St. John’s Fortress, Kotor, Montenegro

This site has a certain reputation for overtourism, but you can beat the crowds and the heat if you start walking to the top before 7 am (the ticket booth isn’t open yet, but you can pay on your way down). The hike up to St. John’s Fortress takes 1.5 to 2 hours  round-trip and is the fastest way to the top – reasonable fitness required. You’ll be able to enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Kotor before the cruise ships dock. Once you reach the top, there are plenty of spots for a picnic.