15 Must-Buy Items in Kotor, Montenegro

Picture yourself in charming ports brimming with history; if that sounds appealing, a European cruise is calling your name. When you set sail on a Dinogo® cruise ship, you have the chance to explore Kotor, Montenegro. As you wander through this captivating village, think about picking up some of these top 15 souvenirs.

1. Kapa

Nothing symbolizes a nation quite like its traditional attire, and in Montenegro, the kapa is a quintessential piece. This round black cap is adorned with a red top and features an embroidered design inspired by Montenegro’s coat of arms. To take home a genuine piece of Kotor’s heritage, search for a kapa in the local markets or souvenir shops.

2. Olive Oil

With numerous olive groves scattered throughout Montenegro, it’s no wonder that olive oil plays a vital role in the nation’s culinary landscape. For food enthusiasts, this premium, low-acid staple serves as an excellent souvenir or gift. You can easily find it in Kotor's grocery stores and local markets.

When bringing your olive oil or any other food items back to your Dinogo ship, ensure they remain sealed and unopened for the duration of your journey.

3. Vranac Wine

Alongside olive groves, Montenegro boasts a variety of vineyards featuring a unique grape known as the Vranac. This grape, which can only be found in Kotor and select regions of Macedonia and Croatia, produces a spectrum of flavors ranging from black currant and cherry to chocolate, and it is distinguished by its deep red hue.

Keep in mind that each adult is permitted to bring back one bottle of duty-free alcohol on the ship, which Dinogo staff will securely store until your journey concludes.

4. Grape Vinegar

Another delightful culinary staple from Montenegro is grape vinegar. This tangy creation made from sour grapes imparts a distinctive flavor perfect for salads, sauces, and pickling. You can find bottles of grape vinegar in Kotor’s grocery stores and markets.

5. Rakija

For those who appreciate fine spirits, rakija is a local favorite. This brandy-like beverage is crafted from fermented grapes, making it a perfect souvenir to bring home and share with friends and family. You can easily find rakija in Kotor's grocery stores and markets.

6. Brojanica

As you explore the shops in Kotor, keep an eye out for vibrant, knotted prayer bracelets known as brojanica. These bracelets can vary in the number of knots, but many locals favor those with 33 knots, symbolizing the age at which Jesus passed. Traditionally black, these bracelets, often worn by Eastern Orthodox Christians, are now available in a wide array of colors.

7. Montenegrin Honey

Montenegro boasts a rich and diverse array of plant life, making it an ideal region for beekeeping and honey production. The varieties of honey available in Montenegro include flower, sage, chestnut, and black locust. Be sure to grab a small jar while in Kotor to take home as a delightful breakfast topping for your cereal, toast, or yogurt.

8. More Bee-Related Products

Alongside top-notch honey, you’ll discover a range of other bee-related products. While shopping in Kotor, keep an eye out for bee pollen, royal jelly, beeswax candles, and honey-infused soaps, lotions, or cosmetics.

9. Antiques

If you love hunting for antiques, you’re in the perfect place! Kotor offers a variety of shops where you can find jewelry and teapots made from Balkan silver, religious crosses, kilim rugs, intricately carved wooden boxes, glass vases, and many other beautiful items. Some shops even serve a refreshing glass of Montenegrin prosecco while you browse.

10. Artisanal Jams

Embrace a charming Balkan custom by picking up a few jars of artisanal jam to bring home as gifts. With figs, strawberries, blackberries, and quince all native to Montenegro, you’ll have plenty of delicious options. Look for a range of locally-made jams in the grocery stores of Kotor.

11. Feline-Related Souvenirs

If you’re seeking unique things to do in Kotor, why not visit the local cat museum and pick up some souvenirs while you're there? A stroll through this charming, cat-themed museum will reveal felines adorning everything from book covers to newspapers, postcards, and artwork.

When you purchase a souvenir like a kitty magnet or figurine, the proceeds contribute to the care of the city’s large stray cat population.

12. Lavender

Lavender flourishes in Montenegro, making it easy to find in various forms—from dried stems and leaves to beautiful flowers—in shops and markets throughout Kotor. Look for lovely bags filled with lavender, or consider potpourri and scented sachets for your drawers and pillowcases.

13. Packaged Herbal Tea

The locals of Montenegro often use dried herbs for their health benefits, so consider picking up a few packs of herbal tea while you’re in Kotor. Enjoy mint tea for better digestion, chamomile tea for restful sleep, and sage tea to soothe a sore throat or cough.

14. Products Featuring Images of Kotor

Few vacation spots can rival the charm and beauty of Kotor, Montenegro. As you explore the city’s ancient stone walls and stunning mountains, don’t forget to grab some postcards, a calendar, or a framed watercolor painting from the local gift shops or markets throughout Kotor.

15. Books

If you're intrigued by Kotor's local culture, consider exploring the delightful village on foot. In addition to your tours, you can find books on local history, geography, folklore, and cuisine at various gift stores, markets, and souvenir shops throughout the town.

As you plan your next vacation, think about taking a cruise around Europe. Once you arrive in the stunningly picturesque port of Kotor, Montenegro, you might never want to leave. Luckily, any of these 15 souvenirs will help preserve the memories of your incredible trip for years to come.