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

Should you visit Nantes or Kotor?

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

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

Nantes

Nantes is a welcoming, friendly, and historical city. 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 peaceful, remote, and dramatic coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Nantes and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kotor than Nantes, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kotor is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Nantes is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Nantes is well known for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. Also, Kotor is famous for The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Nantes different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Dining out at restaurants in both Nantes and Kotor can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Nantes is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Nantes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

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 Nantes or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nantes is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Kotor as a resort destination, but it has a few places. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Nantes is not a resort destination.

Is Nantes or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nantes or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Nantes or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Kotor offers plenty to see. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Many visitors go to Nantes to see the historical old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Is Nantes or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Kotor?

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

Nantes is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nantes or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Nantes is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

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 Nantes or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Nantes makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

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 Nantes or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Nantes can move around easily with public transportation. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kotor. The old town is best explored on foot.

Nantes is very walkable. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Nantes 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 Nantes, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

In Nantes, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this welcoming destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nantes or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. 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 is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nantes or Kotor?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nantes or Kotor?

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

Kotor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantes or Kotor?

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

Both Kotor and Nantes during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nantes is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nantes in July average around 19°C (67°F), and Kotor averages at about 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nantes. In the summer, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Kotor. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Kotor. The autumn months attract visitors to Nantes because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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 October, Nantes is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 13°C (56°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Nantes gets 141 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than Kotor. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Nantes or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Kotor. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nantes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the cuisine.

Nantes is around the same temperature as Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Nantes averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Nantes usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nantes for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nantes is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nantes in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Nantes usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during spring. Nantes gets 187 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, Nantes usually receives less rain than Kotor. Nantes gets 50 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 Nantes