I had great expectations for the Natural and Culturo-Historical Region of Kotor when I visited in October 2017, since it would be my first visit to Montenegro. Unfortunately, the city seemed rather sleepy and empty when I arrived. After hiking up the walls to the Castle of Saint John, I was treated to an amazing view of the city and the bay surrounded by steep rocky slopes. Small fields and farms were visible from the trail, as were the church towers and the red-tiled roofs in villages lining the bay. Kotor was slightly filled with more tourists when I returned to the city, but the squares still seemed quiet, making me wonder whether anyone other than shopkeepers and their cats (which are revered in Kotor) lived in the old part of the city. The fortifications around the old city were impressive, and I spent some time strolling the city walls. I also visited the Kotor Cathedral and climbed the towers for a look over the town. Although I was slightly let down by the city of Kotor, I appreciated its beautiful setting against the bay, and I highly recommend climbing the walls to the Castle of Saint John to experience the panoramic views.

Logistics: There are regular buses from Dubrovnik to Kotor, and it is also a popular cruise ship stop. Upon arrival to Kotor, the city is extremely walkable.