A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arachova vs. Kotor for Food, Old Town, Hiking, and Nightlife

Should you visit Arachova or Kotor?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Arachova or Kotor, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Kotor

Kotor is a peaceful, remote, and dramatic coastal town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and food.

Arachova and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Arachova or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Arachova. Although Arachova and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Arachova has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Arachova is more popular for its skiing, museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Kotor is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Arachova is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing. It is also home to Mount Parnassus Ski Resort. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Arachova different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kotor and Arachova. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Skiing?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova is very good for winter skiing. However, Kotor is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Kotor is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arachova or Kotor?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Arachova is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Arachova or Kotor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kotor is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova is well known for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.


Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is a coastal town with a few options for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Kotor has a few resort options worth checking out. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

Kotor has a beach worth visiting. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Arachova is not a beach destination.


Is Arachova or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kotor offers plenty to see. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Arachova is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Kotor draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

Many visitors go to Arachova for the hiking trails. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Arachova or Kotor?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova is very good for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Arachova is a great destination for shopping. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Families?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Arachova is a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Kotor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Couples?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova and Kotor are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arachova frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Kotor is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Kotor. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.


Is Arachova or Kotor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arachova
Kotor

Arachova is very good for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Arachova, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are some public buses in the area.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is Arachova or Kotor a more walkable city?

Arachova
Kotor

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored on foot.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Arachova Worth Visiting? and Is Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Arachova?

How long in Arachova or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Arachova or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Arachova, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Arachova. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kotor that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kotor than Arachova if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kotor.


  • How many days in Arachova or Kotor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arachova 2-3 
    Kotor 3-4

One day in Arachova or Kotor?

In Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Kotor is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Arachova or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kotor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Arachova or Kotor?

Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Arachova or Kotor?

You'll find museums and skiing around the outdoorsy destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kotor is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.


Which place is cheaper, Kotor or Arachova?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arachova is €112, while the average daily cost in Kotor is €100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arachova and Kotor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arachova 50
    Kotor 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arachova 100
    Kotor 98
Compare Hotels in Arachova and Kotor

Looking for a hotel in Arachova or Kotor? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arachova


Hotels in Kotor


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kotor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arachova 51
    Kotor 9.26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kotor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kotor:

  • Tivat Airport (TIV) to Kotor Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Lustica Bay: $153
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Podgorica City: $272
  • Deluxe private transfer from or to Portonovi: $52
  • Enjoy Private Transfers by Car or Van from Tivat Airport to Kotor or Budva: $44
  • Herceg Novi to Kotor one way transfer: $144
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Podgorica Airport (TGD) - Departure Private Transfer: $47
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Podgorica hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Tivat Hotels Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Podgorica hotels: $297
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tivat hotels: $90
  • Kotor to Dubrovnik one way transfer: $154

Is it cheaper to fly into Arachova or Kotor?

Prices for flights to both Kotor and Arachova change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arachova 29
    Kotor 43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kotor

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Kotor.

  • Kotor City Tour and Cooking Class : $203
  • Kotor private cooking class with lunch and Old town guided tour: $226
  • Kotor and Perast Private Tour with Cooking Class and Boat Ride: $262
  • Cooking class in a local home & old town walking tour: $306

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arachova 28
    Kotor 8.32

Tours and Activities in Kotor

Here are a few actual costs in Kotor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Private Walking Tour in Kotor : $22
  • Kotor Old Town - City Walking Tour: $24
  • Kotor Old Town Walking Tour: $24
  • Panorama and Semi-Submarine Underwater Experience: $24
  • Tour Kotor - Perast Old Town - Island Our Lady of the Rocks - Every 2 hours: $26
  • Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks: $27
  • Kotor Old Town Small-Group Walking Tour: $33
  • Whole Boka Bay Cruise with Ship Knez Lipovac: $33
  • Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks Boat Tour: $33
  • Shore Excursion - Handwoven Carpet Workshop, Local wine and Kotor Old Town tour : $34
  • Blue Cave Speedboat Tour from Kotor: $35
  • Speedboat tour Kotor Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rock,swiming: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arachova 6.43
    Kotor 8.51

Sample the Local Flavors in Kotor

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Kotor:

  • Private tour: Homemade food and wine tasting at my family home: $125
  • Private National Park Lovcen with food and wine tasting: $136
  • Wine tasting and magical tour from Kotor, Budva, Tivat (Lovcen,Skadar lake): $251
  • National Parks Skadar Lake and Lovcen+Wine tasting (Private tour): $260
  • Skadar Lake National Park with Wine Tasting: $428


When comparing the travel costs between Arachova and Kotor, we can see that Arachova is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arachova Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arachova or Kotor?

Kotor has a larger population, and is about 34% larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Arachova and Kotor, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arachova or Kotor?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arachova or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Arachova are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arachova for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arachova. Arachova usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Arachova gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arachova usually receives less rain than Kotor. Arachova gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arachova 27°C (81°F) 
    Kotor 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Arachova during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Arachova because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In the autumn, Arachova is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Arachova in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Arachova. In the autumn, Arachova often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Arachova gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Arachova usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Arachova gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arachova 19°C (67°F) 
    Kotor 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arachova and Kotor. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Arachova this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the cuisine.

In January, Arachova is generally much warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Arachova average around 10°C (51°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Arachova usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during winter. Arachova gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Arachova usually receives less rain than Kotor. Arachova gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arachova 10°C (51°F) 
    Kotor 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Arachova or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arachova as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Arachova for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Arachova is around the same temperature as Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Arachova averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arachova this time of the year. In the spring, Arachova often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Arachova gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Arachova usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Arachova gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arachova 16°C (60°F) 
    Kotor 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Kotor and Arachova

Arachova Kotor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 172 mm (6.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 173 mm (6.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 224 mm (8.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 215 mm (8.5 in)