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

Should you visit Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a romantic, beautiful, and picturesque city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

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.

Nafplio and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nafplio than Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nafplio is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Nafplio and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Nafplio is well known for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles. Also, Nafplio is famous for Palamidi Castle.

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

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

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nafplio is great for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Nafplio specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nafplio 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 Nafplio. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

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 Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many people head to Nafplio for the nightlife scene. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

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

Is Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nafplio is very good for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.


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

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nafplio is great for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

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

Is Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Nafplio is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Nafplio is not a hiking destination.

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

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nafplio is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Nafplio. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nafplio. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

Is Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Nafplio and Plitvice Lakes National Park make for a great place to visit.

Nafplio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

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 Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Nafplio is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.


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

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

While Nafplio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

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 Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Nafplio
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nafplio and Plitvice Lakes National Park are world-class when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nafplio. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

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

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

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

How long in Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

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


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

One day in Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Nafplio, you'll find food and shopping. 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.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Nafplio 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.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer.

Five days in Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Nafplio. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The beautiful city of Nafplio 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, 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 Nafplio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nafplio is €112, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is €125. 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 Nafplio and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nafplio 50
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nafplio 100
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Nafplio and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nafplio 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 Nafplio


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nafplio Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nafplio 46
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

Also for Nafplio, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Athens: Bus Transfer to/from Nafplio: $16

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Nafplio 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
    Nafplio 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nafplio 22
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

For Nafplio, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $427
  • Athens: Corinth, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Nafplio Day Tour: $524
  • From Athens: Peloponnese Full Day Private Tour & Audio Tour: $503
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $385
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $182
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $199
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $91
  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • City Walking Tour: $86
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $59
  • Peloponnese Tour 2-Day Itinerary: $1,444
  • Peloponnese: Mycenae Nafplio Epidaurus Private Tour & Audio: $503

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
    Nafplio 6.86
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Nafplio

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Nafplio:

  • Nafplion: Nemea Vineyards Wine Tour: $171
  • "Wine tasting Tour in Nemea and Visit tour in Nafplio": $295


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



When is the best time to visit Nafplio 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 Nafplio or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The beaches and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Nafplio is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Nafplio in July average around 25°C (76°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. In Nafplio, it's very sunny this time of the year. Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 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
    Nafplio 25°C (76°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Nafplio is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 19°C (66°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the autumn, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Nafplio receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Nafplio usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 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
    Nafplio 19°C (66°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Nafplio in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold during winter. Nafplio is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Nafplio averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Nafplio usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Nafplio. In January, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 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
    Nafplio 10°C (51°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Nafplio during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Nafplio is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Nafplio in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the spring, Nafplio often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 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
    Nafplio 15°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Nafplio

Nafplio Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 102 mm (4 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 22°C (72°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 4 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 142 mm (5.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 154 mm (6.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)