A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saaremaa vs. Snowdonia National Park for Couples, Food, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Saaremaa

Saaremaa is a quiet, calm, and peaceful island. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a scenic, rugged, and stunning national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Snowdonia National Park. Although Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park are both popular with visitors, Snowdonia National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Snowdonia National Park is more popular for its skiing, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saaremaa is known for its food, nightlife, and small town charm. Snowdonia National Park is more touristy than Saaremaa and is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape. It is also home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon). Saaremaa is popular for its untouched, undiscovered rural setting.

How is Saaremaa different from Snowdonia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Snowdonia National Park and Saaremaa. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Skiing?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is adequate for skiing. However, Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Snowdonia National Park for snow skiing. The mountains in the area are a bit rugged and coastal, making them not ideal for skiing. But if the weather's right and you are up for the steep terrain, there may be opportunities to ski at times between the months of November and April.

Saaremaa is not a skiing destination.


Is the Food Better in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Saaremaa is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Saaremaa. Like most things on the island, traditional local food is still the norm here. The island is known for its smoked fish, homemade bread, and locally brewed beers. Popular fishes include garfish, herring, and flatfish, which you can enjoy at a local restaurant or one of the pop-up cafes that are popular during the summer months. You'll find the highest concentration of restaurants in Kuressaare, but there are still many options further out. It's also fun to visit during September during the Saaremaa Food Festival.

Snowdonia National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are a variety of restaurants in the area that serve up local Welsh flavors. You'll build up your appetite hiking and then head into town to enjoy a quick bite at a cafe or a nice meal at a 5 star hotel.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Saaremaa is not a good place to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Saaremaa for the nightlife. The island is known for it's quiet, laid-back atmosphere, so you'll be hard pressed to find a party or active club, even during the more popular summer months.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Beaches?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Both Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park have good beaches worth visiting.

Saaremaa has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are quiet and relaxed, even during the summer months. In town, the best beach is Kuressaare Beach. Outside of town you'll find other nice beaches such as the sandy beaches between Mändjala and Järve. The beaches in Tuhkana and Jõiste villages are also well known. For swimming, most people prefer to visit Lake Karujärv.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Snowdonia National Park. The white sandy beaches offer spectacular views of the mountains. There are holiday cottages near the beaches that make it a nice vacation spot between the months of September and April. Several of the best beaches in the area include Porthdinllaen, Porth O'er, Llanbedrog, and Harlech Beach.


Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Hiking?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is an amazing national park to visit for hiking. However, Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Snowdonia National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. There are approximately 1,500 miles of walking paths and hiking trails in the area. You can hike to waterfalls, along beaches, or to the top of Mt. Snowden. Aber Falls is a popular trail or you could explore lakes and try to see wild ponies along the Llyn Idwal Trail. For a particularly strenuous and adventurous trail, head to Glyder Fawr or The Snowdon Horseshoe Circular Walk.

Saaremaa is not a hiking destination.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Families?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Snowdonia National Park. Kids will enjoy exploring the outdoors. You can also check out Conwy Castle or wander the medieval walls around Conwy. If you're interested in taking a walk, you wander along Newborough Beach or head to the top of Mount Snowdon and enjoy the beautiful outdoor scenery. Llechwedd Slate Caverns is also particularly fun for kids.

Saaremaa is a family-friendly place to visit. While the island is known for its slow pace, there are still a number of fun activities where the kids can run and jump. There are several outdoor adventure parks and playgrounds that are great for young legs. Check out the playgrounds in Kuressaare or head out of town for more outdoor activities. When the weather's nice you can head to Kuressaare Beach or check out the ostrich farm in Muhu.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Couples?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is an amazing national park to visit for couples. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for romance.

Snowdonia National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Explore the beautiful outdoor scenery by taking one of the many hikes in the park. There are many diverse walking routes or you can head to the top of Mt. Snowden. There are also waterfalls and castles that couples can explore.

Saaremaa is a very popular place to visit for couples. The peace and quiet of the island make for a relaxing couple's getaway. You can enjoy the outdoors and feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the laid back island in the Baltics.


Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Saaremaa is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Snowdonia National Park. Camping and hiking is the best way to experience this park. You can explore the stunning natural beauty without spending a fortune on a hotel.

Saaremaa is a good island to visit for backpackers. While prices are cheap, transportation isn't great so you'll likely want to rent a car if you want to really explore the island. There are a number of rooms available for rent at an affordable price, particularly in the shoulder season, but you'll you'll only find a handful of hostels on the island.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a nice place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Saaremaa is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Snowdonia National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. During the peak season you can travel to some areas by bus. Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus operates in part of the park. Train options include The Cambrian and Conwy Valley train lines as well as the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Saaremaa. Most people arrive on the island by ferry. There are buses on the island but they cater mostly to locals. To really explore, you'll want to have access to a car.

Is Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park a more walkable city?

Saaremaa
Snowdonia National Park

Saaremaa is not a good place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

Saaremaa is not a walkable island. While their are some walking trails, you really need a car to explore the island in depth.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.


For even more information, also check out Is Saaremaa Worth Visiting? and Is Snowdonia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Snowdonia National Park or Saaremaa?

How long in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

Both Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than in Saaremaa. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Saaremaa, and 3-7 days is enough time in Snowdonia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Saaremaa 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 Snowdonia National Park.


  • How many days in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Saaremaa 2-4 
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7

One day in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

Saaremaa is a small town with plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful national park of Snowdonia National Park offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

Saaremaa is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

Saaremaa is a great place to explore. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Snowdonia National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Snowdonia National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A week in Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saaremaa. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Snowdonia National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Tallinn, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Estonia, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, and The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Snowdonia National Park or Saaremaa?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saaremaa is €101, while the average daily cost in Snowdonia National Park is €88. 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 Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saaremaa 36
    Snowdonia National Park 34
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saaremaa 72
    Snowdonia National Park 68
Compare Hotels in Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saaremaa or Snowdonia 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 Saaremaa


Hotels in Snowdonia National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saaremaa 47
    Snowdonia National Park 53
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Saaremaa:


  • Rental Car and Gas for a Day
    34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Snowdonia National Park:

  • Private Transfer from Caernarfon to Manchester Airport (MAN): $250

Is it cheaper to fly into Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Snowdonia National Park and Saaremaa 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
    Saaremaa 37
    Snowdonia National Park 22
Typical Food Prices in Saaremaa

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Saaremaa:


  • Salmon
    1.28

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saaremaa 21
    Snowdonia National Park 21

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Snowdonia National Park are as follows:

  • 2 Hours Historical Tour of Caernarfon: $33
  • Anglesey Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Snowdon Kayak Adventure on Llyn Padarn: $56

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Saaremaa 11
    Snowdonia National Park 5.68


When comparing the travel costs between Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park, we can see that Saaremaa 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 Saaremaa Expensive? and Is Snowdonia National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Saaremaa or Snowdonia 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 Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park in the Summer?

Both Snowdonia National Park and Saaremaa during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Saaremaa is generally around the same temperature as Snowdonia National Park. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 17°C (62°F), and Snowdonia National Park fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

In Snowdonia National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saaremaa. In the summer, Saaremaa often gets more sunshine than Snowdonia National Park. Saaremaa gets 302 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Snowdonia National Park receives 202 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Snowdonia National Park. Saaremaa gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Snowdonia National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Saaremaa 17°C (62°F) 
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saaremaa and Snowdonia National Park. The autumn months attract visitors to Saaremaa because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year.

Saaremaa is cooler than Snowdonia National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saaremaa averages around 8°C (47°F) in October, and Snowdonia National Park fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

Saaremaa usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Snowdonia National Park during autumn. Saaremaa gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Snowdonia National Park receives 101 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Snowdonia National Park. Saaremaa gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Snowdonia National Park receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Saaremaa 8°C (47°F) 
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saaremaa as well as Snowdonia National Park. The cuisine are the main draw to Saaremaa this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Saaremaa in the winter. In the winter, Saaremaa is much colder than Snowdonia National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saaremaa in January average around -3°C (27°F), and Snowdonia National Park averages at about 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Saaremaa often gets less sunshine than Snowdonia National Park. Saaremaa gets 33 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Snowdonia National Park receives 63 hours of full sun.

Saaremaa usually gets less rain in January than Snowdonia National Park. Saaremaa gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Snowdonia National Park receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Saaremaa -3°C (27°F) 
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F)

Should I visit Saaremaa or Snowdonia National Park in the Spring?

Both Snowdonia National Park and Saaremaa are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saaremaa for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Saaremaa. In April, Saaremaa is generally much colder than Snowdonia National Park. Daily temperatures in Saaremaa average around 4°C (38°F), and Snowdonia National Park fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Saaremaa usually receives more sunshine than Snowdonia National Park during spring. Saaremaa gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Snowdonia National Park receives 179 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saaremaa usually receives less rain than Snowdonia National Park. Saaremaa gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Snowdonia National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Saaremaa 4°C (38°F) 
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Snowdonia National Park and Saaremaa

Saaremaa Snowdonia National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -3°C (27°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb -3°C (26°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Mar -1°C (30°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Apr 4°C (38°F) 29 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 9°C (48°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jun 14°C (57°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in)
Sep 13°C (55°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Oct 8°C (47°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Nov 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Dec 0°C (32°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in)