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

Should you visit Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Graz 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.

Graz

Graz is a medieval, cultural, and historical city. 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 scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Graz 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Graz. Although Graz and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Graz has more sights and attractions for tourists. Graz is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Graz and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Graz is famous for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture. It is also well known for The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower.

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

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

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Graz specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Graz 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 Graz. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Graz is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Graz for the nightlife scene. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

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

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

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Graz 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, Graz offers plenty to see. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

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


Is Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for hiking. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a hiking destination.

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

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Graz. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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


Is Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Graz and Plitvice Lakes National Park make for a great place to visit.

Graz is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

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

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Graz is very popular with students. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


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

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Graz 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 Graz can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Graz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Graz and Plitvice Lakes National Park are world-class when it comes to walkability.

Graz is a very easy city to get around on foot. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

It is easy to get around Plitvice Lakes National Park on foot. 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 Graz Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Graz than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Graz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Graz, you'll find food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Graz 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 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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Graz. 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.

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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The medieval city of Graz offers nightlife 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.

The scenic 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 Christmas Market Tours in Austria, The Best Bicycle Tours in Austria, 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 Graz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Graz is €112, 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 Graz and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Graz 67
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Graz 134
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Graz and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Graz 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 Graz


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: Graz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Graz 18
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Graz

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

  • Transfer from Graz Airport to Koper: $207
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz city centre to Graz Airport: $58
  • Graz Private Transfer from Graz Airport to City centre: $58

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 Graz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Graz 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
    Graz 32
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Graz 13
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Graz

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

  • 2.5-hour puzzle tour through Graz city center: $16
  • Graz - Private tour including Castle visit: $374
  • Graz Christmas Market Tour: $267
  • Graz Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $238
  • Graz Enchantment Walking Tour: $129
  • Graz Jewish Quarter and Old Town Private Tour: $214
  • Graz Museum: Private Guided Tour: $219
  • Graz Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour: $195
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $214
  • Graz Private Family Friendly Walking Tour: $210
  • Graz Private Walking Tour: $235

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
    Graz 16
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



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

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

In July, Graz is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 23°C (73°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 Graz. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Graz. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Graz gets 126 mm (5 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
    Graz 23°C (73°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

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

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

In the autumn, Graz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 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
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Graz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Graz can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Graz is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Graz in January average around 1°C (34°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Graz usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 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
    Graz 1°C (34°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

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

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

In the spring, Graz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Graz gets 52 mm (2 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
    Graz 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Graz

Graz Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (34°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 119 mm (4.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 126 mm (5 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 115 mm (4.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 76 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 13°C (55°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 2°C (36°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)