A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Snowdonia National Park vs. Dover for Hiking, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Snowdonia National Park and Dover can help you decide which place is right for you.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a rugged, stunning, and natural national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking, food, and beaches.

Dover

Dover is a breathtaking, iconic, and rustic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and food.

Snowdonia National Park and Dover: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Snowdonia National Park. Although Snowdonia National Park and Dover 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, beaches, and hiking, while Dover is known for its museums and nightlife. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape. It is also home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon). Dover is popular for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is a moderate national park for snow skiing. However, Dover 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.

Dover is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Dover is very good for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Dover offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Both Snowdonia National Park and Dover offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Snowdonia National Park. 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.

Dover is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Dover is a moderate town for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Dover specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is very good for the beach. However, Dover is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Snowdonia National Park to enjoy the beach. 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.

Dover is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Snowdonia National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Snowdonia National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Dover is a family-friendly national park. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Snowdonia National Park has plenty to offer. 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.

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Snowdonia National Park is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Dover. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Snowdonia National Park is very good for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

Snowdonia National Park has a few public transit options. 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 mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Dover a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Dover

Dover is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

Dover is a somewhat walkable place. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Snowdonia National Park or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Dover 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 Snowdonia National Park or Dover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Dover 2-4

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

In Snowdonia National Park, many people enjoy the food that this stunning destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and museums around the iconic town of Dover. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Dover is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

Snowdonia National Park is a fun place to experience. In Snowdonia National Park, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Dover 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.

A week in Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

In Snowdonia National Park, many people enjoy the food that this natural destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Luxury Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Dover or Snowdonia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Snowdonia National Park is £75, while the average daily cost in Dover is £124. 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 Snowdonia National Park and Dover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Dover £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Dover £124
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Dover

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park or Dover? 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 Snowdonia National Park


Hotels in Dover


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: Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Dover £39

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210
  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $252

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

Prices for flights to both Dover and Snowdonia National Park 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
    Snowdonia National Park £19
    Dover £38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Dover £20

Tours and Activities in Snowdonia National Park

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

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

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $27
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $153
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Dover £7.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

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

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $176


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Snowdonia National Park and Dover, we can see that Dover is more expensive. And not only is Snowdonia National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Snowdonia National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Snowdonia National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dover would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dover than you might in Snowdonia National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Snowdonia National Park or Dover?

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 Snowdonia National Park or Dover in the Summer?

Both Dover and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

In the summer, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Dover. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Dover averages at about 17°C (63°F).

It's quite sunny in Dover. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Snowdonia National Park. Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dover during summer. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Dover. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Dover 17°C (63°F)

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

Both Dover and Snowdonia National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dover for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Snowdonia National Park is generally around the same temperature as Dover. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 12°C (53°F), and Dover fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Dover. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in October than Dover. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Dover 12°C (54°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Dover. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Dover in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Dover can get quite cold in the winter. Snowdonia National Park is a little warmer than Dover in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Dover fluctuates around 4°C (40°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Dover during winter. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Dover. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Dover 4°C (40°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Dover. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Dover for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Dover. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Dover averages at about 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Dover. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in April than Dover. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Dover 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dover and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Dover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)


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