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

Should you visit Porto or Kotor?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Porto and Kotor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. 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 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. 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.

Porto and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Porto is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Porto different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Porto specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Porto and Kotor offer fantastic local cuisine and restaurants.

Porto has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Porto is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is very good for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kotor to enjoy the beach. 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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its 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.

Many visitors go to Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is very popular for hiking. However, Porto is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Kotor specifically for its hiking. 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.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Kotor?

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

Porto is a great destination for shopping. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Porto is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

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 Porto or Kotor Better for Couples?

Both Porto and Kotor are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

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.

Is Porto or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Porto is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto or Kotor Better for Students?

Porto is well known for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Porto is very popular with students. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Porto can move around easily with public transportation. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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 Porto or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its walkability. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port 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.

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Porto?

How long in Porto or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Porto or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Porto due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Porto, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Porto. 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 Porto 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 Porto.

One day in Porto or Kotor?

Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

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 Porto or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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.

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 Porto or Kotor?

Porto is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Porto has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Porto or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Porto. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Porto or Kotor?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Porto as well as Kotor. The summer months attract visitors to Porto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

Porto is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 21°C (69°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 Porto this time of the year. In the summer, Porto often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Porto this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Porto is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Porto in October average around 17°C (62°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Porto usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Porto gets 184 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. It's quite rainy in Porto. In October, Porto usually receives less rain than Kotor. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Porto during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

In January, Porto is generally much warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 10°C (50°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Porto gets 124 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Kotor. Many visitors come to Porto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Porto is around the same temperature as Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 14°C (56°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. Porto usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the spring. Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Porto usually receives less rain than Kotor. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Porto