10 Best Things to Do in Perast, Montenegro
Let’s delve into the best things to do in Perast, one of Montenegro’s most beautiful villages.
For the last 6 years, I have spent two months every summer in Montenegro. I consider myself somewhat of a local and love to share my knowledge about this magical country.
My favorite area to explore in Montenegro is the Bay of Kotor. The historic towns, hidden beaches, and coastal restaurants are world class and I LOVE to discover and explore it all.
One of my favorite coastal towns in the Bay of Kotor is Perast. A small village just a short distance from Kotor with amazing seafront restaurants, beautiful architecture, and a relaxed vibe.
Below are the best things to do in Perast to fully enjoy everything this small village has to offer.
You might also be interested in:
- Most Beautiful Beaches in Montenegro
- 20 Most Beautiful Places in Montenegro
- Is Montenegro Expensive?
- 7 Day Montenegro Itinerary
- Best Hotels in Montenegro
- Best Things to do in Herceg Novi, Montenegro
- Things to do in Tivat
(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information.)
In This Post
10 Best Things to Do in Perast, Montenegro
Everything you need to know about Perast 🌊
Where to Stay in Perast
➡️ Heritage Grand Perast By Rixos
➡️ Hotel Admiral
➡️ This tour is a great option for seeing the famous Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks!
Visit Our Lady of the Rocks
Our Lady of the Rocks is a famous artificial island located in the Bay of Kotor just a short distance from Perast. This small island is home to a beautiful Roman Catholic church and a museum.
According to legend, the island was created over centuries by local seamen who laid rocks in the bay after finding an icon of the Virgin Mary on a reef in 1452. The church, built in 1630, is home to stunning frescoes, an ornate altar, and a collection of artifacts donated by sailors.
💡 To visit Our Lady of the Rocks, you can take a short boat ride from Perast. The cost is €5 / person.
Climb the Bell Tower of St. Nicholas Church
Climbing the Bell Tower of St. Nicholas Church is one of the top things to do in Perast for panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor. The church was built in the 17th century and is a prominent landmark in Perast.
It is located in the main square and the climb to the top is around 150 steps – so try to go early in the morning when it’s not too hot.
Have a Meal Along the Waterfront
Enjoying a meal along the waterfront is a Perast must-do offering stunning views and delicious local cuisine.
Some of the best restaurants include:
➡️ Riva Restaurant
➡️ Bocalibre
➡️ LOCANDA Perast Ristorante Pizzeria
➡️ Restoran Armonia
Visit Perast Museum
Perast Museum is a small yet insightful museum where you will learn the rich history and culture of Perast and the Bay of Kotor. The museum, housed in a beautiful 17th-century baroque palace, showcases a wide range of artifacts, including maritime maps, historical documents, old weapons, and traditional costumes.
Perast Museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM during the summer season, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM in the winter. The entrance fee is approximately 5 EUR for adults and 1 EUR for children (however, these prices vary year by year so keep an eye out).
Venture to a Nearby Restaurant
One of the best things to do in Perast is venture beyond the village to other nearby gems to indulge in amazing culinary experiences. There are several excellent restaurants offering delicious local cuisine and stunning views.
One standout is Stari Mlini, located just a short drive away in Ljuta. Housed in a charming 300-year-old mill, this restaurant offers a picturesque riverside setting and serves fresh seafood and traditional Montenegrin dishes.
Another excellent choice is Ćatovića Mlini in Morinj, which is set in a historic mill with beautiful gardens and a serene atmosphere. The menu features a variety of local specialties, including grilled fish, homemade pasta, and delicious desserts.
Verige 65 in Lepetane is also worth visiting. This contemporary restaurant offers panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and a menu that blends local and international flavors, making it a perfect spot for a memorable meal.
Admire the Architecture
Perast is famous for its stunning architecture! There are several key places to explore to fully appreciate its historical beauty.
Start with the Bujović Palace, a grand 17th-century building that now houses the Perast Museum. Next, visit the Church of St. Nicholas, with its striking bell tower.
Stroll along the waterfront to admire the Venetian-style palaces that line the promenade.
Visit St. George Island
St. George Island is a small, picturesque island located near Perast. It is home to a 12th-century monastery, surrounded by greenery and cypress trees.
Historically, St. George Island has served various purposes, including being a place of worship, a burial site, and a refuge.
💡 To visit St. George Island, you can take a short boat ride from Perast. The island is only a few minutes away by boat and tours often include a visit to the nearby Our Lady of the Rocks.
Swim in the Bay of Kotor
Swimming in the Bay of Kotor is a must on a hot day in Perast. The bay’s calm waters make it the perfect spot for a swim away from the more crowded beaches.
One of the best places to swim is near the waterfront of Perast, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the town’s baroque architecture and the nearby islands of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George.
Take a Boat Tour
Taking a boat tour is one of the best ways to explore the scenic beauty of Perast and the Bay of Kotor. These tours offer a unique perspective of the stunning coastline, historical landmarks, and picturesque islands.
Boat tours often include visits to other charming villages and hidden coves around the bay, allowing you to enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the clear, turquoise waters.
➡️ This tour is a great option for seeing the famous Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks!
Visit Nearby Towns Like Kotor
One of the things I love about Perast is that its located in the middle of a lot of other popular places to visit in Montenegro. This makes it a great place to base yourself to not only see Perast but also many other towns and villages.
Some popular places nearby include:
➡️ Kotor
➡️ Herceg Novi
➡️ Tivat
➡️ Budva
Where to Stay in Perast
➡️ Heritage Grand Perast By Rixos
➡️ Hotel Admiral
Like this post? Pin “10 Best Things to do in Perast” for later!
Love,
SSW
