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

Should you visit Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Zermatt and Plitvice Lakes National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Zermatt

Zermatt is a iconic, breathtaking, and charming town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a spectacular, scenic, and world-famous national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Zermatt and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zermatt. Although Zermatt and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both popular with visitors, Zermatt has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zermatt is popular for its skiing, hiking, winter sports, and stunning views of Matterhorn. It is also home to The Matterhorn. Plitvice Lakes National Park is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes.

The Matterhorn

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

Is Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Skiing?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for skiing. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a skiing destination.

Zermatt is among the world's best ski destinations. This is Europe's highest ski resort and it is one of the most famous and beautiful, at the base of the world renowned Matterhown. The slopes attract professional skiers from around the world who come for the challenging skiing and spectacular setting.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

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

While most people don't head to Zermatt specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You don't visit Zermatt for the museums, but it is worth checking out the Matterhorn Museum while you're in town.

Plitvice Lakes National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Zermatt 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 Zermatt. There are actually many great restaurants right on the slopes, so you don't have to head into town to enjoy a meal. In town, you'll find many cozy restaurants that have terraces that offer spectacular views.

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 Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Zermatt is great for nightlife. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Many people head to Zermatt for the nightlife scene. The town cuts loose in the evening with locals and visitors intermingling at the many bars and live music venues around town. Elegant fun is a great way to describe the nightlife scene and whether you're looking for a mellow night out or a more vibrant party, there's something for everyone.

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

Is Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Resorts?

Zermatt is great for its luxury resorts. However, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Zermatt. There are a number of upscale inns and hotels in town. Many have pools or hot tubs with views of the mountains.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Zermatt is an unbeatable place for hiking. Also, Plitvice Lakes National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice national park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Zermatt specifically for its hiking. There are countless hiking trails in the area that cater to all levels of fitness. Almost all trails offer some sort of view of Matterhorn, and it's possible to enjoy a great view without much effort. It's also possible to do a multi-day trek while staying in mountain huts which will get you well into the amazing scenery.

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.

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

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Zermatt. Luxury boutiques that sell jewelry, watches, and clothing are found all around town. You'll also find sporting equipment or anything that you may have forgotten. For the best shopping in town head to Bahnhofstrasse.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Zermatt is a very family-friendly place to visit. From world class hiking to countless outdoor adventures, this is a great place to explore with kids. There are a number of kid-friendly ways to view Matterhorn as well as cable cars and Glacier Palace.

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

Is Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Zermatt 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, Zermatt has plenty to offer. Couples who seek an adrenaline filled adventure will be in heaven in this iconic alpine destination. There are breathtaking views of Matterhorn, stunning hikes, impressive skiing, and a charming town where you can enjoy a great meal after a day filled with adventure.

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

Both Zermatt and Plitvice Lakes National Park are very good destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Zermatt. There are a couple of hostels in town that cater to the backpacker and budget crowd. It's an expensive place to visit, with food and entertainment costing a lot, but if you can swing it, it's well worth a visit.

Many backpackers visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are three hotels within the park and a handful of hostels nearby. There's also some camping options in the area.

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

Zermatt 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 Zermatt offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are ebuses in town, but the town itself is car free and walking is your best option.

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 Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Zermatt and Plitvice Lakes National Park both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Zermatt on foot. There aren't any cars in town so this is a very pedestrian-friendly town with charming streets and walking paths.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Plitvice Lakes National Park. 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 Zermatt Worth Visiting? and Is Plitvice Lakes National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Zermatt than Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zermatt, and 1-2 days is enough time in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

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

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

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

One day in Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Zermatt, you'll find nightlife and food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Zermatt is a fun place to experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

In Zermatt, you'll find shopping and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here.

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 Zermatt or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The charming town of Zermatt offers skiing and nightlife. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia.

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

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

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

The summer brings many poeple to Zermatt as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. The summer months attract visitors to Zermatt because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

Zermatt is around the same temperature as Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Zermatt averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 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 Zermatt this time of the year. In the summer, Zermatt often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zermatt gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Zermatt receives a lot of rain in the summer. Zermatt usually gets more rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zermatt gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zermatt are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Zermatt this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Zermatt gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Zermatt. In October, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zermatt gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zermatt during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zermatt for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the winter for the cuisine.

Plitvice Lakes National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Zermatt. In January, Zermatt is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Zermatt average around 5°C (41°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Zermatt often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zermatt gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 54 hours of full sun.

Zermatt usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zermatt gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Zermatt and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Zermatt in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

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

Zermatt usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Zermatt gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

Zermatt gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Zermatt usually receives more rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Zermatt gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zermatt