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

Should you visit Dijon or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Dijon 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.

Dijon

Dijon is a historical, cultural, and laid-back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful coastal town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Dijon and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dijon or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Dijon. Although Dijon and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Dijon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Dijon is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Dijon is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its cuisine, wine, and nearby vineyards. It is also home to The Ducal Palace. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Dijon different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Dijon specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Dijon and Kotor.

For foodies, Dijon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Kotor has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Dijon or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Dijon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

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 Dijon or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a moderate coastal town for its resorts. However, Dijon is not a resort destination.

Kotor has a few resort options worth checking out. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Dijon is not a resort destination.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a popular place for its beaches. However, Dijon is not a beach destination.

Kotor is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Dijon is not a beach destination.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is terrific for its historic old town. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon does not have a historic old town.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Dijon 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.

Dijon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dijon or Kotor?

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

Dijon is a great destination for shopping. For the best shopping in town, head to the main shopping street - Rue de la Liberté. It's lined with everything from clothing stores to wine shops and larger department stores. You'll even be able to pick up some of the famed mustard while you're in town.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Dijon or Kotor.

Dijon is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the open space that the city offers. There are parks where they can run around, like The Parc de la Colombieres which has a carousel and a ropes course. There are also many museums including two favorites for young ones - Musee de la Vie Bourguignonne and Musee d'Histoire Naturelle.

Kotor is a family-friendly city. 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 Dijon or Kotor Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Dijon and Kotor make for a great place to visit.

Dijon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Art, palaces, gardens, and fine wine make it a perfect couple's getaway. There is some of the best food in France, as well as a welcoming culture and many beautiful sights to explore.

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.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is notable for backpackers. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Dijon is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's a beautiful city with a touristy vibe, so you'll likely meet other travelers while you're in town.

Is Dijon or Kotor Better for Students?

Dijon is very good for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Dijon is popular with students. While it's quieter than the bigger cities, you'll find a young vibe and enough of a nightlife scene to keep it interesting.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Dijon 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 Dijon, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

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 Dijon or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is terrific for its walkability. Also, Dijon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Dijon is a somewhat walkable place. Most of the inner city is walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Dijon?

How long in Dijon or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Dijon or Kotor. In our opinion, Kotor has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Kotor than Dijon. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dijon, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

In Dijon, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

Even though Kotor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This coastal 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.

A weekend in Dijon or Kotor?

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

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

Five days in Dijon or Kotor?

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

Kotor is a fun place to experience. Kotor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dijon or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Dijon. 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.

Kotor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Dijon or Kotor?

Dijon has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Dijon 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 Dijon 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 Dijon or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dijon and Kotor. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dijon 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.

Dijon is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Dijon averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Dijon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Dijon usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Dijon gets 266 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Dijon usually receives more rain than Kotor. Dijon gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dijon or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dijon as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Dijon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Dijon is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Dijon in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In the autumn, Dijon often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Dijon gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Dijon usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Dijon gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dijon or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Dijon are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Dijon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

Dijon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Dijon is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Dijon average around 3°C (38°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Dijon usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Dijon gets 53 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, Dijon usually receives less rain than Kotor. Dijon gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dijon or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Dijon during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Dijon for the activities around the city 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.

Dijon is cooler than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Dijon averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Dijon often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Dijon gets 178 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. Dijon usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Dijon gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Dijon