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

Should you visit Venice or Kotor?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Kotor can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a cultural, magical, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Kotor

Kotor is a historic, peaceful, and remote 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.

Venice and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Kotor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Venice than Kotor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Venice is better known for its museums and shopping, while Kotor is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Venice is more touristy than Kotor and is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. Also, Venice is famous for St. Mark's Basilica. Kotor is well known for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Venice different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice 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 Venice that are not to be missed. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Kotor has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is respectable in both Venice and Kotor.

Venice doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Most people don't head to Kotor specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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 Venice or Kotor Better for Resorts?

Kotor is adequate for its luxury resorts. However, Venice 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.

Venice is not a resort destination.

Is Venice or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Venice or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is very good for the beach. However, Venice is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kotor to enjoy the beach. 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Venice and Kotor are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

The historic old town of Venice is revered around the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

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 Venice or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a world-class destination for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Kotor specifically for its hiking. 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Kotor?

Venice is a world-class destination for shopping. However, Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Venice is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Venice or Kotor Better for Families?

Venice is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Venice is a very family-friendly place to visit. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Kotor Better for Couples?

Venice 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, Venice has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Kotor is a great city 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 Venice or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Venice and Kotor are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

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 Venice or Kotor Better for Students?

Venice is a world-class destination for students. However, Kotor is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Venice. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

Venice is a world-class destination for its public transit. However, Kotor is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

With a huge network, the transit system in Venice can get you around easily. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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 Venice or Kotor a more walkable city?

Venice and Kotor are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

Venice is a very easy city to get around on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

It is easy to get around Kotor on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Venice?

How long in Venice or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Venice or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Venice due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Families should spend more time in Venice than Kotor. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Venice, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

One day in Venice or Kotor?

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this magical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

Kotor might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Venice or Kotor?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Venice. 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 great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Venice or Kotor?

Venice is a fun place to experience. In Venice, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kotor. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Venice or Kotor?

In Venice, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this cultural destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Kotor is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This coastal town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Venice or Kotor?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Venice as well as Kotor. The summer months attract visitors to Venice because of the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In the summer, Venice is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the summer temperatures in Venice in July average around 23°C (73°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 Venice this time of the year. In the summer, Venice often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in July than Kotor. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Kotor in the Autumn?

Both Kotor and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Venice this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Venice is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 14°C (57°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Kotor. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during autumn. Venice gets 134 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. In October, Venice usually receives less rain than Kotor. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Venice or Kotor in the Winter?

Both Kotor and Venice during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Kotor in the winter for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Venice. Venice is much colder than Kotor in the winter. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Kotor fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Venice often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Venice gets 88 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. Venice usually gets less rain in January than Kotor. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Kotor in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Kotor. Many visitors come to Venice in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Venice is cooler than Kotor. Typically, the spring temperatures in Venice in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Kotor averages at about 14°C (58°F).

Venice usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during spring. Venice gets 154 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, Venice usually receives less rain than Kotor. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Venice