Once you’re done exploring Kotor’s famous old town it’s time to get a view from above! Hiking in Kotor to the Castle of San Giovanni is one of the most popular things to do in Montenegro, and for good reason. If you can make it up the hundreds of stairs and hairpin turns high above the Kotor walls, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Kotor Bay. Montenegro’s mountain range will serve as the back drop as you explore the timeless history in and around the Kotor Castle.

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Hiking Kotor to the Castle Of San Giovanni

Starting Location: Old Town Kotor (Follow the small “Entrance to the Fortress” signs)

Cost: 8 Euros

Hours: 8am – 8pm

Active Level: High

Time: 1.5-3 Hours

Packing List: Sneakers, Water, and Sunblock

Starting the Castle Of San Giovanni Hike

If you want the best views of Kotor Bay from the Castle of San Giovanni get moving as soon as you can in the morning. The gates open around 8am, and soon after that the hot sun starts to shine over the mountain peak.

The longer you wait the more crowded it also gets especially when there are multiple cruise ships in town. We were told you can skip the fee and enter before they start collecting money at 8am, but we didn’t arrive till around 8:30 so we can’t verify that.

The Long Steep Climb

The climb itself should take just over an hour to reach the Castle of San Giovanni. However, when they designed hiking Kotor to its amazing castles and churches they didn’t make it easy. In total, the hike has 1355 stairs and over 70 switchbacks! So while it’s not a long hike it is incredibly exhausting.

Fortunately, you’ll be passing numerous viewpoints and historical sites on the way up to the Kotor Castle. Don’t hesitate to stop for a breather at one of the many picturesque spots along the way. As you can see from the photo below there are two very different “paths” you can use on the hike up the Kotor Walls. One side is stairs, while the other is a semi-flat rocky cluster which can be utilized for passing other hikers.

Quick Castle Of San Giovanni Facts

The famous castle sits 1200 meters (almost 4,000 feet!) high above Kotor Bay.

The historic fortifications date back to the year 532 in 6th century Byzantine Empire.

Roman Emperor Justinian the Great built the Kotor walls and fortress to protect the ancient city.

The castle has seen many battles and modifications over time. It’s been under French, Russian, and Venetian rule just to name a few.

The incredible structures along with Kotor Bay were named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

San Giovanni Castle goes by several other titles which can make it confusing. St. John’s Fortress and Kotor Castle are alternate names you might hear.

View From The Castle Of San Giovanni

Once you reach the Castle Of San Giovanni (also known as Kotor Castle) you’ll truly feel like King of the world. The orange roofs of old town perfectly blend with the blue fjord below, and limestone rocks in the background.

Even as you explore the almost 1,500 year old ruins, it will be impossible to take your eyes off the stunning scenery surrounding the fortress. We’ve done a lot of hiking around the world, and I’d put this view of Kotor Bay up against some of the best!

Have any questions about hiking Kotor, the Castle Of San Giovanni, or want to share your own experiences? Please comment below!

Safe Travels,

Brigitte & Jake

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Where To Stay In Kotor Montenegro

Ultra Luxury (High End) – Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro – Looking for some luxury inside the walls of old town? Check into this renovated 18th century masterpiece right in the middle of all the action. Hotel Cattaro also features one of the most popular clubs in the Bay of Kotor with night club Maximus.

Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – Old Town Clock Tower Apartment – This fun apartment is located just steps away from the famous old town clocktower, and within range of all the other historic architecture of this UNESCO world heritage site!

Hostel Life (Budget) – Old Town Youth Hostel – Set right in the heart of Kotor old town, this hostel is the perfect place to go if you’re looking to make some new friends on your trip. We regularly walked by Old Town Youth Hostel and would hear people chatting, having fun, and even singing into the night from the common area.

For more places to stay within the Kotor Walls of Montenegro you can explore the latest prices here!

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