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

Should you visit Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Como

Como is a vibrant, scenic, and trendy lake area. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

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.

Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Como than Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Como is well known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Also, Como is famous for the lakeside setting. Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes.

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

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

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como 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.

Como has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Como has a few options to choose from. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

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

Is Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many people head to Como to enjoy the beach. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both places where visitors can find excellent hiking trails.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Como. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Como. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is 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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como 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, Como has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both excellent destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Como 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 Como offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Como
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its ease of walking around. Also, Como 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.

Como is very walkable. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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

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

How long in Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

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

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


  • How many days in Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Como 2-4 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Como, you'll find shopping and nightlife. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Como is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Como. 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.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. 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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The trendy lake area of Como offers shopping and nightlife. 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 lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The world-famous national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome, 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 Como?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Como is €214, 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 Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Como 146
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Como 292
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Como 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 Como


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: Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Como 14
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

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

  • From Como : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $336
  • From Private 1-Way Transfer to Linate airport: $306
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Como: $275
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78

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 Como or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Como 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
    Como 60
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

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

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Como -
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Como

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

  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco: $131
  • 1 Hour Boat Tour of Lake Como from Bellagio: $43
  • 1 or 2 Hours Private Boat Tour on Lake villas and more: $374
  • 1 or 2 hours Private Boat Tour on Lake Como with Prosecco: $374
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $179
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $182
  • 2 hours Private Boat Tour Como Lake: $933
  • 2 hours Private and Exclusive Clay sculpture Art experience : $294
  • 2 hours Private boat tour on lake of Como: $909
  • 2h Boat Tour with Classic Venetian Limousine in Menaggio: $734
  • 3 Hour Private Kayaking Experience on Lake Como: $120

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
    Como -
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Como:

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196


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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Como and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Como is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Como in July average around 23°C (73°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 Como, it's very sunny this time of the year. Como usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Como gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Como usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Como gets 60 mm (2.4 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
    Como 23°C (73°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Como as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Como because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

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

In the autumn, Como often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Como gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Como receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Como usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Como gets 103 mm (4 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
    Como 15°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Como are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Como this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Plitvice Lakes National Park. It's quite cold in Como in the winter. Como is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Como averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Como usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Como gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Como usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Como gets 68 mm (2.7 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
    Como 5°C (41°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Como during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Como is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Como in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Como often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Como gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Como usually gets more rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Como gets 76 mm (3 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
    Como 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Como

Como Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)