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

Should you visit Oxford or Kotor?

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

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

Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful, historic, and scholarly college town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful 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.

Oxford and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Oxford or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Oxford 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, and quaint atmosphere, while Oxford is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities. 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 Oxford different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Oxford specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Oxford is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in 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 Oxford or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Oxford is not a resort destination.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for Beaches?

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

Oxford is not a beach destination.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is very popular for its historic old town. However, Oxford does not have a historic old town.

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

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is very popular for its hiking trails. However, Oxford 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.

Oxford is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Oxford or Kotor?

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

Oxford is a great destination for shopping. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for Families?

Oxford and Kotor are both good destinations for the whole family.

Oxford is a family-friendly college town. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kotor. 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 Oxford or Kotor Better for Couples?

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

Oxford makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

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 Oxford or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Oxford or Kotor Better for Students?

Oxford is a world-class destination for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Oxford. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Oxford 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 Oxford, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

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 Oxford or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its walkability. Also, Oxford is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

Oxford is a very walkable college town. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Oxford?

How long in Oxford or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Oxford or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Oxford, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Even though Oxford is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This college town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food when visiting the quaint small town of Kotor. 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 Oxford or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Oxford. 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 Oxford or Kotor?

Oxford is a fun place to experience. Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 Oxford or Kotor?

Oxford is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the remote small town of Kotor. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Oxford or Kotor?

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

Both Kotor and Oxford during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and 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.

Oxford is much colder than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Oxford gets 195 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Oxford usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Kotor. Oxford 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 Oxford or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Oxford and Kotor. The autumn months attract visitors to Oxford because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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 the autumn, Oxford is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Oxford in October average around 11°C (52°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. Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Oxford gets 107 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, Oxford usually receives less rain than Kotor. Oxford gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Oxford or Kotor in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Oxford in the winter. In January, Oxford is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Oxford average around 3°C (38°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Oxford often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Oxford gets 52 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Oxford usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Oxford gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Oxford or Kotor in the Spring?

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

Oxford is much colder than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Oxford averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Oxford usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Oxford gets 147 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, Oxford usually receives less rain than Kotor. Oxford gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Oxford