A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a historic, spiritual, and dramatic destination. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
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


Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Kalampaka (Meteora) and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Kalampaka (Meteora) attracts visitors for its museums, food, and nightlife. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Kalampaka (Meteora) and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Kalampaka (Meteora) is famous for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Kalampaka (Meteora) is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Kalampaka (Meteora) from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Kalampaka (Meteora) is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kalampaka (Meteora). In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Kalampaka (Meteora) is mediocre for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Kalampaka (Meteora) This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

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

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Plitvice Lakes National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.


Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Kalampaka (Meteora)
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is terrific for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.


  • How many days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 2-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Kalampaka (Meteora), you'll find museums and food. 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 destination offers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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.

Many people visit Plitvice Lakes National Park for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Plitvice Lakes National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). 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.

The beautiful destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The dramatic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) offers food and museums. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This destination offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Kalampaka (Meteora) is €134, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 65
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 130
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Kalampaka (Meteora) and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)


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.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 37
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also for Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer From Kalabaka - Meteora To Athens: $274
  • Meteora Small Group Hiking tour with Transfer and Monastery Visit: $43

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Kalampaka (Meteora) 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 39
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 44
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Kalampaka (Meteora)

For Kalampaka (Meteora), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Meteora All Monasteries Tour with Photo Stops: $41
  • Meteora Sunset E-Bike Tour: $44
  • 3-Hour Hiking and Scramble Guided Tour of Great Saint in Meteora: $82
  • 4-Hour Tour Morning Highlights of Meteora on E-Bike: $43
  • 4-hours Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Amazing Morning Meteora Monasteries Tour: $44
  • Breath-taking Meteora Sunset Tour: $44
  • Discover Meteora's Monastic Heritage: Personalized Private Tour: $240
  • Golden Sunrise Meteora Private Photo Tour: $147
  • Half-Day Meteora Cultural Tour from Kalambaka train station: $47
  • Hiking Tour to Meteora from Kalambaka - Local Agency: $49
  • Kalambaka's Train Station: Meteora Monasteries Tour with Lunch: $52

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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 11
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Kalampaka (Meteora)

Also in Kalampaka (Meteora), these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Meteora Private Guided Wine Tasting Experience from Kalampaka : $76


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



When is the best time to visit Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for 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, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 26°C (78°F), 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. In Kalampaka (Meteora), it's very sunny this time of the year. Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 330 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 20 mm (0.8 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 26°C (78°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kalampaka (Meteora) as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the autumn for 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kalampaka (Meteora) averages around 17°C (62°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 165 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 47 mm (1.9 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 17°C (62°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the museums and 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. In the winter, Kalampaka (Meteora) is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Kalampaka (Meteora) usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 30 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 6°C (42°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

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

In April, Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Kalampaka (Meteora) average around 14°C (56°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Kalampaka (Meteora). In the spring, Kalampaka (Meteora) often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Kalampaka (Meteora) usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) gets 29 mm (1.1 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
    Kalampaka (Meteora) 14°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)