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

Should you visit Rhodes 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 Rhodes 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.

Rhodes

Rhodes is a active, world famous, and ancient island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Rhodes and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
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
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rhodes. Although Rhodes and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Rhodes has more sights and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Rhodes and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Rhodes is famous for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural setting, and long running history. It is also well known for Rhodes Old Town.

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

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

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Travelers visit Rhodes from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. Many of the villages feel like outdoor museums, with churches and archaeological sites throughout. Some of the most well known sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters, the Hospital of the Knights, Süleyman Mosque, and Roloi Clock Tower.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Rhodes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The island offers Greek classics with a local flair. Common ingredients include wheat, olives, legumes, wine, and cheese. Many dishes are flavored with cumin, which is more heavily used here than elsewhere in Greece. Popular local dishes include matsi (a pasta cooked in meat broth and prepared with cheese, butter, and legumes), tsouka (a veal and pasta casserole), and lakani (veal, goat, or lamb meat that is slow-cooked in tomato sauce).

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 Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes 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 Rhodes has a few options to choose from. It's not the most party-oriented island, but you'll find plenty to do at night. Most of the clubs are found in Rhodes Town near Hippocrates Square, along Menekleous Street, or near Orfanidou Street. Faliraki has long been a popular nightlife area that brings in the British crowd, but it's not as lively as it once was. Some resorts offer more of a nightlife scene than others so if that's a priority, do your research before you book.

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

Is Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Rhodes is a perfect choice. It is a large and diverse island with a variety of resorts and towns to choose from. There are quiet areas like those around Kallithea Beach, Kolymbia, and Kalathos, as well as more lively areas like Faliraki. There are a number of all-inclusive resorts around the island but there are also boutique hotels and apartments if that's more your style.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Rhodes. The island has many snorkeling and dive spots where you can enjoy the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling or scuba diving trips that you can organize in advance as well. Because of the island's large size, there's a diversity of vendors and areas to pick between.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Rhodes is a very popular vacation destination. The island has spectacular beaches with crystal blue waters. Many of the beaches are sandy with swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The island is also known for its watersports and several beaches are great windsurfing or kite surfing locations. There are countless beaches to choose from but some of the favorites are Tsambika, Saint Paul's Bay, Ladiko, and Kallithea.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Rhodes specifically for its hiking. The breathtaking landscapes, sweeping views, and beautiful waters make this an amazing hiking island. There are a wide range of trails to choose from with easy, moderate, and challenging options available. The many quaint villages and unique archaeological sites all make this a fantastic place to hike.

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 the Shopping Better in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Rhodes. For a unique shopping experience head to Nea Agora (The New Market), which has a mix of shops and restaurants. You can also pick up fresh produce or pastries there. Sprinkled around the island you'll find many local artisan shops where you can buy ceramics, jewelry, soaps, leather goods, and more.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Rhodes is a very kid-friendly island. It's large size, varied activities, and wonderful outdoor setting makes this one of the most kid-friendly islands in Greece. There are many local villages that everyone will enjoy as well as beautiful walks and stunning beaches. Kids will appreciate the diversity of water activities that are available and the family-friendly restaurants ensure everyone can eat out comfortably.

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.

Is Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Rhodes has plenty to offer. The larger size and diversity of activities make this island a great option for a honeymoon. The beaches are breathtaking, but there are also a number of water sports that couples will enjoy. The hiking, archaeological sites, and amazing restaurants will make for an unforgettable honeymoon.

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

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Rhodes and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rhodes is a great island to visit for backpackers. The island has something for everyone, and because it's one of the larger islands, there are more hostels and budget restaurants to choose from. You'll find all kinds of travelers on the island and there really is something that everyone can enjoy.

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.

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

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Visitors to Rhodes can move around easily with public transportation. There is a comprehensive bus system that covers most of the island.

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 Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Rhodes
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its high level of walkability. However, Rhodes is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.

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.

Rhodes is generally not a very walkable island. The island is large so unless you're interested in hiking, most places are best reached with a vehicle.


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

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

How long in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rhodes than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Rhodes, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Rhodes 3-5 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Rhodes, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Rhodes is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Rhodes, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Rhodes or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The world famous island of Rhodes offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park or Rhodes?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Rhodes is €135, 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 Rhodes and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Rhodes 58
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Rhodes 116
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Rhodes and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Rhodes 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 Rhodes


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: Rhodes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Rhodes 48
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Rhodes:


  • Taxi Ride
    7.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Rhodes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Rhodes:

  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kiotari (and return): $256
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Glistra-Glystra (and return): $244
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Pefki (and return): $228
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Lardos - Lindos (and return): $225
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Vlicha (and return): $192
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kalathos (and return): $186
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Embona (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kamiros (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Salakos (and return): $154
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Stegna (and return): $138
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Archangelos (and return): $132
  • Rhodes Private Return Transfer - Rhodes Airport to Kolympia (and return): $122

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Rhodes 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
    Rhodes 47
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40
Typical Food Prices in Rhodes

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Rhodes:


  • Coffee
    1.95
  • Dinner for Two
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Rhodes

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Rhodes.

  • Rhodes Sunset Cruise - Dinner with Live Music set: $44
  • Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner: $53
  • Guided Rhodes City By Night with Live Music & Dinner: $70
  • Rhodes by Night With Dinner - Laterna: $72
  • Food & Wine Tour: 11- Course Lunch, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting: $75
  • Vine & Dine Tale: 11-Plate Lunch, Wine Discovery, Cooking Mastery: $75
  • 3-Hours Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Dinner all Inclusive: $76
  • Sunset Cruise w/ Gourmet Dinner, Drinks & Live Music: $77
  • 11 Course Lunch with Cooking Mastery and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $84
  • Rhodes Wine & Food Tour: 10 Meal Course Lunch, Wine Tasting, Cooking Class : $85
  • Traditional Greek COOKING class and Wine Tasting in Rhodes: $86
  • Winery Tour, Tasting and cooking with the Winemaker in Rhodes: $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Rhodes 19
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Rhodes

Here are a few actual costs in Rhodes for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hour Yellow Semi Submarine Swimming Cruise with Drinks Included!: $55
  • Full Day Sail Cruise In Greece: $140
  • Private Full Day Tour Introducing the Most & the Best of Rhodes : $96
  • Private Swimming Snorkeling Experience at the Most Beautiful Bays of Rhodes : $73
  • Rhodes Town Day Tour from Kolymbia in a High Speed Boat: $49
  • Rhodes, Lindos and Medieval City Guided Tour: $77
  • 3-hour Guided Submarine Tour in Saint Paul's Bay, Lindos and Navarone Bay: $38
  • 30m Wooden traditional Boat - 6.5 Hours Day Cruise in Rhodes: $71
  • 4 Hour Beach Tour with Meal and Unlimited Drinks in Rhodes: $120
  • 4x4 Buggy Adventures - Off-road Polaris Experience: $120
  • 6-Hour Guided Tour in the Main Ancient Attractions of Rhodes: $71
  • 90 min Sunset Cruise to Anthony Quinn Bay with Unlimited Drinks!: $33

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
    Rhodes 12
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Rhodes

Also in Rhodes, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Beginners: $37
  • Rhodian Wines - Private Wine Tasting Under a Sommelier: $53
  • 1 Day Rhodes Island Tour with Olive Oil, Honey and Wine Tasting : $55
  • Enchanting Lindos, Old Town, History, Culture & Wine Tour: $56
  • Full Day Guided Rhodes Island Cultural & Wine Tour: $56
  • Rhodes Shore Excursion Including Olive Oil, Honey & Wine Tasting: $59
  • Wine tasting in Rhodes, inside the vineyards with the Producer: $60
  • Rhodes Island Tour: Lindos, Old Town, Pottery Workshop, Wine Tasting : $60
  • Full-Day Rhodes Island Tour with Wine Tasting Experience: $62
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience for Wine Lovers: $64
  • Rhodes Deluxe Tour including Lindos, Old Town, Wine Tasting : $64
  • Full-Day Сomprehensive Tour of Rhodes including Wine Tasting : $67


When comparing the travel costs between Rhodes and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Rhodes is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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