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

Should you visit Mainz 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 Mainz 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.

Mainz

Mainz is a charming, beautiful, and peaceful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful coastal town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Mainz and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mainz or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Mainz and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Kotor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kotor is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Mainz is known for its museums and shopping. Mainz is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares. 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 Mainz different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Mainz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Mainz 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Mainz. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Kotor. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Mainz is not a resort destination.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mainz 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.

Mainz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its beaches. However, Mainz 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.

Mainz is not a beach destination.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is terrific for its historic old town. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

Kotor has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Mainz. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Mainz 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.

Mainz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mainz or Kotor?

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

Mainz is a great destination for shopping. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Families?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Kotor is a family-friendly coastal town. 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.

Mainz doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Mainz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

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 Mainz or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kotor is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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 Mainz. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Is Mainz or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Mainz is very popular with students. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Mainz can move around easily with public transportation. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby 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 Mainz or Kotor a more walkable city?

Mainz and Kotor are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Mainz. The town is easily explored on foot.

Getting around Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Mainz?

How long in Mainz or Kotor?

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

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

In Mainz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this peaceful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This 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.

Even though Kotor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Mainz or Kotor?

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

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 Mainz or Kotor?

Mainz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Mainz. 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. Kotor 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.

A week in Mainz or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Mainz. 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.

Kotor 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Mainz or Kotor?

Mainz has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Mainz 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 Mainz 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 Mainz or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Mainz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Mainz 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.

Mainz is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 19°C (66°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Mainz. In the summer, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Mainz gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets more rain in July than Kotor. Mainz gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mainz or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Mainz and Kotor. Most visitors come to Mainz 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.

In the autumn, Mainz is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mainz in October average around 11°C (51°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Mainz gets 103 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, Mainz usually receives less rain than Kotor. Mainz gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Mainz or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Mainz as well as Kotor. The winter months attract visitors to Mainz 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 Mainz can be very cold. In January, Mainz is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 2°C (35°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Mainz gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Mainz usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Mainz gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mainz or Kotor in the Spring?

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

Mainz is cooler than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 11°C (51°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Mainz gets 163 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, Mainz usually receives less rain than Kotor. Mainz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Mainz