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

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Utrecht?

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 Utrecht. 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. It's also known for food and hiking.

Utrecht

With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Utrecht: 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 backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Utrecht than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Utrecht is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is well known for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Utrecht is well known for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town. Also, Utrecht is famous for the Dom Tower.

How is Lake District National Park different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Utrecht 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 Utrecht. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Lake District National Park or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Utrecht is an excellent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Utrecht has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

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

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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Utrecht is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Utrecht is revered around the world. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

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


Is Lake District National Park or Utrecht Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht 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.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Utrecht Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly national park. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.


Is Lake District National Park or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Lake District National Park and Utrecht 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 Utrecht frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Lake District National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit 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.

Many backpackers visit Utrecht. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Is Lake District National Park or Utrecht Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

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

Many students visit Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.


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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

Utrecht 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.

Utrecht offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

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

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

Lake District National Park
Utrecht

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Utrecht. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Lake District National Park or Utrecht?

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

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

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


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

One day in Lake District National Park or Utrecht?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Utrecht?

In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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

Five days in Lake District National Park or Utrecht?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The historic destination of Utrecht offers shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Utrecht?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lake District National Park. In Lake District National Park, you'll find food. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Utrecht 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 Utrecht is £162. 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 Utrecht in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Utrecht £91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Utrecht £182
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Utrecht

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


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: Utrecht Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Utrecht £19

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 Utrecht

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Utrecht:

  • Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Rotterdam: $15
  • Private taxi transfer from Utrecht to Amsterdam: $101
  • Private transfer from Utrecht to AMS Schiphol Airport: $120

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

Prices for flights to both Utrecht 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
    Utrecht £49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Utrecht

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

  • City Boat Tour & Balkan Restaurant Lunch OR Dinner: $31
  • Vegan Food Tour like a local. Eat, walk, enjoy.: $70
  • Vegan Food Tour by bike in get of the beaten track! : $71
  • Vegan Food Tour like a Local: eat, walk, enjoy Utrecht: $71
  • Guided Food Tour: $79

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Utrecht £37

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 Utrecht

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

  • 2 Hours Utrecht Family Walking Tour: $163
  • Captivating Utrecht Family Walking Tour: $321
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht: $8.99
  • Christmas Joy in Utrecht Walking Tour: $448
  • Christmas Joy in Utrecht Walking Tour: $210
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $11
  • Cultural and Historical Audio Guided Walking Tour of Utrecht: $13
  • Discover Utrecht with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour: $27
  • Discover Utrecht’s Zocherpark in this Outside Escape game tour!: $27
  • Discover Utrecht’s city center in this Outside Escape game tour!: $22
  • Explore Gems of Utrecht Walking Tour for Couples: $341
  • Explore Gems of Utrecht Walking Tour for Couples: $174

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Utrecht £20

Sample the Local Flavors in Utrecht

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Utrecht:

  • Utrecht Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Utrecht Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21


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



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

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 Utrecht in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Lake District National Park is cooler than Utrecht. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Utrecht averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Utrecht. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 194 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Utrecht. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Utrecht 17°C (62°F)

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

Both Utrecht 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 Utrecht in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Utrecht. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Utrecht fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Utrecht during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 100 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 Utrecht. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Utrecht 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) 
    Utrecht 11°C (51°F)

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

Both Utrecht 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. Furthermore, most visitors come to Utrecht for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Utrecht can be very cold during winter. Lake District National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Lake District National Park is much warmer than Utrecht in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Utrecht fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Utrecht. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Utrecht receives 38 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 Utrecht. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Utrecht 2°C (36°F)

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

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

In the spring, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Utrecht. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Utrecht averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Utrecht during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Utrecht receives 156 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Utrecht. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Utrecht receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Utrecht 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Utrecht and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Utrecht
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)