A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taormina vs. Kotor for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Taormina or Kotor?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Kotor can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. 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. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Taormina and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Taormina or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kotor than Taormina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kotor is better known for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Taormina is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Taormina is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs. Also, Kotor is famous for The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon (Kotor Cathedral).

How is Taormina different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Taormina makes for a great culinary experience. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

Is Taormina or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Taormina is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs 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 Taormina or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Taormina 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 Taormina. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

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 Taormina or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Taormina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Taormina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Taormina or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Both Taormina and Kotor are considered to be notable beach destinations.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Taormina. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Kotor offers a nice beach destination. 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 Taormina or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is very popular for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Is Taormina or Kotor Better for Hiking?

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

Around Kotor visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Kotor?

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

Taormina is a great destination for shopping. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Taormina or Kotor Better for Families?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Taormina or Kotor Better for Couples?

Both Taormina and Kotor are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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 Taormina or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a great coastal town for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

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

Taormina 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 Taormina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the 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 Taormina or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

Kotor is a very easy coastal town to get around on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

Taormina is very walkable. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Kotor?

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

Families should spend more time in Kotor than Taormina. 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.

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

Even though Taormina is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This 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.

The beautiful coastal town of Kotor offers 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 Taormina or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

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 Taormina or Kotor?

Taormina is a fun place to experience. Taormina is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 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 Taormina or Kotor?

Taormina is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Taormina or Kotor?

Taormina has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Kotor. Many visitors come to Taormina in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Taormina is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Taormina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Kotor averages at about 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 Taormina this time of the year. In the summer, Taormina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Taormina or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Taormina for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Kotor because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Taormina is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 21°C (69°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during autumn. Taormina gets 189 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 Taormina. In October, Taormina usually receives less rain than Kotor. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Taormina or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Taormina during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Taormina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

Taormina is much warmer than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Taormina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Taormina gets 115 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. Taormina usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Taormina or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Kotor. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Taormina is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Taormina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during spring. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun in the spring.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Taormina usually receives less rain than Kotor. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Taormina