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

Should you visit Palermo 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 Palermo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a dynamic, fun, and colorful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. You'll find world class beauty here as well. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Palermo and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Palermo than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Palermo is better known for its museums, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Palermo is well known for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture. Also, Palermo is famous for The Cathedral. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Palermo different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palermo. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Palermo is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

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 Palermo or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a moderate coastal town for its resorts. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo is not a resort destination.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Both Palermo and Kotor offer notable scuba diving or snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Palermo is well known for its beaches. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Palermo is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

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.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Kotor?

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

Palermo is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Palermo is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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 Palermo or Kotor Better for Couples?

Kotor is a well-known place for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Kotor is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kotor is a very popular coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Palermo is popular with students. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Both Palermo and Kotor offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

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 Palermo or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Kotor on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

Palermo is very walkable. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Kotor?

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

Families should spend more time in Palermo than Kotor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Palermo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

In Palermo, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this diverse destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Palermo or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Palermo. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Palermo or Kotor?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Palermo or Kotor?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the colorful destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Kotor?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Kotor. Many visitors come to Palermo in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, 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.

In the summer, Palermo is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Palermo in July average around 25°C (76°F), and Kotor averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Palermo usually receives less rain than Kotor. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Palermo or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, 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 October, Palermo is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 20°C (67°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Palermo this time of the year. In the autumn, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Palermo usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Palermo because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

Palermo is much warmer than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Palermo usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during winter. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In January, Palermo usually receives less rain than Kotor. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Palermo or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Palermo during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Palermo is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Palermo in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the spring, Palermo often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Palermo usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Palermo