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

Should you visit Istanbul or Kotor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Kotor, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a beautiful, high-energy, and historic city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a beautiful, charming, and historic 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.

Istanbul and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Istanbul or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Istanbul is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Istanbul different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Istanbul and Kotor can be difficult as they are each terrific in their own way.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Istanbul is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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.

Is Istanbul or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Istanbul is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Istanbul is not a resort destination.

Is Istanbul or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Istanbul is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Istanbul or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Kotor has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Istanbul is not a beach destination.

Is Istanbul or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul and Kotor both have terrific historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

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

Is Istanbul or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an amazing coastal town to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Kotor draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Istanbul is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Kotor?

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

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

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 Istanbul or Kotor Better for Couples?

Istanbul and Kotor are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

Kotor makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Istanbul or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul 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 Istanbul can get you around easily. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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 Istanbul or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is an amazing coastal town to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Istanbul or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Istanbul due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Istanbul. 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 Istanbul than Kotor 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 Istanbul.

One day in Istanbul or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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. 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 Istanbul or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Istanbul. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

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 Istanbul or Kotor?

Istanbul is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Istanbul or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Istanbul has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Kotor?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 2090 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Kotor in the Summer?

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

Istanbul is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°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. In Istanbul, it's very sunny this time of the year. Istanbul usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Kotor. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Istanbul or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Kotor. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In the autumn, Istanbul is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°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, Istanbul often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Istanbul usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Istanbul or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the cuisine.

In January, Istanbul is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Istanbul usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Istanbul gets 75 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. In January, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Kotor. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Istanbul or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Istanbul during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Istanbul is cooler than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Istanbul gets 180 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. Istanbul usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Istanbul