Is Perast Worth Visiting: If you like it Slow then YES!

Is perast worth visiting?

✅So if you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque place to visit in Montenegro, Perast is definitely worth considering.

❌ Do NOT expect any nightlife…you may even get hushed in the alleys during afternoon nap if you’re too loud.

Wandering the waterfront and watching the sunset were our favorite things to do here to the slower pace of life in Perast. We almost bought an apartment here because it was just so peaceful and beautiful.

Perast vs Kotor

The parking situation turned us off in the end (it’s a nightmare in Perast) and we ended up buying in Kotor because we liked the hiking better. The Kotor Fortress hike is pretty incredible.

Why Visit Perast

Perast is a peaceful setting that provides a unique experience for travelers looking for something different. Is it worth it? Yes. Absolutely yes.

One of the main reasons to visit Perast is its beautiful architecture. The town is home to many historic palaces and churches that are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into Montenegro’s rich history.

Easy Connections to Perast

It’s great to pair with a trip to Dubrovnik Croatia or as part of an epic Balkan road trip. There are also easy car ferries from Bari, Italy.

You can take a stroll along the waterfront and count the palaces, or visit the Perast Museum to learn more about the town’s past.

Perast is also a great destination for those who love the outdoors. You can take a boat tour of the Bay of Kotor and enjoy the stunning scenery from the water. The town is also a great starting point for hiking in the surrounding mountains, which offer breathtaking views of the Boka Bay.

Historical Significance

One of the main reasons to visit Perast is its historical significance. The town has a rich past that dates back centuries, and you’ll find evidence of this throughout the narrow streets overlooking the Saint George’s Island.

Perast is a town with a rich history that dates back to the 14th century when it was under the rule of the Venetian Republic. During this time, the town prospered and became a center of trade and commerce in the region. The Venetians built many of the town’s palaces and defensive towers which still stand today.

In addition to its Catholic heritage, Perast also has an Orthodox church, which reflects the town’s diverse cultural influences. The town was under Ottoman rule for a brief period, and its Venetian and Orthodox influences can be seen in its architecture and art.

Of course, there’s more to Perast than just its history. The town is also a great place to relax, eat one of the most amazing gelatos on the planet and soak up the atmosphere.

Exploring Perast: Things to do

1. Our Lady of the Rocks

One of the most significant landmarks in Perast is Our Lady of the Rocks, a man-made island with a Catholic church and a Benedictine monastery. According to legend, the island was created by local fishermen who found an icon of the Virgin Mary on a rock in the sea. They vowed to build a church on the spot, and over time, the island was expanded and developed into what it is today.

2. Churches and Landmarks

Perast is home to several beautiful churches and landmarks that are worth visiting. A must-visit church in Perast is St. Nicholas’ Church. This church is located in the heart of the town and is known for its beautiful baroque architecture. The church is also home to several important relics, including the remains of St. Nicholas himself.

3. Boat Tours

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Perast, consider taking a boat tour of the town. There are several companies that offer boat rides around the bay, allowing you to see Perast and the surrounding area from a different perspective. You can also take a water taxi to one of the nearby beaches or rent a boat and explore the bay on your own.

4. Gelato

Go to Moritz Eis. You can get charcoal ice cream. Yum. They also have the boring flavors too.

5. Aimlessly wander the Alleys

Have fun meandering and finding all the secret alleyways. There are a lot of stairs however. Surprisingly, once you get off the main boardwalk there are few tourists.

6. Eat – Meat! And seafood….and Tons of it.

Perast restaurants tend to be a bit pricey, but you’re paying for the views.

Montenegrin cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, and Perast is no exception. Seafood is a staple here, with specialties like black risotto and grilled squid. Other popular dishes include cevapi (grilled meat sausages), kacamak (a cornmeal porridge), and burek (a savory pastry).

Don’t forget to try the local wine and rakija (fruit brandy) as well.

7. Step into Nature on Day trip and go Hiking

Montenegro is the size of Vermont or some other similarly small sized US state. Most things are fairly accessible within a daytrip, though the roads can be….winding.

If you’re interested in exploring the mountains, there are plenty of options nearby. Durmitor National Park is located in the northwestern part of Montenegro and is known for its stunning mountain scenery.

7. Visit nearby Risan

If the tourists get to be too much, you can go 5 km (3 miles) down the road along the bay the hidden gem of Risan. There you can get away from the throngs of tourists and enjoy the local restaurants, hikes, and way of life.

8. Visit Nearby Kotor

If you’re interested in exploring more of Montenegro, Kotor is just a short drive away from Perast. This charming town is situated on the Bay of Kotor and is known for its stunning Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel Tips: How to Get There

If you’re planning a trip to Perast, Montenegro, here are some travel tips to keep in mind.

Morgan’s Video of Kotor in December

Accommodation Options

Perast is a very small town, but there are still plenty of accommodation options to choose from. You can stay in a traditional stone house, a modern apartment, or a luxury hotel.

Prices vary depending on the season, with peak season being July and August.

If you’re looking to save money, consider visiting during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) when prices are lower and the crowds are thinner.

Getting Around Perast

When it comes to getting around Perast, walking is the best way to see the town. The streets are not open to tourists, so cars are not recommended. There’s frequent bus connections from Kotor on the Blueline.

If you need to travel further afield, buses and taxis are available, but be prepared for winding mountain roads.

Bus schedule here.

When to visit

The best time to travel to Perast is in the late spring (May to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer months can be extremely hot and crowded, while the winter may present closure days of restaurants due to inclement weather and not enough business to stay open.

Nearby Destinations

If you’re planning a trip to Perast, Montenegro, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of other nearby destinations worth exploring. Whether you’re looking to stay in Montenegro or venture out to neighboring countries, there’s something for everyone.

In addition to Kotor there are other great spots.

Tivat is another nearby town that’s worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in yachting or want to explore the luxury marina.

If you’re looking to explore beyond Montenegro, Dubrovnik in Croatia is just 1.5 hours away by car. This historic city is known for its stunning Old Town, which is surrounded by medieval walls.

Budva is another popular destination in Montenegro, especially for beach lovers. The city is situated on the coast and has some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions: Is Perast Worth Visiting?

What are the top things to do in Perast, Montenegro?

Perast is a small town with a rich history and stunning architecture. Some of the top things to do in Perast include visiting the St. Nicholas’ Church, exploring the town’s many Baroque palaces and churches, and taking a boat tour to the nearby islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks. You can also hike up to the top of the town’s hill for panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor.

What makes Perast a unique destination?

Perast’s unique charm lies in its well-preserved Baroque architecture and rich history. The town is home to Baroque palaces and churches, and has a fascinating maritime history as a center of shipbuilding and seafaring. Additionally, Perast is located on the stunning Bay of Kotor, which is often referred to as Europe’s southernmost fjord.

Is Perast worth visiting for its historical significance?

If you’re interested in history and architecture, Perast is definitely worth a visit. The town’s Baroque buildings and churches are well-preserved and offer a glimpse into Montenegro’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, Perast has a fascinating maritime history, and you can learn more about the town’s seafaring past at the Perast Maritime Museum.

What is the best way to get from Kotor to Perast?

The best way to get from Kotor to Perast is by car or taxi, which will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a local blue line bus, which runs between Kotor and Risan and stops in Perast.

Are there any boat tours available from Kotor to Perast?

Yes, there are several boat tours available from Kotor to Perast. These tours typically include a visit to the nearby islands of St. George and Our Lady of the Rocks, as well as a tour of Perast’s historic center.

Would it be better to stay in Kotor or Perast for a Montenegro trip?

Whether you should stay in Kotor or Perast depends on your travel preferences. Kotor is a larger town with more amenities and a wider range of accommodation options, while Perast is a smaller, quieter town with a more intimate feel. If you’re looking for nightlife and a wider range of dining options, Kotor may be a better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, off-the-beaten-path experience, Perast may be the way to go.

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We hope this guide filled with interesting information about if Perast is worth visiting has given you the proper information to plan your next adventure in Montenegro.