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

Should you visit Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands is a pristine, remote, and serene archipelago. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and beaches.

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.

Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Orkney Islands, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is better known for its impressive beauty, while Orkney Islands is more popular for its museums, food, and beaches. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Orkney Islands 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. Orkney Islands is well known for its sandy beaches, serene landscape, and well-preserved Neolithic sights.

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

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

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Orkney Islands is very good for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Orkney Islands is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The islands is home to a number of archaeological ruins including the stone age village of Skara Brae and the neolithic chambered cairn of Maes Howee. Also check out impressive Ring of Brodgar stone circle as well as the oldest dwelling in the UK, the Knap of Howar on Papa Westray.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands. You'll find so many local products on the islands. It's famous for its local beef, lamb, salmon, and seafood, but you'll also find cheeses and produce. There are two breweries on the island as well. Many people pick up some items that they take home with them.

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 Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Orkney Islands is great for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Orkney Islands is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The archipelago has hundreds of miles of beaches that feel serene and remote. If you're looking for a tranquil setting that is natural and untouched, you'll have many to choose from. Some of the best beaches on the islands include Tresness Beach, Grobust Beach, and Sands of Evie Beach.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

You'll find very good hiking in both Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Many visitors go to Orkney Islands for the hiking trails. Rolling hills and rugged landscapes make for relaxing and beautiful walks. There are also many archaeological ruins that you can explore. Favorite hikes in the area include Balfour Village and Mill Dam, Birsay Whalebone, and Birwick to Barth Head.

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.


Is Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Orkney Islands is not as popular, but is still a nice archipelago 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.

Orkney Islands is a family-friendly place to visit. Exploring the beaches is one of the best way to spend your days with kids. There are also several places you can take the kids like Barony Mill, Skate Rumple Alpaca Farm, Corrigall Farm Museum, and Kirbuster Farm Museum.

Is Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Orkney Islands is a great archipelago if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers will enjoy the stunning beaches and beautiful natural setting. There are also some great restaurants and even live music performances that make for a fun date night.

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

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

For backpackers, both Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park are very good places to visit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Orkney Islands. If camping is your style, you'll find some great campgrounds and campsites that make the most of this beautiful natural setting.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses travel to many parts of the islands and many islands are connected by ferries.

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 Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Orkney Islands
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Orkney Islands 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.

Orkney Islands is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Orkney Islands than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Orkney Islands, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands.


  • How many days in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Orkney Islands 3-7 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.


A weekend in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Orkney Islands is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Orkney Islands, you'll find food and museums. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Many people spend one week here.This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities. This archipelago offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to 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 Orkney Islands?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Orkney Islands is £128, 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 Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Orkney Islands £60
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Orkney Islands £120
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £104
Compare Hotels in Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Orkney Islands 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 Orkney Islands


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.
    Orkney Islands £56
    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 Orkney Islands or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Orkney Islands 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
    Orkney Islands £34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Orkney Islands £27
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £29

Tours and Activities in Orkney Islands

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Orkney Islands.

  • From Kirkwall - Orkney Mainland Private Tour: $275
  • Semi Private Tour - Orkney and Kirkwall : $246

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
    Orkney Islands £6.43
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Orkney Islands is more expensive. And not only is Plitvice Lakes National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Plitvice Lakes National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Plitvice Lakes 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 Orkney Islands would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orkney Islands than you might in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Orkney Islands are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Orkney Islands because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Orkney Islands is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Orkney Islands in July average around 12°C (54°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Orkney Islands gets 129 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Orkney Islands usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 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
    Orkney Islands 12°C (54°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Orkney Islands during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Orkney Islands this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Orkney Islands is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Orkney Islands average around 9°C (48°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands gets 73 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands gets 116 mm (4.6 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
    Orkney Islands 9°C (48°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Orkney Islands and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Orkney Islands for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Orkney Islands. Orkney Islands is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Orkney Islands averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Orkney Islands usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Orkney Islands gets 29 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

Orkney Islands gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Orkney Islands usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands gets 106 mm (4.2 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
    Orkney Islands 4°C (39°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Orkney Islands as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Orkney Islands in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Orkney Islands is much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Orkney Islands in April average around 6°C (43°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Orkney Islands often gets less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands gets 135 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Orkney Islands usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Orkney Islands gets 56 mm (2.2 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
    Orkney Islands 6°C (43°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Orkney Islands

Orkney Islands Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (38°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (40°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 6°C (43°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 9°C (47°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 11°C (52°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 12°C (54°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 13°C (55°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 11°C (52°F) 102 mm (4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 116 mm (4.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 113 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)