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

Should you visit Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lyon

Lyon is a quaint, authentic, and historic city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Lyon. Although Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Lyon has more sights and attractions for tourists. Lyon is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Lyon and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Lyon is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. It is also well known for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Lyon 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 Lyon. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Lyon has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Lyon is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Lyon for the nightlife scene. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for its Old Town?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Lyon offers plenty to see. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon is not a hiking destination.

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.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Lyon is great for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Lyon. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

Plitvice Lakes National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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 Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Lyon is a great city to visit for backpackers. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and 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.

Is Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Lyon is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Lyon. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

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

Lyon is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors in Lyon can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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 Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Lyon is a very walkable destination. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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

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

How long in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Lyon than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

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

One day in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Lyon is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Lyon is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The beautiful city of Lyon offers nightlife and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The spectacular national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Lyon 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 Lyon Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.

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

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 Lyon or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Lyon for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Lyon is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 22°C (71°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Plitvice Lakes National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lyon this time of the year. In the summer, Lyon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lyon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Lyon because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

Lyon is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lyon usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lyon during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Lyon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Plitvice Lakes National Park. It's quite cold in Lyon in the winter. In the winter, Lyon is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lyon in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Lyon often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In April, Lyon is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 11°C (53°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Lyon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lyon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lyon