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

Should you visit Zurich 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 Zurich 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.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. 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 remote, dramatic, and scenic coastal town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Zurich and Kotor: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zurich or Kotor?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Kotor are popular destinations, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, and shopping, while Kotor attracts visitors for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Zurich is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Zurich different from Kotor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zurich is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Zurich specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Nightlife?

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

Zurich is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Kotor Better for Music?

Zurich is well known for live music. However, Kotor is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in Zurich. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Kotor is not a live music destination.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Resorts?

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

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Beaches?

Kotor is a good destination for the beache. However, Zurich 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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Zurich and Kotor.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Kotor has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Hiking?

Kotor is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

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.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Kotor?

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

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Families?

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

Zurich is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich or Kotor Better for Couples?

Zurich and Kotor both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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 Zurich or Kotor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kotor is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

Is Zurich or Kotor Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Kotor is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich or Kotor a more walkable city?

Kotor is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Kotor or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Kotor?

It's fun to spend time in either Zurich or Kotor. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Zurich due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 3-4 days is enough time in Kotor.

Couples should spend more time in Kotor than Zurich. 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Kotor?

In Zurich, many people enjoy the live music and food that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Zurich or Kotor?

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

Zurich is a fun place to experience. In Zurich, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Zurich or Kotor?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the liberal destination of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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. 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 Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Montenegro, and The Best Budget Tours to Montenegro.

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

Which is Bigger, Zurich or Kotor?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Kotor. When comparing the sizes of Zurich 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 Zurich 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 Zurich or Kotor in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Kotor. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, 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, Zurich is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kotor this time of the year. In Zurich, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Kotor receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Kotor. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zurich or Kotor in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Kotor. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kotor for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Zurich is cooler than Kotor in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Kotor fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kotor. In the autumn, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Zurich gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kotor receives 203 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. Zurich usually gets less rain in October than Kotor. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zurich or Kotor in the Winter?

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

Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much colder than Kotor. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Kotor averages at about 6°C (42°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Kotor during winter. Zurich gets 55 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, Zurich usually receives less rain than Kotor. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zurich or Kotor in the Spring?

Both Kotor and Zurich during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Kotor this time of year.

In April, Zurich is generally cooler than Kotor. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Kotor fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the spring, Zurich often gets less sunshine than Kotor. Zurich gets 150 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. Zurich usually gets less rain in April than Kotor. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Kotor receives 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kotor and Zurich