How to Get Around Kotor Without a Car? Tips for Visitors

Kotor without a car: what to expect

Kotor is one of those destinations where you simply do not need a car to have a great holiday. The Old Town, the seaside promenades, countless restaurants, cultural sights and part of the surrounding villages can all be explored on foot, while local buses, taxis and boat lines and tours cover the more distant spots.

For visitors arriving by plane, bus or cruise ship, staying in Kotor without renting a car can be the practical choice. Especially in the summer season, when traffic around the Bay of Kotor gets heavier, a car brings extra headaches such as parking and congestion.

Still, it helps to know in advance how transport in Kotor works, where the main bus stops are, which places you can reach on foot and when a taxi is the more practical option.

In this guide we explain how to get around Kotor without a car, from exploring the Old Town and Dobrota to travelling to Perast, Tivat, Budva and other places around the Bay of Kotor.

How do you get around Kotor without a car?

Kotor lends itself to mixing several modes of transport. For day-to-day moving around you will mostly rely on walking, the local bus and taxis, while boats can be an interesting way to visit certain places and attractions around the bay.

If you are staying in the Old Town or right next to it, you can spend most of the day without using any transport at all. The Old Town is compact, and many spots along the waterfront are within walking distance.

To get to Dobrota, Prčanj, Stoliv, Risan and the other villages, consider the local bus or a taxi, depending on the distance and how much time you have. Intercity buses come in handy when you want to travel from Kotor to Budva, Tivat, Herceg Novi or other towns.

The best option, then, is not always a single mode of transport. During your stay you might, for example, explore the centre on foot, take the bus to Perast and use a taxi for the trip back in the evening or whenever the timetable does not suit you.

Do you need a car for a stay in Kotor?

For a typical tourist stay in Kotor, a car is not essential. If you plan to spend a few days exploring the Old Town, the coast and the best-known places around the Bay of Kotor, most activities can be organised by combining walking, buses, taxis and boats. This works particularly well if your accommodation is in the Old Town, in Dobrota or somewhere with good connections to the centre.

Advantages of staying in Kotor without a car

One advantage is that you do not have to think about parking every day. Inside the Old Town itself, cars are not part of the usual tourist experience, and in the summer months demand for parking spaces around the centre can be high.

Walking also lets you get to know Kotor in a way a car never could. The narrow streets of the Old Town, the squares, the city walls and the waterfront stroll are naturally suited to a slower pace of exploring.

Without a car you can also mix different modes of transport to fit the plan for each day, instead of being tied to the spot where you parked.

When can a car be useful?

A car can have its advantages if you plan to explore more remote parts of Montenegro intensively, the mountain regions or smaller places where public transport is infrequent.

If, however, you are spending most of your holiday in Kotor and around the Bay of Kotor, you can put together a very full itinerary without one.

Before renting a vehicle, think about where you really plan to go and how often you would actually need the car.

Getting around Kotor on foot

Walking is the simplest way to explore the central part of Kotor.

Exploring Kotor Old Town on foot

Kotor Old Town is best explored on foot. Its streets, squares, churches, restaurants and other sights are packed into a relatively small area.

Rather than planning transport between individual attractions, you can simply wander through the town and take them in at your own pace. Set aside a few hours for your first visit, especially if you want to take breaks, visit museums or climb up towards the fortifications above the town.

Walking is also a great option in the evening, when the Old Town has a completely different atmosphere than during the daytime tourist rush.

Walking from the Old Town to Dobrota

Dobrota stretches along the coast north of Kotor and is one of the most popular areas for visitors to stay.

Part of Dobrota is fairly easy to reach on foot from the centre of Kotor, and the walk along the waterfront can be part of the experience itself. How far you can comfortably walk depends on the exact location of your accommodation, the weather and your own habits. Dobrota runs for several kilometres, so not every part of it is equally practical for a daily walk to the Old Town.

If your apartment is further out, combining a walk with the local bus or a taxi may be more convenient.

Which parts of Kotor can you visit without transport?

The Old Town and its immediate surroundings are the easiest to explore on foot. For shorter distances towards Dobrota you will often not need transport either. For the villages on the opposite side of the bay, the more distant parts of Dobrota and places such as Risan and Perast, however, you should plan another way of getting there.

In summer, factor in the heat as well. A distance that looks short on the map can be a lot less pleasant to walk in the middle of a scorching summer day.

Local bus transport in Kotor

For visitors who want to move around Kotor and the surrounding villages on a budget, the local bus is one of the most useful options.

Local buses should not be confused with the intercity buses that connect Kotor with other towns in Montenegro from the main bus station.

How does local bus transport work?

Local routes connect Kotor with the villages in the municipality and other parts of the Bay of Kotor. For visitors, this means you do not have to take a taxi every time you leave the centre.

The bus can be a practical way to get to Dobrota and the other villages along the bay, depending on the specific route and the current timetable. Keep in mind, though, that local buses run to a schedule, so check the arrival times and the last return departures before you set off.

Blue Line – bus routes in and around Kotor

Blue Line is one of the local bus operators connecting Kotor with the surrounding villages.

Its routes can be useful for visitors who want to explore the Bay of Kotor without renting a car, especially those with enough time who are after a cheaper way to travel.

When planning, do not rely on an old timetable found on a blog or forum. Times can change depending on the time of year and how the service is organised. It is best to check the current timetable shortly before you travel.

Where are the bus stops?

Local buses use stops along their routes, while intercity buses mostly depart from Kotor bus station.

If you are taking a local bus for the first time, check where the stop for your direction is. The stop for the return trip is not always directly opposite the one where you got off. If you do not know the town, it is worth marking the stop's location on your phone in advance.

Ticket prices and where to check the timetable

Local fares depend on the route and the distance, so it is best to check them together with the current timetable. If you plan several trips in one day, compare the cost of the bus with the other options, especially if you are travelling as a group.

For one person the bus will usually be the cheaper choice, while with several passengers the difference in total cost can narrow.

Taxis in Kotor – when are they most practical?

A taxi in Kotor is useful when you need more flexibility than the local bus offers. Instead of working around a timetable, you choose your pickup point and travel straight to where you want to go.

When to choose a taxi over the bus?

A taxi can be more practical when you are travelling with suitcases, children or lots of luggage, when you are heading back late in the evening, or when there is no suitable direct bus connection to your destination. It is also useful when you are short on time.

If you are only in Kotor for a day or two, waiting for the next bus can eat into a significant part of the time you could spend sightseeing. A taxi also takes you directly from your accommodation to your destination, which matters if your apartment is not close to a bus stop.

How much does a taxi cost in Kotor?

The cost of a taxi ride depends on the distance, the operator, the tariff and other conditions. Based on the indicative figures used in our earlier blog post, shorter rides within Kotor can come to around 5–10 €, while longer routes cost more.

For more precise budgeting, we recommend our detailed blog article **"Taxi Prices in Montenegro 2026"**, which covers city, airport and other taxi rides.

Where to order a taxi near the Old Town?

Taxis can be found at busy spots around town, but you can also order one through a taxi service or an app.

Ordering through a taxi app can be especially handy for visitors, as it lets you pin your pickup location precisely without having to explain an address over the phone.

How to travel between Kotor and the surrounding villages?

Kotor is an excellent base for exploring the Bay of Kotor. Beyond the Old Town, the coast is dotted with villages worth visiting, and most of them can be reached without your own car. Depending on the distance, the time you have and what you plan to do, you can choose between walking, the local bus and a taxi.

Below is an overview of the most practical ways to travel between Kotor and the nearby villages.

Note: Bus routes and timetables can change depending on the season, so it is advisable to check them before you set off.

Kotor to Dobrota

Dobrota is one of the most accessible villages for visitors exploring Kotor without a car. It lies right next to the town, and its nearer parts are easy to reach on foot. The walk along the waterfront offers lovely views of the Bay of Kotor, while the local bus or a taxi is more practical for the more distant parts of the village.

If you are planning to stay in Dobrota, pay attention to how far it is from the Old Town and the nearest bus stop. Choosing the right location can make daily getting around much easier and reduce the need for extra transport.

Kotor to Muo and Prčanj

Muo and Prčanj lie on the opposite side of the bay from Dobrota and are a great choice for visitors who want to explore a quieter part of the Bay of Kotor.

The nearer parts of Muo can be reached on foot from Kotor, especially if you enjoy longer seaside walks. To get to Prčanj, the local bus or a taxi is more practical, particularly on hot summer days.

Both villages are known for their authentic coastal atmosphere and views across the bay, which makes them appealing day-trip destinations from Kotor.

Kotor to Stoliv

Stoliv lies further along the coast, beyond Prčanj, and is an interesting choice for visitors who want to discover the less busy corners of the Bay of Kotor.

Given the distance from the centre of Kotor, the local bus and taxis are more practical options than walking. If you plan to spend most of the day in Stoliv, it is a good idea to arrange your trip back in advance.

Pay special attention to the last bus departures, especially if you plan to return to Kotor in the evening.

Kotor to Risan

Risan is one of the most historically significant settlements on the Bay of Kotor and an interesting destination for visitors keen to explore the cultural heritage of the area.

Given the distance from Kotor, the most practical ways to get there are by bus or taxi. Local and intercity buses can be an economical choice for travellers with a flexible schedule, while a taxi gets you there directly, with no waiting and no timetable to work around.

A taxi is especially practical if you plan to visit several places around the bay on the same day or want to set your own departure and return times.

How to visit Perast from Kotor without a car?

Perast is one of the most popular day-trip destinations from Kotor, and it is very easy to visit even if you do not have a car during your stay in Montenegro. Set on the shore of the Bay of Kotor, Perast is known for its stone palaces, churches, views across the bay and the islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and St George.

You can get from Kotor to Perast by bus, taxi or boat, and the best choice depends on your budget, how much time you have and how you want to organise your day. The bus is usually the cheapest option, a taxi to Perast gives you more flexibility, while a boat trip turns the journey itself into part of the Bay of Kotor experience.

By bus from Kotor to Perast

The bus is an economical option for travellers who want to visit Perast without spending much on transport and who can work with the current timetable. It particularly suits visitors with plenty of time who do not mind fitting their sightseeing around the departure times.

Before you travel, it is advisable to check where the bus leaves from and where to get off, the current timetable and the return departures to Kotor. The schedule can vary by day, time of year and operator, so it is not wise to rely solely on information found long before your trip.

Pay special attention to the last suitable return departure. If you plan to stay in Perast into the evening, check in advance that there is a convenient bus connection back to Kotor. That way you avoid a last-minute change of plans or having to look for alternative transport.

Taxi from Kotor to Perast

For travellers who value comfort, a direct ride and the freedom to leave when they like, a taxi from Kotor to Perast is one of the most practical options.

Unlike the bus, you do not have to fit your visit around a fixed timetable. You can set off when it suits you, and the taxi can take you straight from your accommodation in Kotor to Perast. This can be especially handy if you are travelling with children, have more luggage or simply want to make the most of your time around the bay.

Based on the indicative figures in our taxi price guide, a Kotor–Perast ride can cost approximately 15–25 € one way. The price may, however, depend on the operator, time of year, traffic and other conditions, so it is advisable to check the current fare before you start the ride.

If you are travelling as a group, a taxi can be especially practical because the total cost of the ride is split between several passengers. And if you plan to return to Kotor in the evening, you can arrange the return time in advance and avoid depending on the bus timetable.

Boat trips to Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks

Perast is often visited together with the islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, one of the most famous landmarks of the Bay of Kotor. That makes a boat trip from Kotor an interesting alternative to travelling by land.

The range of boat trips varies by operator. Some tours cover only Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks, while others include several places around the bay. Duration, time spent at each stop, departure point and price also differ, so before booking it is worth checking exactly what is included in the tour you choose.

The advantage of going by boat is that the transport becomes part of the excursion itself. Instead of viewing the bay only from the shore, you get to see Kotor, Perast and the surrounding mountains from a completely different perspective.

If your main goal is simply to get to Perast and organise your time independently, the bus or a taxi will probably be the more practical choice. But if you want to combine a visit to Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks and a cruise across the Bay of Kotor, a boat trip can be one of the more rewarding ways to spend part of the day without needing a car.

How to get from Kotor to other towns without a car?

Kotor can be a great base for visiting other towns on the Montenegrin coast, even without a car. For intercity trips the most common options are the bus and a taxi, and the choice comes down to budget, available time and how much flexibility you want.

Kotor to Tivat

Tivat lies very close to Kotor and makes an easy day trip. The bus is the cheaper option, while a taxi offers a more direct and flexible ride, especially if your final destination is not near the bus station.

If you are travelling to Tivat Airport, allow plenty of time for the journey, as traffic jams, especially in the summer season, can make the ride considerably longer.

Kotor to Budva

Kotor and Budva are one of the most popular combinations for visitors who want to explore the Montenegrin coast. Intercity buses run between the two towns, and a taxi is also an option.

The bus is the more economical choice for solo travellers, while a taxi offers more flexibility and can be practical for families, small groups and anyone who prefers a direct ride from their accommodation to where they want to go.

You can find a more detailed comparison of both options in our article **"Taxi or Bus in Montenegro: Price, Time and Convenience"**.

Kotor to Herceg Novi

You can reach Herceg Novi from Kotor by intercity bus or taxi. The bus is the cheaper option, while a taxi gives you more freedom in choosing when to leave and when to come back.

If you are planning a day trip, check the return bus times in advance too, not just the morning departures from Kotor. That way you can plan your visit better and avoid problems getting back at the end of the day.

Getting around the Bay of Kotor by boat

When you are staying in Kotor, land transport is not the only way to explore the Bay of Kotor. Boat trips offer a different perspective on the bay and let you visit several popular spots in a single outing.

Various kinds of boat excursions are available from Kotor, with routes that may include Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks and other places around the bay, depending on the operator and the tour you choose. Before booking, it is advisable to check the duration of the trip, the planned route, the time spent at each stop and what is included in the price.

Alongside organised group tours, private boat rides and water taxis may also be available. These options usually offer more flexibility in terms of route and departure time, but they tend to be more expensive. For families or small groups sharing the cost, a private boat can be a practical choice, especially if you want to tailor the itinerary to your own interests.

A boat is a particularly good choice when you want the journey itself to be part of the experience. If your only goal is to get from one place to another as simply as possible, the bus or a taxi is often more practical. But if you want to enjoy the views of the bay as you go, photograph the coastline and visit places best reached from the water, a boat trip can be one of the most enjoyable ways to get to know the Bay of Kotor.

Getting around Kotor in the summer tourist season

In the summer months Kotor draws large numbers of tourists, including guests staying in town and passengers from cruise ships. The higher number of visitors, especially in July and August, can affect traffic, travel times and the availability of certain transport options.

During this period it is advisable to allow more time for travelling than the distance on the map suggests. Traffic jams can make the ride to Tivat, Budva and other destinations longer, and hold-ups affect cars, taxis and buses alike. It is especially important to leave a good time buffer when you are heading to the airport or have a pre-booked activity.

Days when a larger number of cruise passengers arrive in Kotor can also mean bigger crowds in the Old Town and its immediate surroundings. If you are staying in Kotor for a few days, you have the advantage of being able to adapt your sightseeing and explore the Old Town early in the morning or in the evening, when it is usually more pleasant for a walk.

During the busiest part of the season, it pays to check bus departures in advance, avoid tight connections between different modes of transport and allow extra time for intercity trips. If you are using a taxi, it is advisable to arrange your ride in good time, especially during periods of high demand.

How to order a taxi in Kotor with the Blic Taxi app?

When the local or intercity bus does not fit your schedule, you can easily order a taxi in Kotor through the **Blic Taxi app**. This option can be especially handy for visitors who do not know the town and its surroundings or who prefer to arrange transport without making a phone call.

Ordering is straightforward. First choose where you want the driver to pick you up, using your phone's current location or by manually dropping a pin on the map. Then enter your destination and review the available information about the planned ride. Once your request is confirmed and a driver is assigned, you can follow their arrival live on the map.

Blic Taxi connects you with local licensed taxi drivers, and you can use the app for other rides during your stay in Montenegro too. When ordering, mark your pickup point as precisely as possible and enter the exact destination, especially if your accommodation is outside the centre of Kotor or somewhere that is harder to find.

You can explore Kotor without a car

Staying in Kotor without a car does not mean limiting your trip to the Old Town. On the contrary, with a bit of planning you can explore a large part of Kotor and the Bay of Kotor using walking, local and intercity buses, taxis and boats.

Walking is the best way to see the Old Town, while the local bus offers a cheaper way to reach some of the surrounding villages. Intercity routes can be used for trips to Budva, Tivat and other towns, and boat trips offer a different way to get to know the Bay of Kotor.

A taxi is the practical complement to these options when you want a direct ride, when you are travelling with luggage, coming back later in the evening or when the bus timetable does not suit you.

Rather than relying on a single mode of transport, the best approach is to combine them to fit your plan for the day.

That way you can keep your costs under control, stay flexible and get to know Kotor and its surroundings without needing to rent a car.