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

Should you visit Varenna 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 Varenna 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a beautiful, scenic, and pristine village. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking.

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.

Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como
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 Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Varenna have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Varenna and is known for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Varenna is famous for its beautiful location by Lake Como.

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

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

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Varenna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Varenna 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.

Varenna has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

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 Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Varenna is adequate for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Varenna doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

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

Is Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Hiking trails can be found around both Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park, and they are high quality.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.


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

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Plitvice Lakes National Park is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Varenna 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, Varenna has plenty to offer. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Varenna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

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

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Varenna 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 Varenna offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

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 Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Varenna
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Varenna. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

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


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

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

How long in Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. In our opinion, Varenna has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Varenna 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 Varenna. 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 Varenna than Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Varenna that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


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

One day in Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This national park offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Varenna is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the 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.

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Plitvice Lakes National Park has to offer.

Five days in Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find shopping and museums around the beautiful destination of Varenna. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Varenna or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The scenic village of Varenna offers museums and food. 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 village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to 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 Varenna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Varenna is €164, 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 Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varenna 86
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varenna 172
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Varenna 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 Varenna


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: Varenna Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varenna

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

  • Varenna : Private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $358

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Varenna 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
    Varenna 53
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Varenna

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

  • Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155

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

Tours and Activities in Varenna

For Varenna, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $664
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,551
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $491
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $118
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $43
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $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
    Varenna 23
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Varenna

Also in Varenna, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio: $112
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $134


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Varenna is more expensive. And not only is Plitvice Lakes National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Plitvice Lakes National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Plitvice Lakes National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Varenna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Varenna than you might in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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



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

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Varenna for the hiking 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, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 23°C (73°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 Varenna, it's very sunny this time of the year. Varenna usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park during summer. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun in the summer.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Varenna usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 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
    Varenna 23°C (73°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

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

Varenna is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the autumn, Varenna often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun.

Varenna receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Varenna usually gets more rain in October than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 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
    Varenna 15°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Varenna are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Varenna 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. Varenna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Varenna is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Varenna in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 1°C (35°F).

Varenna usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during winter. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Varenna usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Varenna gets 76 mm (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
    Varenna 5°C (41°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

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

In April, Varenna is generally around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 13°C (55°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

In the spring, Varenna often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in April than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 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
    Varenna 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Varenna

Varenna Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)