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

Should you visit Valletta 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 Valletta 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.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. 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 dramatic, scenic, and beautiful coastal town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Valletta and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Valletta than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Valletta is better known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Kotor is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Valletta is well known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens. Also, Valletta is famous for The Grand Masters Palace. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Valletta different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Valletta that are not to be missed. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Valletta and Kotor.

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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.

Is Valletta or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

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 Valletta or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Valletta is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Kotor as a resort destination, but it has a few places. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Valletta is not a resort destination.

Is Valletta or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valletta or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a coastal town with good options for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Valletta or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Both Valletta and Kotor have amazing historic old towns worth visiting.

Valletta has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

The old town of Kotor is one of the most recognized in the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Valletta or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Valletta or Kotor?

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

Valletta is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Valletta or Kotor Better for Families?

Both Valletta and Kotor are notable to visit with kids.

Valletta is a family-friendly town. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kotor. 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 Valletta or Kotor Better for Couples?

Valletta 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, Valletta has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Kotor is a great town 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 Valletta or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Valletta and Kotor are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

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.

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

Valletta 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 Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses 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 Valletta or Kotor a more walkable city?

Valletta and Kotor are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Valletta 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 Valletta, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

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

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

One day in Valletta or Kotor?

In Valletta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 where visitors enjoy the 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 Valletta or Kotor?

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

Valletta is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Valletta. 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 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 Valletta or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the waterfront destination of Valletta. 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 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 Historical Tours in Malta, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Kotor?

Valletta has a larger population, and is about 27% larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Valletta 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 Valletta or Kotor?

Kotor has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Valletta during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. 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, Valletta is around the same temperature as Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Valletta in July average around 26°C (79°F), and Kotor averages at about 26°C (80°F).

In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the summer, Valletta often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in July than Kotor. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Kotor. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. 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, Valletta is generally a little warmer than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 21°C (70°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Valletta, it's very sunny this time of the year. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Valletta gets 221 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, Valletta usually receives less rain than Kotor. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Valletta or Kotor in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Kotor. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

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

In the winter, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Kotor. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Valletta usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Valletta is a little warmer than Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Valletta in April average around 16°C (61°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Kotor during spring. Valletta gets 247 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, Valletta usually receives less rain than Kotor. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Valletta