A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Calais vs. Kotor for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Calais or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Calais or Kotor? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Calais

Calais is a authentic, undiscovered, and coastal 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 remote, dramatic, and scenic coastal town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and food.

Calais and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Calais or Kotor?

Both Kotor and Calais have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Calais is better known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Kotor is more touristy than Calais and is known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. Calais is well known for being a gateway for travelers to France.

How is Calais different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Calais is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's a port city with a few good museums and landmarks to see. Check out the Town Hall, Burghers of Calais, La Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode, and Musée de la Guerre de Calais, as well as the Calais Lighthouse.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Calais. The region is known for its mackerel, andouillette sausage, and endive and ham gratin. If you're passing through, this is also a good place to stock up on wine and cheese.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Calais is very good for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Calais has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find bars and pubs around town as well as a few clubs. Places range from trendy and high end to local dive 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 Calais or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a coastal town with a few options for its resorts. However, Calais 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.

Calais is not a resort destination.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Calais is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Calais is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Calais and Kotor are notable choices.

Calais is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some sandy beaches near town that have nice stretches of sand and plenty of sand dunes. Many locals enjoy sunbathing at the beaches.

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.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. However, Calais does not have a historic old town.

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.

Calais does not have a historic old town.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a must-visit destination for its hiking experiences. However, Calais is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kotor specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Calais is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Calais or Kotor?

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

Calais is a great destination for shopping. Many visitors stock up on wine and cheese when they're passing through. It's common to head straight to Auchan or Carrefour to stock up on some items.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Calais or Kotor.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Calais. There's the Nausicaa Aquarium, the Museum of the Atlantic Wall, and the Second World War Museum. There are also beaches and parks to explore as well as some nice playgrounds.

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 Calais or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is well known for couples. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

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.

Calais is a nice destination for couples. Couples can picnic with wine and cheese or eat their way through the town's great restaurants. There are also some nice beaches where people enjoy sunbathing or relaxing.

Is Calais or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kotor is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Calais is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. This part of France is often overlooked by tourists so you won't find many backpackers or hostels in the area. It does offer a glimpse into an authentic side of France.

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

Calais 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 Calais, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has 13 bus lines that run through town and into the surrounding areas. If you're arriving by ferry from the UK, there are shuttle buses that connect the ferry terminal to the train station.

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 Calais or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Calais is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Calais is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Calais?

How long in Calais or Kotor?

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

Families should spend more time in Kotor than Calais. 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 Calais. 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 Calais 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 Calais or Kotor?

In Calais, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this authentic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Calais or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Calais. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 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 Calais or Kotor?

Calais is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Calais. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Calais or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Calais. 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 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 Budget Tours to France, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Calais or Kotor?

Calais has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Calais 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 Calais 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 Calais or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Calais are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Calais this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Calais is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Calais in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Kotor averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Calais. Calais usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Calais gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Calais usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kotor. Calais gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Calais or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Calais during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Calais for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Calais is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Calais average around 12°C (54°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Calais often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Calais gets 119 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. Calais usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Calais gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Calais or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Calais and Kotor. Many visitors come to Calais in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

Calais can get quite cold in the winter. Calais is cooler than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Calais averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Calais usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Calais gets 57 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, Calais usually receives less rain than Kotor. Calais gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Calais or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Calais as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Calais for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Calais is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Calais in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Calais often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Calais gets 162 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Calais usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Calais gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Calais