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

Should you visit Athens or Kotor?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Kotor. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a peaceful, remote, and dramatic coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Athens and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Athens than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Athens is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Athens is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Athens that are not to be missed. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Athens and Kotor can be an enjoyable experience.

Eat your way through Athens, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

For foodies, Kotor is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Athens is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

People head to Athens just to party. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Kotor as a resort destination, but it has a few places. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Kotor. 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.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a good destination for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Kotor offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Athens and Kotor.

With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

The rich history of Kotor can be explored in its historical center. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Kotor is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Kotor?

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

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Athens is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

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 Athens or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Kotor is a great coastal 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Athens is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Many backpackers 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.

Is Athens or Kotor Better for Students?

Athens is well known for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Athens is very popular with students. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Athens can move around easily with public transportation. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Kotor is a very easy coastal town to get around on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Athens?

How long in Athens or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Athens or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Athens due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Families should spend more time in Athens than Kotor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Athens. 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 Athens than Kotor 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Kotor is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Kotor?

Athens is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Athens has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kotor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Kotor, we can see that Athens is more expensive. And not only is Kotor much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kotor would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kotor and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens than you might in Kotor.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Kotor?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Kotor?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Kotor in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Kotor averages at about 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Athens in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Athens is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Kotor. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Athens for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kotor because of the cuisine.

Athens is much warmer than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Kotor. The spring months attract visitors to Athens because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In the spring, Athens is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Kotor. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Athens