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

Should you visit Budapest or Kotor?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Budapest and Kotor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Budapest

Budapest is a cultural, artistic, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Budapest and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Budapest or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Budapest. Although Budapest and Kotor are popular destinations, Budapest has more sights and attractions for tourists. Budapest is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Budapest is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Hungarian Parliament Building. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Budapest different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Budapest specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kotor has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Budapest or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Budapest is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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 Budapest or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Not known for its high-end resorts, Kotor offers a few options. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Budapest or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Budapest or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is very good for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kotor to enjoy the beach. 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Budapest or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

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

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 go to Budapest to see the historical old town. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Is Budapest or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Kotor specifically for its hiking. 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Budapest or Kotor?

Budapest is well known for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Budapest is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Budapest or Kotor Better for Families?

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either Budapest or Kotor.

Budapest offers lots of family activities. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

Kotor is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Budapest or Kotor Better for Couples?

Both Budapest and Kotor are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Budapest is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Kotor is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Budapest or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Budapest is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

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 Budapest or Kotor Better for Students?

Budapest is a world-class destination for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Budapest can get you around easily. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Budapest or Kotor a more walkable city?

Budapest and Kotor are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

Budapest is a very easy city to get around on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

It is easy to get around Kotor on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Budapest?

How long in Budapest or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Budapest or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Budapest due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Budapest, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

One day in Budapest or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Budapest 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 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 Budapest or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Budapest. 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 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 Budapest or Kotor?

Budapest is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Budapest 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.

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 Budapest or Kotor?

You'll find nightlife and shopping around the authentic big city of Budapest. 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 The Best 10-Day Tours from Budapest, The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Budapest and Kotor, we can see that Kotor is more expensive. And not only is Budapest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Budapest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Budapest 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 Kotor would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kotor than you might in Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Budapest or Kotor?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Budapest 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 Budapest 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 Budapest or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Budapest as well as Kotor. The summer months attract visitors to Budapest because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In July, Budapest is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 21°C (70°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 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 Budapest this time of the year. In the summer, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Budapest gets 278 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Budapest usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Kotor. Budapest gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Budapest are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Budapest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Budapest is cooler than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Budapest averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Budapest gets 152 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, Budapest usually receives less rain than Kotor. Budapest gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Budapest or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Budapest during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Budapest for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Budapest. In the winter, Budapest is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Budapest in January average around -1°C (31°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Budapest often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Budapest gets 61 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. Budapest usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Budapest or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Budapest and Kotor. Many visitors come to Budapest in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Budapest is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Budapest average around 12°C (53°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Budapest usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Budapest gets 178 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, Budapest usually receives less rain than Kotor. Budapest gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Budapest