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

Should you visit Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Kiel 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.

Kiel

Kiel is a off-the-beaten-path, waterfront, and maritime city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Kiel and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kiel. Although Kiel and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Kiel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kiel is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Kiel and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Kiel is famous for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. It is also well known for The Kiel Castle.

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

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

Kiel is very good for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Kiel is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kiel 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 Kiel. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

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 Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Kiel is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Kiel has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

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

Is Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Kiel is very good for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kiel to enjoy the beach. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Kiel is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are eight different walking routes that range in length from 3 kilometers to 18 kilometers. They take between 3 and 8 hours and are well marked.

Kiel is not a hiking destination.

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

Kiel is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Kiel. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.

Is Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Kiel is a good city for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

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

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known 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.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Kiel 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 Kiel. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Kiel and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

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.

Is Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Kiel is a somewhat walkable city. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

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

How long in Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

One day in Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Kiel, you'll find food and shopping. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Kiel is a fun place to experience. 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 Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the off-the-beaten-path destination of Kiel. 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 spectacular 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 Kiel or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The maritime city of Kiel offers nightlife and food. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The spectacular 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.

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

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Kiel during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kiel this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Kiel is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 16°C (61°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kiel. In the summer, Kiel often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kiel gets 219 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kiel gets 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kiel and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Kiel for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Kiel is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Kiel averages around 10°C (50°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Kiel usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Kiel gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Kiel usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kiel gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Kiel as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Kiel 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. Kiel can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Kiel is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Kiel in January average around 0°C (33°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Kiel often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kiel gets 39 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Kiel usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kiel 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.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Kiel are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kiel for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Kiel is generally much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Kiel average around 7°C (44°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Kiel usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Kiel gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kiel usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Kiel gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Kiel