9Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor may no longer be Europe’s best-kept secret, but its spectacular setting still deserves far more attention. The medieval town sits at the end of the Bay of Kotor, surrounded by enormous limestone mountains that rise dramatically behind the rooftops.
The old town is filled with stone squares, churches, Venetian architecture and atmospheric lanes. For the best views, climb toward the ancient fortress above the town. Looking down over the terracotta roofs and deep blue bay explains immediately why this corner of Montenegro feels so extraordinary.
