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

Should you visit Lillehammer or Kotor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a sporty, natural, and adventure-filled city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

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.

Lillehammer and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lillehammer or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Lillehammer and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Kotor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lillehammer is known for its skiing, museums, nightlife, and shopping. Lillehammer is popular for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also home to The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Lillehammer different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is well known for winter skiing. However, Kotor is not a skiing destination.

Lillehammer is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Kotor is not a skiing destination.

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

Lillehammer is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Lillehammer is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Kotor is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Lillehammer has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Lillehammer has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

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 Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Lillehammer is not a resort destination.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for its beaches. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer does not have a historic old town.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Hiking?

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

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.

Many visitors go to Lillehammer for the hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

Is the Shopping Better in Lillehammer or Kotor?

Lillehammer is very good for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Lillehammer is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Lillehammer is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

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 Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Lillehammer frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Kotor is a great city 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 Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is well known for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Lillehammer or Kotor Better for Students?

Lillehammer is very good for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Lillehammer is popular with students. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Lillehammer, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

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 Lillehammer or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a somewhat walkable place. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Lillehammer?

How long in Lillehammer or Kotor?

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

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer or Kotor?

In Lillehammer, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Lillehammer or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lillehammer. 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.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Lillehammer or Kotor?

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Lillehammer. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Because Kotor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Lillehammer or Kotor?

You'll find museums and skiing around the natural destination of Lillehammer. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When comparing the travel costs between Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lillehammer or Kotor?

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Lillehammer 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.