A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Kotor for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Nightlife

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Thiva (Thebes) and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kotor. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Kotor are popular destinations, Kotor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kotor is very popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Thiva (Thebes) attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. 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 Thiva (Thebes) different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Thiva (Thebes) specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Thiva (Thebes) is very good for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Thiva (Thebes) has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is a coastal town with a few options for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Kotor. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its old town. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) does not have a historic old town.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Thiva (Thebes) is very good for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Thiva (Thebes) is a great destination for shopping. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Kotor are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kotor is a great coastal town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kotor

Kotor is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Kotor on foot is easy. The old town is best explored on foot.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.

For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Kotor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Families should spend more time in Kotor than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Kotor than Thiva (Thebes). You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kotor that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kotor than Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Kotor 3-4

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

In Thiva (Thebes), many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Thiva (Thebes). For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

Thiva (Thebes) is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Thiva (Thebes). 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 it's a great destination if you're short on time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.


Which place is cheaper, Kotor or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Kotor is €100. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Kotor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Kotor 49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Kotor 98
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Kotor

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Kotor


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kotor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Kotor 9.26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kotor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kotor:

  • Tivat Airport (TIV) to Kotor Cruise Port - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Lustica Bay: $153
  • Airport Transfer Tivat / Porto Montenegro to Podgorica City: $272
  • Deluxe private transfer from or to Portonovi: $52
  • Enjoy Private Transfers by Car or Van from Tivat Airport to Kotor or Budva: $44
  • Herceg Novi to Kotor one way transfer: $144
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Podgorica Airport (TGD) - Departure Private Transfer: $47
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Podgorica hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $94
  • Kotor Cruise Port to Tivat Hotels Round-Trip Private Transfer: $33
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Podgorica hotels: $297
  • Kotor Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Tivat hotels: $90
  • Kotor to Dubrovnik one way transfer: $154

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

Prices for flights to both Kotor and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Kotor 43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kotor

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Kotor.

  • Kotor City Tour and Cooking Class : $203
  • Kotor private cooking class with lunch and Old town guided tour: $226
  • Kotor and Perast Private Tour with Cooking Class and Boat Ride: $262
  • Cooking class in a local home & old town walking tour: $306

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Kotor 8.32

Tours and Activities in Kotor

Here are a few actual costs in Kotor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Private Walking Tour in Kotor : $22
  • Kotor Old Town - City Walking Tour: $24
  • Kotor Old Town Walking Tour: $24
  • Panorama and Semi-Submarine Underwater Experience: $24
  • Tour Kotor - Perast Old Town - Island Our Lady of the Rocks - Every 2 hours: $26
  • Boat Tour to Perast Old Town & Our Lady of the Rocks: $27
  • Kotor Old Town Small-Group Walking Tour: $33
  • Whole Boka Bay Cruise with Ship Knez Lipovac: $33
  • Blue Cave and Lady of the Rocks Boat Tour: $33
  • Shore Excursion - Handwoven Carpet Workshop, Local wine and Kotor Old Town tour : $34
  • Blue Cave Speedboat Tour from Kotor: $35
  • Speedboat tour Kotor Blue Cave, Our Lady of the Rock,swiming: $37

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Kotor 8.51

Sample the Local Flavors in Kotor

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Kotor:

  • Private tour: Homemade food and wine tasting at my family home: $125
  • Private National Park Lovcen with food and wine tasting: $136
  • Wine tasting and magical tour from Kotor, Budva, Tivat (Lovcen,Skadar lake): $251
  • National Parks Skadar Lake and Lovcen+Wine tasting (Private tour): $260
  • Skadar Lake National Park with Wine Tasting: $428


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


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the summer for the city activities 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 July, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 27°C (81°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Thiva (Thebes). Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Kotor 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Thiva (Thebes) during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Kotor because of the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Thiva (Thebes) is a little warmer than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

Kotor gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Kotor 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Kotor. The winter months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In the winter, Thiva (Thebes) is much warmer than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun in the winter.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Kotor 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Kotor. The activities around the city are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In April, Thiva (Thebes) is generally around the same temperature as Kotor. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 16°C (60°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 194 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Kotor 14°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Kotor and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Kotor
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 6°C (42°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 172 mm (6.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (51°F) 173 mm (6.8 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 14°C (58°F) 154 mm (6.1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 19°C (67°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (73°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 130 mm (5.1 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 174 mm (6.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (53°F) 224 mm (8.8 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 215 mm (8.5 in)