A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cape Sounion vs. Kotor for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Beaches

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a spectacular, iconic, and impressive destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and museums.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cape Sounion and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kotor than Cape Sounion, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kotor is better known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Cape Sounion is more popular for its museums. Cape Sounion is well known for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. Also, Kotor is famous for The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Cape Sounion different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion that are not to be missed. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Both Cape Sounion and Kotor have respectable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cape Sounion. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Kotor is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

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

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

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

Cape Sounion is a good option for a beach vacation. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

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 Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

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

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.


Is Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cape Sounion or Kotor.

Cape Sounion is a family-friendly destination. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kotor. 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 Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Kotor makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.


Is Cape Sounion or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

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 Cape Sounion or Kotor a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.


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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Cape Sounion or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Cape Sounion, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Families should spend more time in Kotor than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Kotor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Kotor 3-4

One day in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

In Cape Sounion, many people enjoy the food and museums that this iconic destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This destination 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 travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. 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 fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

Cape Sounion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Cape Sounion. Lots of people come for the museums. 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. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Cape Sounion or Kotor?

You'll find museums and food around the spectacular destination of Cape Sounion. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kotor is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.


Which place is cheaper, Kotor or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Kotor is €100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Sounion and Kotor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Kotor 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Kotor 98
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Kotor

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Kotor? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Sounion


Hotels in Kotor


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kotor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Kotor 9.26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kotor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kotor:

  • Transfer service: $131
  • Transfer from Tivat airport to Dubrovnik city: $96
  • Transfer from Tivat Airport to Budva: $65
  • Transfer from Kotor to Podgorica: $58
  • Transfer Tivat Airport to Kotor old town : $55
  • Transfer Tivat Airport - Kotor Old Town (and viceversa): $53
  • Transfer Portonovi / Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik Old Town: $251
  • Tivat to Kotor one way transfer: $102
  • Tivat hotels to Kotor Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $16
  • Tivat Airport (TIV): Private Transfer to Kotor Cruise Port: $90
  • Private transfer from Kotor to Dubrovnik: $240
  • Private transfer from Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik airport: $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Kotor?

Prices for flights to both Kotor and Cape Sounion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Sounion 41
    Kotor 43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kotor

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Kotor.

  • Kotor City Tour and Cooking Class : $203
  • Kotor private cooking class with lunch and Old town guided tour: $226
  • Kotor and Perast Private Tour with Cooking Class and Boat Ride: $262
  • Cooking class in a local home & old town walking tour: $306

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Kotor 8.32

Tours and Activities in Kotor

Here are a few actual costs in Kotor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Blue Cave, Lady of Rocks and Mamula Speed Boat Tour : $44
  • "Adriatic Adventure: Blue Cave & Islands Speedboat Tour": $46
  • 1-Day Montenegro Hiking Tour to Durmitor National Park : $119
  • 3 Hour Speed Boat Tour to Blue Cave with WiFi and Drinks: $55
  • 3-Hour Blue Cave and Our Lady of the Rocks Private Speedboat Tour: $294
  • Adventure park ’Lovcen’ and Njegos’s Mausoleum : $198
  • All inclusive - Lovcen tour: $131
  • Bay of 2-Hour Stand Up Paddle Board Tour: $53
  • Bay of 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour: $53
  • Bay of 2.5-Hour Kayak Tour : $55
  • Bike & hike tour : $82
  • Bike tour - Downhill from Njegos Mausoleum to Kotor bay: $134

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Kotor 8.51

Sample the Local Flavors in Kotor

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Kotor:

  • Private tour: Homemade food and wine tasting at my family home: $125
  • Private National Park Lovcen with food and wine tasting: $136
  • Wine tasting and magical tour from Kotor, Budva, Tivat (Lovcen,Skadar lake): $251
  • National Parks Skadar Lake and Lovcen+Wine tasting (Private tour): $260
  • Skadar Lake National Park with Wine Tasting: $428


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


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Kotor?

Kotor has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Cape Sounion during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the summer, Cape Sounion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Kotor 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Kotor. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Cape Sounion is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 19°C (67°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Cape Sounion gets 206 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, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Kotor. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Kotor 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Kotor. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

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

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

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Kotor 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty 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, Cape Sounion is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cape Sounion in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Cape Sounion gets 226 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, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Kotor. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Kotor 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Kotor and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Kotor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 172 mm (6.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 173 mm (6.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 224 mm (8.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 215 mm (8.5 in)