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

Should you visit Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Villach 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.

Villach

Villach is a outdoorsy, historic, and nature-filled town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-famous, spectacular, and scenic national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • 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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Villach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is better known for its impressive beauty, while Villach is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Villach 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. Villach is well known for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

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

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

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Villach may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Villach 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 Villach has a few options to choose from. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

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

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

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Villach is a good destination for visiting its old town. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

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


Is Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park both have great trails.

Villach is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Villach is adequate for shopping. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Villach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Villach is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Plitvice Lakes National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park are great destinations for backpackers.

Villach is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

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

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park offer respectable public transit options.

Public transit is generally limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Public transit is mostly 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Villach
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is terrific for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

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

Villach is generally not a very walkable town. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

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

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

How long in Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Villach than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Villach, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Villach 1-3 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1-2

One day in Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Villach, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Villach is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the outdoorsy destination of Villach. 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 Villach or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The outdoorsy town of Villach offers nightlife and museums. 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 town 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, 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 Villach?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Villach is €116, 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 Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Villach 69
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Villach 138
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Villach 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 Villach


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: Villach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Villach 18
    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 Zadar: Round-Trip Transfer to Plitvice Lakes: $42
  • From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb private one-way transfer: $150
  • Plitvice lakes Guiding with Transfer: $182
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zagreb Airport (ZAG): $232
  • Private Transfer from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar Airport (ZAD): $271

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Villach 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
    Villach 35
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

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

Tours and Activities in Villach

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Villach are as follows:

  • Villach Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide: $250
  • Magic Christmas Tour: $769
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74

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
    Villach 14
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14


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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Villach as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Villach this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Villach is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Villach in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Plitvice Lakes National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Villach this time of the year. In the summer, Villach often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Villach gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 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
    Villach 24°C (75°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Villach are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Villach for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Villach is generally a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Villach average around 16°C (60°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Villach usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Villach gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Villach usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 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
    Villach 16°C (60°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Villach during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Villach in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold during winter. Villach is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Villach averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Villach often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Villach gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Villach usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Villach gets 71 mm (2.8 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
    Villach 5°C (41°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Villach and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Villach for 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, Villach is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Villach in April average around 13°C (56°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Villach usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Villach gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Villach usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Villach gets 87 mm (3.4 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
    Villach 13°C (56°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Villach

Villach Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 62 mm (2.4 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 13°C (56°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 22°C (71°F) 102 mm (4 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 101 mm (4 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 20°C (68°F) 102 mm (4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 16°C (60°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 10°C (51°F) 114 mm (4.5 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 6°C (44°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)