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

Should you visit Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Izmir

Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food. See Izmir travel costs.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • 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 Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park are both popular with visitors, Plitvice Lakes National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more popular for its nightlife, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Izmir is known for its food and big city activities. Plitvice Lakes National Park is more touristy than Izmir and is popular for its stunning natural scenery which includes 16 beautiful terraced lakes. It is also home to the terraced chain of lakes. Izmir is popular for

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

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

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Izmir 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 Izmir. Located on the coast, the city is known for its fresh seafood like grilled fish, calamari, and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). Kumru, a local sandwich made with sesame-crusted bread and filled with sucuk or cheese, is a must-try street food. Also popular are meze, which are small plates of appetizers like hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and zeytinyağlılar (vegetables cooked in olive oil).

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 Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Nightlife?

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is not so good for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are some bars near the park, but that's not why most visitors come to the area.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Hiking?

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Izmir 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.

Izmir is not a hiking destination.

Is Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park More Beautiful?

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the main draws. Even with the crowds, this is a spectacular destination and a highlight of any trip to Croatia.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Families?

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Both Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Izmir is a very family-friendly place to visit. A visit to Kültürpark, a large park in the city center, is perfect for children to enjoy playgrounds, open spaces, and even a small amusement park. The Izmir Wildlife Park, located just outside the city, is another great spot, where kids can explore and interact with a variety of animals in a natural setting. For an educational experience, the Izmir Natural History Museum provides fascinating exhibits on local wildlife and natural science. Families will also enjoy taking a boat ride on the Izmir Bay or visiting the Aqua City Water Park.

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 Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park Better for Couples?

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for romance. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Plitvice Lakes National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Izmir makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the scenic Kordon promenade at sunset or having a drink at a local cafe. You can also explore the Kadifekale Castle, which offers panoramic views of Izmir and is another great spot for watching the sunset together. Also popular is taking a boat tour around Izmir Bay, which lets you see the city from a different perspective.

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

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park are high quality places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Izmir. It's a popular stop off for backpackers who enjoy the cultural scene around town. There are many hostels to choose from, particularly in areas like Konak and Alsancak.

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

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Izmir 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 Izmir can move around easily with public transportation. The public transit system is diverse and includes a metro with two lines, buses, ferries, and dolmuses (shared minibuses). In general, the system is reliable and affordable.

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 Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park a more walkable city?

Izmir
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Izmir is a somewhat walkable place. Some of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods include Konak, Alsancak, and Kordon where you can easily walk between attractions, cafés, shops, and parks. The Kordon waterfront promenade is a popular place for strolling, jogging, or simply relaxing.

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

How long in Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Plitvice Lakes National Park than Izmir 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 Plitvice Lakes National Park.


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

One day in Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?


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In Izmir, you'll find food. 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, many people enjoy the that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.


A weekend in Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?


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Izmir is a fun place to experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?


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You'll find food around the destination of Izmir. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Izmir or Plitvice Lakes National Park?


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The of Izmir offers food. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.

You'll find around the world-famous destination of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul, 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 Izmir?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Izmir Prices
    Turkey Prices
    Plitvice Lakes National Park Prices
    Croatia Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Izmir $96
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $181

The average daily cost (per person) in Izmir is $96, while the average daily cost in Plitvice Lakes National Park is $181. 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 Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Izmir $47
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $71
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Izmir $94
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $142
Compare Hotels in Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Looking for a hotel in Izmir 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 Izmir


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: Izmir Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Izmir $23
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $31

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Izmir

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Izmir:

  • Transfer from Izmir to Didim: $287
  • Antalya Airport AYT Transfers to Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels: $251
  • Fethiye-Oludeniz Hotels to Antalya Airport AYT Transfers: $251
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Ayvalik Resort: $242
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Yalikoy (Didim) Hotels: $209
  • Bodrum Akyaka Hotels to Bodrum Airport BJV Transfers: $161
  • Izmir Airport to Cesme/Alacati, Kusadasi, and Foca Transfers: $144
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Kusadasi International Golf Hotels: $143
  • Izmir Airport ADB Transfers to Cesme Hotels: $131
  • Private Transfer from Izmir Airport to Selcuk: $131
  • Private Transfers İzmir City or Adnan Menderes Apt to/from Gümüldür, Seferihisar: $131
  • Ephesus Guided Tour From Izmir With Lunch & Hotel Transfer: $130

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: $179

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

Prices for flights to both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Izmir 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
    Izmir $33
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $81

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Izmir

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

  • Authentic Turkish Home Cooking Class with Locals: $76
  • Izmir to Aphrodisias: Cooking & Ceramics Class: $251

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Izmir $16
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $39

Tours and Activities in Izmir

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

  • Small Group Ephesus Tour From Izmir Hotels: $171
  • 2-Hour Private Guided The best of Izmir Walking Tour: $185
  • Alaçatı & Çeşme Chill Tour: Vibes, Streets & Snapshots: $120
  • Best of Private Walking Tour with a Local: $66
  • Budget - Friendly Ephesus Tour from Izmir: $42
  • Daily Ephesus & Virgin Mary House Tour from Izmir: $161
  • Day Tour to Pamukkale from-to Izmir: $240
  • Ephesus & Sirince Village Tour from İzmir: $145
  • Ephesus Ancient City with Best Guides Only For Cruise Guests: $59
  • Ephesus Day Tour from Izmir with Lunch: $131
  • Ephesus Excursion For Cruisers: $586
  • Ephesus Full Day Tour From Izmir: $149

Tours and Activities in Plitvice Lakes National Park

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

  • 90-Minute Rastoke Guided Walking Tour: $8.35
  • Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket: $15
  • Plitvice Lakes Group Walking Tour with Local Guide: $39
  • Plitvice Lakes guided tour: $41
  • Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour: $41
  • Plitvice Lakes Tour: Secured Tickets, Train & Boat Ride: $42
  • Private Guided Fairy Tale Tour in Ogulin: $48
  • Zeljava Airbase: History and Adventure Tour: $60
  • Quad adventure: $86
  • 2 hour Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $118
  • Rakovica Private Countryside Bike Tour with Barac Caves: $143
  • 3,5 hours Guided Buggy Tour in Plitvice lakes: $154

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Izmir $6.94
    Plitvice Lakes National Park $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Izmir

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Izmir:

  • Wine Tasting Tour at Two Wineries in Urla Turkey: $131


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park, we can see that Plitvice Lakes National Park is more expensive. And not only is Izmir much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Izmir would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Izmir 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 Izmir.

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



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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Izmir during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Izmir for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Izmir is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 28°C (82°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 Izmir. In the summer, Izmir often gets more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Izmir gets 378 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 266 hours of full sun.

Izmir usually gets less rain in July than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Izmir gets 2 mm (0.1 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
    Izmir 28°C (82°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 22°C (72°F)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Izmir and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Many visitors come to Izmir in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions. Furthermore, most visitors come to Plitvice Lakes National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Izmir is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Izmir in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In Izmir, it's very sunny this time of the year. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during autumn. Izmir gets 232 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 133 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Izmir usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Izmir gets 39 mm (1.5 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
    Izmir 19°C (67°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Izmir as well as Plitvice Lakes National Park. Most visitors come to Izmir for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park because of the cuisine.

The weather in Plitvice Lakes National Park can be very cold. In January, Izmir is generally much warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Daily temperatures in Izmir average around 9°C (48°F), and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 1°C (35°F).

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

Izmir receives a lot of rain in the winter. Izmir usually gets more rain in January than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Izmir gets 132 mm (5.2 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
    Izmir 9°C (48°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 1°C (35°F)

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

Both Plitvice Lakes National Park and Izmir are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Izmir because of the activities around the city. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Plitvice Lakes National Park this time of year.

Izmir is a little warmer than Plitvice Lakes National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Izmir averages around 16°C (61°F) in April, and Plitvice Lakes National Park fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Izmir. Izmir usually receives more sunshine than Plitvice Lakes National Park during spring. Izmir gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Plitvice Lakes National Park receives 163 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Izmir usually receives less rain than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Izmir gets 45 mm (1.8 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
    Izmir 16°C (61°F) 
    Plitvice Lakes National Park 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Plitvice Lakes National Park and Izmir

Izmir Plitvice Lakes National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 1°C (35°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 10°C (50°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 4°C (39°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 21°C (69°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 17°C (63°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Jun 25°C (77°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (69°F) 101 mm (4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 87 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 22°C (71°F) 91 mm (3.6 in)
Sep 24°C (75°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 18°C (65°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 15°C (58°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Dec 11°C (52°F) 153 mm (6 in) 3°C (37°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)