A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Loch Lomond National Park vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a serene, peaceful, and relaxing national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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


Is there more to do in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Loch Lomond National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Loch Lomond 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. Loch Lomond National Park is well known for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

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

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

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Loch Lomond National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for hiking. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some nice hiking trails. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Loch Lomond National Park. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Loch Lomond National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Plenty of backpackers visit Loch Lomond National Park. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.

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

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

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 Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Loch Lomond National Park than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Loch Lomond National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Loch Lomond 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.


  • How many days in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Loch Lomond National Park, you'll find . It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-famous national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Loch Lomond National Park is a fun place to experience. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find around the scenic destination of Loch Lomond National Park. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.


A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The peaceful national park of Loch Lomond National Park offers . One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park or Loch Lomond National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is £108. 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £104
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond 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 Loch Lomond 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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £23

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 Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • From Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Loch Lomond National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Loch Lomond 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £29

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $76
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • Croatia Walking Tour in a Wonderland: $174
  • E-Bike tour Plitvice Big Waterfall Viewpoints & Tito's Villa: $87
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes from Split & Trogir: $738
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • PLITVICE LAKES FULL DAY TOUR WITH LOCAL: $182
  • Plitvice Countryside Bike Tour with Barac Caves: $76
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Loch Lomond National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. And not only is Loch Lomond National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Loch Lomond National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Loch Lomond 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 Loch Lomond National Park.

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