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

Should you visit Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park 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.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a enjoyable, unique, and beautiful national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food and hiking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Lake District National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Lake District National Park and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for the terraced chain of lakes. Lake District National Park is well known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes.

How is Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Lake District National Park is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

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 Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Neither Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park offer decent nightlife.

Lake District National Park doesn't offer many options. There are some places to grab a drink in Kendal, but not much else in the form of nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are some bars near the park, but that's not why most visitors come to the area.

Is Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Is Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Lake District National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.


Is Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Lake District National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Plitvice Lakes National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's a natural wonder that is beautiful and romantic to explore as a couple. It can get crowded, as it's a top tourist destination is Croatia, so make sure you arrive early to avoid the peak times.

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

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

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.

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

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Visitors will find respectable public transit in both Lake District National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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 Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park is well organized into several walking routes that can be explored in a few hours.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable national park. The park is large and requires a vehicle to get around.

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

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lake District National Park than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lake District National Park than Plitvice Lakes 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 Lake District National Park.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Lake District National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Lake District National Park is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Many people visit Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

The spectacular destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Many people spend one week here.This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a popular national park, 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 2-Week Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Croatia, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park is £105. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £102
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park 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 Lake District National Park


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £22

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: $45
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $238
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $278
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $187
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $43
  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $168

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park 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
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £28

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: $147
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $93
  • Northern Lake District: Self Guided Walking Tour of Keswick: $7.99
  • Ullswater Lake District Return Cruise from Glenridding Pier: $32

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 Tour: Secured Tickets, Train & Boat Ride: $39
  • 2 hour Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $78
  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $101
  • 90-Minute Rastoke Guided Walking Tour: $7.83
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $56
  • Croatia Walking Tour in a Wonderland: $143
  • E-Bike tour Plitvice Big Waterfall Viewpoints & Tito's Villa: $168
  • From Split/Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Guided Group Tour: $49
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $71
  • Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes from Split & Trogir: $757
  • Kayaking Adventure on Mreznica River close to Plitvice Lakes: $56
  • PLITVICE LAKES FULL DAY TOUR WITH LOCAL: $187

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £12


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



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

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lake District National Park is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of the year. Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for 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. Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. Lake District National Park is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In January, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lake District National Park during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In the spring, Lake District National Park is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)