Things to Do in Kotor in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Kotor
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect shoulder season with 25°C (78°F) highs - ideal for Old Town exploration without summer's 35°C+ (95°F+) heat that makes cobblestone walking unbearable
- Bay of Kotor water reaches swimmable 20°C (68°F) by late May - locals start swimming while tourists wait for peak season crowds
- Hiking season begins with clear mountain views - Lovćen and St. John's Fortress trails are accessible but snow-free, offering 50km+ (31+ mile) visibility on clear days
- Restaurant terraces fully operational with perfect evening temperatures 18-20°C (64-68°F) - outdoor dining prime time before summer's stifling humidity
Considerations
- Unpredictable rainfall with 10 rainy days averaging 20-45 minute afternoon downpours - can disrupt outdoor photography and hiking plans
- Ferry schedules to Perast and islands still limited compared to peak season - expect 30-40% fewer departures than July/August
- Some mountain restaurants and viewpoints may have reduced hours or temporary closures due to late spring maintenance
Best Activities in May
Old Town Photography Walks
May's soft morning light (sunrise 5:45am) and golden hour (sunset 7:45pm) create perfect conditions for capturing limestone architecture without harsh shadows. 70% humidity adds atmospheric haze to bay shots. Afternoon rain clears dust, leaving evening light crystal clear.
Lovćen National Park Hiking
May marks the opening of high-altitude trails after winter closures. Temperatures at 1,660m (5,446ft) Njegoš Mausoleum average 15°C (59°F) - comfortable for the 461-step climb. Clear visibility extends 40-60km (25-37 miles) on non-rainy days.
Bay of Kotor Boat Tours
Water temperature reaches 20°C (68°F) by late May - comfortable for swimming stops. Fewer boats than summer means peaceful visits to Our Lady of the Rocks island. Morning mist creates dramatic photography conditions clearing by 10-11am.
Perast and Islet Exploration
May's moderate temperatures make the baroque town's cobblestone streets comfortable for extended walking. Fewer tourists mean unobstructed photos of St. Nicholas Church and authentic interactions with locals preparing for summer season.
Wine Tasting in Montenegrin Vineyards
May coincides with vine flowering season - vineyards are lush green with developing fruit. Temperatures perfect for outdoor tastings without summer heat. Local Vranac and Krstač varieties pair excellently with spring weather.
Fortress of St. John Hiking
The 1,350-step climb to 260m (853ft) elevation is manageable in May's moderate temperatures. Clear morning views extend across entire bay system. Stone steps dry quickly after rain, making ascent safer than wet winter months.
May Events & Festivals
Bokeljska Noć (Boka Night)
Traditional boat procession celebrating Our Lady of the Rocks, featuring decorated boats with lights sailing across the bay at sunset. Locals participate in this centuries-old maritime tradition with evening festivities in waterfront restaurants.