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

Should you visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a one-of-a-kind, ancient, and famous archeological site. Other reasons to visit include museums.

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.

Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Home to the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
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 Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pompeii than Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pompeii is better known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pompeii is well known for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Also, Pompeii is famous for the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins. Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes.

the Pompeii Archaeological Ruins
The Pompeii Archaeological Ruins

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

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

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Travelers visit Pompeii from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Plitvice Lakes National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

The nightlife scene is quiet in Pompeii As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

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

Is Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.


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

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Pompeii is mediocre for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping in Pompeii can be found for those interested. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Is Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.


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

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Pompeii is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Pompeii. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

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

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Pompeii 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 Pompeii offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Pompeii
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park are fantastic when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. In our opinion, Pompeii has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pompeii than Plitvice Lakes National Park. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

One day in Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Pompeii, you'll find museums. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums around the iconic destination of Pompeii. 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 Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The one-of-a-kind archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This archeological site 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours 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 Pompeii?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pompeii is €151, 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 Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pompeii 70
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pompeii 140
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Pompeii 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 Pompeii


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: Pompeii Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pompeii 54
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Pompeii

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

  • Transfer Private from Ravello to Naples: $239
  • Transfers Ravello - Naples: $207
  • Organic Wine Tasting & Lunch on Vesuvius with Transfer from Pompeii: $132
  • Private transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Transfer Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Private transfer from Ravello to Naples: $121
  • Small Group Pompeii Wine Tasting with Lunch & Transfer Included : $97
  • Transfers from Naples to Sorrento Positano Amalfi Ravello Maiori: $97
  • Transfer from Pompeii to Naples or viceversa: $66

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 Pompeii or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Pompeii 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
    Pompeii 35
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pompeii

For Pompeii, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Traditional Neapolitan Dinner in Pompei - Villa Franca - Family Restourant: $38
  • Cooking Class with Italian Mamma in Pompeii: $65
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Pompei: $93
  • Pompei tour with a 2000 years roman dinner: $112
  • Small Group Market tour and Cooking class in Pompei: $142
  • Private Pizza & Tiramisu Class at a Cesarina's home with tasting in Pompei: $158
  • Private Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Pompei: $158
  • Private market tour and cooking class with lunch or dinner in Pompei: $206
  • guided tour of the ruins and cooking class fresh pasta : $272
  • Cooking class: Pasta Experience in Pompei, Italy: $300

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pompeii 77
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Pompeii

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

  • Pompeii Archeological Site Fast Track Entry Ticket : $36
  • Pompeii Day Tour: $97
  • 2 Hour Private Walking Tour with Certified Guide in Pompeii: $251
  • 2 Hours Private Tour of Pompeii for Journey Through Time: $196
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Pompeii with an Archaeologist: $272
  • 2 days tour: Pompei & Naples center with underground: $207
  • 2 hours Pompeii Tour with local historian - ticket included: $60
  • 2-hour Private Guided Tour of Pompeii: $272
  • Best of Pompeii - 2 hour Private Tour with Alex: $271
  • Complete Pompeii Skip the Line Tour with Archaeologist Guide: $55
  • Discover Pompeii on this Guided Walking Tour of the Buried City: $63
  • Discover hidden secrets of Pompei on a Private tour with a local: $118

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
    Pompeii 7.31
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Pompeii

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

  • Wine Tasting Tour on the Slopes of Vesuvius: $46
  • Wine Tasting on Mt. Vesuvius: $55
  • Seafood Lunch with Wine Tasting & Tour on a golf cart: $87
  • Guided Tour of Pompeii Ruins with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $98
  • Private Wine Tour and Tasting in Pompeii with a Local: $124
  • Pompeii Guided Tour & Horse Riding on Vesuvius with Wine Tasting: $191
  • Pompeii, Herculaneum and scenic drive of the Mt. Vesuvius with wine tasting: $207


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pompeii in July average around 23°C (74°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 Pompeii, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pompeii usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 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
    Pompeii 23°C (74°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Additionally, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pompeii is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 17°C (63°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Pompeii receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Pompeii usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 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
    Pompeii 17°C (63°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Pompeii for the museums. 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. Pompeii is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Pompeii usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. In January, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Pompeii gets 111 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
    Pompeii 8°C (47°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Pompeii during the spring are popular places to visit. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pompeii in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Pompeii often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets more rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 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
    Pompeii 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Pompeii

Pompeii Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 52 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 161 mm (6.3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 9°C (49°F) 118 mm (4.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)