Parking in Kotor Old Town: A Comprehensive Guide for Visitors Navigating parking in Kotor Old Town, a picturesque and historic area nestled in Montenegro, requires some planning due to its pedestrian-only zones and the high demand for parking spaces, especially during peak tourist seasons. Here's a comprehensive guide based on factual information to assist visitors.
Overview of Parking in Kotor Old Town
Kotor Old Town is completely pedestrianized, making it a challenge for first-time visitors to find parking. The area is renowned for its historical charm, attracting a significant number of tourists and residents, especially in the summer months, which leads to limited parking availability. The majority of parking spaces around the Old Town are pay-only, so as you enter Kotor, it's important to pay attention to the illuminated parking signs that indicate the number of available spots. However, with the exception of specific areas where motorcycles can park for free near the Sea Gate. In the photos above and below, you can see how the parking place for this type of vehicle looks. However, please remember that the area around Kotor’s Old Town is primarily a pedestrian zone, and during the peak season, the number of tourists grows significantly. This means that finding parking places, even for such small vehicles, can be challenging. Be mindful when you use parking in this busy area.
Parking Options
Visitors have several parking lots to choose from around Kotor Old Town, including: - Riva Parking Lot ( 96 parking places) - Benovo Parking Lot (155 parking spaces) - Kamelija Parking Lot (120 parking places) - Autoboka (200 parking spaces, in this parking lot you can also park long vehicles such as buses, etc.) - Puk (This is a parking lot next to Avtoboka and you can also park large vehicles there, about 20 parking spaces for this type of transport) - Autoremont. These city-managed parking lots offer relatively affordable rates, from €0,8 per hour or €10 per day. The Riva Parking Lot is the closest parking area to the old town, but it's often fully occupied. To find a spot there, you might have to wait up to 1.5 hours or even longer, as there are many others with the same intention, leading to a substantial queue of cars. In addition to city parking, there are private parking, the cost of which may be slightly higher. (up to 2.5 euros per hour). If you're approaching from the direction of Budva or Tivat, turn right at the roundabout where you'll find the IDEA supermarket. Just beyond the store, there is a private parking lot. Parking fees are 1.7 euros per hour for a car and 7 euros per hour for a minibus (photo below). Please note that parking fees must be paid in cash only. Regarding parking near the Kamelija Shopping Center, it’s a paid parking lot, costing around 2 euros per hour for a car, with prices rising to 2.5 euros during the tourist season. Exploring Kotor’s Old Town will take you at least 2.5 hours, and realistically more if you decide to climb the walls of St. John's Fortress (the hike up and down, even at a fast pace, will add an extra hour). If you plan to relax at a restaurant or café after your tour, you’ll need even more time. Here's a tip from me: before or after your Old Town visit, stop by the store Kamelija and buy water (you'll need it for the walk or the fortress climb, as a small bottle at the top will cost you 5 euros) or make any purchase over 5 euros. Keep the receipt, and show it when you exit the parking lot for free parking. However, remember that if you park for a longer period, such as 24 hours, the cost can exceed 30 euros. And the cost of parking for a day in the whole city of Kotor can cost you from 20 to 70 euros, depending on the type of transport. Before parking, check the information in the parking lot or ask the staff. Remember, it is very important to follow parking regulations to avoid towing or fines.
Free Parking Availability
There are limited free parking spots in Kotor, mostly in residential areas further from the Old Town, including some along the coast. However, these parking places are quite a distance from the Old Town walls, and you’ll have a considerable walk ahead to reach them. During the heat of the day, this can be difficult, especially since you'll still have plenty of walking ahead once you start exploring the historic center. And be cautious when parking your vehicle, as you risk it being towed to an impound lot. So think carefully—using paid parking might be the better option. But remember, finding a paid parking spot, especially a free one, can be difficult during the peak tourist season.
Tips for Visitors
1. Early Arrival: To increase your chances of finding a parking spot, it's advisable to arrive early in the day, especially if you're visiting popular attractions within the Old Town. If you happen to arrive without ample time: upon entering the city and noticing a vacant spot on any electronic LED parking display (there are many throughout the city, so pay attention), do not hesitate to head straight there and park. It's better to park in that spot and walk a bit, perhaps to the old town, rather than spending an hour or two in a stuffy car waiting for a free parking space. 2. Cash. Have cash with you, as payment by card is not possible everywhere. 3. Utilizing Free Spots: While free parking is scarce, some are available near the city walls. Availability may vary by time and season, so it's worth checking in advance. To be honest, I've never managed to park for free, and at some paid parking spots, I even had to wait a bit for a space to become available, so it's probably best to heed the first piece of advice. 4. Alternative Transportation: Given the pedestrian nature of the Old Town and the proximity of attractions, visitors might not need a car for local exploration. For those looking to explore beyond Kotor, considering public transportation, scooter, motorcycle or taxis could be a practical alternative.
Exploring Kotor Old Town
Once you've parked, Kotor Old Town offers a plethora of attractions, from the fortress walls offering stunning views to the quaint streets lined with historic buildings. Notable mentions include hiking the city walls to the Fortress of San Giovanni, enjoying free city tours, and getting lost in the maze of its narrow alleys.
Conclusion
Parking in Kotor Old Town requires some planning, especially during the busy summer months. Opting for city-managed parking lots or seeking out the limited free parking spots can make your visit smoother. It's important to remember that Kotor doesn’t have underground parking like some other cities in Montenegro. If you see parking spaces marked in white, they are most likely paid parking, and if marked in yellow, parking is prohibited. Don’t risk getting a fine and having to search for your car at the impound lot—it will save you time and money. Tow services across Montenegro work like clockwork, without any delays. Once parked, the charm and beauty of Kotor Old Town are best explored on foot, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in its historic and scenic beauty. Have a wonderful trip to Montenegro!
