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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion 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.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a spectacular, iconic, and impressive destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Cape Sounion and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
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 Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Cape Sounion, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Cape Sounion is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, and beaches. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for the terraced chain of lakes. Cape Sounion is well known for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

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

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

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cape Sounion is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Cape Sounion from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

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 Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cape Sounion is adequate for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Cape Sounion doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

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

Is Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many people head to Cape Sounion to enjoy the beach. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cape Sounion is not a hiking destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Plitvice Lakes 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

Is Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Plitvice Lakes National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.


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

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

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 Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.


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

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

How long in Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park than Cape Sounion. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


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

One day in Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, many people enjoy the that this scenic national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Cape Sounion is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the iconic destination of Cape Sounion. 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.

You'll find around the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Cape Sounion or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The impressive destination of Cape Sounion offers food and museums. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure 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 Cape Sounion?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, 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 Cape Sounion and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion


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.
    Cape Sounion 26
    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:

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cape Sounion 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
    Cape Sounion 41
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    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.

  • 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
    Cape Sounion 23
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of the year. In Cape Sounion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 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
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 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
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cape Sounion in the winter for the museums and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine during these months.

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

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 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
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cape Sounion during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

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

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 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
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion 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)