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

Should you visit Ravenna 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 Ravenna 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.

Ravenna

Ravenna is a authentic, historic, and off-the-beaten-path town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Ravenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Ravenna 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 Ravenna attracts visitors for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Ravenna and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Ravenna is famous for its many stunning mosaics which date back to the early Christian and Byzantine empires.

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

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

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Ravenna specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Most sights in town are centered around the the beautiful mosaics. Neonian Baptistery is a good place to begin your visit. Other highlights include San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ravenna 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 Ravenna. The region is most known for its first course dishes, so pasta lovers will enjoy dining on homemade egg pasta dishes that are served with meat or cheese sauces. You'll also find lots of grilled meats and many great desserts.

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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ravenna is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Ravenna has a few options to choose from. You'll find most of the pubs and clubs in town around Marina di Ravenna. There are a couple of places that attract a crowd, but many are open only during the summer months.

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

Is Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Ravenna 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.

Ravenna is not a hiking destination.


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

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Ravenna. There are some nice shopping streets in town where you can buy locally made mosaics. You'll also find art studios and artisan shops, as well as your typical souvenir shops and clothing stores. Via Cavour, via Diaz, and via Cairoli are some of the most popular shopping streets.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Ravenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Ravenna is very family-friendly. In town you'll find mosaics, museums, and a charming town, and ten kilometers outside of town you'll find Italy's largest amusement park - Mirabilandia. The city is also filled with parks where kids can explore and learn, and the food, like any Italian city, is very kid-friendly.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is known to be 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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ravenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park both high quality destinations for a couple.

Ravenna makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Many visitors to Italy don't add this charming town to their itinerary, but for couples who want to experience a small town setting with beautiful art and architecture, then Ravenna is a great option. There are parks to explore and great restaurants to experience as well.

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

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ravenna. It's a bit off-the-beaten path, so you won't find a large number of hostels or a lot of backpackers to hang out with. That doesn't mean it won't make a great addition to your itinerary though.

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

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ravenna 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 Ravenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses in and around town are managed by START ROMAGNA and offer access to many nearby towns.

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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Ravenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Ravenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Ravenna is a very walkable destination. There are care-free areas to the town that can only be explored on foot.


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

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

How long in Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Ravenna 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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ravenna 1-2 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Ravenna is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. 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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Ravenna is a fun place to experience. 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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Ravenna is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Ravenna is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking 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 Ravenna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ravenna is €84, 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 Ravenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ravenna 54
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ravenna 108
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Ravenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ravenna 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 Ravenna


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: Ravenna Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ravenna

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

  • Ravenna, Day Trip from Venice including private transfer: $2,246
  • Ravenna, Day Trip from Bologna including private transfer: $1,765
  • Ravenna Cruise Port: One Way Transfer to Bologna Airport: $535
  • Treviso Airport: One Way Transfer to Venice, Piazzale Roma: $257

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 Ravenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ravenna 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
    Ravenna 26
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

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

Tours and Activities in Ravenna

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

  • Bologna: BLQ airport to Ravenna cruise terminal: $390
  • Cruise Terminal From/to Venice: $941

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
    Ravenna 16
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ravenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Ravenna for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In July, Ravenna usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ravenna gets 71 mm (2.8 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
    Ravenna 22°C (72°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Ravenna as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Ravenna in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Ravenna is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ravenna averages around 14°C (58°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Ravenna usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ravenna gets 55 mm (2.2 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
    Ravenna 14°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ravenna are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ravenna for the museums, the shopping scene, 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. Ravenna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Ravenna is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ravenna in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In January, Ravenna usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ravenna gets 44 mm (1.7 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
    Ravenna 3°C (37°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ravenna during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Ravenna because of the small town charm. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

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

Ravenna usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ravenna gets 54 mm (2.1 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
    Ravenna 11°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ravenna

Ravenna Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 22°C (72°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 19°C (66°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 77 mm (3 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)