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

Should you visit Koblenz 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 Koblenz 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.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a dynamic, accessible, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Koblenz and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • 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 Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Koblenz 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 Koblenz attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Koblenz and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Koblenz is famous for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards.

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

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

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Koblenz is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Koblenz 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 Koblenz. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

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 Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Koblenz doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.

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

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

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Koblenz is very good for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Koblenz is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.

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


Is Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is not a hiking destination.

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

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Koblenz. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Koblenz is not particularly known 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.

For families, Koblenz is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.


Is Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Couples visit Koblenz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great city if you're traveling as 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 Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for backpackers. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 Koblenz. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.

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

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Koblenz 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 Koblenz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.

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 Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Koblenz
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.

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

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

How long in Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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


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

One day in Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Koblenz 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.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer.


Five days in Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the dynamic destination of Koblenz. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Koblenz or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The vibrant city of Koblenz offers museums 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, 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 Koblenz?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Koblenz is €124, 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 Koblenz and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Koblenz 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 Koblenz


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: Koblenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Koblenz 42
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

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 Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $181
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $270
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $231

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Koblenz 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
    Koblenz 28
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Koblenz 30
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Koblenz

Here are a few actual costs in Koblenz for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Bochum Private Guided Walking Tour With A Professional Guide : $282
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Cochem Private Guided Walking Tour: $247
  • Essen Private Guided Walking Tour: $271
  • Koblenz - Guided tour of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress: $330
  • Koblenz Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $224
  • Koblenz private guided city tour: $403
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive City Tour: $74

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
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $22
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $32
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $35
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $43
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $54
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Koblenz 7.79
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

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

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75


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



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Koblenz during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Koblenz 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, Koblenz is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Koblenz average around 19°C (66°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. In the summer, Koblenz often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Koblenz gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Koblenz usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Koblenz gets 78 mm (3.1 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
    Koblenz 19°C (66°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Koblenz and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Koblenz in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Koblenz is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Koblenz averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Koblenz usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Koblenz gets 109 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Koblenz usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Koblenz gets 47 mm (1.9 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
    Koblenz 12°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Koblenz as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Koblenz for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Koblenz can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Koblenz is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Koblenz in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Koblenz often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Koblenz gets 45 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Koblenz usually gets less rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Koblenz gets 49 mm (1.9 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
    Koblenz 3°C (37°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Koblenz are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Koblenz because of the small town charm. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In April, Koblenz is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Koblenz average around 10°C (50°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Koblenz usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Koblenz gets 145 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Koblenz usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Koblenz gets 48 mm (1.9 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
    Koblenz 10°C (50°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Koblenz

Koblenz Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)