Perast is a quaint town located about 15 km from the city of Kotor. An old sailor’s town, Perast is the only coastal town in all of Montenegro that was never conquered by the Turks. The town has a small population and is peaceful, offering a host of historical sights and middle aged ruins. There is nothing modern in this small town. Everything that you see is historical from the churches to the narrow streets and the high stairs that reach up the mountainside.
If you are planning a visit to Perast you will certainly not be at a loss for things to do. Aside from the various sights of the town, there are activities to keep anyone busy. While there are no beaches in the town, there are beaches outlying that you can easily reach from the center of the small city. Various shops and markets are available for shopping and there are many quaint cafes and restaurants as well.
Perast is considered to be one of the most beautiful areas of Boka Kotorska. It is known as the quietest little town in the region and offers beautiful architecture and historical charm. There are a total of 16 palaces in the town that have been preserved. The baroque palace of Bujovic at the entrance of the town is a must see for anyone visiting. Others that have been preserved include Mazarovic, Viskovic, Bronza and several others.
The palaces represent the 12 Perast clans or brotherhoods. There are fewer than 500 citizens in the town which makes it a very peaceful tourist destination. Walking through the area gives you an instant impression of the baroque and renaissance periods. During the winter months, the town offers more sunlight and warm days than other tourist destinations along the Azure Coast.
From July through August, there are festivals held in Perast. The traditional Fasinada is a ritual procession of boats and barges that takes stones to place on the Island Gospa od Skrpjela. In August, the Meeting of Music Clappers is held in the town where singers compete. There are no beaches in the town but there are splendid views of the bay and various other activities to keep tourists interested. Some of the most beautiful beaches in the region are just a few minutes away. Budva is within 30 minutes of Perast and offers splendid beaches and all of the water activities you would expect in the Mediterranean.
The old town of Kotor is just about 15 km away and offers a number of daytime and nighttime activities. Those who prefer the nightlife will find many party places in Kotor including a variety of outdoor cafes and various bars. Those looking for a peaceful retreat are sure to enjoy the atmosphere in Perast. If you are looking for a holiday destination where you can leave the world behind, this is an excellent choice. From the old buildings to the old streets, this is a quaint town that seems to be lost in the past.