EXPERIENCES

Montenegro

‘Ladder of Kotor’ hiking trail

Ladder of Kotor hiking trail is one of the most scenic and thrilling hiking trails in Montenegro. Those that embark on the famous ‘Ladder of Kotor’ hiking trail are treated to panoramic vistas from more than 3,000 feet above the UNESCO-protected Old Town.

The trail gets its name from the series of 70 hairpin bends that climb up the sheer face of Mount Lovćen, creating a ladder-like appearance. The path starts at the historic town of Kotor and takes hikers through some beautiful natural landscapes before reaching the summit.

The hike to the top can take anywhere between two to four hours depending on your pace, but it’s well worth it for stunning views over Kotor Bay and beyond. Along the way, you’ll pass through forests, rocky terrain, and narrow paths that are marked with red-and-white striped signs indicating your progress. As you ascend higher up the trail, you’ll get more breathtaking views of Boka Kotorska Bay below.

Hiking the ladder during early summer means the climate isn’t scorching, but you’ll still need plenty of water and of course, a fully-charged camera. The hike can also be done from the top down if you’re not too keen on the ascent.

Read what others share about their experience

Amanda Grossi

3 months ago
Incredible hike! It was definitely worth doing the whole thing. After the cheese shop adds maybe another 2.5 hours total but well worth it. The path is less steep on this portion and was so much easier than the first bit. The hike overall was difficult, but I don't exercise regularly and still managed just fine. I started within the city walls...
rareș migea

5 months ago
FREE ALTERNATIVE TO THE TOP: There is another route a bit longer to the north where you don't need to pay €15 (as of August 2025) The start of the hike is visible in the pictures, the road is not difficult for someone who does a hike here and there, it's not steep, just a walk on a rocky road. The hike takes you near an abandoned church where...
Nidhi Verma

4 months ago
Free easy to do hike, with gorgeous views looking into breathtaking mountain views on one side and the ocean on the other side. The best part is - you can get into St Jiovanni fortress through the ladder without paying the Euro 15 fee which you have to pay if you climb the stairs to the fortress.
Matt Bodsworth (mattbodz31)

5 months ago
Very fun walk! We paid the €15 to walk up through the fortress route and then circled down the ladder and back round the back. Felt the price was steep, but it allowed us to walk in the morning shade and was definitely worth the views at the top!
Tim Husain

5 months ago
Amazing walk with great views over Kotor and the sea. Mostly easy but it is quite steep uphill at some parts and also any steps down. Fortress is €15, but free in the evening. Beware there is a small ladder and window you have to climb through.