A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Etienne vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a park-filled, industrial, and undiscovered city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Saint-Etienne and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • 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


Is there more to do in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Saint-Etienne 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. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Saint-Etienne is very good for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Saint-Etienne is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Saint-Etienne and Plitvice Lakes National Park can be difficult as they are each reasonable in their own way.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Saint-Etienne. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

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.

Is Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

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

Is Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for hiking. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for hiking. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.


Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Saint-Etienne is adequate for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Saint-Etienne is a good destination for shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Plitvice Lakes National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly place to visit. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.

Is Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as 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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.


Is Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination 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.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tram and bus options available in town.

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 Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its high level of walkability. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its ease of walking around.

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

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable city. There are several walkable areas in the city.


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

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Saint-Etienne?

How long in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

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

One day in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Saint-Etienne, you'll find museums and nightlife. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Saint-Etienne 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.

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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Saint-Etienne. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


A week in Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The undiscovered city of Saint-Etienne offers nightlife and museums. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find around the beautiful national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, 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 Saint-Etienne?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Saint-Etienne is €108, 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 Saint-Etienne and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Saint-Etienne 46
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Saint-Etienne 92
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Saint-Etienne and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 44
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Saint-Etienne 25
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

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
    Saint-Etienne 10
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


When comparing the travel costs between Saint-Etienne and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Saint-Etienne Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking 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, Saint-Etienne is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 22°C (71°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Saint-Etienne. Saint-Etienne usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Saint-Etienne usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 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
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Saint-Etienne during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Saint-Etienne is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 14°C (56°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Saint-Etienne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Saint-Etienne gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 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
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Saint-Etienne 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. Saint-Etienne can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Saint-Etienne is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Saint-Etienne in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Saint-Etienne usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Saint-Etienne gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Saint-Etienne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 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
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

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

In the spring, Saint-Etienne often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 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
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)