Castle of San Giovanni in Kotor (The Simplest Way Up)

You cannot miss this hike if you are visiting Montenegro. The Castle of San Giovanni in Kotor promises year-round breath-taking panoramic views of the bay and the mountains around.

This route will guide you, via the steps, through the fortress before summiting at the castle and all its glory. The ‘Ladder of Kotor‘ or ‘Ladder of Cattaro‘ are alternative routes if you are looking for an option with fewer stairs and less people during the peak season.

To Summarise my Experience

I walked to Kotor’s Castle of Giovanni in February 2020 (off-season), via the route that has been described below. There were no other hikers during my climb from the bottom to top, which was between the hours of 8 am and 10 am. Even at the castle itself, I was able to discover the magnificent views on my own – I felt like a Queen! Other walkers seemed to begin their journey from 10 am onwards.

How to Climb Up to Kotor’s Castle Of San Giovanni

Know Before You Go

Duration of the Hike: Maximum of 3 Hours

Hike Difficulty: The walk up to the Castle Of San Giovanni is not hard, but definitely somewhat strenuous. It’s easy-peasy if you are young and fit; a good morning’s work if you’re a bit older. You’ll need to climb at least 1306 stone steps to the top and another 1306 to the bottom. Know that there are some small shelters along the way if you require some time to rest from rain showers or the beaming sunshine.

Ticket Cost: During the peak season, you will have to pay €8 per person to gain entry to the path, past a turnstile. This checkpoint is not occupied in the winter months, so you can pass through freely.

Opening Hours: From 8 am to 8 pm. You should try starting the journey before 8 am, for the chance of skipping the need to pay for a ticket.

Packing List: I suggest that you pack water, sun cream, a hat, snacks, grippy footwear, and most importantly, your camera!

Best Time to Visit: If you would like the fortress to yourself, visit during the winter months. Summer months can bring large crowds. With this in mind, make sure to start the hike as early as possible to avoid the extra busy afternoons once a cruise ship has docked.

Where to Begin

Start here. Signs will guide you through the Old Town to this alleyway of stairs.

Remember: Stock up on fluids before you begin.

From there, follow the steps until the route becomes a rocky path. You’ll notice painted red and white markings that will guide you throughout the duration of this hike.

The Ascent

The trail’s route is straightforward; I highly doubt that you will get lost.

Don’t worry if you find it too difficult to hike to the summit. There are plenty of landmarks along the way for you to discover. Just aim to find a point during the incline where you are fulfilled by the ultimate views, and then return the same way you came up. Honestly, every metre of the trail is simply beautiful.

Twenty minutes into the hike, you’ll pass the quaint Church of Our Lady Remedy at an altitude of 100m. The second milestone is the remains of St. John’s Fortress. Then you’ll reach a great viewpoint of Kotor Bay which is marked here on Google Maps. From there, you are only five minutes away from the Castle Of San Giovanni.

From the Top

The strenuous climb to the Castle Of San Giovanni in Kotor is undoubtedly worth the rewarding views!

At the top, there are many corridors, rooms, windows and pathways to explore. Depending on the weather, you can spend plenty of time up there.

In addition, please note that there are no bathrooms in the castle. Nor is there any shops for food or water.

Are you exploring the Adriatic Coastline? To find more guides and hidden gems, you should read A Digital Nomad Itinerary to the Adriatic Coastline or 71 Quick & Essential Tips to Travel the Adriatic Coast.

You must go!
@katie.maree