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

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

Catania

Catania is a youthful, fun, and historic port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Catania and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Kotor are popular destinations, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is very popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Catania is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also well known for Mount Etna. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Catania different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Catania is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Catania and Kotor offer fantastic local cuisine and restaurants.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kotor is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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 Catania or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Catania is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

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 Catania or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a moderate coastal town for its resorts. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a resort destination.

Is Catania or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Catania or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Catania and Kotor are nice choices for a beach vacation.

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

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 Catania or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is very popular for its old town. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its historic old town charm.

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

Catania has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Is Catania or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its hiking trails.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Catania. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Kotor?

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

Catania is a great destination for shopping. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Catania or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Catania is a very family-friendly place to visit. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

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 Catania or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Catania and Kotor are very good destinations for backpackers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

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.

Is Catania or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Catania is well known for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Catania can move around easily with public transportation. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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 Catania or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Catania is a very walkable destination. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Catania?

How long in Catania or Kotor?

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

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

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

One day in Catania or Kotor?

In Catania, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this lively destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Catania or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Catania. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Catania or Kotor?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Catania. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Catania or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the lively destination of Catania. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking 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 Catania and Kotor, we can see that Catania 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 Catania would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Catania 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 Catania Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Kotor?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Kotor. The summer months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, 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, Catania is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 26°C (79°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Kotor. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Catania as well as Kotor. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Catania is a little warmer than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In the autumn, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Catania receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Catania usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

In the winter, Catania is much warmer than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Catania in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In January, Catania usually receives less rain than Kotor. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Catania during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Catania 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, Catania is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 15°C (58°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Catania. In the spring, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Catania usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Catania