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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a professional, classy, and diverse city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and food.

Geneva and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Geneva or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Geneva. Although Geneva and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Geneva has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Geneva is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau). Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Geneva different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Geneva specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Geneva has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Geneva has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Geneva is not a resort destination.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a good destination for its beaches. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a beach destination.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Kotor is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Kotor?

Geneva is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Geneva is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Families?

Both Geneva and Kotor are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Geneva. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

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 Geneva or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Geneva is very popular with students. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Geneva 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 Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored on foot.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Geneva or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Geneva, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Each neighborhood in Geneva has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Geneva or Kotor?

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

Geneva is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Geneva. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Geneva or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the professional big city of Geneva. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Geneva or Kotor?

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

Both Kotor and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Geneva is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Geneva. Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives more rain than Kotor. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Geneva or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Geneva during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Geneva in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Geneva is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Geneva gets 127 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. Geneva usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Kotor. Most visitors come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kotor because of the cuisine.

Geneva can be very cold during winter. In January, Geneva is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Geneva usually receives less rain than Kotor. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Geneva or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Kotor. The spring months attract visitors to Geneva because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

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

In the spring, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Geneva usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Geneva