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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a classy, diverse, and international city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a spectacular, scenic, and world-famous national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Geneva and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
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
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Geneva. Although Geneva and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both popular with visitors, Geneva has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Geneva is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

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

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

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Geneva specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Geneva 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 Geneva. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Geneva 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 Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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

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

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Geneva is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

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


Is Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva is not a hiking destination.

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.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

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

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Geneva 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 Geneva. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.


Is Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Plitvice Lakes National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

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

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Geneva is very popular with students. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


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

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Geneva 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 Geneva can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Geneva
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

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

How long in Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Geneva 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 Geneva, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Families should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Geneva. 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.

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


  • How many days in Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Geneva 1-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Geneva is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Geneva is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the diverse big city of Geneva. 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 Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The classy city of Geneva offers nightlife and food. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, 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 Geneva?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $210, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is $133. 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 Geneva and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $145
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $290
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Geneva 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 Geneva


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: Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.38
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Private Transfer from Nice to Geneve: $2,567
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Geneve: $2,214
  • Geneva Airport (GVA): Private Transfer to Meribel (FR): $1,129
  • Geneva Airport (GVA): Private Transfer to Courchevel (FR): $1,038
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Val d'Isere: $826
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Alpe d'Huez: $794
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Leukerbad: $730
  • Geneva Airport (GVA): Private Transfer to Chamonix (FR): $699
  • Geneva Airport (GVA): Private Transfer to Montreux: $690
  • Private Transfer: Geneva Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $689
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Saas-Fee: $689
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Adelboden: $678

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Geneva 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
    Geneva $52
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $43

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $30
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $36

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • (KTG210) - Geneva City Tour and Yvoire: $176
  • (KTG353) - Winter Tour: Gruyeres, chocolate tour from Geneva: $169
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $32
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • 3 Days 2 Nights Tour Package To Siwa Oasis From Cairo: $394
  • 3 Hour Private Chocolate and Watch Walking Tour of Geneva: $168
  • 3-Hour Private Walking Tour in Geneva: $283
  • Activé Geneva Urban Art Tour 3h on a bike or ebike: $198
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $84
  • Annecy Private Guided Tour from Geneva: $354
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $21
  • Best Intro Tour of Geneva with a Local: $156

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • Plitvice Lakes: National Park Official Entry Ticket: $11
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $38
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $22
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $15


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



When is the best time to visit Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Geneva or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Geneva during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Geneva is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Geneva. In the summer, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Geneva in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Geneva is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Geneva usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Geneva usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, 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. Geneva can be very cold during winter. In January, Geneva is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Geneva because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

Geneva is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Geneva usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Geneva usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Geneva

Geneva Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)