Perast, Montenegro is a stunning coastal town on the Bay of Kotor. This small, baroque town feels like a living postcard with its baroque architecture, rich history, and breathtaking views of the bay. Whether you're visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, this travel guide covers everything you need to know about exploring Perast.
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History of Perast, Montenegro
Perast has a long and fascinating history dating back to the Venetian period. During the 17th and 18th centuries, it was a prosperous maritime town, home to skilled sailors and shipbuilders. The town’s architecture, heavily influenced by Venice, remains well-preserved, making Perast, Montenegro a historical gem that's well worth a visit while visiting Kotor.
Perast, Montenegro Location
Perast, Montenegro is located along the Bay of Kotor, approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from Kotor. The town is easily accessible by car, bus, or boat from Kotor and other nearby coastal destinations. Parking is limited in Perast, but visitors can use designated parking areas just outside the town.
Things to Do in Perast, Montenegro
1. Wander Through Perast’s Old Town
Perast’s charming streets are lined with well-preserved baroque palaces, churches, and museums. Highlights include the Church of St. Nicholas in the central square, and Perast Museum, housed in one of the town's numerous medieval palaces.
2. Climb the Bell Tower of St. Nicholas Church
For a breathtaking panoramic view of the Bay of Kotor, climb the bell tower of St. Nicholas Church. The small €1 fee is worth it for the stunning vistas.
St. Nicholas itself is worth a visit as well, and its optional €2 museum of religious relics in the back room.
3. Relax at a Waterfront Café or Restaurant
Perast is home to several charming waterfront restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while admiring views of the bay. Local specialties include black risotto, grilled fish, and Montenegrin wines.
Our favourite restaurant was surely Locanda Perast; for a luxury town with tables overlooking the water, we found the prices and portions excellent and the quality of the food incredible.
4. Visit Perast Museum
Perast Museum offers insight into the town’s maritime history. Entrance is €8, which allows you to visit numerous rooms of the medieval palace. The first floor showcases the town's Venetian history, while the top floor shows the subsequent Austrian rule.
5. Visit Our Lady of the Rocks
One of the most iconic attractions in Perast is Our Lady of the Rocks, an man-made island with a stunning church and museum. Visitors can take a short boat ride to explore the island, admire its artwork, and learn about its fascinating legends.
Next to Our Lady of the Rocks is St. George Island, home to a Benedictine monastery. While the island is not open to visitors, it offers a beautiful backdrop for photographs.
6. Enjoy a Boat Tour
A boat tour around the Bay of Kotor is a fantastic way to see Perast and its surrounding landscapes. Many tours include stops at Our Lady of the Rocks as well as a submarine tunnel, Yugoslav fortresses, and the Blue Cave.
7. Swim and Sunbathe by the Bay
Although Perast doesn’t have sandy beaches, visitors can swim and sunbathe along the stone piers and designated swimming areas in town.
Lake-front restaurants like Bajova Kula just outside of town offer easier access to the pebble shoreline, with optional sunbeds, food and drinks.
8. Day Trip to Kotor Old Town
Kotor can be reached in as little as 20-minutes by car. Perast offers an excellent peaceful and luxurious base from which to visit its beautiful Old Town.
Kotor Old Town may be our favourite medieval town in the Balkans; check out our full guide on Kotor for more information.
Where to Stay in Perast, Montenegro
We recommend staying in Perast for 2-3 days depending on how much you want to do and depending on your travel plans. Accommodation in Perast is limited, but the few options available are exceptional.
- Hotel and Restaurant CONTE - An exceptional stay and free breakfast available. We stayed here for 2 nights thru our ExpediaforTD points. If you are interested in learning more on how we make travel sustainable, check out this link.
- Heritage Grand Perast By Rixos - A luxury hotel with beautiful architecture, complimentary massage and free breakfast.
- Apartments Gudco – A highly-rated beachfront apartment in a great location.
Best Time to Visit Perast, Montenegro
The best time to visit Perast is during the spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) when the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. The summer months (July and August) offer warm temperatures and lively ambiance but can be quite busy.
Final Thoughts
Perast, Montenegro is a must-visit destination on the Bay of Kotor, offering stunning views, relaxed life, history and culture. Whether you're exploring its historic landmarks, enjoying a boat tour, or savoring local cuisine, we hope you love this charming town as much as we do.
Heading to Kotor, Montenegro next? Check out the Best Things to do in Kotor Montenegro.
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