Risan is the quiet neighbour that Kotor never asked for but probably needed. While the medieval walls and crowds of Kotor get all the attention, Risan sits just around the bay offering a more relaxed vibe without sacrificing any of the stunning scenery. The town dates back to ancient times — it was actually mentioned by Ptolemy and has Roman ruins to prove it — but these days it’s a small, friendly place where locals go about their daily lives. With your own car, Risan becomes an excellent base for exploring the entire Bay of Kotor area, including some hidden corners that tourists often miss entirely.
Why Hire a Car in Risan?
The Bay of Kotor is often called Montenegro’s most beautiful region, and having a car lets you see it properly. From Risan, you can easily drive to Kotor (about 20 minutes), explore the smaller towns and villages around the bay, or head up into the mountains for spectacular viewpoints. The road that circles the bay is one of the great scenic drives in Europe — think sheer cliffs dropping into turquoise water, tiny islands with churches on them, and villages that feel frozen in time. Without a car, you’d be limited to buses that don’t cover all the interesting spots and ferries that are more about getting across than exploring. Risan itself has a couple of good restaurants, some interesting historical sites, and a genuine local atmosphere that the more touristy parts of the bay have lost.
What to See Around Risan
Start with the Roman ruins — Risan was an important Roman settlement called Risano, and you can still see remains of a Roman palace, mosaics, and thermal baths in the lower town. The 15th-century King Alexander’s Palace is another interesting site, though much of what’s visible is restoration. Take a walk along the waterfront — it’s less crowded than Kotor but just as pretty, with views across the bay to the mountains beyond. The small islands in the bay, particularly the island of St. George (Gospa od Škrpjela), are worth visiting — you can take a boat tour from Risan or Kotor. For a spectacular viewpoint, drive up to the Fortresses of St. John (not to be confused with the one in Kotor) above the town, or continue around the bay to the smaller, quieter villages like Prčanj and Morinj. The drive around the Bay of Kotor — whether you go clockwise or counterclockwise — is unforgettable either way.
Driving Tips for Risan
Driving in and around Risan is generally straightforward. The main road (the coastal road that circles the bay) is well-maintained and offers stunning views, but be prepared for narrow sections and tunnels. The road can get busy during peak season, especially around Kotor. If you’re heading into the mountains above the bay (to places like Njeguši or the Lovćen National Park), the roads become narrower and more winding — take your time and enjoy the views. The ferry across the Bay of Kotor (between Kamenari and Lepetane) can be a quicker alternative to driving around, especially during summer traffic. There’s also a road tunnel near Risan that connects to the main coastal highway, making it easier to reach Budva and the rest of the coast. Parking in Risan is easier than in Kotor — there are several public car parks and the town is compact enough to find a spot.
Booking Tips for Risan
Car hire in Risan itself is limited, so most visitors pick up in Tivat (about 40 minutes away) or at the airports. The advantage is that you can then explore the entire Bay of Kotor area at your leisure. Booking in advance is recommended during summer (June-September), as availability can be limited. If you’re planning to explore the mountain roads around Lovćen or head further afield, consider a vehicle with good ground clearance. The drive from Tivat airport to Risan takes about 45 minutes via the coastal road or through the tunnel, both offering scenic routes. One-way rentals are possible between most Montenegro locations, which gives you flexibility if you want to pick up in one place and drop off elsewhere.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Risan famous for?
Risan is one of the oldest settlements in the Bay of Kotor, with Roman ruins and a more authentic, less touristy atmosphere than Kotor.
How far is Risan from Kotor?
Risan is about 12 km from Kotor, roughly a 20-minute drive along the scenic bay road.
Is Risan a good base for the Bay of Kotor?
Yes, Risan offers a quieter alternative to busy Kotor while still being close enough to easily explore the entire bay area.