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

Should you visit Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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.

Helsinki

Helsinki is a waterfront, active, and nature-focused city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Helsinki and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Helsinki or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kotor. Although Helsinki 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, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Helsinki attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Helsinki is famous for its rich culture that includes traditional elements as well as an active subculture scene. 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 Helsinki different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Helsinki specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights and attractions center around nature and the water. Major hightlights of the city include the Fortress of Sveaborg, Seurasaari open-Air Museum, and Temppeliaukio Rock Church. The city is also home to The National Museum of Finland.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Helsinki area. Food in town is all about local flavors and simple ingredients. The dishes let the flavor speak for itself without fancy cooking techniques or complex flavor combinations. Many of the restaurants are locally sourced with traditional ingredients. You'll find a lot of seafood, herring, grilled sausages, pancakes, and desserts.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Helsinki has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is at its best on weekends when the city center comes to life with parties, dance clubs, and student activities. Many of the best clubs and bars are concentrated in the city center. Weekends are a bit calmer and things quiet down a lot.

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 Helsinki or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a resort destination.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for the beache. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a beach destination.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Helsinki does not have a 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.

Helsinki does not have a historic old town.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. However, Helsinki 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.

Helsinki is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Helsinki or Kotor?

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

Helsinki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is great for shopping, with many brands focused on sustainability. There are local boutiques as well as name brands. Flea markets and vintage shops are also popular.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Helsinki is a very family-friendly place to visit. The coastal setting offers many activities that kids and adults alike will enjoy. This capital city has a calm atmosphere with plenty of parkland to explore. The shoreline is dotted by islands where you'll also find a zoo and a fort. Kids will also enjoy exploring the islands by boat.

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 Helsinki or Kotor Better for Couples?

Both Helsinki and Kotor are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Helsinki makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The city's many parks offer the perfect setting for a picnic or a walk. There are also botanical gardens, evening boat rides, and saunas that will help you enjoy a romantic trip away.

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.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Helsinki. With its active nightlife scene, vibrant atmosphere, and inclusive personality, this city is a fun place for backpackers, but you should expect to pay a premium for the experience. Many backpackers avoid the city because they have heard how expensive it is. There are a few hostels around that will help you keep costs a bit more manageable.

Is Helsinki or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Helsinki is very popular with students. The city has an active student life with plenty of culture and nature. It's active nightlife scene and beautiful natural areas make it a wonderful place to study.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Helsinki can move around easily with public transportation. Transit options include bus, tram, metro, commuter train and ferry services.

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 Helsinki or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Helsinki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kotor. The old town is best explored on foot.

Helsinki is a somewhat walkable city. Many neighborhoods are easy to explore on foot. The air is also clean and the setting is refreshing.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Helsinki?

How long in Helsinki or Kotor?

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

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

In Helsinki, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this waterfront 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Helsinki or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Helsinki. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Helsinki or Kotor?

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

Kotor is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Helsinki or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the active destination of Helsinki. 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 great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Finland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Finland, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Helsinki or Kotor?

Helsinki has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Helsinki 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 Helsinki 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 Helsinki or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Helsinki during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Helsinki in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Helsinki is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 17°C (62°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Helsinki. In the summer, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Helsinki gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Helsinki usually gets more rain in July than Kotor. Helsinki gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Helsinki and Kotor. Most visitors come to Helsinki for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kotor because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Helsinki is much colder than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Helsinki averages around 6°C (42°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. Helsinki usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Helsinki gets 90 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Kotor. Helsinki gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Helsinki or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Helsinki as well as Kotor. The winter months attract visitors to Helsinki because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

The weather in Helsinki can be very cold. In the winter, Helsinki is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Helsinki in January average around -6°C (21°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Helsinki often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Helsinki gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Helsinki usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Helsinki gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Helsinki or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Helsinki are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Helsinki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

It's quite cold in Helsinki in the spring. In April, Helsinki is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Helsinki average around 3°C (37°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Helsinki usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during spring. Helsinki gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In April, Helsinki usually receives less rain than Kotor. Helsinki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Helsinki