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

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a elegant, scenic, and traditional seaside town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include food, beaches, and shopping.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Ventimiglia and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
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 Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Ventimiglia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is better known for its hiking, while Ventimiglia is more popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for the terraced chain of lakes. Ventimiglia is well known for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

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

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

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

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 Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ventimiglia is mediocre for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

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

Is Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

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


Is Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

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

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. It's a fun place to explore with kids, but if you're traveling with young ones, keep a close eye on them. Also take note that it's not stroller-friendly and make sure that you arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.


Is Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Ventimiglia and Plitvice Lakes National Park make for a great place to visit.

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. 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 Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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.

Ventimiglia is very walkable. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

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

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

How long in Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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


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

One day in Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-famous national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Ventimiglia is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

The world-famous national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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 seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Ventimiglia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, 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 Ventimiglia and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia


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: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

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

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ventimiglia 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
    Ventimiglia 38
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $75
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $86
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $95
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $140
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $221

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $76
  • Art studio tour in Italian sculpture gardens: $34
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo: $114
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $109
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $92
  • sculpting art experience in Italy,class in sculpture gardens: $192

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

  • Plitvice Lakes: National Park Official Entry Ticket: $11
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $14
  • Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes: $29
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $36
  • Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour and Boat Ride: $36
  • Plitvice lakes: Guided walking tour with a boat ride: $37
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $38
  • Plitvice Guided Tour- Tickets only RESERVED: $44
  • From Split and Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Economy Group Tour: $48
  • Abandoned military airbase Zeljava -2h guided tour: $55
  • From Split: Plitvice Lakes Guided tour: $70
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park - Inspiration Buggy Tour: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ventimiglia during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ventimiglia in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Ventimiglia. In the summer, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Ventimiglia is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 17°C (63°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Ventimiglia gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold during winter. Ventimiglia is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Ventimiglia often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ventimiglia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ventimiglia in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)