A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chamonix-Mont-Blanc vs. Kotor for Food, Resorts, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a majestic, world-class, and spectacular mountain town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and skiing.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc
Pros
  • 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
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor are popular destinations, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its skiing, nightlife, and resorts, while Kotor attracts visitors for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also well known for Mont Blanc. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for winter skiing. However, Kotor is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the world's best ski destinations. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Kotor is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Kotor is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Kotor, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an experience not to be missed. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well known for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Kotor is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a perfect choice. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski 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.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Kotor is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Kotor is a good destination for the beache. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Kotor offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Kotor is terrific for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Hiking trails can be found around both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor, and they are first-rate.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

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.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

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

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very family-friendly place to visit. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Kotor is a great mountain town if you're traveling as 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.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Kotor is a very popular mountain 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.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can get you around easily. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor a more walkable city?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Kotor

Kotor is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting? and Is Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Kotor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kotor than Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7 
    Kotor 3-4

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this epic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This mountain town 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 with plenty to do. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Kotor for a weekend. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fun place to experience. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Because Kotor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this world-class destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.


Which place is cheaper, Kotor or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235, 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
    Kotor 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
    Kotor 98
Compare Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor

Looking for a hotel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices and Kotor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40
    Kotor 9.26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $161
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $136
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $152
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kotor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kotor:

  • 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: $119
  • Private transfer Tivat(Kotor)-Dubrovnik: $147

Is it cheaper to fly into Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

Prices for flights to both Kotor and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48
    Kotor 43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

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.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
    Kotor 8.32

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $143
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538

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
  • 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
  • Bike tour - Downhill from Njegos Mausoleum to Kotor bay: $131

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64
    Kotor 8.51

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kotor, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kotor?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.