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

Should you visit Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Piazza Armerina and Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a authentic, historic, and charming town. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

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.

Piazza Armerina and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Piazza Armerina and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, and historical sights. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Piazza Armerina is famous for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

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

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

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Piazza Armerina specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Piazza Armerina is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Piazza Armerina. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

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 Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Piazza Armerina is mediocre for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Piazza Armerina While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

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

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

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

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


Is Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.


Is Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

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

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

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 Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an unbeatable place for its high level of walkability. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable destination. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.


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

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

How long in Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Piazza Armerina, you'll find museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

The scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Piazza Armerina 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.

The national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and food around the authentic destination of Piazza Armerina. 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This national park offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Piazza Armerina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The authentic town of Piazza Armerina offers food and museums. 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, 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 Piazza Armerina and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina


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: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

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

  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241
  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

  • Plitvice Lakes: National Park Official Entry Ticket: $11
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $38
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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

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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Piazza Armerina for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 26°C (79°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 Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In the summer, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Piazza Armerina is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Piazza Armerina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Piazza Armerina usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Piazza Armerina during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Piazza Armerina for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Piazza Armerina is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Piazza Armerina in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Piazza Armerina often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In April, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 15°C (58°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In Piazza Armerina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)