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

Should you visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a scenic, picturesque, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a spectacular, scenic, and world-famous national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both popular with visitors, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Isle of Skye and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also home to the terraced chain of lakes. Isle of Skye is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles.

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

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

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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 Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Isle of Skye is great for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Isle of Skye is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Isle of Skye is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Isle of Skye specifically for its hiking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Isle of Skye is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Isle of Skye. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.


Is Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Isle of Skye is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great island 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.

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

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.


Is Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Isle of Skye
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is terrific for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Isle of Skye than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye.


  • How many days in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Isle of Skye 2-5 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. 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.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, many people enjoy the that this spectacular national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Isle of Skye is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Isle of Skye, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The picturesque island of Isle of Skye offers food. 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 island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, 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 Isle of Skye?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Isle of Skye is £114, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is £108. 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 Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Isle of Skye £51
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Isle of Skye £102
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £104
Compare Hotels in Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Isle of Skye £54
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £23

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye to Inverness Direct transfer: $623

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 Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Isle of Skye 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
    Isle of Skye £31
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Isle of Skye £19
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £29

Tours and Activities in Isle of Skye

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

  • Isle of Skye Private Tour from Portree: $228
  • Tour the highlights and hidden beauties.: $812

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
    Isle of Skye £7.71
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £12


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



When is the best time to visit Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the beaches, the hiking, 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.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of the year. Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Isle of Skye usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 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
    Isle of Skye 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the autumn for the hiking trails 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.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 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
    Isle of Skye 9°C (49°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine during these months. Also, 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. Isle of Skye can be very cold during winter. In January, Isle of Skye is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 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
    Isle of Skye 4°C (40°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Isle of Skye during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

Isle of Skye is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Isle of Skye often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 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
    Isle of Skye 7°C (44°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 127 mm (5 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (40°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 96 mm (3.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 11°C (53°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 129 mm (5.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)