Budva vs Kotor – Two of Montenegro’s most beautiful walled towns, Kotor is more traditional compared to Budva’s more modern architecture. While both towns are located along the coast of Montenegro and have similar Mediterranean climates, they have distinct differences that make them unique.
Related Travel Guides – Budva vs Kotor
Here are some of the key differences and comparisons between Budva and Kotor:
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SIM CARD AT PODGORICA AIRPORT
I wouldn’t recommend you to buy a sim card at Podgorica airport. If you wish comfort you can buy eSim online and if you aren’t in a hurry just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Podgorica. Read here Montenegro sim card for tourist and best Montenegro eSim
Where to Stay in Budva
You can sleep in a dorm room for less than $15 USD while you can stay in a budget hotel for as low as $30-50 USD. There are so many to choose from depending on what type and how luxurious you want your stay to be starting from $80 USD.
Book your accommodations in Buvda through Agoda or Booking.
Book Your Travel Insurance
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You can get Safetywing Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included
Comparing Budka and Kotor
Budva and Kotor are often compared as travel destinations because they are two of the most popular tourist destinations in Montenegro, a small country located in Southeastern Europe. They are both located along the coast of Montenegro and have a similar Mediterranean climate, making them attractive destinations for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
In addition, both towns have a rich history and cultural heritage, and they offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors, including museums, cultural events, and outdoor recreation opportunities. They also both have well-preserved old towns that are popular with tourists.
Despite their similarities, however, Budva and Kotor have distinct differences that make them unique. As I mentioned earlier, Kotor is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, while Budva has a more modern feel. Kotor is also situated at the end of a deep, winding bay, which gives it a more isolated and tranquil atmosphere, while Budva is more lively and bustling, especially during the summer months.
History and Architecture
Kotor is known for its rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture. The town is surrounded by high walls that were built during the Venetian period, and within the walls are narrow streets, squares, and churches that reflect the influence of various empires that have ruled the region over the centuries. One of the most iconic landmarks in Kotor is the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, which was built in the 12th century and is dedicated to the town’s patron saint.
Budva, on the other hand, has a mix of traditional and modern architecture. The town’s old town is surrounded by walls and has a medieval feel, with narrow streets and stone buildings. However, the newer parts of town have more modern buildings, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Budva’s most notable architectural feature is the Citadel, a 15th-century fortress that overlooks the town and the sea.
In terms of architecture and history, Kotor is more well-preserved and offers a more immersive experience for history buffs. However, Budva’s mix of traditional and modern architecture may be more appealing to visitors who prefer a more contemporary feel.
Attractions and Activities
Both Budva and Kotor offer a range of attractions and activities for visitors. Budva is known for its beaches, which are among the most popular in Montenegro. The most famous of these is the sandy beach at Slovenska Plaza, which is surrounded by restaurants, cafes, and bars. Budva is also a popular nightlife destination, with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and casinos.
Kotor, on the other hand, is more focused on cultural attractions and outdoor activities. The town has several museums, including the Maritime Museum, which highlights Kotor’s history as a seafaring town, and the Museum of Cats, which celebrates the town’s feline residents. Kotor is also a great place for hiking and outdoor recreation, with trails leading up into the surrounding mountains and a nearby national park.
In terms of attractions and activities, Budva is better suited for visitors who want a lively atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for beachgoing and nightlife. Kotor, on the other hand, is more focused on cultural and outdoor activities, and may be a better choice for visitors who prefer a quieter, more relaxed environment.
Tourist Crowds
Budva is known for its lively, bustling atmosphere, especially during the summer months when tourists flock to the town’s beaches and nightlife. The town can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, which may be a turn-off for visitors who prefer a more peaceful environment. However, the crowds can also add to the town’s vibrant atmosphere and make it a great place to meet other travelers.
Kotor, on the other hand, is generally quieter and more relaxed. While the town does attract its fair share of tourists, especially during the summer months, it is not as crowded as Budva. This makes it a great destination for visitors who want a more tranquil environment.
Location
Budva is located on the coast and is well-connected to other coastal towns and cities in Montenegro, making it a good base for exploring the region. The town is also easily accessible from Dubrovnik, Croatia, which is just over an hour’s drive away.
Kotor is also located on the coast but is situated at the end of a deep, winding bay. This gives it a more isolated and secluded feel, but it also makes it more difficult to access by road. However, the town is easily accessible from nearby Tivat Airport, which is just a 15 minute drive away, and it is also possible to take a ferry to Kotor from nearby towns and cities.
In terms of location, Budva may be a better choice for visitors who want to use it as a base for exploring the wider region, as it is more centrally located and well-connected to other towns and cities. Kotor, on the other hand, may be a better choice for visitors who want a more secluded and peaceful environment, as it is more difficult to access by road and feels more isolated.
The choice between Budva and Kotor as travel destination depends on the individual preferences of the visitor. Both towns offer a range of attractions and activities, but they have distinct differences in terms of atmosphere, history and architecture, and location. Visitors should consider what type of experience they want to have, whether it’s a lively beach vacation or a quiet cultural retreat, and choose the town that best fits their interests and preferences.
Things to do in Budva
Explore the Old Town
Budva’s Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and stone buildings, and it is one of the best-preserved medieval towns on the Adriatic coast. Visitors can wander through the town’s winding streets, admire the architecture, and stop at one of the many cafes, bars, or restaurants.
Relax on the Beach
Budva is known for its beautiful beaches, which are among the most popular in Montenegro. The most famous of these is Slovenska Beach, which is a long, sandy beach lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes.
Visit Sveti Stefan Island
Sveti Stefan is a small, picturesque island located just off the coast of Budva. It is home to a luxury resort, but visitors can still explore the island’s winding streets and admire the views.
Climb the Citadel
The Citadel is a 15th-century fortress that overlooks the town and the sea. Visitors can climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Experience the Nightlife
Budva is known for its vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, nightclubs, and casinos. Visitors can dance the night away at one of the town’s many clubs or enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar.
Things to do in Kotor
Explore the Old Town
Kotor’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Balkans. Visitors can wander through the town’s winding streets, admire the architecture, and stop at one of the many cafes, bars, or restaurants.
Hike to the Fortress
Kotor is home to a well-preserved fortress that dates back to the 9th century. Visitors can hike up to the fortress for stunning views of the town and the bay.
Visit the Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum is located in Kotor’s Old Town and showcases the town’s seafaring history. Visitors can learn about the region’s naval traditions and view artifacts from Kotor’s maritime past.
Take a Boat Tour
The Bay of Kotor is a stunning natural attraction, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a boat tour. Visitors can explore the bay’s coves, islands, and villages and admire the scenery.
Visit the Church of Our Lady of Health – Budva vs Kotor
The Church of Our Lady of Health is located at the top of a hill overlooking Kotor, and it is a popular pilgrimage site for locals. Visitors can climb up to the church and admire the views, as well as learn about the church’s history and significance.
These are just a few of the top things to do in Budva and Kotor. Both towns offer a range of attractions and activities, and visitors can customize their itineraries based on their interests and preferences.
Top Hotels to Stay in Budva
Hotel Avala Resort & Villas
This luxury resort offers stunning sea views, an outdoor pool, a spa, and a private beach. The rooms are modern and spacious, and guests can enjoy a variety of dining options on-site.
Hotel Budva
Located in the heart of Budva’s Old Town, this boutique hotel offers cozy, individually decorated rooms with sea or city views. The hotel features a restaurant and bar with a terrace overlooking the town.
Hotel Splendid Conference & Spa Resort
This five-star hotel offers luxurious rooms, a spa, a casino, and a private beach. The hotel also has several restaurants, including an Italian restaurant and a seafood restaurant.
Astoria Hotel Budva
This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Budva, just a short walk from the beach. The rooms are spacious and stylish, and guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace with sea views.
Hotel Montenegro Beach Resort
This beachfront hotel offers comfortable rooms with sea views, a spa, and a private beach. The hotel also has several restaurants, including a seafood restaurant and a beach bar.
Top Hotels to Stay in Kotor
Hotel Forza Terra
This boutique hotel offers stunning views of the bay and the mountains, as well as comfortable, stylish rooms. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar with a terrace overlooking the bay.
Hotel Cattaro
This charming hotel is located in Kotor’s Old Town and offers cozy rooms with traditional decor. The hotel also features a rooftop terrace with views of the town and the bay.
Palazzo Drusko Deluxe Rooms
This historic building has been converted into a boutique hotel with luxurious rooms and suites. The hotel is located in Kotor’s Old Town and features a courtyard with a fountain.
Hotel Monte Cristo
This boutique hotel offers stylish, modern rooms with sea or mountain views. The hotel features a rooftop terrace with a hot tub and views of the bay.
Hotel Vardar Kotor
This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Kotor’s Old Town and offers comfortable rooms with traditional decor. The hotel also features a restaurant and bar with a terrace overlooking the town.
Top Restaurants to Eat at in Budva
Jardan Restaurant
This restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood. The restaurant has a terrace with sea views, making it a great place to enjoy a meal.
Konoba Portun
This seafood restaurant is located in Budva’s Old Town and offers a range of grilled seafood dishes. The restaurant has a cozy, traditional atmosphere, and the portions are generous.
Restoran Jadran
This seafood restaurant is located on the beach and offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant has a relaxed, beachy atmosphere, and guests can enjoy their meals with a view of the sea.
Bocasa
This restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and European cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant has a modern, minimalist decor, and the dishes are beautifully presented.
Casa Mia
This Italian restaurant is located in Budva’s Old Town and offers a range of classic Italian dishes, including pizza and pasta. The restaurant has a cozy, traditional atmosphere, and the portions are generous.
Top Restaurants to Eat at in Kotor
Galion Restaurant
This seafood restaurant is located on the bay and offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant has a terrace with stunning views of the bay, making it a great place to enjoy a meal.
Konoba Trpeza
This traditional Montenegrin restaurant is located in Kotor’s Old Town and offers a range of meat dishes, including grilled lamb and beef. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic atmosphere, and guests can enjoy their meals with a glass of local wine
Stari Mlini
This restaurant is located in an old mill on the outskirts of Kotor and offers a range of Montenegrin dishes, including grilled meat and fish. The restaurant has a unique atmosphere, with a water wheel and a terrace overlooking a stream.
Restaurant Bastion
This Mediterranean restaurant is located in Kotor’s Old Town and offers a variety of fresh seafood and meat dishes. The restaurant has a stylish, modern decor, and the dishes are beautifully presented.
Konoba Scala Santa
This traditional Montenegrin restaurant is located in Kotor’s Old Town and offers a range of meat and seafood dishes. The restaurant has a cozy, traditional atmosphere, with stone walls and wooden beams.
Budva and Kotor offer a mix of Mediterranean, seafood, and local cuisine. In Budva, seafood is a popular option due to its coastal location, with many restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes. In Kotor, Montenegrin cuisine is also widely available, featuring dishes such as stuffed peppers and burek.
Comparing for Solo Travel
Budva and Kotor are both great destinations for solo travelers, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure. Budva may be a better option for solo travelers who are looking for a more lively atmosphere and nightlife, with a variety of bars and nightclubs. Kotor, on the other hand, is ideal for those who prefer a more laid-back environment and outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating.
Comparing for Family Travel
Both Budva and Kotor are family-friendly destinations, with plenty of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Budva may be more suitable for families with older children, as it has a more lively atmosphere and a range of nightlife options. Kotor is ideal for families with younger children, as it is more relaxed and offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and swimming.
Budget Travel
Budva and Kotor can be affordable travel destinations, especially for budget-conscious travelers. However, Budva may be more expensive due to its popularity as a tourist destination, with higher prices for accommodation, food, and activities. Kotor may be a better option for budget travelers, as it is less crowded and has more affordable options for accommodation and dining.
Cost of Travel for a Week
The cost of travel for a week in Budva and Kotor can vary depending on the season, accommodation, and activities. On average, visitors can expect to spend around $500-$1000 per person per week for accommodation, food, and activities. Budva may be more expensive due to its popularity as a tourist destination, with higher prices for accommodation and activities.
Hope we helped you decide whether to go to Budva or Kotor, either way have an incredible time in Montenegro!
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.