A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Lake District National Park vs. Basel for Backpackers, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Basel?

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 Lake District National Park and Basel. 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a unique, beautiful, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Basel

Basel is a easily accessible, beautiful, and vibrant city. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Basel: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Basel?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Basel. Although Lake District National Park and Basel are both popular with visitors, Basel has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Basel is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Lake District National Park is known for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Basel and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Basel is popular for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also home to The Kunstmuseum Basel.

How is Lake District National Park different from Basel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Basel and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Basel?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Basel. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Basel? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Lake District National Park is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Lake District National Park. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Basel is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Lake District National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Basel is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Basel?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Basel. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Both Lake District National Park and Basel are great family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Basel is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.


Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Lake District National Park is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Lake District National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Basel is a good national park for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Lake District National Park. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Basel is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Many students visit Basel. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.


Is Lake District National Park or Basel Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Basel offers a very effecient public transportation network. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Basel a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Basel

Basel is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Basel. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Basel Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Basel or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Basel?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Basel. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Basel. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Basel.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel than Lake District 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 Basel.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Basel? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Basel 1-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Basel?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this spectacular destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Basel. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Basel?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Basel for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Basel?

Lake District National Park is a fun place to experience. In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The vibrant destination of Basel offers shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. 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 Lake District National Park or Basel?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this spectacular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Basel, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Basel or Lake District National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Basel is £190. 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 Lake District National Park and Basel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Basel £115
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Basel £230
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Basel

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Basel? 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 Lake District National Park


Hotels in Basel


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: Basel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Basel £37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Basel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Basel:

  • Round Trip Private Transfer From Basel EuroAirport to Feldberg: $87
  • Private transfer from Basel to Strasbourg with a local driver: $233
  • Private direct transfer from Basel to Lucerne with a local driver: $177
  • Private Transfer: Basel Airport BSL to Zurich in Luxury Van: $261
  • Private Transfer from Basel to Zurich with 3h Sightseeing Stops: $251
  • Private Transfer From Basel To Bern With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $224
  • Private One-way Transfer From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $186
  • Private Direct Transfer from Basel to Zurich: $205
  • ONE WAY: Basel Train Station (ZDH) to / from Basel transfer: $88
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Car: $157
  • Basel Airport Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car: $108

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Basel?

Prices for flights to both Basel and Lake District National Park 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
    Lake District National Park £21
    Basel £49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Basel £30

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

Tours and Activities in Basel

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Basel are as follows:

  • Alpine Majesty: Basel to Jungfraujoch Exclusive Private Tour: $821
  • Alpine Majesty: Private Tour to Mount Titlis from Basel: $650
  • Basel (Kleinbasel) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Basel : Old Town Walking Tour: $107
  • Basel : Private Custom Walking Tour With A Local Guide: $82
  • Basel Adventure Tour - The city quiz: $37
  • Basel City Sightseeing Bus Tour: $27
  • Basel City: Private guided Segway Tour: $196
  • Basel Family Adventure: Exploring Historic & Artistic Gems: $543
  • Basel Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Basel History Tour for Groups: $328
  • Basel Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Basel £26

Sample the Local Flavors in Basel

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

  • Pub Crawl Meet People and Hidden Bars and Clubs: $33
  • Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg: $279
  • Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!: $285
  • Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel: $289


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Basel, we can see that Basel is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Basel Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Basel?

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 Lake District National Park or Basel in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Basel. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Basel. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Basel fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Basel. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 241 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Basel. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Basel receives 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Basel 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Basel in the Autumn?

Both Basel and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Basel in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Basel fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Basel during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Basel. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Basel receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Basel 13°C (56°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Basel in the Winter?

Both Basel and Lake District National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year.

It's quite cold in Basel in the winter. The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Basel. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Basel averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Basel. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Basel receives 55 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Basel. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Basel receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Basel 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Basel in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Basel. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally much colder than Basel. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Basel fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Basel during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Basel receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Basel. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Basel receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Basel 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Basel and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Basel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)