Balkan Discovery Trip. Day 6: Kotor & Budva, Montenegro

Our journey continued to Albania, passing through Montenegro. Nevertheless, we stopped at two amazing cities, Kotor and Budva of Montenegro. These two cities are known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

Montenegro has a long history that is reflected in its numerous historic sites, including the medieval walled city of Kotor, the ancient town of Stari Bar. Montenegro is famous for its beautiful coastline along the Adriatic Sea, of which the city of Budva is located. 

This post essentially divided into two, Kotor in the morning and Budva in the evening. It took 4 hours and more to reach Kotor from Mostar, with briefed stopped at Trebinje, which was supposed our night stay in the original plan. It was a small town and nothing-to-see at night, hence Mr Akin decided to stay put at Mostar yesterday night.

Leaving Mostar....

Macam le ada duit

Bileća Lake, near Trebinje

At noon, we arrived in Kotor. The city took us to the Medieval time, founded by the ancient Romans, known as Acruvium. It is located in a secluded part of the Bay of Kotor (Boka Kotorska), an indented part of Adriatic Sea. By the way, Kotor is one of the Malay language terms that means dirty, but the city was contradict to its name... ;P

The bus stopped quite far a way from the city wall, so we walked heading to Scurda river. By any chance, we saw part of the fortification of Kotor, Kampana Tower, against the mountain views. We got into the city wall through the sea gate. There was North gate, or river gate, on the other site. In the old city, we passed through Army Square and St. Tryphon Cathedral before stopping at The Square Pub for lunch. 

The sea gate entrance

Nice spot to lepak

The King Tomislav's memorial plaque at Kotor Cathedral

It was consecrated on 19 June 1166.

Taken from The Square Pub

Having pizza for lunch was a bit difference when we were at Balkan region. It was because Italy is the Montenegro's sea-neighboring country and have Italian population in this city. It was a good choice for lunch anyway after several days of plain Balkan dishes.

Next activities were led by local guide by the name of errr.... She took us around the city wall giving explanation on Kotor, Acruvium and the cat museum. Kotor was and still cat city where the breeds were taken extra care of.

Bandar Kotor... :P
Mari sini semua.. makcik nak bercerita	Bandar Kucing..
Saint Nicholas Church	Saint Luke Church
The Clock Tower	Nu'man.. cer carik globe

The scenic view of Kotor Bay

Before we continues to next city of Montenegro, we had been brought to a Tracia Leather Centre. A fashion show event has been put on us showing their leather outfit, which you can buy later if it suits you.

Then, our journey continue down south to Budva city, about 20 km from Kotor. The city is facing the Adriatic Sea. The center of Montenegrin tourism, known as Budva Riviera, is well-preserved medieval walled city and sandy beaches. We got into Budva Old City throught the Velja Vrata, the Main Gate. Like Kotor, we walked along the alleyways if the city passed through the Bishop's Palace, heading to the Square of Salt. If we were given some time, we hope to visit the Citadela and the Museum of Budva.

Heading to Budva Old City

The Square of Salt

A small Sveti Nikola Island

Adriatic sea and land breeze

After the tour ended, we checked-in to Hotel Luani Artë, in Shkoder, Albania. It was almost 10pm when we arrived there. Dinner were served for our group in buffet style, even though the restaurant has been closed. They were so generous with the food and dessert. Yup, we loved the room too!