The Best Hotels in Kotor, Montenegro

The setting of this bright and cheery hotel is superb – located on the shores of the Bay of Kotor, it’s surrounded by both mountains and sea. It was named after a local 19th-century ship – lookout for the model replica in the restaurant. Rooms are whitewashed with turquoise cushions and chairs adding a splash of colour. All feature underfloor heating and air conditioning but for added space book the deluxe suite, which has a sea view and a kitchenette.

There’s a gothic feel to this hotel, which has an original window from that era in the restaurant. There’s also a quirky tree of life sculpture in there, plus a replica of Michelangelo’s Original Sin painted on the stairs. Rooms are spacious and feature ornate furniture and marble bathrooms. Located in Flour Square, you’ll be well placed to explore the atmospheric old town, home to museums, churches and Venetian palaces.

Located in the heart of the old town, Hotel Vardar offers 24 comfortable and spacious guest rooms, a relaxed restaurant, a pretty courtyard, sauna and a fitness room. The decor is traditional, with coffee-and-cream colour schemes in the rooms and a bright dining area. In-room treatments are available, along with airport transfers. You’re within a short walk of Kotor Bay here, as well as some must-sees such as St Tryphon Cathedral, a two-minute stroll away.

There’s a private, tucked-away vibe to this 10-room hotel on the water’s edge in Orahovac, a fishing village just outside Kotor. Relax on the private beach enjoying mountain views, or take in the panoramas from your balcony. The decor is modern and bright, with stone walls and soft furnishings. There’s also a spa with a hot tub and sauna, and the restaurant serves Mediterranean and Bokelian cuisine such as salted fish, dried figs and carobs.

This bijou hotel is the place to book if you’re after exclusive luxury. There are just 10 rooms, so expect personalised service and a front row to the sea – whether from your balcony or a sun lounger on the private beach. The two restaurants are a cut above – tuck into sea urchin with monkfish ragout in the à la carte Forza Mare; in the marble-floored La Bistecca, the buffet breakfast includes cured meats, home-made strudel and miniature tiramisu.

The lovely stone and green shuttered exterior adds to the old-world charm of this hotel, which dates back to the 13th century when it belonged to the first bishop of Kotor. Rooms feature characterful antiques, exposed wood beams and vintage prints. Eat breakfast in the hotel restaurant or al fresco on the terrace overlooking the medieval courtyard. The hotel is a short walk to the marina, and a shuttle will take you 10km (6mi) to the airport.

Classic and elegant, this centrally located four-star hotel features all the comforts of a Renaissance palace. Think exposed stone walls, antique furniture and gilded mirrors in the 13 apartments. The largest has two bedrooms, ideal for families, plus a jacuzzi bath and a balcony with a view of the town. The hotel is well placed to explore the atmospheric streets, cafe-strewn squares and maze of museums.

With a prime position on Kotor Bay, this hotel offers 89 luxurious rooms and suites, a secluded beach, plus a wellness centre and good eating options. The decor is contemporary and fresh, with a neutral colour scheme and large doors opening onto balconies. There are plenty of choices for families, including a three-bedroom apartment for larger broods. The four restaurants include a fine-dining option and a relaxed outdoor terrace.