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

Should you visit Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a relaxed, dynamic, and historic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

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.

Toulouse and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

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
Things to Consider
  • 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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Toulouse than Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Toulouse is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Toulouse and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Toulouse is well known for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. Also, Toulouse is famous for Basilique Saint-Sernin.

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

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

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Toulouse specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Toulouse is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Toulouse has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many people head to Toulouse for the nightlife scene. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

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

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

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Toulouse is great for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Toulouse. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

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


Is Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for hiking. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

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

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Toulouse. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Toulouse and Plitvice Lakes National Park are superb to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is 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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Toulouse is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

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

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse is not a good destination 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Toulouse is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Toulouse. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


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

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Toulouse 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 Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Toulouse
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Toulouse is very walkable. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

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

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


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

One day in Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Toulouse, you'll find food and shopping. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Toulouse is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One reason most visitors come is for the food. 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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Toulouse. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. 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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The relaxed city of Toulouse offers nightlife and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city 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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, 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 Toulouse?

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

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



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Toulouse 67
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Toulouse 134
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Toulouse and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Toulouse 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 Toulouse


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: Toulouse Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Toulouse 41
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Toulouse

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

  • Transfer Toulouse to Carcassonne center: $240
  • Private transfer your alternative to taxi for your travels: $93
  • Departure Private Transfer: Toulouse to Toulouse Airport TLS in Luxury Van: $92
  • Private transfer from or to Toulouse Airport: $87
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse Airport to City centre: $67
  • Toulouse Private Transfer from Toulouse city centre to Toulouse Airport: $66
  • Transfer from BLAGNAC Airport to all other destinations in Toulouse: $53
  • Arrival Transfer Toulouse Airport TLS to Toulouse by Car or Van: $41

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 Toulouse or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Toulouse 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
    Toulouse 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Toulouse

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

  • No Diet Club - Best food tour in Toulouse !: $52
  • Bakeries, Chocolate & Patisseries Food Tour: $76
  • Traditional Toulouse Food Tour - Do Eat Better Experience: $104
  • Victor Hugo Market Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $105
  • Marché Victor Hugo Small Group Food Tour: $107

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Toulouse 15
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Toulouse

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

  • Aeroscopia Admission Ticket: $16
  • Day Trip to Carcassonne Cite Medievale and Comtale Castle Tour from Toulouse: $35
  • Private 3-hour Walking Tour of Toulouse with Official Tour Guide: $255
  • Private tour of Toulouse in an electric Tuk Tuk: $66
  • Toulous: Glory of Occitania Audio Tour: $15
  • Toulouse : Must-see Walking Tour: $80
  • Toulouse : Self-guided Reading Tour: $2.13
  • Toulouse : Walking tour with audio guide: $5.29
  • Toulouse E Bike Tour: $49
  • Toulouse E-Bike Tour: $48
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef: $118
  • Toulouse Food & History Tour with a Chef (in English): $120

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
    Toulouse 7.50
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Toulouse

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

  • Pub Crawl Toulouse: $20
  • From Toulouse Cite de carcassonne et wine tasting: $530


When comparing the travel costs between Toulouse and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Toulouse 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 Toulouse Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Toulouse are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Toulouse in the summer for the city activities 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, Toulouse is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Toulouse in July average around 22°C (72°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 Toulouse. Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 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
    Toulouse 22°C (72°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Toulouse during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Toulouse for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Toulouse is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 15°C (60°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Toulouse often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets less rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Toulouse gets 52 mm (2 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
    Toulouse 15°C (60°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulouse and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Toulouse because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, 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. Toulouse is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 6°C (44°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

Toulouse usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Toulouse gets 88 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 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
    Toulouse 6°C (44°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Toulouse is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Toulouse in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Toulouse often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Toulouse gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 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
    Toulouse 12°C (54°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Toulouse

Toulouse Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (44°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 19°C (67°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 22°C (72°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 20°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 15°C (60°F) 52 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 10°C (50°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)