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

Should you visit Graz or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Graz 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.

Graz

Graz is a beautiful, medieval, and cultural city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a scenic, beautiful, and charming coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Graz and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Graz or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kotor. Although Graz and Kotor are popular destinations, Kotor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kotor is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Graz attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Graz is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also well known for The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Graz different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Graz
Kotor

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

Many visitors head to Graz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Graz
Kotor

Kotor is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Kotor is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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 Graz is an experience not to be missed. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

Is Graz or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Kotor

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

Graz is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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 Graz or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Graz
Kotor

Kotor is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Graz is not a resort 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.

Graz is not a resort destination.


Is Graz or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Graz
Kotor

Kotor is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Graz or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Graz
Kotor

Kotor is a popular place for the beache. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a beach destination.

Is Graz or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Graz
Kotor

It's fun to wander around the world-class old towns in both Graz and Kotor.

The old town of Graz is one of the most recognized in the world. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

Kotor offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.


Is Graz or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Graz
Kotor

Kotor is renowned for hiking. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Graz or Kotor?

Graz
Kotor

Graz is well known for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Graz is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Graz or Kotor Better for Families?

Graz
Kotor

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

Graz is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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 Graz or Kotor Better for Couples?

Graz
Kotor

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

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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.

Is Graz or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Graz
Kotor

Kotor is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

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.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Kotor Better for Students?

Graz
Kotor

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

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Kotor is not popular with students.


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

Graz
Kotor

Graz is well known for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Graz can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz or Kotor a more walkable city?

Graz
Kotor

Graz and Kotor are world-class when it comes to walkability.

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Graz?

How long in Graz or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Graz 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 Graz, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Graz. 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 Graz 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 Graz or Kotor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Graz 2-3 
    Kotor 3-4

One day in Graz or Kotor?

In Graz, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Graz or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Graz or Kotor?

Graz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Graz. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Kotor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Graz or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Graz. 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.

Because Kotor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.


Which place is cheaper, Kotor or Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, 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 Graz and Kotor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Kotor 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Kotor 98
Compare Hotels in Graz and Kotor

Looking for a hotel in Graz 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 Graz


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: Graz Hotel Prices and Kotor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Kotor 9.26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

Also for Graz, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kotor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kotor:

  • Private Transfer from Dubrovnik to Kotor: $333
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Podgorica hotels: $297
  • Podgorica Airport (TGD): Transfer to Kotor Cruise Port: $297
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Podgorica City: $272
  • Private Transfer from Lustica to Podgorica Airport (TGD): $262
  • Transfer Portonovi / Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik Old Town: $251
  • Private transfer from Kotor to Dubrovnik: $240
  • Private Transfer from Tivat Airport (TIV) to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV): $214
  • Private Transfer from Herceg Novi to Dubrovnik City: $194
  • Private Transfer from Kotor or Perast to Dubrovnik airport: $185
  • Private Transfer from Herceg Novi to Podgorica: $155
  • Private Transfer from Herceg Novi to Podgorica Airport (TGD): $155

Is it cheaper to fly into Graz or Kotor?

Prices for flights to both Kotor and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Kotor 43

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.
    Graz 13
    Kotor 8.32

Tours and Activities in Graz

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Graz.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Graz Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self Guided Tour: $11
  • Kunsthaus Graz Museum Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Graz city tours: $14
  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Guided Tour: Courtyards of Graz: $138
  • Tour with Private Guide: $176
  • Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $191

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
  • 1-Day Montenegro Hiking Tour to Durmitor National Park : $119
  • 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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Graz 16
    Kotor 8.51

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 comparing the travel costs between Graz and Kotor, we can see that Graz 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 Graz Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Graz or Kotor?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Graz 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 Graz or Kotor?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Graz or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Graz as well as Kotor. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Graz is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 23°C (73°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Graz this time of the year. In the summer, Graz often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Graz receives a lot of rain in the summer. Graz usually gets more rain in July than Kotor. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Kotor 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Graz or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Graz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Graz is cooler than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In October, Graz usually receives less rain than Kotor. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Kotor 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Graz or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Graz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Graz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

Graz can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Graz is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Graz in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Graz often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Graz usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Kotor 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Graz or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Kotor. Most visitors come to Graz for 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.

In April, Graz is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 13°C (55°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Graz usually receives less rain than Kotor. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Kotor 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Kotor and Graz

Graz Kotor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 172 mm (6.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 173 mm (6.8 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 19°C (67°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 26°C (80°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 224 mm (8.8 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 7°C (45°F) 215 mm (8.5 in)