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

Should you visit Urbino 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 Urbino 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a historic, undiscovered, and authentic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. 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.

Urbino 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Urbino, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is better known for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Urbino is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Urbino and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for the terraced chain of lakes. Urbino is well known for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

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

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

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Urbino is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Urbino 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 Urbino. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

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 Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Urbino is very good for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Urbino has a few options to choose from. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

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

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

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Urbino is a good destination for visiting its old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

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


Is Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Urbino is not a hiking destination.

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

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Urbino. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.


Is Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Urbino is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Urbino is very popular with students. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


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

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Urbino and Plitvice Lakes National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.

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 Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Urbino
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Urbino 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.

Urbino is somewhat walkable. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. In our opinion, Urbino has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Urbino than Plitvice Lakes National Park. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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


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

One day in Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Urbino, you'll find food and shopping. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Urbino is a fun place to experience. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Urbino. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The undiscovered town of Urbino offers nightlife and food. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the scenic destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy, The Best Bicycle 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 Urbino?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Urbino is €118, 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 Urbino and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Urbino 53
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Urbino 106
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Urbino and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Urbino 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 Urbino


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: Urbino Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Urbino 44
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

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

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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 Urbino or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

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

Tours and Activities in Urbino

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

  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • From Montefeltro Tour with Truffle Lunch: $396
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • San Marino: Food Tasting Tour: $195

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
    Urbino 14
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Urbino are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Urbino in the summer for 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, Urbino is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Urbino in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In July, Urbino usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Urbino gets 75 mm (3 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
    Urbino 23°C (73°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Urbino during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Urbino for 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, Urbino is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 15°C (59°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Urbino usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Urbino gets 77 mm (3 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
    Urbino 15°C (59°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Urbino and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Urbino 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. The weather in Urbino can be very cold. Urbino is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In January, Urbino usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Urbino gets 34 mm (1.3 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
    Urbino 3°C (37°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

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

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

Urbino usually gets less rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Urbino gets 53 mm (2.1 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
    Urbino 12°C (54°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Urbino

Urbino Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)