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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Kotor?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a splendid, outdoorsy, and fun-filled city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

San Sebastian and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kotor. Although San Sebastian and Kotor are popular destinations, Kotor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kotor is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Sebastian attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, resorts, beaches, and shopping. San Sebastian is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also well known for The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is San Sebastian different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Sebastian or Kotor?

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

San Sebastian is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Head to Castillo de la Mota for nice views and walks. Museo San Telmo offers an overview of Basque culture and Palacio de Miramar is another interesting place to visit.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both San Sebastian and Kotor offer terrific local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, San Sebastian is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. It is a famed culinary capital of not just Spain, but the entire world. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants where you can experience modern or traditional recipes prepared by world class chefs. There are also pintxo bars, food markets, and gourmet food shops, that sell local ingredients and dishes. Much of the cuisine includes seafood, but you'll also find a local twist on traditional tapas. Dining is a true experience in this town.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

San Sebastian is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. You can expect a lively nightlife scene around town with many bars and places to hang out. Some of the best nightlife is found in and around Parte Vieja, Centro, Reyes Católicos and Gros.

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 San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Resorts?

San Sebastian is very good for its resorts. However, Kotor is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

San Sebastian has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Kotor offers a few options. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Is San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Beaches?

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

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The city has three urban beaches that are a huge attraction during the summer months. For surfing and a lively atmosphere, head to the Playa de la Zurriola. The playa de la Concha is the most photographed and famous beach in town and Ondarreta is another beautiful option.

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 San Sebastian or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is very popular for its old town. However, San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Hiking?

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

San Sebastian is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Kotor?

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

San Sebastian is an extremely popular place for shoppers. A mix of familiar brands and locally made items make shopping a fun activity. You'll also find many artisan food shops around town where you can take home some local wine or other culinary treats.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Families?

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

San Sebastian is a very family-friendly place to visit. This city is surprisingly family-friendly. Not only is there the beach, but there are playgrounds everywhere. There's also the fun Monte Igueldo San Sebastian Amusement Park and the San Sebastian Aquarium. You could also take a boat ride or explore the many parks and gardens around town. And, of course, there are the many ice cream shops to check out.

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 San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Couples?

San Sebastian and Kotor are both excellent to visit as a couple.

San Sebastian is a very popular place to visit for couples. With its nice beaches, stunning view points, and world class restaurants, this city makes an excellent couple's destination. There are Michelin star restaurants to dine in and many parks and gardens where you can take a stroll as well.

Kotor makes for a fun place to visit for 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 San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both San Sebastian and Kotor are excellent destinations for backpackers.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, and you'll find enough other backpackers looking to meet up so you'll never be lonely.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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 San Sebastian or Kotor Better for Students?

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

San Sebastian is very popular with students. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

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 San Sebastian or Kotor a more walkable city?

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

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

San Sebastian is a very walkable destination. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Kotor?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian.

One day in San Sebastian or Kotor?

In San Sebastian, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the food. 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. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Sebastian or Kotor?

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

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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in San Sebastian or Kotor?

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. Lots of people come for the food. 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 small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in San Sebastian or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the outdoorsy destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Kotor?

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Kotor. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Sebastian is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 20°C (68°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In San Sebastian, it's very sunny this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Kotor. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Kotor. The autumn months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the shopping scene. Additionally, the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

San Sebastian is around the same temperature as Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In the autumn, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Kotor. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the autumn. San Sebastian usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and San Sebastian 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 San Sebastian this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the cuisine.

In the winter, San Sebastian is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Sebastian in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. San Sebastian gets 85 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. It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In January, San Sebastian usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kotor. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Kotor in the Spring?

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

In April, San Sebastian is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 12°C (54°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Kotor. San Sebastian gets 141 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. It rains a lot this time of the year in San Sebastian. San Sebastian usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kotor. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and San Sebastian