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

Should you visit Bari 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 Bari 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.

Bari

Bari is a authentic, local, and cultural port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful 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.

Bari and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bari or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bari than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bari is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Kotor is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. Bari is well known for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. Also, Bari is famous for San Nicola.

How is Bari different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Bari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Bari and Kotor.

Eat your way through Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Bari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

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 Bari or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a resort destination.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Bari and Kotor both offer notable beaches.

Bari offers a nice beach destination. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Kotor is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Kotor has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for hiking. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bari or Kotor?

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

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Bari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is a great coastal town for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Bari and Kotor are high quality places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

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.

Is Bari or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Bari is very popular with students. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Bari 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 Bari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

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 Bari or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

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

Bari is very walkable. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Bari?

How long in Bari or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Bari or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bari, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

One day in Bari or Kotor?

In Bari, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Kotor is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bari or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bari or Kotor?

Bari is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bari. Lots of people come for the food. 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 small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bari or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Bari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Because Kotor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When comparing the travel costs between Bari and Kotor, we can see that Bari 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 Bari Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bari or Kotor?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Bari 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 Bari 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 Bari or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bari as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, 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, Bari is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bari in July average around 25°C (76°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 Bari this time of the year. In the summer, Bari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Bari gets 336 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Bari gets 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Bari are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bari in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. 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, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 18°C (65°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Bari usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Bari gets 178 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, Bari usually receives less rain than Kotor. Bari gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bari or Kotor in the Winter?

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

Bari is much warmer than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Bari averages around 10°C (49°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Bari often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Bari gets 110 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. Bari usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Bari gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Kotor in the Spring?

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

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

In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during spring. Bari gets 203 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, Bari usually receives less rain than Kotor. Bari gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Bari