A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Split vs. Plitvice Lakes National Park for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Split and Plitvice Lakes National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Split

Split is a fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a scenic, world-famous, and spectacular national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Split and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Split and Plitvice Lakes National Park are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Plitvice Lakes National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Split is famous for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes.

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Split is great for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Split. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

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 Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Split is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Split is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Split is great for its luxury resorts. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Split is great for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Split is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for its Old Town?

Split is very good for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Split is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Split is great for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Both Split and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Split is very family-friendly. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Split 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, Split has plenty to offer. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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

Split is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Split is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

Split is very popular with students. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

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

Split 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 Split offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Public transit is generally limited in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are several bus stops near the park but the bus service is infrequent and can involve long trips.

Is Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

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

Split is a very walkable destination. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

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

How long in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Split than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

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

One day in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, many people enjoy the that this world-famous destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Split is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the touristy destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Split or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The budget-friendly city of Split offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find around the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia, The Best Budget Tours to Croatia, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Split and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Split is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Split average around 26°C (80°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of the year. In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. Split usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Split gets 345 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Split usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.

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

The autumn brings many poeple to Split as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Split is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Split averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In the autumn, Split often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Split gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Split are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold. In the winter, Split is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Split in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Split usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Split gets 128 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Split usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Split during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

In April, Split is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Split average around 15°C (59°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. In the spring, Split often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Split gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Split