Things to Do in Perast, Crna Gora / Црна Гора

Perast is a charming baroque town nestled along the shores of Kotor Bay in Montenegro, renowned for its stunning architecture and maritime heritage. This UNESCO World Heritage site features elegant stone palaces, ancient churches, and a picturesque waterfront that reflects centuries of Venetian influence. With only 350 residents, Perast maintains an intimate, museum-like quality that transports visitors back to its golden age as a prosperous seafaring town. The town is famous for its two small islands - Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George - which sit majestically in the bay and can be reached by short boat rides. Perast's well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings, combined with its dramatic mountain backdrop and crystal-clear waters, create one of Montenegro's most photographed and romantic destinations. Despite its small size, the town offers rich history, stunning views, and serves as an perfect base for exploring the broader Kotor Bay region.

Top Things to Do in Perast

Visit Our Lady of the Rocks Island

Take a boat trip to this artificial island featuring a beautiful baroque church and museum filled with maritime artifacts and ex-voto paintings. The island was created by local seamen who dropped stones into the bay over centuries, and the church houses an impressive collection of silver votive tablets and a famous painting by Tripo Kokolja.

Booking Tip: Boat trips cost around €5 per person and run every 15-30 minutes during peak season. Book with local boat operators at Perast's waterfront rather than through hotels to get better prices. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best lighting for photography.

Climb St. Nicholas Bell Tower

Ascend the 55-meter tall bell tower of St. Nicholas Church for panoramic views over Kotor Bay and the surrounding mountains. The tower, built in 1691, offers the best vantage point in Perast and provides stunning photo opportunities of the town's baroque architecture and the two famous islands.

Booking Tip: Entry costs €2 and the tower is open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM in summer. Visit during golden hour (late afternoon) for the most spectacular lighting. The climb involves narrow stone steps, so wear comfortable shoes and take your time.

Explore Bujović Palace and Maritime Museum

Discover Perast's rich naval history at this 17th-century baroque palace that houses an impressive collection of maritime artifacts, ship models, and historical documents. The museum showcases the town's golden age when it was home to famous sea captains and shipbuilders who served the Venetian fleet.

Booking Tip: Admission is €3 for adults and the museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM. English-language information is limited, so consider hiring a local guide for €15-20 to get the full historical context and stories behind the exhibits.

Take a Kotor Bay Boat Excursion

Join a scenic boat tour around the entire Kotor Bay, stopping at multiple coastal towns, hidden caves, and swimming spots. These excursions typically include visits to Kotor's Old Town, the Blue Cave, and various coastal villages, providing a comprehensive overview of the bay's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours range from €25-45 per person and include lunch. Book tours that depart from Perast to avoid transportation hassles. Choose operators with smaller boats (under 20 people) for a more intimate experience and better access to narrow coastal areas.

Kayaking and Water Sports

Explore the calm waters of Kotor Bay by kayak, paddling around Perast's coastline and to the nearby islands at your own pace. The bay's protected waters and stunning scenery make it ideal for kayaking, while the clear water also offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling near the rocky coastlines.

Booking Tip: Kayak rentals cost €15-20 per day, while guided tours are €30-40 per person. Best conditions are in the morning when waters are calmest. Several operators offer equipment near the waterfront - choose ones that provide life jackets and waterproof bags for your belongings.

Getting There

Perast is located 12 kilometers northwest of Kotor along the scenic coastal road that hugs Kotor Bay. The most common way to reach Perast is by rental car or taxi from Kotor (20-minute drive, €15-20 taxi fare) or from Tivat Airport (30 minutes, €25-30). Public buses run between Kotor and Perast several times daily for €2, though schedules can be irregular. Many visitors combine Perast with day trips from Dubrovnik (1.5 hours by car) or as part of organized Bay of Kotor tours. The coastal road offers spectacular views but can be narrow and winding, so drive carefully and allow extra time for photo stops.

Getting Around

Perast is extremely walkable, with the entire historic center covering just a few hundred meters along the waterfront promenade. The town has no cars in the historic core, making it perfect for leisurely strolling between palaces, churches, and waterfront cafes. Everything of interest can be reached on foot within 5-10 minutes, including the boat departure points for island trips. Parking is available at the town entrance for €2 per hour. For exploring the wider Kotor Bay area, rental cars, taxis, or organized tours are the best options, as public transportation to other coastal towns is limited.

Where to Stay

Perast Waterfront

Kotor Old Town

Risan Bay Area

Dobrota Coastal Strip

Stoliv Village

Prcanj Historic Center

Food & Dining

Perast's dining scene focuses on fresh seafood and traditional Montenegrin cuisine, with most restaurants offering stunning bay views from their waterfront terraces. The town features several excellent family-run restaurants specializing in locally caught fish, mussels, and traditional dishes like buzara (seafood stew) and black risotto. Expect to pay €15-25 for main courses at waterfront establishments, with slightly lower prices at inland taverns. Many restaurants source ingredients locally, including olive oil, wine, and vegetables from the surrounding region. Dining is generally relaxed and leisurely, with most establishments offering outdoor seating to take advantage of the spectacular bay views. Reservations are recommended during summer months, especially for sunset dining spots.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Perast is from May to September, when weather is warm and sunny with calm bay waters perfect for boat trips and swimming. July and August are the busiest months with the warmest temperatures (25-30°C) but also the largest crowds and highest prices. May, June, and September offer excellent weather with fewer tourists and more reasonable accommodation rates. Spring (April-May) brings mild temperatures and blooming Mediterranean vegetation, while autumn (September-October) provides warm weather and beautiful light for photography. Winter months see many restaurants and accommodations closed, though the town maintains its charm with a peaceful, local atmosphere and mild temperatures around 10-15°C.

Insider Tips

Visit Our Lady of the Rocks early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid cruise ship crowds and capture the best photographs in golden light

Park at the main entrance and walk into town rather than trying to find parking closer to the waterfront, as spaces are extremely limited and expensive

Bring cash as many small boat operators and local establishments don't accept credit cards, and ATMs are limited in the small town

Things to Do in Perast