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

Should you visit Girona 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 Girona 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.

Girona

Girona is a beautiful, colorful, and medieval city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Girona 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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
  • Less popular for food


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Girona. Although Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Girona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Girona is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Girona and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Girona is famous for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine. It is also well known for The Girona Cathedral.

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

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

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Girona specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona 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 Girona. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

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 Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Girona doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

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

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

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Girona offers plenty to see. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

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


Is Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Girona is not a hiking destination.

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.

Girona is not a hiking destination.

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

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona is great for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Girona. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.


Is Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Girona is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Plitvice Lakes National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

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

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Girona. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


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

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona 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 Girona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

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 Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Girona
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Girona on foot. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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.

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

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

How long in Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. In our opinion, Girona has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Girona than Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Girona. 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 Girona than Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Girona that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


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

One day in Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Girona, you'll find museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Girona is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the charming destination of Girona. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Girona or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The colorful city of Girona offers museums and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona, The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid, 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 Girona?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Girona is €140, 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 Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Girona 69
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Girona 138
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Girona 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 Girona


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: Girona Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Girona 49
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Girona

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Girona:

  • Private Transfer from Tossa de Mar/ Lloret de Mar to Barcelona: $262
  • Transfer from Barcelona to girona Airport: $196
  • Girona Airport (GRO) to Costa Brava - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $98
  • Palamós to Barcelona Airport (BNC) Departure Private Transfer: $60
  • Palamós to Girona Airport (GRO) - Departure Private Transfer : $33
  • Girona Airport Bus Transfer from/to Barcelona Center: $21

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Girona 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
    Girona 41
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Girona

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

  • The 11 tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $88
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $91
  • Girona Evening Food Tour & Tapas Bar Experience: $95
  • The 11 Tastings of Girona small-group tour and dinner: $96
  • Girona Morning Food Tour & Local Market: $97

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Girona 24
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Girona

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Girona are as follows:

  • 2h Guided Kayak Tour on the Costa Brava: $44
  • Basic Dali Experience & Costa Brava from Girona or Palamos: $196
  • Cadaqués & Dalí House-Museum day trip from Girona (tickets included): $158
  • Dalí Museum and Costa Brava Small Group Tour from Girona: $152
  • E-ticket to Girona's Cathedral, Art Museum & S.t Feliu Church: $29
  • Entrance ticket to the Girona Art Museum: $6.54
  • Fábrica-Museo de Anchoas Solés Ticket: $7.74
  • From Dalí Museum and Girona Small Group Tour: $149
  • From Dalí Museum, Cadaqués and Creus Cape Tour: $149
  • Girona - Private Historic Walking Tour: $374
  • Girona Art Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket & Audio Guide: $6.42
  • Girona City Tour Self-guided Audio Tour on Your Phone (no ticket): $11

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
    Girona 9.69
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Girona

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

  • Spanish Wine Tasting in the Costa Brava: $82
  • Local Wineries Tour with Breakfast and Wine Tasting: $149


When comparing the travel costs between Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Girona 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 Girona Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



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

The summer brings many poeple to Girona as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Girona for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Girona is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 24°C (75°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Plitvice Lakes National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In the summer, Girona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Girona gets 279 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Girona gets 38 mm (1.5 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
    Girona 24°C (75°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Girona are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Girona in the autumn for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Girona is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Girona averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Girona usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Girona gets 170 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Girona usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Girona gets 79 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
    Girona 16°C (61°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Girona during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Girona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Girona is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Girona in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Girona often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Girona gets 148 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Girona usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Girona gets 61 mm (2.4 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
    Girona 8°C (46°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Girona and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Girona because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In April, Girona is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Girona average around 13°C (55°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Girona usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Girona gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Girona usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Girona gets 73 mm (2.9 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
    Girona 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Girona

Girona Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)