Perast Old Town
A picturesque Baroque town on the Bay of Kotor, Perast enchants with its historic architecture, serene islands, and breathtaking bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Perast Old Town
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque Baroque town on the Bay of Kotor, Perast enchants with its historic architecture, serene islands, and breathtaking bay views.
"This beautiful little town on the coast feels like a hidden gem."
Boat Tour Bargain
Locals offer boat tours to islands; negotiate price & duration. Often includes parking perks!
Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets and stairs are charming but require good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Our Lady of the Rocks
Island in the Bay of Kotor
A stunning artificial island with a picturesque church, steeped in legend and offering breathtaking bay views.
St. George Island
Island in the Bay of Kotor
The natural island counterpart to Our Lady of the Rocks, home to a serene Benedictine monastery and cypress trees.
Perast Waterfront Promenade
Along the Bay of Kotor
Stroll along the stone-paved promenade, admire the baroque palaces, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the bay.
Church of St. Nicholas
Town Center
Dominating the skyline, its bell tower offers panoramic views of Perast and the surrounding bay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pace
Island Hopping Essentials
Parking can be tricky, so consider a boat tour that includes it.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat Tour Bargain
Locals offer boat tours to islands; negotiate price & duration. Often includes parking perks!
Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets and stairs are charming but require good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial shots of the bay and islands. Check local regulations first!
Savor Local Flavors
Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Trattoria Rosmarino.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat Tour Bargain
Locals offer boat tours to islands; negotiate price & duration. Often includes parking perks!
Wear Comfy Shoes
Cobblestone streets and stairs are charming but require good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Drone Views
Capture stunning aerial shots of the bay and islands. Check local regulations first!
Savor Local Flavors
Enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like Trattoria Rosmarino.
Embrace the Calm
Perast is for relaxing. Enjoy the peaceful vibe and scenic beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Perast for its breathtaking scenic views and charming, fairy-tale atmosphere, often calling it a hidden gem. The picturesque waterfront and historic architecture are major draws. However, finding free parking can be a significant challenge, and the beaches are small and mostly concrete, serving more as symbolic spots than practical swimming areas.
"The city has very beautiful scenic views. Though the free parking place for the car is hard to find. You can park for 'free' in case you buy a boat tour to the island which costs 15 EUR per person. 🫠"
Artur Budichin
"I visited Perast on May 1st, and it completely charmed me. This beautiful little town on the coast feels like a hidden gem. The beaches are small and mostly concrete—more symbolic than practical—but the overall atmosphere more than makes up for it. The people I saw there were elegant, urban, and mostly foreigners, which gave the town a cosmopolitan feel. Everything felt relaxed yet festive. One striking detail was the church tower in the center of town, partially overgrown with plants, adding a touch of romantic decay. I’d love to return in the summer to experience it in full bloom."
Milica Pericin
"Really beautiful small town"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Perast from Kotor is by car or bus. The scenic drive along the Bay of Kotor takes about 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently from Kotor's main bus station. Taxis are also available, though more expensive.
Parking in Perast can be challenging, especially during peak season. Free parking is scarce, and often tied to purchasing a boat tour. Consider arriving early or using public transport if possible.
Yes, Perast is a popular day trip destination from Kotor or Budva. However, many visitors recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate its tranquil charm.
Perast is a very walkable town. Its compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make it ideal for exploring on foot. Just be prepared for cobblestones!
The best way to visit Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George islands is by taking a boat tour. Local boatmen offer tours directly from the Perast waterfront.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit the town of Perast itself. You only pay for specific attractions like boat tours or museum entries if you choose to visit them.
Boat tours to Our Lady of the Rocks typically cost around 15 EUR per person. Prices can vary slightly depending on the operator and what's included.
While the town is free to explore, there might be a small entrance fee or donation requested for the museum inside Our Lady of the Rocks church.
Attractions like the islands and churches generally operate during daylight hours. It's best to check locally upon arrival, especially for the museum on Our Lady of the Rocks.
While you can often book boat tours on the spot from local operators in Perast, booking in advance might be an option during peak season for peace of mind.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire waterfront offers stunning views. For iconic shots, capture Our Lady of the Rocks from the bay, the bell tower of St. Nicholas Church, and the charming narrow streets.
Drone photography can offer incredible perspectives of Perast and the Bay of Kotor. However, always check and adhere to local drone regulations before flying.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography in Perast. Midday can be harsh, but the unique architecture still looks great.
Climbing the bell tower of the Church of St. Nicholas offers fantastic panoramic views of Perast and the bay.
Absolutely! Boat tours provide excellent vantage points for photographing Perast from the water, including the islands.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Perast has several charming waterfront restaurants. Trattoria Rosmarino is highly recommended for its delicious food and ambiance.
Seafood is a specialty in Perast, with many restaurants offering fresh catches. You'll also find traditional Mediterranean and Balkan dishes.
While Perast can be a bit pricier due to its picturesque location, you can find reasonably priced meals, especially if you opt for local trattorias or cafes away from the main promenade.
Many restaurants are accommodating and can prepare vegetarian dishes upon request. It's always best to ask your server about options.
Trattoria Rosmarino is frequently praised for its excellent food and romantic setting. Other waterfront restaurants also offer delightful dining experiences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While Perast doesn't have large sandy beaches, the experience of exploring the historic town and taking a boat ride can be very engaging for younger visitors. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as options might be more limited than in larger towns. The overall peaceful atmosphere makes it a good spot for families looking for a relaxed cultural experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for potentially lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds. If you're traveling by car, factor in parking costs or look for accommodations that offer parking. Many visitors find that Perast offers excellent value for its stunning scenery and unique atmosphere.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
The town's intimate size and historic charm create a magical atmosphere. Taking a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks at sunset or during the golden hour adds an unforgettable touch to a romantic getaway. The serene beauty and quiet ambiance make it a perfect place to reconnect and create lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Islands: Our Lady of the Rocks & St. George
The legend says that sailors would throw a rock into the bay every time they returned safely from a voyage, and the island grew from these offerings.Adjacent to it lies St. George Island, a natural islet home to a Benedictine monastery and a serene cypress grove. This island is not accessible to the public, adding to its mystique. Boat tours from Perast typically visit Our Lady of the Rocks and circle St. George, offering stunning views of both. These boat trips are a highlight for many visitors, providing a unique perspective of the bay and its history.
Experiencing the Islands
Boat tours are readily available from the Perast waterfront. Locals often offer these excursions, sharing anecdotes and historical insights. The journey itself is picturesque, with the islands appearing like jewels in the Bay of Kotor. Many visitors find the experience deeply moving and a highlight of their Montenegro trip.
+1Perast's Baroque Architecture and Atmosphere
The town's elegant stone facades, ornate windows, and bell towers create a picturesque and romantic ambiance.Walking through Perast feels like stepping into a postcard. The waterfront promenade is lined with charming cafes and restaurants, offering stunning views of the bay and the islands. Even the smaller details, like the partially overgrown church tower mentioned by one visitor, add to its unique, slightly melancholic beauty.
A Town of Tales and Tranquility
Beyond its architectural beauty, Perast is known for its serene atmosphere. It's often described as a 'fairy tale' place
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit