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

Should you visit Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Taormina and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Taormina

Taormina is a beautiful, exclusive, and opulent town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Taormina and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the terraced chain of lakes
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Taormina have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Taormina is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Taormina and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Taormina is well known for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views.

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

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

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina is very good for its historical sights. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Taormina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina 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 Taormina. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

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 Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Taormina for the nightlife scene. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs around town.

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

Is Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina 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 Taormina. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina is very good for its beaches. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Taormina to enjoy the beach. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for hiking. However, Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Taormina is not a hiking destination.

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

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina is very good for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Taormina. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.

Is Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Taormina and Plitvice Lakes National Park are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great national park for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

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.

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.


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

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Taormina 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 Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the 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 Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Taormina
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Taormina is very walkable. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

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

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

How long in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Taormina 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 Taormina, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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


  • How many days in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Taormina is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. It's also a relaxing resort destination. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Taormina is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Plitvice Lakes National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Taormina is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Taormina is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. 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. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Italy, 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 Taormina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Taormina is €108, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is €125. 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 Taormina and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Taormina 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 Taormina


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Taormina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Taormina 4.29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41
  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Taormina 11
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Taormina

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

  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Lovers Tour: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Small Group Tour of Sicily Highlights: 8 Days: $2,668
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $76
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • Croatia Walking Tour in a Wonderland: $174
  • E-Bike tour Plitvice Big Waterfall Viewpoints & Tito's Villa: $87
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Full Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes from Split & Trogir: $738
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • PLITVICE LAKES FULL DAY TOUR WITH LOCAL: $182
  • Plitvice Countryside Bike Tour with Barac Caves: $76
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Taormina 8.57
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

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

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299


When comparing the travel costs between Taormina 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 Taormina Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Taormina 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 Taormina or Plitvice Lakes National Park in the Summer?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Taormina in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Taormina is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Taormina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

It's quite sunny in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Taormina. Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Taormina usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Taormina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Taormina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Taormina for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Taormina is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 21°C (69°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Taormina. Taormina usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Taormina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the cuisine are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. Taormina is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Taormina usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Taormina usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Taormina is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Taormina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Taormina this time of the year. In the spring, Taormina often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Taormina

Taormina Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)