Kotor in September
TL;DR: Kotor in September is the Adriatic at its best – summer warmth without the peak-season crush. Days are long enough for boat tours and fortress hikes, the sea stays inviting for swims and SUP, and the Old Town hums at an easy, happy pace. If you want a blend of beach time, culture, and scenic day trips, September delivers.
Kotor Weather in September
Expect reliably warm afternoons, mellow mornings, and the occasional quick shower that freshens the stone streets. Sea conditions are usually calm, which means boat tours from Kotor to Perast, Our Lady of the Rocks, Mamula, and the Blue Cave run frequently. Breezes funnel through the bay in late afternoon, keeping al fresco dinners comfortable. Pack breathable layers, a lightweight jacket for evenings, and ample sun protection.
Crowds in Kotor? It is UNESCO, and it is Beautiful. Yet, it Winds Down
September is when things slowly start to wind down, and classic shoulder season begins. Cruise ships still call, but the daily density drops versus July-August, so café tables are easier to find and hotel rates begin to soften. You’ll still want to book popular activities! Boat tours, day trips from Kotor, and the best restaurants – especially on days with multiple ship arrivals. Midweek stays often bring better value than weekends.
Best things to do in Kotor in September
Kotor Bay by Boat
We cannot recommend enough booking the famous Kotor Cruise, and approximately an 8-hour-long boat tour from Kotor visiting all the attractions of the Kotor Bay. The water is warm enough to swim during the Blue Cave stop, and a guided visit to Our Lady of the Rocks is kind of a Must, regardless of when you are visiting.
Hiking in Kotor
Hiking the Ladder of Kotor or climbing the Kotor Fortress at golden hour is a must. For those fit for a bigger challenge, go higher to Pestingrad for a fjord-like panorama. Start early for shade on the switchbacks!
Rent a Kayak, SUP, or a Bicycle
Morning sea kayaking gives mirror-calm water; the Vrmac ridge delivers pine-scented trails and cinematic lookouts for cyclists.
Running in Kotor? Yes Please!
Explore the Promenade of Dobrota or hit the trails of Vrmac for some amazing views and a great workout!
Day Trips: From Kotor to the National Parks of Montenegro
September is prime for Lovćen and Durmitor. Crisp air, clear skies, and fewer buses. Here are some of the top day trip recommendations from Kotor:
- Great Montenegro Tour: Always recommended as one of the best tours in Montenegro, this tour is PERFECT for those visiting for the first time. It explores two National Parks of Montenegro – Lovcen National Park and Lake Skadar, where we visit the River of Crnojevic and one of the most famous viewpoints in Montenegro, Pavlova Strana.
- Durmitor Hiking Tour: Reach Your Peak! Literally and metaphorically. This day hiking tour from Kotor will take to to conquer some of the most beautiful peaks in Durmitor National Park – Prutas Peak or Crvena Greda, depending on the weather.
- North Montenegro Tour: Often hailed as the best Kotor to Durmitor tour, it combines the Alpine charms of Durmitor National Park and the spirituality of Ostrog Monastery. Incredible photo stops, Tara Bridge visit with optional zip-line experience, Black Lake, Ostrog Monastery, and more!
- Lake Skadar Tour and Biogradska Gora: Since things are slowly slowing down, let’s enjoy the serenity of two of Montenegro’s most beautiful lakes! This time, visiting Virpazar and enjoying the boat ride on Lake Skadar, from where we head towards Biogradska Gora National Park to visit Biogradsko Lake. Serenity! And, of course, plenty of things in between!
- Tara River Rafting! Pretty much the last call to join Montenegro’s ultimate thrill. As the whitewater rafting in Montenegro season draws to a close, make sure to book the last spots and experience one of Europe’s deepest canyons!
More Things to Do and Experience in Kotor
- Heritage strolls: Explore St. Tryphon Cathedral and the Maritime Museum, then tuck into quiet cloisters for espresso.
- Food in Kotor: If you are looking for where to eat in Kotor, choose based on your preferences. Seafood and fish are what dominate, and it is really good and always fresh. For those who like meat, amazing burgers, and epic vegan and vegetarian food, we recommend visiting Resto Bar Taraca – one of the best restaurants in Kotor.
- Kotor Cable Car: Whether you are a female solo traveler visiting Kotor, on a family vacation, or a couple on a honeymoon in Montenegro, Kotor Cable Car is a MUST!
Swimming in Kotor and Sea Life
The water stays pleasantly warm for most travelers and is perfectly refreshing. Plan swims at Muo, Prčanj, Dobrota, or Orahovac after morning explorations. Dolphin sightings fluctuate, so if you are on a SUP, kayak, or a boat tour, be on the lookout.
In Kotor on a Cruise Ship? Maximize a Short Stay
Docking in for a day? There are plenty of things to do in Kotor from a cruise ship, so make sure to make the most of your day. If you don’t feel like exploring on your own, book some of the best tours from the Cruise Ship and let others handle the logistics.
Solo travel in September: Safe, Social, Scenic
Kotor is welcoming for solo travelers, and September’s tempo makes it easy to meet people visiting. Choose a guesthouse in Old Town or Dobrota for quick access to cafés, promenades, and sunset walks. Nightlife is relaxed. Think wine bars and live jazz music – so heading back to your stay after dark feels comfortable.
Things to do in Kotor With Kids (and Why September Helps)
The heat is gentler, the water is warm, and lines are shorter – great for families. Kid-approved picks include:
- Boat tours from Kotor with a swim stop (bring towels and snacks).
- A fortress “mini-mission”: climb partway for views, then reward with gelato.
- Kayak or SUP in sheltered coves near Dobrota.
- Maritime Museum and cat-spotting in Old Town courtyards.
Ask operators about child life vests and minimum ages; many tours happily accommodate families. - Kotor Cable Car – experience Alpine Coaster as a Family and make some core memories!
Where to stay in Kotor
Base inside the Old Town for instant atmosphere and bell-tower mornings, or choose Dobrota/Prčanj for waterfront tranquility and easy swims. Boutique guesthouses often include bikes or kayaks; many apartments have terraces ideal for dusk aperitifs. Choose hotels or apartments for more privacy, or, if you are looking for a social vibe, stay in hostels!
What to pack
Breathable outfits, swimsuit, and quick-dry towel, comfortable grippy shoes for cobbles and steps, sun hat and SPF, refillable bottle (tap water is drinkable unless stated otherwise), a compact rain shell, reef shoes if you’ll swim often, and a light layer for evening cruises.
Smart planning tips
Check the cruise calendar to time fortress climbs and Perast visits on quieter days. Prebook car hire for scenic loops and start at dawn to beat traffic on the serpentine road. For boat trips, smaller groups mean more swim time and easier docking in Perast’s tiny harbor.
Responsible travel notes
Stick to marked paths on hikes, stop during fortress climbs if difficult, carry out litter, and refill bottles at public fountains. Respect church dress codes, especially during services. In small villages, keep drone use minimal – sound carries across the water.
Conclusion: Kotor in September
The golden balance: vivid blue water, relaxed streets, adventure-ready weather, and long, luminous evenings to remember is what makes Kotor in September so magical.
