I spent two months exploring the beauty of the Balkans with my furry best friend, and I am excited to share this journey with you. Dog Friendly Travel in Kotor, Montenegro is a dream for people who love the outdoors, old stone towns, and sparkling blue water. You might wonder, is kotor montenegro worth visiting? I can tell you that those who have never set paws here are seriously missing out. The views are breath taking. The food is fresh. The history is deep.
First of all, let us talk about the most common question: is montenegro dog friendly? The answer is both yes and no. Local people generally have a positive vibe toward pets. I never received nasty glares or mean looks when I dined with my dog. However, the laws are quite strict about where pets can go. You must follow the rules to avoid trouble with the communal police. Similarly, you will find that dog friendliness often depends on the owner of a restaurant or hotel.
Prepare yourself for a lot of paperwork before you arrive. montenegro travel with dog is not as simple as some other parts of Europe. Montenegro is considered a high rabies risk country by the European Union. This status means you need extra steps if you want to leave Montenegro and go back into the EU. Therefore, you must plan your trip months in advance.
The Paperwork You Need to Know
Your pet must have a microchip. This chip must be put in before or at the same time as the rabies shot. You need a valid rabies vaccination that is at least 15 days old but not older than six months. For those who come from the UK or other non-EU countries, an Animal Health Certificate is a must. It costs between 90 and 150 pounds. This certificate is only good for four months.
The titration test is the most important part. Authorities in Montenegro require evidence that the rabies vaccine worked. A lab must test the blood of your dog. If you want to return to the EU from Montenegro, your dog needs a titration test from an approved lab. You must wait three months after the blood draw before you can enter the EU. Plus, you must have your dog treated for tapeworms by a vet. This must happen between 24 and 120 hours before you arrive in Montenegro. The vet must write this in the pet passport or health certificate.
Additionally, you need a permit from the Ministry of Veterinary and Agriculture. It usually takes 30 days to get this permit. It is valid for three months once you receive it. is kotor montenegro safe for your pet? Yes, but you must watch out for ticks and wildlife like snakes, wolves, and bears in the mountains.
How to Get to Kotor
You might ask, how to fly to kotor montenegro? The country has two main airports. The main one is in Podgorica, and its code is TGD. This airport is very small. It does not even let people inside sometimes because it gets too crowded. You can also fly to Tivat, which is very close to Kotor.
Later, you will need a way to get from the airport to the coast. The best way to enter or leave the country is by bus. Montenegro is tiny, so you can reach Croatia, Bosnia, or Albania in just a few hours. Most bus drivers will accept small dogs if they are in a carrier. However, the rules for big dogs depend on the driver. Taxis are another option. I found that drivers are often willing to take a dog to make money. You can also use a special pet taxi like TaxiPas 24/7. They work in Kotor and Tivat.
The train system exists, but it is not very popular. Small dogs can usually travel for free on trains. If you drive, be careful. Road deaths are higher here than in other parts of Europe. The coastal road from Croatia to Albania can be very slow in the summer. A drive that should take two hours might take eight.
Where to Stay in Kotor with Your Furry Friend
kotor montenegro travel is much easier if you find the right place to stay. Airbnb hosts are very open to pets. About 90 percent of hosts I contacted said yes to my small dog. On the contrary, hotels are much harder to book. Only 20 percent or fewer hotels are listed as pet friendly.
I highly recommend Kotor Nest. It has a guest rating of 9.0. It is in the heart of the Old Town. You will have access to a shared kitchen to cook meals. It is very close to the Maritime Museum and the Clock Tower. A user named Obcolik said, “I would not think twice and book my stay at Kotor Nest again”.
Another great choice is the Casa Collection. This hotel has a high rating of 9.6. They give you food and water bowls for your dog. You can sit by the pool and enjoy the sea view from your balcony. If you want luxury, look at the Heritage Boutique Hotel Palazzo Radomiri. It is a Baroque palace from the 18th century. It has its own pier on the bay. Alexander M shared that the staff were “authentically warm and kind”.
Gradually, I found that staying in the Old Town has pros and cons. The cobblestone streets are beautiful, but they can be loud. Church bells ring often. Plus, you must walk about 10 minutes from the main entrance to get to many hotels. This is hard if you have heavy bags.
Exploring the Old Town
what is kotor montenegro known for? It is famous for its well preserved medieval buildings and its many cats. montenegro travel exploring kotor and the bay area is a highlight of any Balkan trip. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The streets are narrow and made of stone. My dog loved the many smells on the narrow pathways.
The town is very safe. You can walk around at night without worry. However, you should keep your pet on a leash. The communal police say you must also carry supplies to clean up dog waste. If your dog is in a free movement area, it must wear a muzzle.
The cats of Kotor are everywhere. They are a symbol of good luck. They keep rats and snakes away. You can even visit a Kotor Cats Museum for just 1 Euro. There are many shops that sell cat themed gifts. My dog had to get used to seeing so many cats on every corner.
Hiking the Ladder of Kotor
The best activity for an active pet is the Ladder of Kotor hike. It is also called the Ladder of Cattaro. This historic path was built in the 19th century by the Austrians to move troops. It stretches 6.4 kilometers one way. It takes you up the mountain through 72 switchbacks.
The trailhead is north of the Old Town near the River Gate. You walk alongside the Skurda river bed to start. The path is wide enough for two people. The views of the bay get better as you go higher. My favorite spot was the viewpoint where you can see the Kotor Fortress from above.
The entire hike to the top at Krstac Pass takes about 4 to 5 hours round trip. It reaches an altitude of 940 meters. You might see mountain goats on the trail. These goats have a very strong smell. They are busy eating and will not bother you.
Stop at the “Cheese Shop” on the way. It is a small cafe in a valley. You can sit at a table with a great view. They serve cold beer and fresh goat cheese. They also have clean bathrooms. This is a great place for your dog to rest. You might meet a friendly dog there named Brutus who likes to play fetch.
The hike is free, which is great. On the contrary, the Kotor Fortress trail costs 15 Euros during the high season. The Fortress trail is mostly broken steps and is very crowded. The Ladder of Kotor is much more peaceful.
Beach Days with Your Dog
After a long hike, you might want to hit a dog friendly beach montenegro. There are seven official pet friendly beaches on the coast. In Kotor, the pet friendly beach is at Benovo. It is marked as number 11B in the Atlas of Montenegrin beaches.
Dobrota Beach is another local spot that welcomes pets. You can enjoy the sun and play in the sand here. If you travel to Budva, look for beach number 8F on the popular Slovenska beach. There is also a spot in Bar near the Zeljeznica Bridge.
Always remember to provide shade and clean water for your dog at the beach. Do not serve tap water to your pet. Local water is not safe to drink when it rains. It can make humans and pets very sick. I used only bottled water for my dog’s bowl.
Dining and Shopping
Every restaurant and bar I visited in Montenegro accepted my dog. Most owners will welcome your pet inside if you buy something. If not, almost every place has a dog friendly patio. Dining outside with a view of the Adriatic Sea is better anyway.
You should try the borek. It is a flaky pastry with meat that locals love. Most bakeries let me walk in with my dog to grab one. However, dogs are generally not allowed inside grocery stores. If you have a small dog in a carrier, the staff might look the other way.
Shopping is fun here too. You can take your dog into boutiques, clothing stores, and pharmacies. Just make sure your pet is well behaved. Kotor is small, so you can easily get lost in the side streets while you shop.
Health and Emergencies
Hopefully, you will not have any medical issues. But you should know the facts just in case. There is only one 24 hour vet clinic in the whole country. It is called Hasvet International and it is in Podgorica. They speak English, Montenegrin, and Turkish. Their phone number is +382 20 801 843.
In Kotor, you can go to Vet Port in Skaljari. They are open Monday through Friday. They can help with surgery, vaccinations, and microchips. Doctor Relja speaks English and is very professional. There is also a pet shop in the TC Kotor area where you can buy food and toys. They sell big brands like Royal Canin and Pedigree.
If you need a pet taxi Pas, they are available 24/7. Regular taxis are usually fine with a pet in a carrier. If you have an emergency after hours, call the nearest clinic first. Sometimes a doctor is on duty and can come to the clinic.
Life in Montenegro
The general vibe of the country is very laid back. People are not in a rush. There is a joke that a Montenegrin gets off a tree by sitting on a leaf and waiting for autumn. This slow pace is great for a vacation.
However, the infrastructure is not always the best. Power cuts can happen. The roads are a mix of perfectly paved parts and gravel. This can be hard on a dog’s padded paws. You must choose your walking routes carefully. Construction is happening everywhere because of foreign investment.
Prices in tourist towns like Kotor and Budva can be high. A beer in a charming street pub might cost as much as 15 to 18 Euros. On top of that, groceries can be more expensive than in Germany. But some things are cheap, like a bottle of wine for 4 Euros.
Top Tips for Your Trip
- Do not drink tap water. Buy bottled water for yourself and your pet.
- Watch out for ticks. Use oral meds before you arrive.
- Plan for the weather. Summers are very hot. Late April or early May might still have snow in the mountains.
- Bring cash. Some places, like small cafes on trails or the fortress entrance, do not take cards.
- Check the rules for boat tours. Many boat owners in the bay are pet friendly and will let your dog join you for a ride to Our Lady of the Rocks.
Finally, is it worth the effort? Absolutely. The mountains are majestic. The water is unreal. Your dog will love the long walks and the fresh sea air. Montenegro is a wild paradise that you and your pet will never forget.
Gradually, you will fall in love with the stone walls and the friendly cats. Kotor is a special place that feels like a fairy tale. Just remember to do your rabies homework and keep your pet safe. Safe travels to you and your four legged explorer!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kotor dog friendly?
The city is a mix of rules for pet owners. You can walk through the UNESCO Old Town and visit local beaches with your furry friend. However, the law usually states that dogs must stay out of the indoor areas of cafes and restaurants. Most outdoor patios are very welcoming to pets though.
What is better, Kotor or Budva?
Kotor is the best choice for people who love history and quiet walks by the water. On the contrary, Budva is known as the “Montenegrin Ibiza” and is perfect if you want a party vibe. I think the stone charm of Kotor is much more special for a pet vacation.
Are dogs allowed on buses in Montenegro?
The rule for buses is up to each individual driver. Small dogs that travel in a bag or carrier usually have no trouble. Additionally, some drivers may look unhappy even if they let you on board. Therefore, you should always ask the driver before you try to get on.
Is Montenegro dog friendly?
The answer is yes and no. Many local people will smile at your pet or leave food out for strays. However, the paperwork to leave the country and return to the EU is very hard to do. Plus, you must watch out for large guard dogs that bark from behind fences in rural areas.
Which is nicer, Croatia or Montenegro?
Montenegro feels more wild and has less development than Croatia. The nature here is top tier and is a great fit for people who love the outdoors. Croatia is more popular but can be much more crowded with tourists.
Is Kotor safe to walk at night?
The country is very safe for tourists to walk around after dark. You should feel fine as you walk through the stone streets of the Old Town at any time.
Is Kotor or Dubrovnik better?
Dubrovnik is a famous town with a knightly feel. However, Kotor is a hidden gem that often costs less money for food and drinks. Both towns offer amazing views of the Adriatic Sea.
What not to miss in Kotor?
You must see the Old Town, which is full of history. Do not miss the hike up to the Kotor Fortress for the best view of the bay. You should also take a boat trip to see Our Lady of the Rocks.
Why is Kotor famous?
Kotor is known for its huge stone walls and the beautiful bay. It is also famous for its many cats and even has a museum for them.
Are dogs allowed to sit on seats on buses?
Small dogs usually stay inside a carrier on the bus. I have seen some dogs sit on human chairs at outdoor restaurants, but bus seats are usually for people.
Can I visit Montenegro without a car?
You can travel by bus or taxi. However, traffic can be very slow in the summer months. Buses are the main way to move around if you do not have your own vehicle.
Does Malta allow dogs?
Malta is a part of the Schengen area. This means you can travel there with a valid Pet Passport from within the EU.
How long do you need in Montenegro?
A two-week trip is a great way to see the whole country with a van. You can see the main parts of Kotor in just one day if you visit on a cruise ship.
Concluding words
Montenegro is a wild paradise that offers breathtaking views and historic stone towns. You can enjoy the UNESCO Old Town of Kotor or hike the 72 switchbacks of the Ladder of Kotor with your pet. Though the paperwork for the rabies titration test is a big task, the fresh sea air and mountain views are worth the effort.
Remember to use bottled water for your dog and watch out for ticks in the grass. This country is a hidden gem for travelers who love nature and want a unique adventure with their four-legged friends.
