I don't get a lot of chance to travel but when I do, I hope to see as much of the world as possible. When we were planning activities in Dubrovnik, I found out Montenegro is like only a few hours away. Without hesitating, that was definitely going into the itinerary.



We followed a day tour organized from the hotel, which picked us up at 7am. The tour consists of visits to the towns/cities of Budva and Kotor, the capital of Montenegro. 4 hours from Dubrovnik (after guest pickups and a 5 minutes ferry ride), we arrived in the southern town of Budva. The only thing I knew about and looked forward to was the dancer statue somewhere by the coast.

Marina in Budva

Arriving somewhere near Greco beach, I just followed the coastline southbound, passing through the marina and old town. The statue was easy to spot and it perfectly stood at a spot where I can catch the old town and the nearby Sveti Nikola island in the background. It seems there are a number of conflicting stories about the meaning behind this statue. Some say it's about a love story between a dancer and a sailor, with the dancer waiting for the sailor's return. How romantic!

The dancer statue in Budva

After I was done admiring the view, it was back into the fortified old town to walk through the narrow alleyways to see any exciting landmarks. On the south end of the fort, there were a few churches, a small garden and the citadel fortress with a view overlooking the sea. I believe there is a museum in there. After old town, it was time for lunch at one of the many restaurants by the marina.

Shop in old town of Budva

Citadel Fortress in Budva

After lunch, it was off to the capital city of Kotor. Our ride started from the top of the hills going down towards the bay. The bus stops by the roadside at a spot that gave us a breathtaking view of the city down below. It's nicknamed Europe's 'fjord of the south' although technically it's not. It's probably because of the surrounding mountains that resembles a fjord.

Highway stop to see the view of Kotor

Kotor also has a fortified old town that is still preserved until today. We were first brought around the city to see significant historic landmarks. This includes a clock tower in the main square which is slightly leaning to the west due to earthquakes. Other locations include the Kotor Cathedral, which has 2 towers with different heights and the Maritime Museum, which is housed in a palace previously owned by a prominent family here.

City wall of Kotor old town

Main square and clock tower in Kotor old town

After a guided tour, it was off to explore the city by ourselves. We found a garden with lots of cats just lazing around, which turned out to be Cat Park. So cute! Around the city there were art installations which I think was for a previous festival. Quite amusing to see large clothes hanging on a wire among the buildings. Like you stepped into a fairy tale and imagining giants living in the town.

One of the art installation around town

Colorful lights on display at a shop in Kotor

I wish I had a more time here as there was an old fortress and a church up the hill from the city. It would've made a nice hike and probably a nice view too. With the giant imposing hills surrounding the city, you can't help but feel so small from standing in the middle of it all. On our way back, we passed by Our Lady of the Rocks, which is an artificial island made by sinking ships filled with rocks!

Fortress on the hills in Kotor

View by the waters at Kotor Port

I'm so grateful and happy to have had a chance to visit this historically rich country. I'm sure if I planned to stay a day or two here there would be more activities to do. Looking forward to my return.