Ladder of Kotor
A challenging yet rewarding hike offering free access to Kotor Fortress and unparalleled views of the Bay of Kotor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Ladder of Kotor
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike offering free access to Kotor Fortress and unparalleled views of the Bay of Kotor.
"The switchbacks are steep but manageable, and the views over the Bay of Kotor are jaw-dropping."
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or good sneakers are essential for the steep, rocky terrain.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated! 1.5 liters is recommended, and you might want more for the climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Bay Views
Along the Ladder of Kotor trail
Zigzagging switchbacks reveal breathtaking, ever-expanding vistas of the Bay of Kotor.
Kotor Fortress Summit
Top of the Ladder of Kotor
Reach the historic fortress for unparalleled views and a sense of accomplishment after the climb.
Local Encounters
Along the trail
Stop at charming cottages for local moonshine or visit the unique 'Cheese Shop' cafe.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Free Fortress Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or good sneakers are essential for the steep, rocky terrain.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated! 1.5 liters is recommended, and you might want more for the climb.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
💰 Free Fortress Entry
Hike the Ladder of Kotor to sneak into the fortress from above, avoiding the €15 fee.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Footwear
Sturdy hiking shoes or good sneakers are essential for the steep, rocky terrain.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated! 1.5 liters is recommended, and you might want more for the climb.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
💰 Free Fortress Entry
Hike the Ladder of Kotor to sneak into the fortress from above, avoiding the €15 fee.
🗺️ Use 'Start of Ladder of Kotor'
This Google Maps pin is the correct starting point for the free, scenic route.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Ladder of Kotor hike is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and as a free alternative to the paid fortress entrance. While steep and challenging, most hikers find it manageable with proper preparation and footwear, often describing the effort as 'absolutely worth it'. Some minor concerns include the heat and the rocky terrain.
"We hiked the full Ladder of Kotor trail and it was absolutely worth it. The switchbacks are steep but manageable, and the views over the Bay of Kotor are jaw-dropping. It’s a quieter, more scenic alternative to the main fortress route—and here’s the best part: if you hike from this trail, you can sneak into Old Town without paying the €15 fortress fee.
The path eventually connects to a small window or passage that lets you enter the fortress area from above. It’s a bit of a scramble, but totally doable if you're reasonably fit. Just be cautious and respectful—it’s not an official entrance, but many hikers use it.
💡 Tip: Start early to beat the heat, wear proper shoes, and bring plenty of water. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly adventure with unbeatable views, this is the way to go."
Laurence Ho
"I refuse to believe this trail is harder than taking the paid stairs; as someone with mid/low stamina, it was easier than I anticipated in a pair of old jogging shoes.
The incline is mostly the same all the way to the fortress, with the final ones to the cheese shop a bit steeper, but walking at a comfortable pace with a few pauses to enjoy the view made it a pleasant, yet sweaty and humid, hike I'd highly recommend! The views are amazing, and the feeling of accomplishment won over any discomfort."
Aurora
"This is the entrance to the ladder of Kotor, the free way to climb up to the fortress.
Ignore any comments or things on Google which say this is not the correct way to start the walk - it is!!
I would say this hike is beginner friendly and takes 1 hour at a nice slow pace to get to the ladder of kotor.
Before reaching the ladder, you can go left at the top of the trail to the cheese shop, but we didn’t go as it seemed quite expensive.
The ladder is also still definitely there - so ignore any comments saying it is not there anymore!
Make sure you climb back down the ladder and go back to kotor the way you came via this route so you do it all for free, saving €15 per person :)"
Poppy Johnston
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended starting point for the free hike is marked on Google Maps as 'Start of the Ladder of Kotor' on Tabacina road, near the Scurda river.
Parking can be challenging in Kotor Old Town. It's best to park in designated public parking areas within or near the town and walk to the trailhead.
Yes, you can take a taxi to the 'Start of the Ladder of Kotor' on Google Maps. Confirm the destination with your driver to ensure they know the specific trailhead.
While there isn't direct public transport to the trailhead, you can take local buses or ferries to Kotor town and then walk or take a short taxi ride to the starting point.
Kotor is well-connected by bus to major cities like Budva, Tivat, and even Dubrovnik. The scenic drive along the Bay of Kotor is an experience in itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Ladder of Kotor hike itself is free! This route offers a way to access the Kotor Fortress without paying the €15 entrance fee from the main town entrance.
If you enter the fortress from the main town, there is a fee of approximately €15. However, hiking the Ladder of Kotor allows you to enter from above, bypassing this charge.
The Ladder of Kotor is an outdoor trail and is generally accessible at any time. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety and visibility.
Yes, you can hike down the Ladder of Kotor. Many people hike up and then descend via the same route to avoid paying the fortress entrance fee.
While some find it beginner-friendly, it's a steep and strenuous hike. It's best suited for older children or those accustomed to hiking.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike up can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level and how often you stop for photos. The full up-and-down hike is estimated to take 2-4 hours.
It's considered a moderately difficult hike due to its steep incline and switchbacks. However, many find it easier than the paid fortress stairs and manageable with good footwear.
You'll encounter stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor, charming local cottages, and potentially unique stops like a cheese shop or a cafe offering fresh juice. +1
Yes, there are a few stops along the trail, including a cafe labeled 'Cheese Shop' on Google Maps and local cottages where you might find refreshments.
The trail is generally safe, but it's steep and can be slippery. Always wear appropriate footwear, stay on the path, and be mindful of your surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Every switchback offers a new, incredible perspective of the Bay of Kotor. The summit of the fortress provides the most expansive panoramic shots.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon and sunset provide dramatic golden hour hues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast bay views. A smartphone with a good camera is also sufficient for most travelers.
The entire trail is a viewpoint! However, look for wider sections of the path where you can safely step aside for unobstructed shots of the bay.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules before flying. Some drone footage of the area is available online.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do decide to tackle it with kids, start very early to avoid the heat, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for frequent breaks. The sense of accomplishment at the top and the stunning views can be a great motivator for kids. Consider the paid fortress entrance as a potentially easier alternative if the full hike seems too daunting.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to further reduce costs. The trail itself is free, and the experience offers immense value for the effort. It's a prime example of how to experience Kotor's highlights without breaking the bank.
👟 Fitness Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ladder of Kotor vs. The Fortress Entrance
In contrast, the main fortress entrance from Kotor Old Town involves a steep climb up thousands of stone steps. While it's a direct route, it can be very exposed to the sun and is often crowded with tourists. The Ladder of Kotor provides a different perspective, with opportunities to stop at local cottages and cafes along the way, adding a unique cultural element to the ascent.
+1Both routes lead to the same impressive fortress, but the Ladder of Kotor is often praised for its scenic beauty, sense of adventure, and cost-effectiveness.
What to Expect on the Trail
Along the way, you might encounter small, rustic cottages where locals sometimes offer refreshments like homemade moonshine or fresh juice. There's also a notable stop often referred to as the 'Cheese Shop' cafe, which provides a place to rest and enjoy the views.
+1 The higher you climb, the more spectacular the views of the Bay of Kotor become, offering increasingly dramatic photo opportunities. Be prepared for varying weather conditions. While the trail offers some patches of shade, it can get very hot, especially during midday. Bringing ample water and wearing appropriate gear are crucial for a comfortable and safe experience.
Tips for a Successful Hike
Footwear is critical. Sturdy hiking shoes or good quality sneakers with excellent grip are essential, as the path can be rocky and uneven.
Finally, remember that while the Ladder of Kotor is a free alternative to the fortress entrance, it's important to be respectful of the environment and any locals you encounter. Enjoy the journey and the incredible views!
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit