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

Should you visit Hydra or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a quaint, picturesque, and charming island. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote 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.

Hydra and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hydra. Although Hydra and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Hydra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hydra is more popular for its museums, resorts, and shopping, while Kotor is known for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Hydra is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town. It is also home to The Monastery of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Hydra different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Hydra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Hydra or Kotor has a better nightlife scene.

Hydra is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

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 Hydra or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Hydra is very good for its resorts. However, Kotor is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Hydra has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

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.

Is Hydra or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's good scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Hydra and Kotor.

Hydra has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Is Hydra or Kotor Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Hydra and Kotor are good choices.

Hydra is a good option for a beach vacation. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Many people head to Kotor to enjoy the beach. 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.

Is Hydra or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its historic old town. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its 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.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

Is Hydra or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its hiking experiences. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

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.

Many visitors go to Hydra for the hiking trails. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Kotor?

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

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Hydra or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

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 Hydra or Kotor Better for Couples?

Hydra is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Hydra has plenty to offer. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

Kotor is a great island if you're traveling as 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 Hydra or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a great destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island 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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Hydra and Kotor.

Public transit is generally limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

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 Hydra or Kotor a more walkable city?

Hydra and Kotor both are world-class when exploring on foot.

Getting around Hydra on foot is easy. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy to explore on foot.

Kotor is a very easy island to get around on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Hydra or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Hydra, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Hydra than Kotor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hydra that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kotor than Hydra 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 Hydra or Kotor?

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Kotor, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this remote small town offers. 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 Hydra or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

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 Hydra or Kotor?

Hydra is a fun place to experience. Hydra 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.

Kotor is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the quaint small town of Kotor. 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 Hydra or Kotor?

Hydra 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the remote small town of Kotor. 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Kotor?

Kotor has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hydra this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 27°C (81°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 Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Hydra usually receives less rain than Kotor. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Hydra or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Hydra during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Hydra for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Hydra is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Hydra in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Hydra. In the autumn, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Hydra gets 206 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. Hydra usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Hydra gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Kotor. Many visitors come to Hydra in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

In January, Hydra is generally much warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 10°C (51°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Hydra usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during winter. Hydra gets 143 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, Hydra usually receives less rain than Kotor. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Hydra or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Hydra is around the same temperature as Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hydra this time of the year. In the spring, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Hydra usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Hydra