
North Gate (River Gate)
Kotor's North Gate (River Gate) offers a charming, less crowded entrance to the Old Town, featuring a historic bridge over the Skurda River and stunni...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

North Gate (River Gate)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Kotor's North Gate (River Gate) offers a charming, less crowded entrance to the Old Town, featuring a historic bridge over the Skurda River and stunning fortress views.
"River Gate is definitely not to be missed while in Kotor for its mindblowingly beautiful scenic views of mountain, fortress & crystal clear water."

🎟️ Keep Your Tickets Handy
If you plan to hike the fortress, hold onto your tickets as they're needed for exit.
🚗 Paid Parking Available
Convenient paid parking spots are located near the North Gate if you're arriving by car.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skurda River Bridge
North Gate
A picturesque stone bridge offering serene views of the Skurda River and surrounding mountains. A peaceful entry to Kotor's Old Town.

Fortress Views
From the North Gate area
Climb the historic steps for breathtaking panoramic views of Kotor town, the bay, and the dramatic surrounding landscape.

Historic Venetian Architecture
North Gate
Admire the 1540-built gate, a splendid example of Kotor's rich history and Venetian defensive architecture.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Kotor Visit
Navigating the River Gate Entrance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Keep Your Tickets Handy
If you plan to hike the fortress, hold onto your tickets as they're needed for exit.
🚗 Paid Parking Available
Convenient paid parking spots are located near the North Gate if you're arriving by car.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The area around the River Gate offers stunning views of the water and mountains, ideal for photography.
🚶♀️ Less Crowded Entry
Enter the Old Town via the North Gate for a more authentic and less crowded experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Keep Your Tickets Handy
If you plan to hike the fortress, hold onto your tickets as they're needed for exit.
🚗 Paid Parking Available
Convenient paid parking spots are located near the North Gate if you're arriving by car.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The area around the River Gate offers stunning views of the water and mountains, ideal for photography.
🚶♀️ Less Crowded Entry
Enter the Old Town via the North Gate for a more authentic and less crowded experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the North Gate (River Gate) in Kotor for its historical charm, scenic river views, and less crowded entry into the Old Town. The picturesque stone bridge and the opportunity for stunning fortress views are major highlights. While the fortress hike is demanding, the panoramic vistas and the presence of friendly cats make the experience memorable for many.
"River Gate is definitely not to be missed while in Kotor for its mindblowingly beautiful scenic views of mountain, fortress & crystal clear water ❤️"
Pei
"You can buy the tickets as you enter here. You must keep the tickets with you throughout the hike since that's what's used when you need to exit.
Overall it's a great hike of over 1380 steps... With stunning views and friendly fluffy cats on the trail. You can see the whole of Kotor town from the top fortress and there's a lot of history behind this place."
Amrita K Prasen
"Really nice gate with plenty of paid parking spots around it if you travel by car"
Andreas-Robert Toadere
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Gate (River Gate) is located on the northern side of Kotor's Old Town. If arriving by car, there are paid parking lots nearby. For those coming from Tivat or Budva, consider visiting on weekdays to avoid weekend traffic congestion.
Yes, there are several paid parking spots available close to the North Gate, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While the Main Gate is popular, entering through the North Gate (River Gate) offers a more tranquil experience with beautiful river views.
The North Gate is within walking distance of the main bus station, though it might take around 15-20 minutes depending on your pace. The walk offers scenic views along the bay.
The immediate area around the North Gate and the bridge is relatively flat, but navigating the Old Town's cobblestone streets and fortress steps can be challenging for wheelchairs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can buy tickets as you enter the North Gate area. It's essential to keep your tickets with you throughout your visit, especially if you plan to hike the fortress.
Ticket prices can vary, but they are typically purchased upon entry. It's advisable to check the official Kotor tourism website for the most current pricing information.
The North Gate itself is an entrance to the Old Town and is generally accessible at all times. However, access to the fortress walls and specific attractions within the Old Town may have set operating hours.
While tickets for the fortress hike are often purchased on-site, it's worth checking if online booking options are available for specific attractions or tours to save time.
Typically, there's a general admission ticket for the fortress hike. Some tours might offer combined tickets, but the primary entry is usually a single fee for the walls.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The North Gate itself is a historic structure, and the adjacent stone bridge over the Skurda River offers beautiful scenic views. It's a less crowded entry point to the Old Town.
The hike involves over 1380 steps and can be strenuous, but the views are incredibly rewarding. Take your time and stay hydrated.
Yes, Kotor is known for its friendly stray cats, and you'll likely encounter some fluffy companions on your way to or from the North Gate and along the fortress trail.
Built in 1540, the North Gate is a significant example of Kotor's Venetian architecture and its historical defensive past.
Absolutely! The combination of the river, the historic gate, and the surrounding mountains provides excellent opportunities for stunning photographs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, just a few steps outside the North Gate, you can find restaurants like Resto Bar Taraca offering riverside dining with fortress views.
You'll find a variety of options, from local Montenegrin cuisine to international dishes. Resto Bar Taraca, for example, caters to various dietary needs.
Eating inside the Old Town offers a more immersive historical ambiance, while places just outside, like near the North Gate, can sometimes be less crowded and offer unique views.
While Kotor can be a bit pricey, exploring the smaller side streets near the North Gate might reveal more affordable local eateries or bakeries.
Many restaurants in Kotor are becoming more accommodating. Resto Bar Taraca specifically mentions catering to dietary needs, so it's worth inquiring.
📸 📸 Photography
The stone bridge over the Skurda River, the gate itself with its historic architecture, and the views looking up towards the fortress are prime photo locations.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, while late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow. Sunset views from the fortress above are spectacular.
Absolutely! The panoramic views from the fortress walls are breathtaking and offer incredible photo opportunities of Kotor and the bay.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, be mindful of private property and any specific signage within historical sites.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and architecture. A zoom lens can be useful for details on the fortress. Comfortable shoes are a must for the hike!
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Kotor's Old Town via the North Gate
Visitors often appreciate the historical significance of this gate, built in 1540, which stands as a testament to Kotor's rich past and Venetian architectural influence. The proximity to the Skurda River adds a natural beauty to the urban landscape, making it a favorite spot for photographers. From here, you can easily wander into the labyrinthine streets, discovering hidden squares, historic buildings, and local shops at your own pace, avoiding the main tourist thoroughfares.
For those planning to hike the fortress walls, the North Gate area provides access, though the main ascent is typically from within the Old Town. Remember to keep your tickets handy as they are required for exiting the fortress. The journey up offers over 1380 steps, but the reward is unparalleled panoramic views of the entire town and the stunning Bay of Kotor.
The Skurda River and its Significance
Historically, rivers like the Skurda were crucial for defense and water supply for fortified cities. The presence of the river and the bridge at the North Gate not only adds to the aesthetic beauty but also speaks to the strategic planning of Kotor's defenses. It provides a tranquil setting for visitors, a place to pause and appreciate the natural landscape that coexists with the ancient architecture.
For photographers and those seeking a moment of calm, the Skurda River area near the North Gate is ideal. The gentle flow of water, the reflections on the surface, and the backdrop of the mountains create a captivating scene. It’s a reminder that even within a historic city, nature’s presence is a significant element of its charm.






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