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

Should you visit Cagliari 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 Cagliari and Kotor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back 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 beautiful, charming, and historic coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cagliari and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cagliari or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Cagliari and Kotor are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Cagliari different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Cagliari specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is an amazing coastal town to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Cagliari is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

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 Cagliari or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Cagliari is well known for its beaches. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Cagliari is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

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.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is an amazing coastal town to visit for its old town. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Kotor offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to see the historical old town. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an amazing coastal town to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cagliari or Kotor?

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

Cagliari is a great destination for shopping. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Cagliari is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

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 Cagliari or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Cagliari makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Cagliari or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Cagliari or Kotor Better for Students?

Cagliari is very good for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Cagliari is popular with students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Cagliari 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 Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

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 Cagliari or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is an amazing coastal town to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kotor. The old town is best explored on foot.

Cagliari is a very walkable destination. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Cagliari?

How long in Cagliari or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Cagliari 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 Cagliari, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

One day in Cagliari or Kotor?

In Cagliari, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this under-rated destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This 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. 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 Cagliari or Kotor?

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

Cagliari is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cagliari. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Cagliari or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Cagliari. Most people come for the beaches. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cagliari and Kotor, we can see that Cagliari 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 Cagliari would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cagliari 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 Cagliari Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cagliari or Kotor?

Cagliari has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Cagliari 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 Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Cagliari during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, 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, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 24°C (75°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cagliari. In the summer, Cagliari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Cagliari gets 337 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Cagliari usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Cagliari gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cagliari or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cagliari and Kotor. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is around the same temperature as Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cagliari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Cagliari gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Kotor. Cagliari gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cagliari or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cagliari as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

In the winter, Cagliari is much warmer than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cagliari in January average around 10°C (50°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Cagliari often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Cagliari gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Cagliari usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Cagliari 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 Cagliari or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Cagliari are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Cagliari is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Cagliari average around 14°C (57°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. Cagliari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during spring. Cagliari gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In April, Cagliari usually receives less rain than Kotor. Cagliari gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Cagliari