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

Should you visit Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Chartres 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.

Chartres

Chartres is a historic, grand, and spectacular town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Chartres and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
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
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Chartres and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Chartres attracts visitors for its museums, food, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Chartres and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Chartres is famous for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

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

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

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Chartres is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chartres 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 Chartres. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

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 Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for hiking. However, Chartres is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Chartres is not a hiking destination.

Is Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.


Is Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

Chartres is a good town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

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

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.

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

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Chartres 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 Chartres can move around easily with public transportation. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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 Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Chartres
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its ease of walking around.

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

Chartres is a very walkable destination. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

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

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

How long in Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. In our opinion, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Chartres. 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 Chartres. 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 Chartres. 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 Chartres 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 Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chartres 1-2 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

The beautiful national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Chartres is a fun place to experience. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the 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 Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Chartres. 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 popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Chartres or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The grand town of Chartres 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. 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 national park offers something for everyone.


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 Chartres?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chartres is €117, 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 Chartres and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chartres 59
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chartres 118
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Chartres and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chartres 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 Chartres


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: Chartres Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chartres 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 Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Chartres 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
    Chartres 39
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chartres 22
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Chartres

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Chartres.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

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
    Chartres 12
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Chartres are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Chartres this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Chartres is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Chartres average around 20°C (68°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Chartres. Chartres usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Chartres gets 239 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Chartres usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Chartres gets 55 mm (2.2 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
    Chartres 20°C (68°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Chartres during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Chartres for the small town atmosphere. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Chartres is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Chartres averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Chartres often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Chartres gets 126 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Chartres usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Chartres gets 43 mm (1.7 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
    Chartres 13°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Chartres and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Chartres 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. Chartres can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Chartres is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Chartres in January average around 5°C (40°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Chartres usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Chartres gets 56 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Chartres usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Chartres gets 55 mm (2.2 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
    Chartres 5°C (40°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Chartres as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Chartres for the small town charm during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Chartres is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Chartres average around 11°C (52°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Chartres often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Chartres gets 173 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Chartres usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Chartres gets 48 mm (1.9 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
    Chartres 11°C (52°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Chartres

Chartres Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)