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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg can help you decide which place is right for you.

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.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a historic, quaint, and energetic town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg: 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
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Heidelberg. Although Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg are both popular with visitors, Heidelberg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Heidelberg is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Snowdonia National Park is known for its skiing, beaches, and hiking. Heidelberg is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. It is also home to The Heidelberg Castle. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Snowdonia National Park is adequate for skiing. However, Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

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

Snowdonia National Park offers a nice beach destination. 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Heidelberg can be explored in its historical center. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

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

Snowdonia National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Heidelberg offers some nice shopping areas. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

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

Snowdonia National Park is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Heidelberg is a very popular place to visit for couples. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Both Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Snowdonia National Park is a great national park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg Better for Students?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is very good for students. However, Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Snowdonia National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Heidelberg can get you around easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

Snowdonia National Park has some 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a well-known place for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

Heidelberg is a very walkable town. The old town is particularly walkable.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.


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

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than in Heidelberg. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Heidelberg.

Families should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg. 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 Heidelberg than Snowdonia 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 Heidelberg.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Heidelberg 1-3

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg?

With food around the natural national park of Snowdonia National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 one day exploring.

You'll find nightlife and food around the character-filled town of Heidelberg. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.

A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg?

With food around the destination of Snowdonia National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Heidelberg is a popular choice for travelers. A weekend here is typical. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Heidelberg?

Snowdonia National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg?

Snowdonia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Heidelberg. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is £121. 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 Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Heidelberg £79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Heidelberg £158
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg

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


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: Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Heidelberg £15

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 Heidelberg

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

  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $105
  • Privat Transfer From Basel EuroAirport BSL To Badenweiler : $126
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $251

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

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg £32

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

For Heidelberg, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $598

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Heidelberg £9.82

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

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Heidelberg.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.54
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.95
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.54
  • Uncover A Self-Guided Audio Tour Through Time: $11
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Heidelberg £15

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $295


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive?.



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

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 Snowdonia National Park or Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Heidelberg. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Snowdonia National Park this time of the year. In the summer, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Heidelberg. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

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

Both Heidelberg and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Heidelberg. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

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

Both Heidelberg and Snowdonia National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Snowdonia National Park because of the skiing and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Heidelberg in the winter. Snowdonia National Park is much warmer than Heidelberg in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Heidelberg fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in January than Heidelberg. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Heidelberg. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Heidelberg. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Heidelberg. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)


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