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

Should you visit Utrecht or Kotor?

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

Should I visit Utrecht or Kotor? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Utrecht

This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote 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.

Utrecht and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Utrecht or Kotor?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kotor. Although Utrecht 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, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Utrecht is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Utrecht is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. 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 Utrecht different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Utrecht is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Kotor is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Utrecht or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Utrecht is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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 Utrecht or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Utrecht is not a resort destination.

Is Utrecht or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kotor has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Utrecht or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a popular place for its beaches. However, Utrecht is not a beach destination.

Kotor is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Utrecht is not a beach destination.

Is Utrecht or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the world-class old towns in both Utrecht and Kotor.

The historic old town of Utrecht is revered around the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

With a famous historical old-town, Kotor offers plenty to see. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Utrecht or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

People visit Kotor specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Utrecht or Kotor?

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

Utrecht is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Utrecht or Kotor Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Utrecht or Kotor.

Utrecht is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Kotor is a family-friendly . 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 Utrecht or Kotor Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Utrecht and Kotor make for a great place to visit.

Utrecht is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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 Utrecht or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Utrecht and Kotor are great destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

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 Utrecht or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Utrecht is very popular with students. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Utrecht is well known for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors to Utrecht can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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 Utrecht or Kotor a more walkable city?

Utrecht and Kotor both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Utrecht on foot. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Utrecht?

How long in Utrecht or Kotor?

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

Families should spend more time in Kotor than Utrecht. 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 Utrecht. 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 Utrecht 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 Utrecht.

One day in Utrecht or Kotor?

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

Kotor is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This coastal town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Utrecht or Kotor?

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

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Utrecht or Kotor?

Utrecht is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Utrecht. 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 great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Utrecht or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Utrecht. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Since Kotor is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Utrecht or Kotor?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Utrecht 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 Utrecht 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 Utrecht or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Utrecht and Kotor. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Utrecht this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Utrecht is much colder than Kotor in the summer. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 17°C (62°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. Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Utrecht gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Utrecht usually receives more rain than Kotor. Utrecht gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Utrecht or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Utrecht as well as Kotor. Many travelers come to Utrecht for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Utrecht is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Utrecht in October average around 11°C (51°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, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Utrecht gets 100 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Utrecht usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Utrecht gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Utrecht or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Utrecht are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Utrecht in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months.

Utrecht can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Utrecht is generally much colder than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Utrecht average around 2°C (36°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

Utrecht usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Utrecht gets 38 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, Utrecht usually receives less rain than Kotor. Utrecht gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Utrecht or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Utrecht during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Utrecht for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

Utrecht is much colder than Kotor in the spring. The daily temperature in Utrecht averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Utrecht often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Utrecht gets 156 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. Utrecht usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Utrecht gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Utrecht