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

Should you visit Siena 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 Siena and Kotor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Siena

Siena is a romantic, charming, and medieval city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a charming, historic, and peaceful coastal town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Siena and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Siena or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Siena and Kotor are both popular with visitors, Kotor has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Siena is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Siena is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Kotor is popular for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. It is also home to The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Siena different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Siena specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

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.

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Siena has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

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 Siena or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Siena is not a resort destination.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is very good for its beaches. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Siena and Kotor are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

Siena has a world-famous historical area. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

The historic old town of Kotor is revered around the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Hiking?

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

Siena is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Siena or Kotor?

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

Siena is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Families?

Kotor is very good for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

Kotor is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Couples?

Siena 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, Siena has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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 Siena or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is notable for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Siena or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Siena is very popular with students. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Siena 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 Siena, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

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 Siena or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its walkability. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Siena?

How long in Siena or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Siena or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kotor due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Siena, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kotor than Siena 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 Siena or Kotor?

In Siena, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this history destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Siena or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Siena. 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 Siena or Kotor?

Siena is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Siena. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Siena or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the medieval destination of Siena. 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 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 Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Siena or Kotor?

Siena has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Siena 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 Siena 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 Siena or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Siena and Kotor. The summer months attract visitors to Siena because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

Siena is cooler than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Siena averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Siena, it's very sunny this time of the year. Siena usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Siena gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Siena usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kotor. Siena gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Siena or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Siena as well as Kotor. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Siena this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Siena is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Siena in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Kotor averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In the autumn, Siena often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Siena gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Siena usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Siena gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Siena or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Siena are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

In January, Siena is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Siena average around 7°C (45°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Siena usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Siena gets 105 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, Siena usually receives less rain than Kotor. Siena gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Siena or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Siena during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Siena in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

Siena is cooler than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Siena averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Siena often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Siena gets 192 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. Siena usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Siena gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Siena