowledge for the rest of your trip.

Should you book tickets online?

Booking your spot on a free walking tour in Kotor in advance is advisable. This will save you precious vacation time upon arrival to the city, which you would otherwise spend roaming the streets searching for a guide. There is a wide range of excursions to choose from and you’ll be able to check out the itinerary of each to see which one piques your interest.

You can also see real reviews from other travelers, which is another feature that will help you decide on your perfect tour. Finally, booking your place on one of these guided walks takes just a couple of minutes and you won’t need to input any credit card information.

What other sightseeing tours can you do in Kotor?

Free Walking Tours in Kotor