A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Varenna vs. Kotor for Food, Hiking, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Varenna 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 Varenna 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and food.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote 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.

Varenna and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Varenna or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kotor. Although Varenna and Kotor are popular destinations, Kotor has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kotor is very popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Varenna attracts visitors for its museums and shopping. Varenna is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its beautiful location by Lake Como. 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 Varenna different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Varenna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Varenna and Kotor both to be first-rate destinations.

Eat your way through Varenna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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.

Is Varenna or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

Both Varenna and Kotor have reasonable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Varenna. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

Kotor is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Varenna or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not a resort destination.

Is Varenna or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Varenna or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a good destination for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Kotor is revered around the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Kotor?

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

Varenna is a great destination for shopping. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Varenna or Kotor Better for Families?

Both Varenna and Kotor are nice family-friendly destinations.

Varenna is a family-friendly village. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

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 Varenna or Kotor Better for Couples?

Varenna 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, Varenna has plenty to offer. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

Kotor is a great village 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 Varenna or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Varenna 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 Varenna, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

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 Varenna or Kotor a more walkable city?

Varenna and Kotor are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Kotor?

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

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

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

In Varenna, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the food. This village 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 Varenna or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Varenna or Kotor?

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Varenna. Lots of people come for the food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Varenna or Kotor?

You'll find food and shopping around the pristine destination of Varenna. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Varenna or Kotor?

Kotor has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Varenna. When comparing the sizes of Varenna 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 Varenna 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 Varenna or Kotor in the Summer?

Both Kotor and Varenna during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking 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, Varenna is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 23°C (73°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 Varenna. In the summer, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Kotor. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Kotor in the Autumn?

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

Varenna is cooler than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 15°C (58°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. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Varenna usually receives less rain than Kotor. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Varenna or Kotor in the Winter?

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

Varenna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Varenna is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varenna in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kotor. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 121 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Varenna usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Varenna or Kotor in the Spring?

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

In April, Varenna is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 13°C (55°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Varenna gets 176 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. It's quite rainy in Varenna. In April, Varenna usually receives around the same amount of rain as Kotor. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Varenna