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

Should you visit Messina 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 Messina 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.

Messina

Messina is a historic, bustling, and local port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a scenic, beautiful, and charming 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.

Messina and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Messina. Although Messina and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Messina has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Messina is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is known for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Messina is popular for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Messina different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Messina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

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.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is renowned for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Kotor is one of the most recognized in the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Messina 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.

Messina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Kotor?

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

Messina is a great destination for shopping. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Messina or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Messina is popular with students. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Messina 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 Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

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 Messina or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is renowned for its walkability. Also, Messina 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.

Messina is a very walkable port city. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Messina?

How long in Messina or Kotor?

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

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

In Messina, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. This port 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. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Messina or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Messina. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Messina or Kotor?

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

Kotor is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Messina or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Messina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Kotor?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Messina in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and 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.

Messina is around the same temperature as Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 27°C (80°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 Messina. Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Kotor. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Messina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Messina for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene 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, Messina is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Messina in October average around 21°C (69°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Messina gets 189 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Messina. Messina usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Kotor. The winter months attract visitors to Messina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In January, Messina is generally much warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 13°C (55°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Messina usually receives less rain than Kotor. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Messina as well as Kotor. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Messina is around the same temperature as Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Messina 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 Messina this time of the year. In the spring, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Messina usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Messina