The Kotor Cable Car is the easy way to see the bay from above. The lower station sits just outside the walls of the Old Town, and the cabins climb steeply up the mountain behind it, rising to roughly 1,300 metres on the flank of Lovćen in a ride of around ten to fifteen minutes. As the town shrinks beneath you, the shape of the bay slowly appears: the zigzag line of the city walls, the red roofs of the Old Town, the fjord-like inner bay, the islets off Perast and, on a clear day, the open Adriatic beyond the narrow strait. The upper station has a restaurant, a terrace and viewing platforms, and walking paths lead on into the mountain landscape.
How it works
You buy a ticket for the ride up and back, or for a one-way trip if you plan to hike, bike or be collected by a transfer on the other side of the mountain. Cabins run through the day and the ride is smooth and quick, so the queue, not the journey, is the part to plan around. Many visitors also join a guided trip that pairs the cable car with an Old Town walk or a drive through Njeguši, which can save time on a busy cruise day.
What to expect
The temperature at the top is noticeably cooler than in the town, and the mountain weather can change fast, so bring a light layer even in summer. On a clear morning the views are superb; in low cloud the cabins can rise straight into mist, so check the weather before you commit.
The upper station is a pleasant place to linger with a drink, and the terrace is good for photographs of the bay at the end of the afternoon. Cable cars do not run in very high winds or during maintenance periods, so confirm that it is operating on the day you plan to go.
Making the most of it
Go early or late to avoid the cruise-ship rush at the lower station. Combine the ride with the City Walls and the Ladder of Kotor for a day of views from every height, or take it as a rest for tired legs after climbing to St John Fortress. Active visitors can ride up and cycle or hike back down the old switchbacks, while others pair the upper station with a visit to Njeguši village for smoked ham and cheese and the Njegoš Mausoleum on Lovćen.
Families with small children will enjoy the ride itself, though the mountain paths at the top are rough and unfenced in places.
Practical notes
Wear shoes with grip for the paths around the upper station, carry some water and cash for the café, and allow extra time on days when several cruise ships are in port, because the queue at the lower station can stretch to an hour or more at midday. Anyone with limited mobility should ask about cabin access and the upper station facilities when booking, since the terrace and paths include steps and uneven ground. Photographers get the best light in the late afternoon, when the sun warms the stone of the walls and the bay turns to copper, and the evening descent is quieter than the morning rush.
What to expect
The experience
A cable car ride from the edge of the Old Town up the mountain, with a terrace and viewing platforms at the top.
Best time
Clear mornings or late afternoons, outside the cruise-ship rush.
How long
About one hour including the ride, longer with a meal or a walk at the top.
Tips
Bring a light jacket, check the weather and wind first and avoid the middle of the day when the queue is longest.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Bay views without a steep climb.
- Families
- A short, exciting ride that children enjoy; keep a close eye on them on the mountain paths.
- Couples
- Sunset drinks on the terrace with the whole bay below.
- Pair with
- The City Walls and a stop in Njeguši village.
- Time needed
- One to three hours.
Good questions
Where does the Kotor Cable Car start?+
The lower station is just outside the Old Town walls, within a few minutes’ walk of the Sea Gate area.
How long is the ride?+
Around ten to fifteen minutes each way, rising to roughly 1,300 metres on the slopes of Lovćen.
Is it worth it in cloudy weather?+
Views are best on clear days; in low cloud the top can be misty, so check the forecast before you go.
Can I walk or cycle down?+
Yes, fit visitors can ride up and descend by the old mountain road, but allow plenty of time and take water.
Does the cable car run all year?+
It generally operates through the year but can pause in high winds or for maintenance, so confirm on the day.
