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

Should you visit Catania 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 Catania and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Catania

Catania is a fun, historic, and lively port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Catania and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Catania. Although Catania and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Catania has more sights and attractions for tourists. Catania is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Catania and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Catania is famous for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. It is also well known for Mount Etna.

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

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

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

Catania is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Catania 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.

Catania has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into 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 Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

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

Many people head to Catania for the nightlife scene. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

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

Is Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

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

Many people head to Catania to enjoy the beach. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Catania is very good for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Catania is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

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

Is Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

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

Catania is a popular spot for hiking. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

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.

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

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Catania. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

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

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

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.

Is Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

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.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

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

Both Catania and Plitvice Lakes National Park are very good destinations for backpackers.

Catania is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

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.

Is Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Catania is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

Catania is very popular with students. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

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

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

Visitors to Catania can move around easily with public transportation. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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 Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Catania is a very walkable destination. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

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

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

How long in Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

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

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

One day in Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Catania, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

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 Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Catania. 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 Catania or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The fun port city of Catania 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 port city 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Catania and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Catania as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In July, Catania is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 26°C (79°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Plitvice Lakes National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In the summer, Catania often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

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

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene are the main draw to Catania this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Catania is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Catania gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Catania. In October, Catania usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Catania during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Catania for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. In the winter, Catania is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Catania in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Catania often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Catania and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Catania in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Catania is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 15°C (58°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Catania, it's very sunny this time of the year. Catania usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Catania usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Catania