Kotor Old Town: A Must-See Day Trip or Overnight from Skopje

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage beauty of Kotor’s Old Town on a trip from Skopje. Renting a car with Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace. The journey offers incredible views, and with our convenient airport pickup, you'll be on your way in no time.

Why Rent a Car for Your Kotor Adventure?

Visiting Kotor from Skopje is significantly easier with your own transportation. Public transport options are available but can be slow and inflexible. A rental car allows you to dictate your schedule, explore hidden gems along the way, and comfortably carry luggage. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport provides reliable vehicles and competitive rates, starting from just €22 per day (low-season).

Benefits of Driving vs. Public Transport

• Flexibility: Set your own itinerary and explore at your own speed.
• Convenience: Direct travel from Skopje to Kotor without transfers.
• Luggage: Easily transport luggage and souvenirs.
• Exploration: Discover lesser-known attractions along the route.

Planning Your Route: Skopje to Kotor

The drive from Skopje Alexander the Great Airport (SKP) to Kotor is approximately 280 kilometers (174 miles) and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and border crossings. The most common route involves travelling through North Macedonia, Serbia, and into Montenegro.

Driving Directions

1. Skopje to Tabanovce (North Macedonia): Take the A2 highway east towards Kumanovo and then continue towards Tabanovce. This is a straightforward highway drive.
2. Tabanovce to Preševo (Serbia): Cross the border into Serbia. Be prepared for border checks – have your passport and vehicle documents ready. The road continues as a highway.
3. Preševo to Prizren (Serbia): Continue on the E80 highway towards Prizren. This stretch can be more winding.
4. Prizren to Božaj (Kosovo): Briefly passing through Kosovo. It's a short transit, and border formalities are usually minimal.
5. Božaj to Virpazar (Montenegro): Cross the border into Montenegro. Prepare for border checks. This section of the road is scenic, following the Skadar Lake.
6. Virpazar to Kotor: Continue towards Kotor, enjoying the picturesque coastal drive.

Important Driving Regulations

• Speed Limits: City limits are generally 50 km/h, while motorways have a speed limit of 130 km/h. Always pay attention to signage.
• Green Card: Ensure you have a Green Card (Zone 1 & 2) for insurance coverage in all countries you'll be driving through. Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport provides Green Cards with all rentals.
• Toll Roads: Serbia uses toll roads - it’s recommended to have cash or a vignette (toll sticker) for seamless travel. Montenegro also has toll roads.
• Driving License: A valid EU driving license is usually sufficient. However, it's always best to check the specific requirements for your nationality.

What to See and Do in Kotor Old Town

Kotor’s Old Town is a captivating maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. Allow ample time to wander and soak in the atmosphere.

Top Attractions

• St. Tryphon Cathedral: A stunning Romanesque cathedral dating back to the 12th century.
• Kotor Walls: Hike up the historic city walls for panoramic views of the bay.
• Maritime Museum: Learn about Kotor’s rich maritime history.
• St. Luke’s Church: Admire the artwork and architecture.
• Boka Bay: Take a boat trip on the breathtakingly beautiful Boka Bay.

Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay

Day Trip Considerations

• Early Start: Leave Skopje early (around 6:00 AM) to maximize your time in Kotor.
• Long Drive: Be prepared for a long day of driving.
• Parking: Parking in Kotor Old Town is limited and can be challenging. Consider parking outside the Old Town and walking in.

Overnight Stay Advantages

• Relaxed Pace: Enjoy a more relaxed pace and explore Kotor at a leisurely speed.
• Evening Charm: Experience the Old Town’s magical atmosphere after the day-trippers have left.
• Explore the Bay: Take a boat trip to nearby islands and villages.

Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport: Your Gateway to Kotor

We offer a wide range of vehicles to suit your needs and budget, from economy cars to SUVs and vans. Our convenient airport pickup service (including a free shuttle) ensures a hassle-free start to your adventure. We've been operating since 2001, providing reliable car rental services from Skopje Alexander the Great Airport (SKP).

Fleet Options:

Practical Tips or Quick Reference

• Border Crossing Documents: Passport, vehicle registration, insurance (Green Card).
• Currency: Euro (€) is used in Montenegro. North Macedonian Denar (MKD) is used in North Macedonia. Serbian Dinar (RSD) is used in Serbia.
• Language: Montenegrin is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
• Phone Connectivity: Ensure you have a roaming plan or purchase a local SIM card.
• Driving Style: Be aware that driving styles can be more aggressive in the Balkans than in Western Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What documents do I need to rent a car from Relax Rent a Car Skopje Airport? A: You’ll need a valid driving license, passport, and a credit card for the security deposit.

Q: Do I need a Green Card to drive to Kotor from Skopje? A: Yes, a Green Card (Zone 1 & 2) is required for insurance coverage in North Macedonia, Serbia, and Montenegro. We include this with all rentals.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Kotor? A: Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Q: How much does it cost to park in Kotor Old Town? A: Parking is limited and can be expensive. Expect to pay around €3-5 per hour in designated parking areas.

Q: Can I return the car in Montenegro instead of Skopje? A: One-way rentals are possible, but incur additional fees. Please contact us to arrange and get a quote.