Kotor, Montenegro
Few ships cruise to Kotor but its gaining in popularity and the scenery upon arrival is stunning alongside a 17-mile fjord-like mountain. Formerly Yugoslavia, Montenegro is a country in Southeastern Europe along the Mediterranean with a very long history of occupation and control. Montenegro has a coast on the Adriatic Sea and is bordered by Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Kosovo, and Albania.
Kotor is a beautiful old city with great history, many natural and historical sights, amazing hiking, great shopping and tons of fun little cafes set amongst a medieval seaside ancient trading center. Visitors here never have enough time because its a place that makes you want to stay.
Montenegro has a very rich culture, history and natural beauty. Get out of town for a beautiful view of Kotor Bay and lovely mountain scenery. Learn about the past at the Maritime Museum, visit one of the numerous 12th & 13th century churches or just people-watch from one of the many cafes while sipping coffee or beer.
Take a cruise line tour to go to nearby Njegusi, where you will visit the village smokehouse. Stop for a snack of smoked ham and cheese, brandy and wine—all local specialties. Then, head down the mountains towards the city of Budva, believed to be one of the oldest settlements on the Adriatic coast at more than 2,000 years old.
In town some of the main attractions include St Triphon’s Cathedral and you will see the Orthodox Church of St Luka. The Old City of Kotor is an ancient trade center, due to its fortified entrance to the sea. It's also a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site and Montenegro's most famous town. The Old Town is a well-preserved collection of buildings, churches, squares and stone streets that date back to the Middle Ages. The car-free, walled town is just across the street from the city's cruise-ship dock.
Kotor has tons of outdoor dining options and is full of shops and for a great view put hike the city walls that climb the mountain behind the town. It's about 90 minutes round trip to the fortress at the crown at 853 feet.
Most concentrate on Old Town if time is limited but if time permits consider excursions that head into the mountains for sightseeing and stops at seaside resorts on the Adriatic.