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

Should you visit Salzburg or Kotor?

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

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

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful 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.

Salzburg and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Salzburg or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Salzburg than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Salzburg is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Salzburg specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Salzburg. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg is very good for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Salzburg has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

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 Salzburg or Kotor Better for Music?

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

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Kotor is not a live music destination.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Salzburg is not a resort destination.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Salzburg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Beaches?

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

Salzburg is not a beach destination.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg and Kotor both have terrific historical old towns that attract visitors.

Salzburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

The old town of Kotor is one of the most recognized in the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for the nearby hiking options. However, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Salzburg or Kotor?

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

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Salzburg is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Kotor Better for Couples?

Salzburg 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, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Salzburg and Kotor are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Salzburg is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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.

Is Salzburg or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Salzburg 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.

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Kotor?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salzburg 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 Salzburg.

One day in Salzburg or Kotor?

In Salzburg, many people enjoy the live music and food that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Salzburg or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salzburg. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Kotor is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Salzburg or Kotor?

Salzburg is a fun place to experience. In Salzburg, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Salzburg or Kotor?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Salzburg. 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.

Kotor is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This coastal town offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Kotor?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Salzburg and Kotor. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene 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.

In the summer, Salzburg is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°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 Salzburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Kotor. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Salzburg or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Kotor. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music 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, Salzburg is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Salzburg usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Salzburg or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Salzburg this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. Salzburg is much colder than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Salzburg gets 44 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, Salzburg usually receives less rain than Kotor. Salzburg 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 Salzburg or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Salzburg during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kotor in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

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

In the spring, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Salzburg gets 155 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. Salzburg usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Salzburg