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

Should you visit Galway or Kotor?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Galway and Kotor can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Galway

Galway is a lively, friendly, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a peaceful, remote, and dramatic 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.

Galway and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Galway or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Galway and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Kotor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Galway is known for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Kotor is more touristy than Galway and is known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also home to The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral). Galway is popular for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Galway different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Galway is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Galway is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

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 Galway or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Galway is not a resort destination.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its beaches. However, Galway is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Kotor. 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.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Galway does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kotor offers plenty to see. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Galway does not have a historic old town.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Around Kotor visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galway or Kotor?

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

Galway is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for Families?

Both Galway and Kotor are good to visit with kids.

Galway is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

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 Galway or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Galway or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Galway and Kotor are superb destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Many 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 Galway or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Galway is popular with students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Galway 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 Galway, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

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 Galway or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Galway 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.

Galway is a very walkable city. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Galway?

How long in Galway or Kotor?

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

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

In Galway, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. 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 Galway or Kotor?

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

Galway is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Galway. 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 Galway or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Galway. 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 Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Galway or Kotor?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Galway and Kotor. Many visitors come to Galway in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Galway is much colder than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Galway averages around 16°C (60°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. Galway usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Galway gets 142 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Galway usually receives more rain than Kotor. Galway gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Galway or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Galway as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Galway for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Kotor because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Galway is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Galway in October average around 11°C (52°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, Galway often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Galway gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Galway receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Galway usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Galway gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Galway or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Galway are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Galway because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In January, Galway is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Galway average around 6°C (42°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Galway usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Galway gets 59 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. It's quite rainy in Galway. In January, Galway usually receives less rain than Kotor. Galway gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Galway or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Galway during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Galway this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Galway is much colder than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Galway averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Galway often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Galway gets 153 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. Galway usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Galway gets 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Galway