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

Should you visit Beaune 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 Beaune 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.

Beaune

Beaune is a vineyard-filled, cultural, and historic town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Beaune and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Beaune. Although Beaune and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Beaune has more sights and attractions for tourists. Beaune is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Beaune and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Beaune is famous for its surrounding vineyards and world-renowned wines. It is also well known for The Surrounding Vineyards.

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

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

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Beaune specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Top sights and museums around town include Hôtel-Dieu (a former hospital), Château de Savigny, and Château de la Rochepot.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Beaune 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.

Beaune has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Beaune 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 Beaune has a few options to choose from. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

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

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

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Beaune 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, Beaune offers plenty to see. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

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


Is Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Beaune 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.

Beaune is not a hiking destination.

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

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Beaune. Boutiques, wine shops, and independent vendors are fun to explore in town.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. 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.

Beaune offers lots of family activities. The town has museums like Hospices de Beaune, Hotel-Dieu (a formal hospital), as well as vineyards that you can hike through. Many people enjoy taking a hot air balloon ride while they're in the region.


Is Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Beaune 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, Beaune has plenty to offer. Couples will enjoy exploring vineyards, sipping French wine, and wandering through the charming old town. There are breathtaking hot air balloon rides and wonderful French restaurants that make for a romantic trip.

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

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for backpackers. However, Beaune is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Beaune is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a charming town, but it's not on many backpacker's itineraries. There are also a limited number of hostels to choose from.

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

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Beaune 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 Beaune offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Beaune
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Beaune and Plitvice Lakes National Park both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

Getting around Beaune on foot is easy. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

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

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

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

How long in Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Beaune 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 Beaune, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Families should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Beaune. 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.

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

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


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

One day in Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Beaune, you'll find food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Beaune 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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Beaune. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The culinary town of Beaune offers nightlife and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary 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 Beaune?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Beaune is €166, 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 Beaune and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Beaune 83
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Beaune 166
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Beaune and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Beaune 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 Beaune


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: Beaune Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Beaune 41
    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 Beaune or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Beaune 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
    Beaune 54
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40
Typical Food Prices in Beaune

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Beaune:


  • Fast Food Lunch (for 2)
    9.00
  • Cookie
    1.00
  • Coffee
    2.80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Beaune 33
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34
Typical Entertainment Prices in Beaune

Here are a few typical costs in Beaune for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Winery Tour (for 2)
    20

Tours and Activities in Beaune

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

  • Beaune - Historic Guided Walking Tour: $395
  • Beaune - Private walking tour: $192
  • A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Burgundy’s Wine Capital: $5.99
  • Beguiling Beaune Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Burgundy Grand Crus Route Day Tour - 12 Wines Tastings in Domains: $267
  • Meursault: Tour of the Vineyards on Motorbike with Sidecar: $59
  • Paris Private Walking Street Art Tour: $87
  • Private Guided Sidecar Tour in Burgundy from Meursault: $60
  • Private city tour - Beaune the essential - 2h: $187
  • Private guided tour - Beaune 2h: $191
  • Skip the Line: Abbaye de Fontenay Admission Ticket: $13
  • Small group full day tour in the Burgundy vineyards: $209

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
    Beaune 48
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Beaune

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

  • 2 Hour Sparkling Wine Tasting and visit in Beaune: $11
  • Wine Tasting at Château de Pommard: $21
  • Maison Champy Guided Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting: $27
  • Visit Domaine Bourgogne - Guided wine tasting: $44
  • From Full-Day Bicycle and Wine Tour in Burgundy: $227
  • Burgundy Bike Tour with Wine Tasting from Beaune: $229
  • Wine tour - Meursault, its prestigious whites: $240
  • Wine tour - Aloxe-Corton, its great wines: $240
  • From Burgundy Day Trip with 12 Wine Tastings: $262
  • Côte de Nuits Private Local Wineries and Wine Tasting Tour: $945
  • Côte de Beaune Private Local Wineries and Wine Tasting Tour: $945


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



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Beaune during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Beaune for the small town charm 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 July, Beaune is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Beaune average around 21°C (70°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Beaune. In the summer, Beaune often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Beaune gets 266 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Beaune usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Beaune gets 51 mm (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
    Beaune 21°C (70°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

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

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

Beaune usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Beaune gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Beaune usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Beaune gets 58 mm (2.3 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
    Beaune 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Beaune as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Beaune for the museums, the shopping scene, and 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. Beaune can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Beaune is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Beaune in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Beaune often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Beaune gets 53 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Beaune usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Beaune gets 59 mm (2.3 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
    Beaune 3°C (38°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

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

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

Beaune usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Beaune gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Beaune usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Beaune gets 52 mm (2 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
    Beaune 11°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Beaune

Beaune Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 86 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 51 mm (2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)