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

Should you visit Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Annecy

Annecy is a storybook, charming, and stunning alpine town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Annecy. Although Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Annecy has more sights and attractions for tourists. Annecy is famous for its charming old town and its beautiful, lakefront, alpine setting. It is also well known for Palais de l'Isle. Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes.

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

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

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Annecy is very good for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Annecy is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The old town and lakefront setting is what brings the tourists, but there are several unique landmarks around town as well. Palais de l'Île is the most photographed spot in the old town. Also worth visiting are Musée-Château d'Annecy, Eglise Saint-Maurice, and Cathédrale Saint-Pierre.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Annecy 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.

Annecy has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.

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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Annecy 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 Annecy has a few options to choose from. There are bars and pubs to visit with one of the most popular bar-hopping streets being Rue Sainte-Claire.

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

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

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Annecy is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Annecy offers plenty to see. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.

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


Is Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

You'll find very good hiking in both Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Many visitors go to Annecy for the hiking trails. There are a range of hikes just out of town that cover all ability levels. There are flat, waterfront strolls as well as more strenuous mountain treks. La Tournette is one of the most famous hikes in the area. Other options include Circuit des 3 Croix de Sevrier and Gorges du Fier.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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 the Shopping Better in Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Annecy. Three times a week you can check out the Old Town Market. Another popular shopping street is Rue Royale.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Annecy is very family-friendly. Families can enjoy getting out on the lake by renting a boat or going for a swim. Check out Wibit Water Park or let the kids play at Leisure Center Orange Montisel. There's also a great playground for kids right by the waterfront. Hiking and exploring are also fun for the whole family.

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.


Is Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Annecy is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Annecy has plenty to offer. It's a romantic French mountain town with beautiful scenery and a wonderful lake. Couples can enjoy outdoor activities or wandering through one of the best old towns in the region. The beauty and natural setting make this a wonderful couples destination.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

It's common for backpackers to visit Annecy. It's a world class mountain destination that attracts families and vacationers, but there aren't as many hostels around town as backpackers would like.

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

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Annecy 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 Annecy offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The Sibra public transport system offers buses that travel through Annecy and around the lake, stopping at many towns along the way.

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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Annecy
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Annecy is not as popular, but is still a nice alpine town for its ease of walking around.

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

Annecy is a very walkable destination. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Annecy than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Annecy, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Annecy 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 Annecy.


  • How many days in Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Annecy 2-4 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Annecy is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Annecy is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Annecy is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Annecy is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 alpine town 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, 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 Annecy?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Annecy is €178, 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 Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Annecy 92
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Annecy 184
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Annecy 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 Annecy


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: Annecy Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Annecy 37
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Annecy

Also for Annecy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lyon : Luxury private transfer to Annecy in Van: $374
  • Private transfer from Geneva airport to Annecy: $295

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Annecy 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
    Annecy 58
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Annecy

For Annecy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Annecy Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Annecy Old Town with Local Guide: $148
  • Private Market Tour and Modern French Cooking and Meal with a Local in Annecy: $188
  • Private Walking Food Tour: $348

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Annecy 41
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Annecy

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Annecy.

  • ANNECY | Private Walking Tour of Annecy's Historical Center: $191
  • Annecy 2-Hour Segway Tour: $64
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h: $44
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 1h30: $55
  • Annecy Segway Tour - 2h: $66
  • 1-Hour Segway Discovery Tour: $43
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $334
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $12
  • Traditional Food Group Walking Tour: $102

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $76
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • Croatia Walking Tour in a Wonderland: $174
  • E-Bike tour Plitvice Big Waterfall Viewpoints & Tito's Villa: $87
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes from Split & Trogir: $738
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • PLITVICE LAKES FULL DAY TOUR WITH LOCAL: $182
  • Plitvice Countryside Bike Tour with Barac Caves: $76
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Annecy 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Annecy

Also in Annecy, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver: $850


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

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



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

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 Annecy or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Annecy are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Annecy because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In July, Annecy is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 22°C (71°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Annecy. Annecy usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Annecy gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Annecy usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Annecy gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Annecy 22°C (71°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Annecy during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Annecy this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Annecy is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Annecy averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Annecy gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Annecy gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Annecy 14°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Annecy and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Annecy for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Annecy. In the winter, Annecy is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Annecy in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Annecy usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Annecy gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Annecy usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Annecy gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Annecy 4°C (39°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Annecy as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Annecy in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Annecy is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Annecy average around 11°C (53°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Annecy often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Annecy gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Annecy usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Annecy gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Annecy 11°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Annecy

Annecy Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)