Kotor

The approach is one of the highlights of a Kotor call. Sailing for more than an hour combines scenery reminiscent of the Rhine and Geiranger fjord and is truly spectacular.

The Gulf of Kotor is one of the Adriatic Sea's most deeply indented areas. Although sometimes described as Europe's southernmost fjord, it is actually a submerged river canyon.

As the ship crosses the bay, its captain sounds the horn, producing a remarkable echo that continues for almost fifteen seconds.

Cruise vessels berth at Kotor pier, about 300 feet from the town centre and one of three entrances to the UNESCO old town. Taxis normally wait at the quay, but agree a fare before setting off.

When more than one ship calls, additional vessels anchor and tender guests into town at the central pier. Depending on the size of the ship, the journey from vessel to shore takes between 5 minutes and 20 minutes.

Take the printable map ashore.

Montenegro combines a deep blue sea and clear rivers with high mountains, thick forests and beautiful lakes. Albania borders it to the southeast, while the Adriatic Sea separates its southern coast from Italy. Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, former Yugoslav republics, are its western neighbours. Kotor old town is one of the Mediterranean area's best-preserved medieval settlements and retains the form typical of towns from the 12th-14th centuries. The old town's only car is a replica Fiat Cinquecento with a small trailer used for collection work...

The bay is the Mediterranean Sea's deepest natural fjord, with spectacular landscapes and steep mountains descending almost to the waterfront.

Reaching the Fort involves a substantial climb, but it is highly rewarding for keen hikers.

Kotor is compact enough for almost every sight to be within walking distance. Enter Old Town through any of its three gates and wander the maze of narrow lanes between houses.

A hop-on/off trip links Kotor with Bajova kula, Perast and Risan and includes a Kotor walking tour for 25 Euro.

A wider Montenegro excursion by taxi costs around 60 euro per hour. Confirm that the driver speaks some English.

Hiring a car is not recommended because of the many "fjord"-type roads.

A winding ancient stone path climbs the mountain behind Kotor's old town. More than 1,500 steps lead to a historic fortress, with increasingly impressive views over the bay and town at each turn. The route is demanding throughout, so wear sturdy shoes. Access to the fort walk costs 15 euros per person.

Church of Our Lady of Remedy, reached after perhaps 400-500 stairs, is equally beautiful and involves a shorter climb.

Kotor's Old Town shopping district is walkable from the pier and contains shops, souvenir outlets, cafés and restaurants. Some businesses close for the customary lunch break between 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m., although visitor-oriented shops usually remain open all day.

An open market immediately outside Old Town sells almost everything, from fresh vegetables to sunglasses.

The euro is the local currency, although Montenegro belongs to neither the Euro Zone nor the EU, an unusual government choice.

Montenegrin, Serbian, Bosnian, Albanian and Croatian are the official languages.

Fast, free WiFi is available at the dock near the port office.

Many cafés also provide free WiFi as an added benefit. Drinks are very reasonably priced, and the surrounding squares are among the most attractive you will ever see.