Kotor Bay Scenic Road: A Guide to Riding Around the Bay

Kotor Bay, often described as the southernmost fjord in Europe, is one of the most dramatic coastal landscapes in the Mediterranean. Steep mountains rise directly from the Adriatic Sea, medieval towns line the waterfront, and a narrow ribbon of road connects them all.

For many travelers, this is the first image that comes to mind when they think about Montenegro. And for good reason — the scenic road around Kotor Bay is one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the Balkans.

Why Ride Around Kotor Bay?

The full loop around Kotor Bay is approximately 50–60 km, depending on the exact route and stops. It can be completed in a few hours, but most visitors prefer to take their time.

The road follows the coastline closely, passing through small historic towns such as Kotor, Perast, Risan, Tivat, and Herceg Novi. Along the way, you constantly switch perspectives — riding beside the water, then climbing slightly above it, then descending again into quiet fishing villages.

Outside of peak summer, this route is smooth, relaxed, and visually rewarding. The combination of sea views, mountain backdrops, and historic architecture makes it one of the best scenic drives in Montenegro — whether by car or motorcycle.

Kotor Old Town and Perast

Kotor Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historical heart of the bay. Its medieval walls, stone alleys, and Venetian architecture reflect centuries of maritime trade and cultural exchange. Walking through Kotor feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages.

Just a short ride from Kotor lies Perast, a small baroque town known for its elegant stone palaces and calm waterfront atmosphere. From here, you can see the iconic islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and Saint George, which have become symbols of the bay.

Perast is one of the most photogenic stops along the Kotor Bay scenic road and a natural place to pause for coffee by the water.

The Kotor Serpentine Road

Above Kotor rises one of the most famous roads in Montenegro — the Kotor Serpentine.

This historic mountain road climbs steeply from sea level toward Lovćen National Park, offering panoramic views over the entire bay. With its tight hairpin turns and ever-expanding viewpoints, it is often considered one of the top roads around Kotor.

From the top, you gain a completely different perspective of the coastline. On clear days, the entire bay unfolds beneath you — a dramatic contrast between the Adriatic Sea and the limestone mountains behind it.

For many riders and drivers, this ascent is the highlight of their visit.

Best Time to Ride Around Kotor Bay

Timing matters.

During July and August, Kotor Bay becomes one of the busiest areas in Montenegro. Cruise ships arrive in Kotor, coastal tourism peaks, and traffic around the bay can become slow-moving. Parking near Old Town areas is limited, and narrow sections of the coastal road may feel congested.

In peak summer, this is not the most enjoyable place to ride a motorcycle — or even to drive.

However, in spring (May–June) and autumn (September–October), the experience changes completely. Traffic is lighter, temperatures are comfortable, and the road around Kotor Bay becomes calm and scenic again. These months are ideal for exploring both the coastal loop and the Kotor Serpentine without rush.

A Scenic Loop Worth Taking

What makes Kotor Bay special is not only its beauty but also its variety. In less than one hour, you can move from medieval streets to open coastal views, from waterfront villages to mountain panoramas.

The full loop is easy to combine with Lovćen National Park, Budva Riviera, or even the northern mountain regions of Montenegro. Many visitors choose to start or finish their journey here, enjoying the bay from different angles on different days.

Whether you are exploring Montenegro by motorcycle or by car, the scenic road around Kotor Bay remains one of the essential routes in the country.

Kotor Bay is  a living landscape shaped by history, sea, and mountains. From the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kotor to the quiet elegance of Perast and the dramatic climb of the Kotor Serpentine, the area offers one of the most memorable road experiences in the Balkans.

If you plan your visit outside of peak summer, you’ll discover why this coastal loop is often considered one of the best scenic roads in Montenegro.