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

Should you visit Split or Kotor?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Split and Kotor. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Split

Split is a fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Kotor

Kotor is a dramatic, scenic, and beautiful coastal town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Split and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Split and Kotor are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Kotor attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Split is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Split different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Kotor, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Dining out in Split is an experience not to be missed. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Is Split or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

People head to Split just to party. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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 Split or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Split is well known for its resorts. However, Kotor is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

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 Split or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

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.

Is Split or Kotor Better for Beaches?

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

Split is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

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 Split or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

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.

Split offers a nice historic old town area. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Is Split or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Kotor is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Kotor?

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

Split is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Split or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Split is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split or Kotor Better for Couples?

Split 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, Split has plenty to offer. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Split is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

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 Split or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Split is very popular with students. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Split 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 Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you 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 Split or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kotor. The old town is best explored on foot.

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Split?

How long in Split or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Split or Kotor. In our opinion, Split has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Split than Kotor. In general, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

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

One day in Split or Kotor?

In Split, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this historic destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Split or Kotor?

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

Split is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Split. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Split or Kotor?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the touristy destination of Split. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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 Walking Tours in Croatia, The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

When comparing the travel costs between Split and Kotor, we can see that Split 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 Split Expensive? and Is Kotor Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Split or Kotor?

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

Both Kotor and Split during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kotor in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Split is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Split average around 26°C (80°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Split. In the summer, Split often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Split gets 345 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Kotor. Many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, most visitors come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Split is around the same temperature as Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Split averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. Split usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Split gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Split usually receives less rain than Kotor. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Split or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Split as well as Kotor. Most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Kotor because of the cuisine.

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

In the winter, Split often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Split gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Split usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Split are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In April, Split is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Split average around 15°C (59°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. Split usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Split gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In April, Split usually receives less rain than Kotor. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Split