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

Should you visit Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a authentic, cultural, and historical city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Zaragoza 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
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zaragoza than Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zaragoza is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Zaragoza and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. Zaragoza is well known for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene. Also, Zaragoza is famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar.

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

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

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Many visitors head to Zaragoza specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

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 Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

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

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

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

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


Is Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

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

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zaragoza. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly city. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.


Is Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zaragoza and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Zaragoza is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is notable for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Students?

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zaragoza is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Zaragoza. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not popular with students.


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

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Zaragoza is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a good destination for its public transit.

Visitors to Zaragoza can move around easily with public transportation. There are buses and trams around the city.

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 Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Zaragoza
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza is very walkable. The city center is very walkable.

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

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

How long in Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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


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

One day in Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Zaragoza, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Zaragoza 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.

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 Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

The historical city of Zaragoza offers nightlife and food. 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 city 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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, 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 Zaragoza?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Zaragoza is €126, 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 Zaragoza and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zaragoza 65
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zaragoza 130
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 120
Compare Hotels in Zaragoza and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza


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: Zaragoza Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zaragoza 23
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 26

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zaragoza

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zaragoza:

  • Private transfers Airport-hotel Zaragoza.: $66
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from Zaragoza Airport to City centre: $66
  • Zaragoza Private Transfer from the city centre to Zaragoza Airport: $66
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) to Zaragoza Downtown hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Zaragoza Downtown hotels to Zaragoza Airport (ZAZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $27

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 Zaragoza or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zaragoza 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
    Zaragoza 41
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zaragoza

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

  • Midday Market Tour and Spanish Cooking Class: $108

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zaragoza 35
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 34

Tours and Activities in Zaragoza

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

  • Complete tour + wine and tapas: $202
  • Evening traditional tapas walking tour in old Zaragoza center: $104
  • Haft-day Winery tour from Zaragoza: $158
  • Kayaking in Fluvial EcoTourism with ebroNAUTAS: $44
  • Midday Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Old Town of Belchite: $102
  • Midday market and tapas tour of Zaragoza: $104
  • Monumental Walking Tour in Old Town of Zaragoza: $93
  • Olive Oil Tour and Visit to Belchite Old Town: $104
  • Olive Oil and Winery Tour from Zaragoza City: $164
  • Private custom tour with a local guide Zaragoza: $49
  • Zaragoza - Historic Walking Tour: $320
  • Zaragoza : Aquarium entry ticket: $19

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
    Zaragoza 14
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 14

Sample the Local Flavors in Zaragoza

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Zaragoza:

  • Wine Tasting and Tapas: $102
  • Wine Tasting and Tapas in the ancient Town of Zaragoza: $104


When comparing the travel costs between Zaragoza and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza Expensive? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Expensive?.



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

The summer brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Zaragoza is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Zaragoza in July average around 26°C (79°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 Zaragoza this time of the year. In the summer, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 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
    Zaragoza 26°C (79°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Zaragoza because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

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

Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 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
    Zaragoza 17°C (63°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zaragoza during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza is much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Zaragoza averages around 8°C (46°F) in January, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Zaragoza often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 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
    Zaragoza 8°C (46°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Zaragoza is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Zaragoza in April average around 15°C (58°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Zaragoza, it's very sunny this time of the year. Zaragoza usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 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
    Zaragoza 15°C (58°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zaragoza

Zaragoza Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (46°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 17 mm (0.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 26°C (78°F) 25 mm (1 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 12°C (53°F) 39 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 8°C (47°F) 26 mm (1 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)