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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Como?

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 Como. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food and hiking.

Como

Como is a trendy, fun, and vibrant lake area. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, beaches, and hiking.

Lake District National Park and Como: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Como. Although Lake District National Park and Como are popular destinations, Como has more sights and attractions for tourists. Como is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Lake District National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Como is more touristy than Lake District National Park and is known for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. It is also well known for the lakeside setting. Lake District National Park is famous for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

How is Lake District National Park different from Como?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Como 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 Como?

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is a decent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Como specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Como, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Is Lake District National Park or Como Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Como

Como 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 Como. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

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

Is Lake District National Park or Como Better for Beaches?

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is a good destination for the beach. However, Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.

Como offers a nice beach destination. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Lake District National Park is not a beach destination.


Is Lake District National Park or Como Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Como

Lake District National Park is renowned for its hiking trails. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Como. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

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

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many people travel to Como specifically to go shopping. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Como Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Como

Both Lake District National Park and Como 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.

Como is a very family-friendly place to visit. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.


Is Lake District National Park or Como Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Lake District National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Como is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

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

Lake District National Park
Como

Lake District National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lake District National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.

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

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

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


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

Lake District National Park
Como

Como is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Como is a very walkable destination. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

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 Como Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Como?

It's fun to spend time in either Lake District National Park or Como. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Como.

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

Couples should spend more time in Como than Lake District National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Como that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Como 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 Como.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Como? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Como 2-4

One day in Lake District National Park or Como?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the scenic destination of Como. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This lake area offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Como?

Lake District National Park is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Many people visit Como for a weekend. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Como?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the spectacular destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

The fun destination of Como offers nightlife and food. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Como?

Visitors enjoy the food when visiting the spectacular national park of Lake District National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Como, a popular lake area, is full of activities for travelers. 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. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome.


Which place is cheaper, Como 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 Como is £183. 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 Como in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Como £125
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Como £250
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Como

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


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: Como Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Como £12

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 Como

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

  • Private transfer from Mandello del Lario or Abbadia Lariana: $76
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • Private Transfer from Como to Milan hotels: $53
  • Private Transfer From Lecco or Malgrate: $65
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243
  • From Milan center : Private 1-Way Transfer to Como: $275
  • From Private 1-Way Transfer to Linate airport: $306
  • From Como : Private 1-Way Transfer to Malpensa airport: $336
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193

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

Prices for flights to both Como 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
    Como £51

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

For Como, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Como -

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:

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

Tours and Activities in Como

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

  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • “Public Tour” Lake Como By SuBacco: $131
  • 1 Hour Boat Tour of Lake Como from Bellagio: $43
  • 1 or 2 Hours Private Boat Tour on Lake villas and more: $374
  • 1 or 2 hours Private Boat Tour on Lake Como with Prosecco: $374
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $179
  • 2 Hours Como Private Walking Tour: $182
  • 2 hours Private Boat Tour Como Lake: $933
  • 2 hours Private and Exclusive Clay sculpture Art experience : $294
  • 2 hours Private boat tour on lake of Como: $909
  • 2h Boat Tour with Classic Venetian Limousine in Menaggio: $734
  • 3 Hour Private Kayaking Experience on Lake Como: $120

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Como -

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Como:

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Como, we can see that Como 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 Como would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Como 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 Como Expensive?.



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

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 Lake District National Park or Como in the Summer?

Both Como and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Como for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Como in the summer. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 15°C (59°F) in July, and Como fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

It's quite sunny in Como. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Como during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 250 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Como. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Como receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Como 23°C (73°F)

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

Both Como and Lake District National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. 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 Como because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lake District National Park is much colder than Como. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lake District National Park in October average around 10°C (49°F), and Como averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Como. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 152 hours of full sun.

Como gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Como. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Como receives 103 mm (4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Como 15°C (58°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Como. 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 Como this time of year.

It's quite cold in Como in the winter. The weather in Lake District National Park can be very cold. In January, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Como. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 3°C (38°F), and Como fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Como during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Como receives 119 hours of full sun in the winter.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Como. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Como receives 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Como 5°C (41°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Como. The natural beauty are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lake District National Park is much colder than Como in the spring. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 7°C (45°F) in April, and Como fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Como. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Como receives 176 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Como. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Como receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Como 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Como and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Como
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)