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

Should you visit Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Should I visit Volterra 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.

Volterra

Volterra is a cultural, historic, and charming town. With plenty of 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a spectacular, scenic, and world-famous national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • 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 Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Volterra. Although Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both popular with visitors, Volterra has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Volterra is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and small town charm, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Volterra and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Volterra is popular for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster. It is also home to The Roman Theater.

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

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

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Volterra specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. For such a large town there are a huge number of historic sights packed into a small area. Check out the Roman Theater, the Etruscan Museum, and the Duomo.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Volterra 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.

Volterra has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The town is surrounded by the region of truffles, so you'll find this item included in all kinds of recipes. Pumpkin sauce is also a specialty of the area and there are also many local cheeses. Many restaurants also have bruschetta as an appetizer.

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 Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Volterra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are cozy bars and cafes where you can sip wine and soak up the atmosphere, but the town isn't known as a nightlife destination.

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

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

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Volterra is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Volterra offers plenty to see. The walled town is perched on a hilltop and dates back to the 8th century BC. Visitors come specifically to explore its winding streets and stunning setting.

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


Is Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Volterra 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.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.

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

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Volterra. Some of the streets are lined with boutique shops and one of the most popular things to buy in town is Alabaster. You'll also find plenty of Italian wine from the nearby vineyards.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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

Volterra offers lots of family activities. If you have a Twilight fan, this town is home to the Volturi, who are the royal family of vampires. For everyone else, its a charming town with medieval walls and wandering alleys that kids will enjoy exploring.


Is Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Volterra 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, Volterra has plenty to offer. It's unique atmosphere, amazing food, and medieval style make for a unique and world class couples destination. While many people visit as a day trip, you can spend the night and soak up the evening atmosphere as well.

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

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is well known for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Volterra is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's only one or two hostels in town, so if you're looking for a more social backpacker setting, then this may not be your spot. It does make for a great day trip though and if you're more interested in culture than meeting other backpackers, then definitely stop by.

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

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Public transit is generally limited in Volterra. Public transit isn't necessary as the city is best explored on foot.

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 Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Volterra
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park both are world-class when exploring on foot.

Getting around Volterra on foot is easy. Most people explore the town on foot.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a very easy town to get around on foot. 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 Volterra Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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


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

One day in Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Volterra is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums 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.

The beautiful national park of Plitvice Lakes National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Plitvice Lakes National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Volterra 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.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Because Volterra 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 town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking 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 Volterra?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Volterra is €101, 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 Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Volterra 61
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Volterra 122
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Volterra 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 Volterra


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: Volterra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Volterra 4.29
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volterra

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Volterra:

  • Private Transfer from San Gimignano to Firenze (FLR) Airport: $248

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 Volterra or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Volterra 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
    Volterra 36
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volterra

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

  • Buffet dinner at the farm: $49
  • Dining experience at a local's home in San Gimignano with show cooking: $93
  • Volterra - Olive oil tasting with lunch with lunch or dinner: $112
  • Pizza Cooking Class: $112
  • Fresh Pasta Cooking Class: $112
  • "Hands in dough" Cooking Class with Lunch: $120
  • Tuscan Cooking Class: $126
  • Tuscany: Wine Tasting Lunch or Dinner: $128
  • Winery Cave Dinner & Tasting in Tuscany - Romantic & Lovely : $137
  • Fiorentina Steak Dinner & Wine Tasting: $164
  • Cooking class, wine tasting and 2500 year old granaries: $175
  • Cooking Classes in Tuscany among the Chianti Vineyards: $175

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Volterra 11
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Volterra

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

  • Cesani Wine Experience: $33
  • Chianti and Castle Small Group Tour from San Gimignano: $93
  • Discover Volterra with Licensed Tour Guide: $214
  • Private Balsamic Vinegar Experience with Wine, Evo Oil & Meal: $69
  • Private Tour in San Gimignano: $150
  • Private Tour: San Gimignano Walking Tour: $207
  • Private walking tour in San Gimignano with a local licensed guide: $218
  • San Gimignano Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $293
  • San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour: $149
  • Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano: $180
  • Tuscany: Volterra Truffle Hunting Experience: $203
  • Volterra - Archeotour by e-bike with tasting: $187

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
    Volterra 16
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Volterra

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Volterra:

  • San Gimignano: Chianti wine tasting : $33
  • Casa Emma Wine Tasting : $34
  • Gourmet Wine Tour San Gimignano Wine Tasting - San Quirico Winery: $36
  • 5 Wine Tastings in San Gimignano: $60
  • Lunch with Wine Tasting: $60
  • "Gourmet" Wine Tasting at Cesani's: $66
  • Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting: $71
  • Vineyard Walk & Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $115
  • Brunello Wine Tasting from San Gimignano: $130
  • Exclusive evening wine tasting at organic winery : $218
  • Chianti e-bike tour from Florence with wine tasting: $284
  • Private Excursion: Volterra & San Gimignano+wine tastings: $289


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. And not only is Volterra much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Volterra would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Volterra 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Plitvice Lakes National Park than you might in Volterra.

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



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

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

Volterra is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 23°C (74°F) in July, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

In Plitvice Lakes National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Volterra. In the summer, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 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
    Volterra 23°C (74°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Volterra and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Volterra for 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 the autumn, Volterra is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Volterra in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Volterra usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Volterra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Volterra usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 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
    Volterra 16°C (61°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Volterra as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Volterra 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. In January, Volterra is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 7°C (45°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Volterra often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Volterra gets 75 mm (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
    Volterra 7°C (45°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Volterra 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.

Volterra is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Volterra usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Volterra usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 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
    Volterra 13°C (55°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Volterra

Volterra Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (3 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 8°C (47°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 10°C (51°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 23°C (74°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 123 mm (4.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 124 mm (4.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)