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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Nantes?

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

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is a stunning, natural, and scenic national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, food, and beaches.

Nantes

Nantes is a welcoming, friendly, and historical city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Snowdonia National Park and Nantes: 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Nantes. Although Snowdonia National Park and Nantes are both popular with visitors, Nantes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Nantes is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Snowdonia National Park is known for its skiing, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Snowdonia National Park is popular for its beautiful mountain landscape. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens. It is also home to The Castle of the Dukes of Brittany.

How is Snowdonia National Park different from Nantes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Snowdonia National Park or Nantes Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Snowdonia National Park is a decent place to visit for skiing and snowboarding. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Nantes is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Nantes specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

Snowdonia National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Nantes is a must-visit destination 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.

Nantes has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes Better for Nightlife?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

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

Nantes offers plenty to do in the evening. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Snowdonia National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Nantes Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Snowdonia National Park is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Nantes is not a beach destination.

Snowdonia National Park has a beach worth visiting. 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Nantes is very good for its old town. However, Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Nantes to see the old town. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Snowdonia National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Nantes Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. However, Nantes 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.

Nantes is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Snowdonia National Park or Nantes?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Nantes is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Nantes is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

Snowdonia National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Nantes Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Nantes.

Snowdonia National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantes. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Nantes Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Snowdonia National Park is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Nantes Better for Students?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

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

Nantes is a good city to visit for students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

Snowdonia National Park is not popular with students.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

Nantes 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 Nantes can get you around easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Nantes

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

Nantes is a very walkable city. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

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

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Nantes?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Snowdonia National Park and Nantes. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than in Nantes. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Nantes.

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

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


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

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Nantes?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the destination of Snowdonia National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this 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 vibrant city of Nantes. Most people head to the area for the food. 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 Nantes?

Snowdonia National Park is a great place to explore. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Nantes 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.


Five days in Snowdonia National Park or Nantes?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Snowdonia National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Nantes is a great place to explore. Most people head to the area for the food. 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 Nantes?

Many travelers enjoy the food when visiting the rugged destination of Snowdonia National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. Most people head to the area for the food. 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 10-Day Tours in France, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Nantes 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 Nantes is £93. 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 Nantes in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Nantes £51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Nantes £102
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Nantes

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


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: Nantes Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Nantes £31

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 Nantes

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

  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Nantes to Nantes Airport (NTE) - Departure Private Transfer: $26
  • Private Transfer from Airports to Nantes: $33
  • Nantes Airport (NTE) to Nantes - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $52
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes city centre to Nantes Airport: $65
  • Nantes Private Transfer from Nantes Airport to City centre: $65
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Hotels to La Rochelle Cruise Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Airport (NTE) to La Rochelle Port: $88
  • Private Transfer from Nantes Atlantique Airport NTE to Puy du Fou Park: $174

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

Prices for flights to both Nantes 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
    Nantes £23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Nantes

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

  • Nantes Traditional Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience : $104
  • All Inclusive Food Tour of Nantes Old Town with Local Guide: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Nantes £11

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 Nantes

For Nantes, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $6.42
  • Nantes Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Guided treetop adventure course in the heart of Nantes: $31
  • Private custom tour with a local guide: $50
  • Nantes : Private Walking Tour With A Local : $51
  • Welcome to Private Tour with a Local: $51
  • Nantes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Panoramic Tour by Electric Bike: $59
  • PANORAMA TOUR OF NANTES by electric bike: $60
  • Nantes : Must-see Attractions Walking Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Nantes £5.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Nantes

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

  • Château du Bois-Huaut: Cellar Tour and Wine Tasting Class: $35


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



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

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 Nantes in the Summer?

Both Nantes and Snowdonia National Park during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Snowdonia National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Nantes. Typically, the summer temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in July average around 15°C (60°F), and Nantes averages at about 19°C (67°F).

In Nantes, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Snowdonia National Park. In the summer, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 267 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in July than Nantes. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Nantes 19°C (67°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Nantes. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Nantes in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Snowdonia National Park is generally cooler than Nantes. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 12°C (53°F), and Nantes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Nantes during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Nantes. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Nantes 13°C (56°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Nantes. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the winter for the skiing and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Snowdonia National Park is around the same temperature as Nantes in the winter. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 5°C (42°F) in January, and Nantes fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets less sunshine than Nantes. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Nantes receives 72 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Nantes. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Nantes 6°C (42°F)

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

Both Nantes and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Snowdonia National Park for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Nantes. Typically, the spring temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Nantes averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Nantes during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Nantes receives 187 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives around the same amount of rain as Nantes. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Nantes receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Nantes 11°C (51°F)

Typical Weather for Nantes and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Nantes
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 6°C (42°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (44°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 50 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 19°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 19°C (66°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 13°C (56°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 9°C (48°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)


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