Perast

a picturesque tiny village on the sea

It seems that the oldest human settlement of Montenegro on the Bocche di Cattaro was where Perast now stands, right where the gulfs of Kotor and Risan are divided. The town is a delight characterized by Baroque architecture overlooking the Adriatic and a unique marine atmosphere throughout Montenegro.

Looking like a chunk of Venice that has floated down the Adriatic and anchored itself onto the bay, Perast hums with melancholy memories of the days when it was rich and powerful. Despite having only one main street, this tiny town boasts 16 churches and 17 formerly grand palazzo. The town slopes down from the highway to a narrow waterfront road that runs along its length. At its heart is St Nicholas' Church, set on a small square lined with date palms and the bronze busts of famous citizens.

Do not miss the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, located on a small island in front of the coast, to be reached by boat. It dates back to the 1600s and contains several works, including a 15th century icon.