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

Should you visit Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park 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. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and hiking.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Snowdonia National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park: 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
  • 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 Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Snowdonia National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Snowdonia National Park and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also well known for the terraced chain of lakes. Snowdonia National Park is famous for its beautiful mountain landscape.

How is Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Skiing?

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Locals like to visit Snowdonia National Park to take advantage of their winter sports. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Snowdonia National Park is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Snowdonia National Park is very good for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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.


Is Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Is Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Snowdonia National Park is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for its romantic activities.

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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

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

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Snowdonia National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park are very good 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 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.


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

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Public transit is 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 Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Snowdonia National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. However, Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Snowdonia National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park or Snowdonia National Park?

How long in Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Snowdonia National Park than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Snowdonia National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Families should spend more time in Snowdonia National Park than Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes 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 Snowdonia National Park.


  • How many days in Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Snowdonia National Park 3-7 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the spectacular national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this national park.


A weekend in Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Snowdonia National Park is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Your budget might influence how long you stay. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Snowdonia National Park, you'll find food. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Many people spend one week here.This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in 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 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 Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Plitvice Lakes National Park 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park is £108. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Snowdonia National Park £29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £52
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Snowdonia National Park £58
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £104
Compare Hotels in Snowdonia National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Snowdonia National Park 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 Snowdonia National Park


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.
    Snowdonia National Park £46
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £23

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also for Plitvice Lakes National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park 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
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Snowdonia National Park £18
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £29

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 Plitvice Lakes National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Plitvice Lakes National Park.

  • Plitvice Lakes: National Park Official Entry Ticket: $11
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $38
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Snowdonia National Park £4.86
    Plitvice Lakes National Park £12


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



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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Snowdonia National Park as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In July, Snowdonia National Park is generally cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 15°C (60°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Snowdonia National Park 15°C (60°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Autumn?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Snowdonia National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Snowdonia National Park is cooler than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Snowdonia National Park averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives less sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Snowdonia National Park gets 101 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Snowdonia National Park usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Snowdonia National Park 12°C (53°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Winter?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Snowdonia National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Snowdonia National Park for the skiing and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Snowdonia National Park is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Snowdonia National Park in January average around 5°C (42°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Snowdonia National Park often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 63 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Snowdonia National Park usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Snowdonia National Park 5°C (42°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Snowdonia National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Snowdonia National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Snowdonia National Park in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Snowdonia National Park is generally much colder than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Snowdonia National Park average around 8°C (47°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Snowdonia National Park usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Snowdonia National Park gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Snowdonia National Park usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Snowdonia National Park gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Snowdonia National Park 8°C (47°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (42°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (41°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 6°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 14°C (56°F) 52 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 15°C (60°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 15°C (60°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 101 mm (4 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)