About Perast
Perast is located in the southwestern part of Montenegro, in southeastern Europe, and is situated 12 km from Kotor, within the inner part of the Bay of Kotor.
The History of Perast
This charming town is a hidden gem in the cultural and historical region of Kotor. The traces left by the Venetians, who ruled here from 1420 to 1790, are still vibrant today. During their rule, the Venetians built 17 Catholic churches, 16 baroque palaces, and 9 defense towers, which now make the town resemble an open-air museum.
Venetian sailors, followed by Russian sailors, arrived in Perast, known for their contributions to maritime history, to create naval towers around the Adriatic Sea. The town was once filled with sailors who had studied cartography, engineering, and navigation at the maritime school of the era.
During World War II, in 1941 and beyond, Perast became part of Yugoslavia. After the dissolution of Yugoslavia, it remained within the borders of Serbia and Montenegro. However, with Montenegro’s independence in 2006, Perast became a part of Montenegro.
As you stroll through the streets of Perast, history whispers in the air. Every corner holds a story, and every building hides a piece of the past. The delicate marks of Venice, the grandeur of baroque palaces, and the splendor of the defense towers all converge here in Perast. This place offers not just a holiday destination but a unique experience steeped in history.
How to Get to Perast?
To reach Perast, you first need to get to Montenegro. Montenegro does not require a visa for Turkish citizens, but if you are traveling by land, you will need a green passport or a Schengen visa (as you will pass through Bulgaria, an EU country).
Another option is to fly. The closest airport to Perast is Tivat Airport, located 23 km away, 3 km south of the center of Tivat. You can fly directly from Istanbul to Tivat Airport with Turkish Airlines. From there, you can take the Blu Line bus for €5 or a taxi for approximately €35 to reach Perast. Alternatively, if you fly into Podgorica Airport, buses are also available to take you to Perast.
How We Got There
We started our journey from Belgrade with a train ride to Montenegro. Our adventurous 11-hour journey on a sleeper train brought us to Podgorica, where we picked up our pre-arranged rental car. From there, it took us around 2 hours to drive to Perast. However, since we made frequent sightseeing stops along the way, our journey took longer.
Must-Visit Places in Perast
Without a doubt, Perast will be one of the most memorable towns of your Montenegro holiday. With its narrow streets lined with stone houses adorned with flowers, just like it did for us, it will surely leave a lasting impression in your memory.Perast Museum
Perast Museum, the place transformed into a museum where the prominent Venetian military commander and the captain of Perast, Vicko Bujović, once lived, is one of the most visited spots in the area.If you’re interested in the maritime and art history of Perast and Montenegro, this museum is perfect for you! It holds a treasure trove of historical archives related to both maritime and art. The museum’s library provides an invaluable resource for researchers and curious travelers alike.Most of the exhibits in the museum have been collected through generous donations from the local people. This adds a unique touch to the museum, as each item represents the local community’s respect for its cultural heritage. The collection includes maritime history, maps, ship models, and many other fascinating pieces.The museum is open all day and the entrance fee is only 4 Euros per person. Make sure to visit this captivating museum while exploring Perast!Our Lady of the Rocks
One of Montenegro’s most iconic landscapes, “Our Lady of the Rocks” (Lady of The Rocks), is not only famous for its beautiful scenery but also for its intriguing history.The story of “Our Lady of The Rocks” begins in the 15th century, when a sailor found an icon of the Virgin Mary here. Every sailor who safely returned from a voyage would throw a stone into the water in gratitude. Over time, these stones accumulated, and eventually, a church was built, which can now be visited as a museum.The history of the church and the marks left by sailors are truly impressive. This site is not only a religious building but also a monument of gratitude and a tangible representation of sailor tales. For this reason, Our Lady of the Rocks is definitely a must-see.For photography enthusiasts and history buffs, a visit to Our Lady of the Rocks is unmissable. You can take a boat to the island across from it for €5, and the entrance fee is €1.Sveti Djordje (St. George Island) – The Island of the Dead
Sveti Djordje Island, also known as St. George Island, is a captivating natural beauty. Unfortunately, you can only admire this island from a distance. It is home to a Benedictine monastery dating back to the 12th century, which is still in use, so it is closed to visitors.For many years, the local people of Perast used this island as a cemetery, which is why it is also known as the “Island of the Dead.” However, don’t let this discourage you from discovering this mystical island! You can take boat tours around the bay to get close to the island and witness its mesmerizing beauty.Sveti Djordje Island, with its historical charm and natural beauty, is definitely a must-see. As you take a boat tour around the island, you’ll witness the magnificent harmony between history and nature.Bajova Kula
If you’re visiting during the summer, make sure to take a dip in one of the most beautiful beaches near Kotor, Bajova Kula. Additionally, there is a restaurant within the premises, where you can enjoy some local food after your swim.Kamenari – Lepetane Ferry
For a scenic experience, you can take the ferry between Kamenari and Lepetane. The short ride offers fantastic views of the Bay of Kotor and is a fun way to explore the area around Perast.Dining and Drinking in Perast
Perast is home to some wonderful restaurants. While you’ll notice the influences of Balkan cuisine, it’s also easy to spot the Mediterranean and Italian culinary influences in the area.
Our top recommendations are the fish soup and grilled calamari. These dishes were by far our favorites, and we highly recommend them. The fish soup costs €3.90, and the grilled calamari is priced at €15. Both are not only delicious but also reasonably priced, making them an excellent choice for a memorable meal in Perast.
Restaurant Conte
Located by the sea, Restaurant Conte is one of the most popular spots in Perast, known for its fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes. With stunning views of the bay, it offers a perfect setting for a relaxed meal. Try the grilled fish, seafood risotto, or a local Montenegrin wine.Bocalino Restaurant
A cozy and modern eatery offering a wide range of Mediterranean dishes, Bocalino is known for its excellent service and friendly atmosphere. The seafood and pasta dishes are highly recommended, and it also has an impressive wine list featuring local selections.Škver Restaurant
Situated near the waterfront, Škver is known for its traditional Montenegrin cuisine, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and hearty salads. The restaurant’s terrace offers beautiful views of the water, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch or dinner.Passo
Passo is a great choice for those seeking a more casual dining experience. The menu features a variety of pizzas, Mediterranean dishes, and seafood options, with generous portions and reasonable prices. The relaxed atmosphere and the view of the bay make it a lovely place for an afternoon meal.Caffe Bar Galerija
For a more laid-back vibe, head to Caffe Bar Galerija, which offers coffee, cocktails, and light snacks. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a drink while taking in the view of the bay. It’s also an excellent spot for an evening aperitif.Perast Café
A charming café perfect for breakfast or a quick coffee break. You can enjoy local pastries, cakes, and coffee while sitting in the quaint square. It’s an ideal place for people-watching or taking a break during your exploration of the town.The Old Mill Restaurant (Stari Mlin)
This traditional restaurant offers a more rustic ambiance, with dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy a meal surrounded by the natural beauty of Perast, with local specialties like Montenegrin lamb, homemade cheeses, and wild herbs.Drinking with a View
There are several bars along the waterfront where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails and local wines. Many of these places offer spectacular views of the bay and the surrounding mountains, making them perfect for a sunset drink.Local Wines and Rakija
While dining in Perast, make sure to try some of the local Montenegrin wines. Wines such as Vranac (a red wine) and Žiža (a white wine) pair perfectly with seafood. Additionally, try a shot of Rakija, a traditional Balkan brandy, to finish your meal.
Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience or a casual meal by the sea, Perast offers a variety of options to satisfy your culinary cravings while enjoying the stunning surroundings.
