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

Should you visit Paris or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Paris or Kotor? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a beautiful, iconic, and bustling city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Paris and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris. Although Paris and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Paris has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paris is more popular for its museums, theatre productions, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Paris is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also home to The Eiffel Tower. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paris that are not to be missed. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Theater?

Paris is a world-class destination for theatre. However, Kotor is not a theatre destination.

The theater scene in Paris is world-class. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Kotor is not a theatre destination.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paris and Kotor.

For foodies, Paris is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Kotor has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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 Paris or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Paris is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

People head to Paris just to party. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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 Paris or Kotor Better for Music?

Paris is a world-class destination for live music. However, Kotor is not a live music destination.

Paris is a world class music destination. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Kotor is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Paris 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.

Paris is not a resort destination.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Kotor is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is terrific for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic 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.

Paris does not have a historic old town.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kotor specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Kotor?

Paris is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Paris is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Christmas?

Paris is a world-class destination for its Christmas activities. However, Kotor does not offer Christmas activities.

During Christmas, Paris is not to be missed. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Kotor does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Families?

Paris is a world-class destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is one of the most popular family destinations. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris or Kotor Better for Couples?

Paris is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Paris has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

Kotor is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Paris or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paris is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paris is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

Many 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.

Is Paris or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Paris. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Paris is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Paris can get you around easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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 Paris or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is terrific for its walkability. Also, Paris is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

Kotor is a very easy coastal town to get around on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Paris?

How long in Paris or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Paris or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paris due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

Couples should spend more time in Paris than Kotor. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Kotor 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 Paris.

One day in Paris or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

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 Paris or Kotor?

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

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 Paris or Kotor?

Paris is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Paris or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Paris has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Paris or Kotor?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 400 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paris as well as Kotor. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Paris is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paris this time of the year. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Kotor. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paris is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paris in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Kotor. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Paris during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paris in the winter for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

Paris can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Paris is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 5°C (40°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paris usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Kotor. Most visitors come to Paris for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Paris is cooler than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Paris usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Paris usually receives less rain than Kotor. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Paris