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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Rouen?

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 Rouen. 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 relaxing, enjoyable, and unique national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food and hiking.

Rouen

Rouen is a historical, charming, and compact 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 Rouen: 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 public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rouen. Although Lake District National Park and Rouen are both popular with visitors, Rouen has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rouen is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Lake District National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Rouen and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Rouen is popular for its architectural history, historical monuments, and sense of culture. It is also home to The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen.

How is Lake District National Park different from Rouen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Rouen is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Rouen. You'll find the highest concentration of sights in the city's pedestrian zone. Highlights that you should check out include Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, Musée des Beaux-Arts, Abbatiale Saint-Ouen, and Aître Saint-Maclou.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Foodies will find both Lake District National Park and Rouen both to be superb 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, Rouen makes for a great culinary experience. There are many local specialties found in town. Make sure you try the Passe Crassane, which is a French pear. The town is also known for its cheese, chocolate, and pastries.

Is Lake District National Park or Rouen Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Rouen 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 Rouen. You'll find wine bars, trendy cocktail bars, and local pubs where you can grab a drink.

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

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

Lake District National Park
Rouen

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

Rouen has an old town worth visiting. The old town is where you'll find spectacular Gothic churches and the most charming streets.

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


Is Lake District National Park or Rouen Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Rouen

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

People visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Rouen is not a hiking destination.

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

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Rouen is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Rouen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Some of the city's best shopping is found along the Rue du Gros-Horloge in the old city center. You'll find independent boutiques and well as upscale vendors.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Rouen Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Lake District National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Rouen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Lake District National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

Rouen is a family-friendly national park. This beautiful city is filled with nice parks, free museums, and towers that offer views over the city. Kids will enjoy climbing the clocktower, eating pastries, or riding a bike around town.


Is Lake District National Park or Rouen Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Lake District National Park and Rouen both superb 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 Rouen frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful city makes a great retreat for couples who enjoy good food and nice architecture. There are many hidden gems around town that make this a favorite French city for many couples.

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

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Rouen is a mediocre city 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.

Rouen is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Backpackers may struggle to find a hostel with a social setting, but for those who make it here there are many beautiful things to see.

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

Lake District National Park
Rouen

Rouen 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.

Rouen offers a very effecient public transportation network. The city has two agencies that offer public transportation. Métro du Rouen is a tramway that runs north to south from Boulingrin in the north to Saint-Sever, where it branches off into two lines (one to Technopôle and one to Georges Braque). There are also buses and rail connections to 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 Rouen a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Rouen

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

Rouen is a very walkable destination. There are many parts of town that can easily be 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 Rouen Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Rouen?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lake District National Park or Rouen to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lake District National Park than Rouen 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 Rouen.

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

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


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

One day in Lake District National Park or Rouen?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this unique 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 charming destination of Rouen. 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 Rouen?

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 Rouen for a weekend. 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 Rouen?

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 historical destination of Rouen offers shopping and museums. 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 Rouen?

In Lake District National Park, many people enjoy the food that this enjoyable 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.

Rouen, 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, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Rouen 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 Rouen is £93. 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 Rouen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Rouen £45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Rouen £90
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Rouen

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


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: Rouen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Rouen £29

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 Rouen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rouen:

  • Round-Trip Private Transfer Rouen Airport URO to Rouen by Minivan: $164

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

Prices for flights to both Rouen 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
    Rouen £30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Rouen £15

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 Rouen

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

  • Audio guided tour : Rouen retold - Joan of Arc retold: $16
  • From Normandy D-Day Beaches Private Full-Day Tour: $1,283
  • From Normandy’s Regional Highlights Private Tour: $933
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center of Rouen: $26
  • Private Custom Walking Guided Tour in Rouen: $51
  • Rouen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Rouen audio guided tour: $13
  • American Landing Beaches Discovery Private Tour: $1,128
  • Castles and Abbeys Private Full-Day Tour: $1,283
  • Discover Rouen with a licenced tour guide: $59
  • Guided Tour of the Historic Center: $26
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $307

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Rouen £6.72


When comparing the travel costs between Lake District National Park and Rouen, we can see that Rouen is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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



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

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 Rouen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Rouen. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Rouen for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 15°C (59°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

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

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Rouen. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Rouen 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Rouen and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rouen in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Lake District National Park is cooler than Rouen in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 10°C (49°F) in October, and Rouen fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 127 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 Rouen. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Rouen 12°C (53°F)

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

Both Rouen and Lake District National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the winter for the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rouen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Rouen can be very cold during winter. Lake District National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Lake District National Park is cooler than Rouen. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lake District National Park in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Rouen averages at about 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Rouen. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rouen receives 62 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 Rouen. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Rouen. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rouen because of the natural beauty.

In April, Lake District National Park is generally cooler than Rouen. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 7°C (45°F), and Rouen fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Rouen during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Rouen receives 172 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Rouen. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rouen receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Rouen 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Rouen and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Rouen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 4°C (40°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 7°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 12°C (53°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)