What to Buy in Kotor, Montenegro

Tucked between dramatic mountains and the deep-blue waters of the Adriatic, Kotor is a medieval gem that feels like it was pulled straight from the pages of a fairytale. But, beyond the stone walls and narrow alleyways of Old Town, Kotor is also home to a treasure trove of authentic keepsakes just waiting to be discovered. If you’re wondering what to buy in Kotor, you’ll find everything from artisan crafts to gourmet goodies that reflect the culture, history and flavors of Montenegro.

Here’s a guide to the top 10 Kotor souvenirs you’ll want to browse, sample and stuff into every spare inch of your suitcase.

1. Montenegrin Wine & Rakija

Start your shopping journey with a taste of the region — literally. Montenegro may be small, but its wine scene is mighty. Local favorites include Vranac — a bold red varietal — and Krstač — a crisp white that’s perfect for warm coastal days. You’ll also find rakija, a strong fruit brandy traditionally made from grapes, plums or figs.

Wine shops in Old Town often let you sample before you buy. Many bottles are beautifully labeled — perfect for gifting or savoring when you're home.

2. Olive Oil From the Bay of Kotor

Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Montenegro produces rich, aromatic olive oil — and some of the best comes from the orchards around the Bay of Kotor. Locally pressed and often infused with herbs like rosemary or garlic, it’s a culinary souvenir with serious flavor.

Look for small bottles at artisan food shops or open-air markets. Pair it with some local sea salt and you’ve got a gourmet gift set.

3. Handmade Soaps & Skincare

With natural ingredients like lavender, honey, olive oil and mountain herbs, Montenegro’s handmade soaps and lotions are a treat for the senses. In Kotor’s Old Town, you’ll find small shops selling locally-made products, often beautifully packaged and perfect for travel.

They smell amazing, support local makers and make thoughtful gifts — or a luxurious addition to your own bathroom.

4. Traditional Embroidery & Textiles

If you’re after a more personal, handcrafted souvenir, don’t skip the textile stalls. Montenegrin embroidery is often done by hand, featuring traditional geometric patterns or floral motifs. From tablecloths to napkins and wall hangings, these pieces feel both rustic and refined.

They’re easy to roll up and pack — and they bring a little slice of Montenegro’s heritage into your home décor.

5. Locally-Made Jewelry

Jewelry lovers, rejoice. Kotor is home to several artisan jewelers creating one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the sea, mountains and Montenegro’s rich history. Think coral and pearl designs, filigree silverwork and natural stone accents.

Whether you’re browsing for a unique necklace or a simple pair of earrings, local boutiques offer quality craftsmanship with a personal touch.

6. Lavender Sachets & Oils

Lavender grows wild along Montenegro’s coast, and it’s put to good use in fragrant sachets, essential oils and handmade products. You’ll spot them in baskets outside gift shops or bundled with soaps and bath salts.

Lightweight and soothing, they make excellent gifts or suitcase-friendly treats to keep your clothes smelling fresh on the trip home.

7. Smoked Njeguši Ham

You might not think of cured meat as a souvenir, but Njeguški pršut — smoked ham from the mountain village of Njeguši — is a Montenegrin delicacy. Cured with sea salt and smoked over beechwood, it’s rich, savory and often compared to Italian prosciutto.

Vacuum-sealed packages are available at specialty food shops and stalls in Njeguši or Kotor. It's a favorite among foodies wondering what to buy in Kotor that’s truly local.

8. Montenegrin Cheese

In the same shops where you find smoked ham, you’ll often see wheels of regional cheese — like the creamy lisnati sir or aged goat cheese wrapped in herbs. These can usually be vacuum-sealed for travel, making them a delicious addition to any post-cruise snack board.

Add a bottle of wine and some local olives, and you’ve got yourself a Montenegro-themed picnic.

9. Hand-Painted Ceramics

Montenegrin pottery may not be as internationally famous as some of its Balkan neighbors', but it’s just as charming. Hand-painted bowls, mugs and plates often feature nautical themes, red-roofed village scenes or traditional patterns in earthy colors.

These ceramics are easy to find in Old Town gift shops and make for lovely, functional souvenirs.

10. Local Art & Postcards

For a lasting visual memory of your time in Kotor, look for watercolors, sketches or prints by local artists. Many depict the city’s medieval walls, boats bobbing in the bay or mountain landscapes with moody skies.

Even a simple postcard — especially one with hand-painted flair — can become a framed memento of your trip.

Shopping Excursions in Kotor

Want to mix shopping with sightseeing? These guided excursions offer the perfect combination of history, local flavor and time to browse:

• Bay of Kotor
  • Cruise to the tiny islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, explore Perast with 45 minutes of free time for shopping and snacks and end with a guided tour of Kotor’s Old Town.
• Discover Montenegro
  • Take in panoramic views from Lovcen Mountain, explore Njeguši Village (home of smoked ham and cheese) and enjoy time on your own in historic Cetinje before riding along the stunning Budva Riviera.

Both tours balance storytelling with souvenir-hunting — and take the hassle out of navigating winding mountain roads or ferrying between towns.

What to Buy in Kotor?

If you’re wondering what to buy in Kotor, consider bottles of Montenegrin wine and fragrant lavender sachets. There's also smoked ham from the mountains and delicate silver jewelry. Kotor souvenirs offer more than just memories — they offer a piece of this stunning Adriatic haven. So, take your time strolling through Old Town, pop into hidden shops and let the spirit of Montenegro inspire your finds. With a little luck (and a little extra room in your bag), you’ll head home with keepsakes you’ll treasure long after your journey ends.

Keep Exploring Kotor, Montenegro

Want to learn more about this gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:

• Kotor, Montenegro Shore Excursions - Uncover the best of Kotor with shore excursions that take you on unforgettable adventures.
• When is the Best Time to Visit Montenegro? - Plan the best time for your perfect getaway.