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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Geneva?

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 Geneva. 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 spectacular, relaxing, and enjoyable national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food and hiking.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Geneva: 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
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Geneva than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Geneva is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Geneva is well known for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. Also, Geneva is famous for The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Lake District National Park different from Geneva?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Geneva both to be excellent destinations.

Lake District National Park has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Is Lake District National Park or Geneva Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Geneva 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 Geneva. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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

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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Geneva is a good destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

Geneva has an old town worth visiting. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

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


Is Lake District National Park or Geneva Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking experiences. However, Geneva is not a hiking destination.

Lake District National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Geneva is not a hiking destination.

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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

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

Many people travel to Geneva specifically to go shopping. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Geneva Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Lake District National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.


Is Lake District National Park or Geneva Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Lake District National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Lake District National Park is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Lake District National Park or Geneva Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Geneva

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

Many students visit Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.


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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

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

With a huge network, the transit system in Geneva can get you around easily. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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

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

Lake District National Park
Geneva

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

Geneva is a very walkable destination. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored 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 Geneva Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Geneva?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Lake District National Park or Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Lake District National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Geneva is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Geneva?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Geneva for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Geneva?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The classy big city of Geneva offers shopping and museums. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the shopping, as that's what most people do. 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 Geneva?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful destination of Lake District National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Geneva, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, and The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Geneva 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 Geneva is £169. 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 Geneva in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Geneva £117
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Geneva £234
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Geneva

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


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: Geneva Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Geneva £7.55

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Private Transfer: Geneva Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $689
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Geneve: $2,567
  • Private Transfer from Nice to Geneve: $2,214
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Hotels to Geneva Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Cornavin station CFF to Hotels: $108
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airpot to Geneva City: $108
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Verbier: $576
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Samoens: $291
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to City Centre: $157
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Annemasse: $117

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

Prices for flights to both Geneva 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
    Geneva £42

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Geneva £24

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 Geneva

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

  • (KTG210) - Geneva City Tour and Yvoire: $176
  • (KTG353) - Winter Tour: Gruyeres, chocolate tour from Geneva: $169
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $32
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • 3 Days 2 Nights Tour Package To Siwa Oasis From Cairo: $394
  • 3 Hour Private Chocolate and Watch Walking Tour of Geneva: $168
  • 3-Hour Private Walking Tour in Geneva: $283
  • Activé Geneva Urban Art Tour 3h on a bike or ebike: $198
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $84
  • Annecy Private Guided Tour from Geneva: $354
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $21
  • Best Intro Tour of Geneva with a Local: $156

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Geneva £18


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



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

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 Geneva in the Summer?

Both Geneva and Lake District National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Geneva this time of year.

In the summer, Lake District National Park is cooler than Geneva. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Geneva averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Geneva, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 285 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Geneva. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Geneva 22°C (71°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Geneva. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Geneva for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Geneva. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Geneva fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Geneva. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Geneva 14°C (56°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Geneva. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Geneva in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Geneva can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park is cooler than Geneva in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Geneva fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Geneva. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Geneva receives 62 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Geneva. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Geneva 4°C (39°F)

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

Both Geneva and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Geneva for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Lake District National Park is much colder than Geneva. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Geneva averages at about 11°C (53°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Geneva during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Geneva receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Geneva. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Geneva receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Geneva 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Geneva and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Geneva
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)