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

Should you visit Chania or Kotor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Chania or Kotor, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Chania

Chania is a charming, picturesque, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote 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.

Chania and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Chania or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Chania than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Chania is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is more popular for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Chania is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. Also, Chania is famous for The Venetian Harbor. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Chania different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Chania specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Chania and Kotor both to be terrific destinations.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Chania is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

Many restaurants in Kotor have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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 Chania or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Chania has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

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 Chania or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Chania is not a resort destination.

Is Chania or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Chania and Kotor.

Chania has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Is Chania or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Chania is a world-class destination for its beaches. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

With world-famous beaches, Chania is a very popular vacation destination. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

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 Chania or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Kotor is revered around the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Chania is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Is Chania or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Known for its hiking, Kotor draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. 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 go to Chania for the hiking trails. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Is the Shopping Better in Chania or Kotor?

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

Chania is a great destination for shopping. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chania or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Chania is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

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 Chania or Kotor Better for Couples?

Chania and Kotor are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Chania frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Kotor is a great city 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 Chania or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chania and Kotor are excellent places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

Kotor is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Chania or Kotor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chania 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 Chania, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

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 Chania or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Chania 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.

Chania is very walkable. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Chania?

How long in Chania or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Chania or Kotor. In our opinion, Chania has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Chania than Kotor. However, 3-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chania 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 Chania.

One day in Chania or Kotor?

In Chania, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this picturesque destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city 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 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 Chania or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. 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.

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 Chania or Kotor?

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

You'll find museums and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Chania. 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 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 Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When comparing the travel costs between Chania and Kotor, we can see that Kotor is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chania Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Chania or Kotor?

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

Both Kotor and Chania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Chania for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Chania is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Chania in July average around 26°C (80°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 Chania. Chania usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during summer. Chania gets 380 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chania usually receives less rain than Kotor. Chania gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Chania or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Chania during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Chania because of the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In October, Chania is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Chania average around 20°C (68°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Chania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Chania gets 198 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. Chania usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Chania gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Chania or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chania and Kotor. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Chania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the cuisine.

Chania is much warmer than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Chania averages around 12°C (54°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Chania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during winter. Chania gets 118 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. Chania gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Chania usually receives less rain than Kotor. Chania gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Chania or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Chania as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Chania for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Chania is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Chania in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Chania this time of the year. In the spring, Chania often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Chania gets 237 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Chania usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Chania gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Chania