Perast hugs the Bay of Kotor, a tiny baroque jewel where stone palaces meet shimmering waters. As someone who’s driven visitors through Montenegro, I’ve watched this coastal village steal hearts with its history, island views, and slow-paced charm. We’ve dropped guests here who can’t get enough of its postcard-perfect vibe. In this Perast travel guide, I’ll show you the top attractions, dining spots, and sightseeing tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Why Visit Perast?
Perast is a slice of old Montenegro, quieter than Kotor (just 12 km away) and less touristy than Budva. With only 300 residents, its single street winds past 16 palaces and 17 churches, all framed by the bay and mountains. It’s not about beaches or nightlife—it’s for those who crave history, boat rides, and a peaceful escape along the water.
Top Things to See and Do in Perast
Perast packs a punch for its size. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss when exploring this gem.
Our Lady of the Rocks (Gospa od Škrpjela)
This man-made island, 5 minutes by boat from shore (€5-10 round-trip), is Perast’s star. Built in 1452 after sailors found an icon here, its church holds tapestries and a small museum (€2 entry). Boats leave every 15 minutes—plan 30-45 minutes total.
St. George Island (Sveti Đorđe)
Next to Our Lady, this natural island is closed to visitors but stunning from the water. Its 12th-century Benedictine monastery and cypress trees make it a photo must. Snap it from the boat or shore—no entry, just views.
Perast Museum
Housed in the 17th-century Bujović Palace, this museum (€4 entry) dives into Perast’s maritime past. Exhibits include ship models and artifacts from its days as a naval powerhouse. It’s a 20-minute stop in the heart of town.
St. Nicholas Church (Crkva Svetog Nikole)
Dominating the main square, this unfinished baroque church (free entry) has a 55-meter bell tower you can climb for €1. The bay views are worth it—15 minutes tops.
Waterfront Stroll
Perast’s 1 km waterfront is its soul. Stone houses, small docks, and cafés line the path. A coffee costs €1.50-2, and the vibe is pure relaxation—stroll it in 30 minutes or linger longer.
Beaches and Swimming in Perast
Perast isn’t a beach destination, but its waterfront offers spots to dip. The concrete docks along the main street double as swimming platforms—free and public. Water’s clear, but there’s no sand. For a real beach, head 5 km south to Bajova Kula (10-minute drive), a pebbly cove with €5 sunbed rentals.
Local Food and Dining in Perast
Perast’s dining scene thrives on seafood and bay views. Here’s what to savor.
Top Dishes
Black Risotto: Squid ink and seafood, €10-14. Fish Platter: Fresh catch with sides, €15-30. Buzara: Mussels in garlic wine sauce, €8-12.
Where to Eat
Conte Restaurant on the waterfront serves seafood platters with a sunset view—mains €12-18. Admiral offers black risotto and a cozy vibe, €10-15. Perast 1691 blends history with dishes like octopus salad (€14)—we’ve sent guests here for its charm. But, if you ask our drivers, they like Konoba Otok Bronza the most.
Hidden Gems Near Perast
Perast hides some offbeat treasures worth a peek. You can hire our private driver from Kotor for a day trip if you wish to visit more beatiful places in Montenegro.
Risan Mosaics
5 km north (10-minute drive), Risan’s Roman mosaics (€3 entry) date to the 2nd century. The Villa Urbana site takes 20 minutes—quiet and underrated.
Stone Stairways
Behind the main street, steep stone paths climb to old homes and bay overlooks. Free and untouristy—15 minutes of wandering.
Shopping and Souvenirs in Perast
Small shops along the waterfront sell handmade lace (€5-15), a Perast tradition, and nautical trinkets (€3-10). Pick up local olive oil (€8/bottle) or a miniature boat model (€10)—cash is king here.
Getting to Perast
Perast is 100 km from Podgorica Airport (TGD), a 2-hour drive. Buses from Podgorica to Kotor (€5-7, 2 hours) connect via local rides to Perast (€1, 15 minutes). From Tivat Airport (TIV), it’s 20 km—30 minutes by car. For ease, a Podgorica to Perast transfer skips the hassle.
Practical Tips for Visiting Perast
- Best Time: Spring or fall for calm; summer’s busy.
- Budget: €40-60/day for food, sights, and transport. Rooms €40-80/night.
- Packing: Flat shoes for cobblestones, swim gear for docks.
- Getting Around: Walkable, but a Tivat to Perast transfer helps for day trips.
- Boat Rides: Haggle for better rates (€5/person is fair).
Perast feels like time stopped—perfect for a slow escape.
Need a Handy Guide to Perast?
Get all the essentials—boat tours, dining, hotels, and more—in one place. Download our free Perast Travel PDF with contacts and tips. No email needed, just click and go!
Why Perast Over Other Bay Towns?
Kotor (12 km, 15-minute drive) is busier with a fortress climb. Herceg Novi (30 km, 45-minute drive) offers gardens and a quieter pace. Tivat (20 km, 30-minute drive) flaunts Porto Montenegro’s modern glitz. Risan (5 km, 10 minutes) is sleepier with mosaics. Perast shines with its islands and intimacy—less hype, more calm.
FAQ: Perast Travel Tips
- How far is Perast from Podgorica?
It’s 100 km, a 2-hour drive. A Podgorica to Perast transfer beats the bus. - How long from Tivat to Perast?
30 minutes (20 km). Try a Tivat to Perast transfer for speed. - What’s the best time to visit Perast?
Spring or fall—milder and quieter. - How much time do I need in Perast?
Half a day for islands and town; a full day with nearby spots. - Are there beaches in Perast?
No real beaches—use docks or head to Bajova Kula. - What’s near Perast to visit?
Kotor (12 km), Risan (5 km), or Blue Cave (20 km by boat).
