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

Should you visit Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a touristy, charming, and coastal fishing village. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Cefalu and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cefalu. Although Cefalu and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Cefalu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cefalu is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Cefalu and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Cefalu is famous for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. It is also well known for the beaches.

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

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

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

While most people don't head to Cefalu specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cefalu is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cefalu. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Cefalu doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

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

Is Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cefalu is great for its luxury resorts. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Cefalu. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cefalu is great for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Cefalu is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

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

Is Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.


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

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cefalu is adequate for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Cefalu is a good destination for shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Plitvice Lakes National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Cefalu 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, Cefalu has plenty to offer. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

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

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options 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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

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

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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.

Cefalu is a very walkable destination. The town is small enough to explore on foot.


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

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

How long in Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Cefalu is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Cefalu is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Cefalu is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Cefalu is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 fishing village 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, 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 Cefalu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cefalu is €119, 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 Cefalu and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu 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 Cefalu


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

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

  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87

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 Cefalu or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cefalu 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
    Cefalu 28
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

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

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272
  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224

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
    Cefalu 11
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

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

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49


When comparing the travel costs between Cefalu 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 Cefalu Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of the year. In Cefalu, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 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
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Cefalu in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In the autumn, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 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
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. In the winter, Cefalu is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cefalu in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Cefalu usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cefalu usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 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
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cefalu during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

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

It's quite sunny in Cefalu. In the spring, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 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
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Cefalu

Cefalu Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)