A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Chamonix-Mont-Blanc vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a majestic, world-class, and spectacular mountain town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, skiing, and nightlife.

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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Mont Blanc
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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is famous for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also well known for Mont Blanc. Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes.

Mont Blanc
Mont Blanc

How is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is among the world's best ski destinations. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for the nightlife scene. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

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

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a perfect choice. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc specifically for its hiking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very family-friendly. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular mountain town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable destination. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.


For even more information, also check out Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

How long in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 4-7 days is a good amount of time for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.


  • How many days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 4-7 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find food and skiing. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, many people enjoy the that this destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Many people visit Plitvice Lakes National Park for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Plitvice Lakes National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

The beautiful destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, you'll find food and skiing. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Many people spend one week here.This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. One week 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is €235, 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 90
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 180
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc


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: Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 40
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also for Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer Chamonix and Morzine to Milan Malpensa Airport: $229
  • Private Departure Transfer from Chamonix to Milan Airport: $170
  • Courmayeur Ski Club to Linate Airport (LIN) - Departure Transfer: $162
  • Courmayeur, Italy to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $153
  • Chamonix-Morzine-Avoriaz to Geneva Airport GVA-Departure Transfer: $147
  • Courmayeur to Milan Malpensa Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $137
  • Chamonix (FR) to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $131
  • Courmayeur to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Chamonix to Turin Caselle Airport - Departure Private Transfer: $71

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 48
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Food Tour in Chamonix: $444

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 80
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

For Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Altitude experience above Chamonix by eBike: $298
  • Bespoke Private Chamonix Experience: $196
  • Chamonix: Private Guided Walking Tour: $307
  • Fly in Paragliding! Paragliding experience over Chamonix!: $171
  • From Geneva: Chamonix Mont-Blanc Private Guided Tour: $416
  • Geneva: Private Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour: $538
  • Live an eBike Mountain Bike Experience in the Heart of Chamonix Mont-Blanc: $195
  • Monte Bianco Skyway Experience : $144
  • On an adventure with Rosalie - Nancy-sur-Cluses: $5.45

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
    Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 9.64
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Also in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tour with private driver - 10 hours: $823


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