UNESCO-protected Perast, in Montenegro’s tranquil Bay of Kotor, is the kind of place that makes you exhale deeply. Wedged between steep, pine-covered mountains and the glistening Adriatic, it’s an idyllic hideaway for travellers seeking serenity with a pinch of historical intrigue. This sleepy waterfront town is small but mighty — ideal as a base to explore Montenegro, or simply to soak up the beauty of the bay with a glass of local wine in hand, especially if you’re staying at a characterful boutique hotel by the water.
Once a maritime powerhouse during Venetian rule, Perast’s skyline is dotted with stone churches and noble palaces. A stroll along its only main road reveals a time capsule of 17th- and 18th-century architecture, including the impressive St. Nicholas Church. One standout? The Heritage Grand Perast by Rixos, a luxurious hotel carved from the former Smekja Palace, where open-air concerts bring locals and visitors together under the stars.
We found Bocalibre, a laid-back pizzeria tucked away in the backstreets, perfect for families and casual dining. But the town also offers polished seafood spots with front-row views of the bay. Just offshore, the iconic islets of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George await — the former accessible via a quick boat hop. We caught our ride by Restaurant Conte after a leisurely 15-minute wait, rewarded with fish so fresh, snorkellers circled below us. Postcards from Dubrovnik offers a charming coastal contrast to Perast, same Adriatic flair, different rhythm.
Waking up in Perast is something special. The stillness, the early morning light, and the bay’s mirror-like surface offer a sense of calm that lingers. Sant Boka is one of the town’s most remarkable boutique hotels — discreetly tucked away, yet offering panoramic views, a private spa, and all the amenities one could wish for. If you’re not staying overnight, make time for their spectacular menus — the perfect excuse to linger a little longer in this magical town.
One of our highlights was visiting Boka Seafood, a family-run oyster farm nestled on the bay. A must for food lovers in Montenegro, the experience offered a taste of the Adriatic at its freshest: plates of mussels, oysters, and crusty bread enjoyed in the sunshine as small boats pulled up to collect takeaway orders — like Uber Eats, but with sea legs.
Whether you’re chasing sunsets, family memories, or a quiet reset, Perast captures the essence of slow travel. We left already plotting our return.
