Kotor · Shopping Guide
Best Shopping in Kotor for Cruise Travelers
Kotor's compact medieval Old Town offers a charming shopping experience within ancient stone walls. Montenegrin souvenirs are rustic and authentic — handmade icons, local rakija, Montenegrin wines, and artisan jewelry inspired by the bay's dramatic setting. Prices are refreshingly reasonable compared to other Mediterranean ports.
Old Town Shops
Kotor's Old Town lanes are lined with small shops selling a mix of tourist souvenirs and genuine local products. The streets around Trg od Brašna (Flour Square) and St. Tryphon's Cathedral have the best concentration. Look for shops run by local families rather than the generic souvenir stores.
What to Buy
Top Kotor purchases: Montenegrin wine (Vranac red, Krstač white — 5-15 EUR per bottle), rakija (fruit brandy, especially plum or grape), Njeguški pršut (dry-cured ham), local honey, handmade Orthodox icons, and silver filigree jewelry — a traditional craft in the bay region.
Cats of Kotor
Kotor is famously overrun with cats, and the Cats Museum gift shop sells cat-themed souvenirs that are actually charming and well-made. Proceeds support the town's cat population. Cat-themed artwork, ceramics, and gifts from here are unique and support a good cause.
Practical Info
No sales tax in Montenegro. Prices are in Euros. Most shops accept credit cards. There's no haggling tradition. The Old Town is so small that you can browse every shop in an hour. For the best prices on wine and food products, visit the small supermarket just outside the Old Town walls rather than the tourist shops inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best souvenir from Kotor?
Montenegrin wine (Vranac or Krstač) offers the best value — excellent quality for 5-15 EUR. Njeguški pršut (cured ham) is the national delicacy. Cat-themed items from the Cats Museum are unique to Kotor and support the local cat sanctuary.
Is Kotor expensive for shopping?
No, Kotor is one of the most affordable shopping ports in the Mediterranean. Wine, food products, and local crafts are all reasonably priced. Even tourist-oriented shops are cheaper than equivalent items in Croatia or Italy.
Can I bring Montenegrin wine back on the cruise ship?
Yes, most cruise lines allow you to bring purchased alcohol aboard — it may be held until the last night. Check your specific cruise line's policy. Wine bottles are well-suited for checked luggage if flying home.