Verige Strait Viewpoint Bay of Kotor Montenegro
Breathtaking panoramas of the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, with iconic hikes and charming coastal drives.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps
Verige Strait Viewpoint Bay of Kotor Montenegro
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking panoramas of the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, with iconic hikes and charming coastal drives.
"Outstanding walk with ever-changing vistas, making you feel very fortunate."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike to the fortress involves many steps; comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial. Carry more water than you think you'll need for the hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Verige Strait Panorama
Bay of Kotor
Unparalleled views of the fjord-like bay, dotted with islands and charming villages.

San Giovanni Fortress Hike
Above Kotor Old Town
An iconic climb with 8282 steps offering increasingly dramatic vistas of the bay.

Horizont Café View Point
Near Kotor
A popular spot for refreshments with stunning, postcard-worthy views of the bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating the Hike and Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike to the fortress involves many steps; comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial. Carry more water than you think you'll need for the hike.
💰 Be Prepared for Fees
Some viewpoints and trails, like the San Giovanni Fortress, may have an entrance fee. Check current prices beforehand.
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Sunsets and sunrises offer magical light for photography. Plan your visit to catch these breathtaking moments.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The hike to the fortress involves many steps; comfortable, supportive footwear is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Especially during warmer months, staying hydrated is crucial. Carry more water than you think you'll need for the hike.
💰 Be Prepared for Fees
Some viewpoints and trails, like the San Giovanni Fortress, may have an entrance fee. Check current prices beforehand.
📸 Capture the Golden Hour
Sunsets and sunrises offer magical light for photography. Plan your visit to catch these breathtaking moments.
☕ Enjoy a Scenic Coffee
Stop at cafes like Horizont Bar for refreshments with incredible bay views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking, unforgettable views from the Verige Strait and the challenging yet rewarding hike up to San Giovanni Fortress. The natural beauty of the Bay of Kotor is a major draw, with many finding peace and awe in the scenery. However, some travelers note the significant entrance fee for the fortress and the potential for crowded conditions during peak times.
"Outstanding walk. I take my hat off to those who built this amazing trail and those who maintain it. Thank you all past, present n future. Took me 3hrs of slow n steady walking with lots of stops to admire the ever changing vista from Pupa Hostel n 8282 steps to get here. It's enough. So peaceful. Looking at a second passenger liner sailing in makes me feel very very fortunate. Cost nothing."
Ed Lee
"Beautiful hike. We went the lesser known way up to avoid the fees (apparently 15euros to hike up). Definitely worth it!"
Léa Pieraut
"Amazing view, very high fee (15 euros per person).
The climbing is heard but worth it"
איתמר נחליאל
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Verige Strait Viewpoint is best accessed by car or taxi, offering stunning views as you drive along the Bay of Kotor. Many visitors also hike up to viewpoints from Kotor Old Town, such as the San Giovanni Fortress trail.
While direct public transport to specific viewpoints might be limited, local buses connect towns along the bay. You may need to combine bus travel with walking or a short taxi ride.
Exploring by car or scooter offers flexibility. Alternatively, boat tours provide a unique perspective from the water, and many visitors enjoy the scenic drive.
Parking can be challenging, especially in peak season. Look for designated parking areas or be prepared to park a short walk away. Some cafes may offer parking for patrons.
Cycling is a popular option for adventurous travelers, offering a more intimate experience of the scenery. Be mindful of traffic and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While many viewpoints along the bay are free to access, the hike up to the San Giovanni Fortress may have an entrance fee, reportedly around 15 euros per person.
Tickets for the San Giovanni Fortress hike are typically purchased on-site. It's advisable to check for any online booking options or changes in policy before your visit.
The fortress is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's best to confirm the specific opening and closing times, as they can vary seasonally.
Besides the potential fortress entrance fee, be aware of parking charges in popular areas. Some restaurants might have a minimum spend for prime seating.
Some travelers mention finding lesser-known routes to avoid fees, but this may involve more challenging terrain. It's important to assess your fitness and preparedness.
📸 📸 Photography
The Verige Strait itself offers stunning vistas. The hike up to San Giovanni Fortress provides panoramic shots, and cafes like Horizont Bar offer picturesque settings.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) provide the most dramatic and flattering light for capturing the bay's beauty.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive bay. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant villages and islands.
Drone regulations can be strict in Montenegro. It's essential to research and comply with local laws regarding drone usage to avoid penalties.
Explore the narrow streets of Kotor Old Town, find elevated viewpoints, or take a boat trip for different perspectives of the fortifications and bay.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace, fitness level, and how often you stop to admire the views.
The trail consists of many stone steps, some of which can be steep and uneven. It's a strenuous but rewarding climb with incredible scenery.
While the main trail is primarily a climb, some small, informal eateries or refreshment stands might be found partway up, especially near the fortress.
The 'ladder' hike likely refers to the steep, winding path of steps leading up to the San Giovanni Fortress, offering challenging but rewarding ascents.
The Verige Strait itself offers numerous pull-offs with stunning views. Cafes like Horizont Bar also provide excellent vantage points.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, several cafes and restaurants are situated along the Bay of Kotor, offering dining with spectacular views. Horizont Bar is a popular choice.
Look for fresh seafood, Njeguški pršut (smoked ham), and local cheeses. Traditional stews and grilled meats are also common.
While waterfront restaurants can be pricier, exploring the side streets of Kotor Old Town or looking for local bakeries can offer more affordable options.
Many restaurants offer salads and vegetable dishes. It's always a good idea to ask about vegetarian or vegan preparations when ordering.
Dining often involves enjoying fresh, local ingredients with a relaxed atmosphere, especially at establishments with bay views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating and perhaps a play area. Kotor Old Town itself is fascinating to explore with children, with its narrow alleys and historic walls, though be mindful of the steps and uneven surfaces. Some coastal areas offer safer swimming spots away from the main boat traffic.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for local bakeries and markets for affordable meals, and consider self-catering if your accommodation allows. Public buses are a cost-effective way to travel between towns along the bay, though they may be less frequent. Research free walking tours in Kotor Old Town to learn about its history without spending a fortune.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic San Giovanni Fortress Hike
Many visitors recommend starting the hike early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds. The path is well-trodden, but the stone steps can be uneven and steep, so wearing sturdy hiking shoes is crucial. Along the way, you might encounter small, informal refreshment stands, but it's wise to carry plenty of water. The reward at the summit is a breathtaking 360-degree view that many describe as unforgettable.
While the hike itself is often free, there have been reports of an entrance fee for accessing the fortress area, which some travelers mention as being around 15 euros per person. It's advisable to check the latest information on fees and opening hours before your visit. For those seeking a less strenuous but still scenic experience, consider visiting viewpoints accessible by car or enjoying the ambiance at cafes like Horizont Bar.
Exploring the Verige Strait by Car
As you drive, you'll pass charming villages, ancient churches, and lush Mediterranean vegetation. Many small, informal viewpoints are scattered along the route, allowing you to stop for photos and to simply admire the tranquil waters and the imposing mountains that rise directly from the sea. Cafes and restaurants are also dotted along the bay, providing perfect spots to relax and enjoy a meal with a view.
Parking can be a bit of a challenge in popular areas, especially during peak tourist season. It's recommended to be patient and look for designated parking spots or be prepared to walk a short distance from where you park. Renting a car or scooter provides the most flexibility to explore at your own pace and discover hidden coves and viewpoints that might be missed on organized tours.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit