A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a active, relaxing, and vibrant island. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Aegina and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes


Is there more to do in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Aegina have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Aegina is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Aegina and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Aegina is well known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens.

How is Aegina different from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Plitvice Lakes National Park and Aegina. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Aegina is great for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Aegina specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Aegina is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find a few tourist cafes near the lakes that serve grilled meats and other simple dishes. You can also grab a snack from the food stalls that are near the entrance to the park.

Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Aegina is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Aegina for the nightlife scene. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Aegina is very good for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Aegina to enjoy the beach. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Aegina is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Aegina is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aegina. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Aegina offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.


Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Plitvice Lakes National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Aegina is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Aegina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

Public transit is generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.


Is Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Aegina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

Getting around Plitvice Lakes National Park on foot is easy. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

Aegina is somewhat walkable. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. In our opinion, Aegina has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Aegina than Plitvice Lakes National Park. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


  • How many days in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aegina 1-2 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Aegina, you'll find food and shopping. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Aegina is a fun place to experience. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Aegina. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The relaxing island of Aegina offers nightlife and food. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park 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 Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park or Aegina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €92, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is €125. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aegina and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aegina


Hotels in Plitvice Lakes National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aegina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232

Is it cheaper to fly into Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Aegina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aegina 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • Plitvice Lakes: National Park Official Entry Ticket: $11
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $38
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aegina 8.57
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aegina and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. And not only is Aegina much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Aegina would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aegina 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Plitvice Lakes National Park than you might in Aegina.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aegina Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Aegina during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Aegina is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Aegina in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the summer, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Aegina for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Aegina is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 19°C (67°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Aegina usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Aegina in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold during winter. Aegina is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Aegina often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Aegina for the beaches and the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Aegina is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Aegina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Aegina usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Aegina

Aegina Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)