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

Should you visit Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Almeria

Almeria is a natural, breathtaking, and pristine region. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, nightlife, and food.

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.

Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Almeria than Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Almeria and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Almeria is well known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity. Also, Almeria is famous for The Alcazaba.

How is Almeria 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 Almeria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Almeria has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

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 Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

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

Is Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Almeria is a perfect choice. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Almeria is a very popular vacation destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for its Old Town?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria is great for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Almeria. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Hiking trails can be found around both Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park, and they are high quality.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Is Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Almeria is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.


Is Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Almeria frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great region if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Almeria is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

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

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Almeria 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 Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

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 Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Almeria
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options 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.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable region. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

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

How long in Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Almeria than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Almeria, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Almeria than Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Almeria.


  • How many days in Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Almeria 1-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Almeria, you'll find food and nightlife. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Almeria is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer.


Five days in Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find food and nightlife around the cultural destination of Almeria. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The natural region of Almeria offers nightlife and food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 10-Day Tours from Madrid, The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona, 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 Almeria?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Almeria is €99, 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 Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Almeria 44
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Almeria 88
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Almeria 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 Almeria


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Almeria 20
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Almeria

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Almeria:

  • Transfers desde Aeropuerto de Almería (LEI) a Vera Playa - 4 pasajeros: $125
  • Almería Private Transfer from the city centre or Cabo de Gata to Almería Airport: $66
  • Almería Private Transfer from Almería Airport to City centre or Cabo de Gata: $66
  • Tabernas: transfer + ticket Fort Bravo or Minihollywood: $62
  • Private Transfer from Almeria Airport to / from Almeria Spain: $42

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 Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Almeria 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
    Almeria 40
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Almeria

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Almeria.

  • Spanish Paella Private Online Cooking Class: $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Almeria 16
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Almeria

Here are a few actual costs in Almeria for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Almería: Cathedral Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • Almería: Cathedral and Convent of the Puras Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Almería: Guided City Discovery Tour: $16
  • Almería: Legends and Mysteries Evening Walking Tour: $11
  • Almeria : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $49
  • Almeria like a Local: Customized Private Tour : $52
  • Alcazaba Guided Tour: $16
  • Convent of the Puras Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • History and Hidden Corners Essential Walking Tour: $14
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $48
  • Spanish Civil War Shelters Ticket and Official Tour: $11
  • Andalusia: Almeria Cathedral Entry with Guided Tour: $16

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
    Almeria 4.29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Almeria

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Almeria:

  • Almería Visit to Eco Winery Cortijo El Cura and wine tasting: $24
  • Almería Wine tour and tasting in English in Bio Winery: $24


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. And not only is Almeria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Almeria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Almeria 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 Almeria.

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



When is the best time to visit Almeria 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 Almeria or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Almeria during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Almeria for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Almeria is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Almeria in July average around 26°C (78°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 Almeria. In the summer, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Almeria gets 343 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Almeria gets 1 mm (0 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
    Almeria 26°C (78°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Almeria and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Almeria in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Almeria is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Almeria average around 20°C (68°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Almeria gets 220 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Almeria usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Almeria gets 28 mm (1.1 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
    Almeria 20°C (68°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Almeria as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Almeria for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold. Almeria is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Almeria averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Almeria often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Almeria gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Almeria usually gets less rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Almeria gets 27 mm (1.1 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
    Almeria 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Almeria are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Almeria because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In the spring, Almeria is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Almeria in April average around 16°C (61°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 Almeria. Almeria usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Almeria gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Almeria usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Almeria gets 26 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
    Almeria 16°C (61°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Almeria

Almeria Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 27 mm (1.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 13°C (56°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 14°C (58°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 26 mm (1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 16°C (61°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)