day trip zadar to plitvice lakes

From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Panoramic boat ride
• Electric train ride
• Tour escort
• Zadar Old Town walking tour (available to join on any day at 6:00 PM)
• Entrance ticket(Price vary from 10E to 40E depends on the season and the number of pax)
• Ul. Alesandra Paravije 5, 23000, Zadar, Croatia • Meet your guide at Ul.Alesandra Paravije 5 (Zadar in & out office). Please enter the office, where you will be checked in and greeted by your tour guide (it is necessary to arrive at the meeting point 15 min before the start of the tour).
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 70 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Ul. Alesandra Paravije 5 Ul. Alesandra Paravije 5, 23000, Zadar, Croatia • Meet your guide at Ul.Alesandra Paravije 5 (Zadar in & out office). Please enter the office, where you will be checked in and greeted by your tour guide (it is necessary to arrive at the meeting point 15 min before the start of the tour). See address & details
• 1 Plitvice Lakes National Park Stop: 5 hours See details
• 2 Zadar Stop: 2 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• dinbasildon 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A well organised trip to a beautiful place The waterfalls were beautiful. Definitely worth the day trip. Jelena and the driver were friendly and informative guides. Read more Written April 21, 2024
• 77fitnessr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Krka national park tour Friendly, knowledgeable, personable. Excellent tour, would highly recommend, stunning way to spend a day. Thank you. Read more Written April 21, 2024
• Guide23810371149 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful Was really good, very pleasant and an easy walk. Well organised and amazing views, plenty of time to explore. Fantastic guide 😊 Read more Written April 21, 2024
• Excursion66565701541 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely way to spend a Sunday Tour guide was very informative but in a relaxed way. Not pushy for sales but helpful with recommendations. Fabulous views/scenery round the waterfalls. Read more Written April 21, 2024
• pawe_b872 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Krka Park The views were amazing. I took a lot of fantastic photos. The guide talked very well and showed us around the attractions. Read more Written April 18, 2024
• Passport51313330927 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Plitvice lakes This was an amazing tour at plitvice lake beautiful views and gorgeous weather, our host Jelena was full of knowledge and information. Thank you for a great experience! Read more Written April 15, 2024
• nicholasmU9691SK 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Guided Tour of Plitvice Lake National Park The views were great, and there were plenty of spots to get photos with the group. The only discrepancy was the writeup for the tour, it said we would have about 4 hours of free time after arrival, when in reality we stayed with the group for the duration of the tour & couldnt pick our trails. I wish that had been made more clear, but the trip was great! Just an fyi, the bus is a mix between a tiny bus and a XL van. Jelena (our guide) was mindful of everyone and happy to chat about the park or traveling in general! She did a wonderful job being clear about expectations on when the group would need to be ready to move on to the next leg of the tour. Read more Written April 15, 2024
• 999meneerm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great trip Beautiful trip, the guide was very knowlidgeable and enthusiastic about a wide variety of relevant topics. You also have plenty of time to explore everything Read more Written April 14, 2024
• 816nialln 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic tour Fantastic tour, very charismatic and informative guide around the most beautiful place in Croatia. The walk was not too long of difficult and the guide was very direct in telling us the plans for the whole day. Read more Written April 12, 2024
• 66brynnk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great! Super fun day the guide Bojan was really friendly and helpful!! We took a nice boat ride to and from the park, and the park itself was lovely!! Read more Written April 12, 2024
• samij946 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Must See Day Trip The tour guide was amazing and she made the day flow so smoothly. The route is about 10km but with the breaks and easy terrain it feels cruisy. The views were phenomenal and the waterfalls are definitely a must see. Read more Written April 12, 2024
• rajata386 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Amazing trip. Must try!! Liked the guide and her explanation. She was really helpful. Lakes were breathtaking. Highly recommended. Read more Written April 12, 2024
• MariaR11648 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing place. Our tour guide was amazing, she was very nice and she took time to explain the history of the lakes, it's worth the price and I definetly recommend Read more Written April 11, 2024
• Unis99 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles April Trip The trip was well organised, punctual and interesting. We had Jelena who was great! Very good pace and had lots of great information to share with us Read more Written April 10, 2024
• 961zuzaz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect Beautiful lakes and views. The guide was very nice and her knowledge was huge. Definitely recommend this trip . Don’t forget to take something warm to wear because it might get chilli Read more Written April 10, 2024

More to explore in Zadar

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour provided by Zadar In and Out

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• About this activity

Zadar: Plitvice Lakes Guided Day Tour with Tickets

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation
• Explore Plitvice Lakes Park - one of Europe's natural wonders
• Marvel at the magical views and sounds of the waterfall in Plitvice
• Sit back and enjoy relaxing boat and train rides
• Explore the medieval churches and charming squares of Zadar's Old Town
• Take an optional guided walking tour of Zadar after returning from your tour

Activity location

• Zadar, Zadarska županija, Croatia

Meeting/Redemption Point

• • Meet your guide at Ul.Alesandra Paravije 5 (Zadar in & out office). Please enter the office, where you will be checked in and greeted by your tour guide (it is necessary to arrive at the meeting point 15 min before the start of the tour). • For the Zadar Old Town walking tour, meet at 6:00 PM (any day) in front of Novi Cafe in Zadar, beside the Roman column (Trg Petra Zoranića). No reservations are needed.
• Thu, Apr 25 -
• Fri, Apr 26 $81
• Sat, Apr 27 $81
• Sun, Apr 28 $81
• Mon, Apr 29 $81
• Tue, Apr 30 $81
• Wed, May 1 $81
• Thu, May 2 $81
• Fri, May 3 $81
• Sat, May 4 $81
• Sun, May 5 $81
• Mon, May 6 $81
• Tue, May 7 $81
• Wed, May 8 $81
• Thu, May 9 $81
• Activity duration is 9 hours 9h 9h

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Transportation by air-conditioned bus
• What's included What's included Boat ride
• What's included What's included Electric train ride
• What's included What's included Guide
• What's included What's included Zadar Old Town walking tour (available to join on any day at 6:00 PM)
• What's included What's included Entry ticket to the Plitvice Lakes National Park
• What's excluded What's excluded Food and drinks

Know before you book

• Not allowed: Swimming
• Not suitable for: People with mobility impairments

What you can expect

Experience Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a day trip from Zadar with entry ticket and a tour. Listen to interesting stories about Croatia before arriving at the park. Walk the path around the lakes and relax on a boat trip.

Make your way to the meeting point in the morning and meet your friendly guide and group for the day. Enjoy a brief introduction and start driving out of the city, admiring the Croatian countryside and listening to live commentary on your way to the park.

Arrive at the lakes and have 4 hours to explore the upper and lower waterfalls. Take amazing photos by the water and discover flowing springs, flowering meadows, and mysterious caves.

Afterwards, rest your feet with a train ride and a scenic boat trip on the turquoise water with banks of lush green trees. Take one last look at the waterfalls before returning back to Zadar.

After returning to Zadar, explore the Old Town area with an optional guided walking tour that you can take any day during your stay at 6:00 PM.

• Book A Tour

Plitvice Lakes National Park Full Day Tour from Zadar

75.00 € / per person.

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Plitvice Lakes National Park on a tour from Zadar. Witness the most beautiful sights, and nature as it once was and as it still should be. Clearwater you can actually drink, waterfalls running from one lake to another connected in an amazing web surrounded by forest, wild animals, and fresh air, thus creating a wonder of nature.

• Discover 16 UNESCO-protected lakes
• Be amazed by 78m high Big Waterfall
• Let your private guide show you all Plitvice's beauties
• 'Get lost' in largest national park in all Croatia
• Witness nature phenomenon travertine barriers

Plitvice Lakes is a complex of 16 lakes of various sizes that pour one into another, divided by travertine barriers.  Lakes are painted with an incredible spectrum of greens and blues thanks to the algae, mosses, and plants. Since travertine deposits are the primary cause of lakes and take millennia to create, they are one of the most significant natural occurrences. A thickness of 3 mm of travertine requires a year to produce. Additionally, all these natural processes are still in motion now and are continually transforming Plitvice Lakes.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a living nature paradise. Visitors can explore the park's forest paths, meadows, and caves, and may spot the famous brown bear and other wildlife such as fish, birds, and small forest animals. The Lakes are also home to endemic plant species, adding to their value and importance. It is no wonder that the Plitvice Lakes were declared a national park in 1949 and were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979.

We recommend taking with you:

• closed comfortable shoes,
• dress in layers,
• sunglasses,
• extra snacks if you like

Plitvice Lakes National Park Full Day Tour from Zadar will take to an unforgettable journey through the Plitvice Lakes, where you can see the beauty of nature as it once was and still should be. Our friendly private guide will make sure you get the most out of your special Plitvice Lakes National Park Full Day Tour from Zadar. The cost of transportation and the lunch package is already included, allowing you to unwind completely while we take care of the planning

• Plitvice Lakes
• Departure Time: 08:00
• Return Time: 17:30
• Air-conditioned transportation
• Private guide
• Lunch package
• Free pickup in Zadar area
• Entrance ticket

Departure from Zadar

Your guide will pick you up at your address sometime before 8 AM. The departure to Plitvice Lakes starts at 8 when we pick up all passengers.

08:00 - 9:30

The van ride on Plitvice Lakes National Park Full Day Tour from Zadar will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and will take place on the highway from Zadar.  During the van ride to the Plitvice Lakes, you will have the opportunity to pass through the Velebit mountain range and see the region of Lika. The van is comfortable and equipped with amenities such as air conditioning and wi-fi, and you will also have a short bathroom break during the ride.

09:30 - 11:30

Exploring the park.

We will start our journey at the upper lakes of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for its stunning beauty and natural wonders. Our guide will lead you on a walk through the upper lakes, sharing information about the area's history, geology, and ecology. You can also spot local flora and fauna along the way.

11:30 - 12:00

After exploring the upper lakes of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, we will take a short ride on a small boat to the lower lakes. This boat ride is a unique and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of the Plitvice Lakes, and it allows you to see the lakes from a different perspective. As you ride on the boat, you can take in the stunning scenery, including the waterfalls and forests that surround the lakes.

12:00 - 12:30

There will be a break for lunch and refreshing during your tour of the Plitvice Lakes. During this break, you will be provided with a lunch package including a big sandwich, croissant, juice, water, and fruit. The break will take place on a beautiful meadow with shade and tables to sit around, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal in a picturesque setting. The break will last approximately half an hour.

12:30 - 14:45

Our journey continues at the lower lakes. Exploring the lower lakes of the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a highlight of any visit to the area. The lower lakes are known for their stunning beauty and natural wonders, including waterfalls, forests, and wildlife. One of the biggest highlights of the lower lakes is the Big Waterfall, which is 78 meters high and is located at the end of the lower lakes.

14:45 - 16:30

Departure to zadar.

The departure from the Plitvice Lakes National Park to Zadar marks the end of the full-day tour. After spending the day exploring the stunning beauty of the Plitvice Lakes, you will make your way back to Zadar. As you make your way back to Zadar, passing by mountain Velebit and through the beautiful region Lika, you can reflect on all of the amazing sights and experiences you had during your tour of the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Arrival in Zadar

Upon arrival in Zadar, your journey will come to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your tour of the Plitvice Lakes National Park.  As you arrive back in Zadar, you can take a moment to reflect on all that you have seen and experienced during your trip, and you can begin to plan your next adventure. Thank you and see you next time!

Book This Tour

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How to Get From Zadar to Plitvice Lakes (Local’s Guide)

Trying to figure out the best way to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes? I’ve got you covered!

Located in central Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park is on everyone’s Croatia bucket list – and trust me, it deserves to be! I’ve been living in Croatia since 2014 and have been traveling to the country my entire life – that’s over 30 years of Croatia travel experience.

I’ve visited Plitvice Lakes more times than I can count, and yet, every time I visit the park, I am blown away by its natural beauty. During my many years of exploring Plitvice, I’ve come to know all of the ways to reach the park, including how to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes .

In this post, I’ll break down the top 4 ways you can get to Plitvice Lakes from Zadar, giving you all the information you need to plan your trip. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents 👇

Zadar to Plitvice Lakes by Car

My personal favorite, and the most straightforward way to reach Plitvice Lakes from Zadar, is by car.

The quickest route is to take the E71 highway before exiting off on the state road D1 towards Plitvice Lakes. The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, and along the way, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the Croatian countryside.

There are tolls along this route, so keep that in mind when planning your journey.

I love traveling by car because it gives you the flexibility to start from Plitvice Entrance 1 or 2 , stay at the park as long as you like, and even overnight nearby for a full day of exploring.

If you do decide to spend the night, book Fenomen Plitvice to stay in a cozy cottage just footsteps away from the park!

Discover Cars is my go-to when renting a car in Croatia because they check both local and international providers – they’re kind of like the Skyscanner for car rentals.

💡 Need inspiration? Check out these Croatia road trip itinerary ideas . 🚗

Plitvice Day Tours From Zadar

If you don’t feel comfortable driving abroad, or just want a hassle-free experience, then an organized Zadar to Plitvice Lakes tour is the perfect choice for you. You’ll get picked up from your accommodation in Zadar, and from there, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride.

The roads to Plitvice are scenic and winding, and when you’re not behind the wheel, you can fully soak in the beautiful landscapes.

The park is sprawling, and can get very busy in the summertime, making it easy to feel overwhelmed. Having a guide who knows the best way to navigate the trails, pinpoint the best viewpoints, and can handle time management is key.

This small group Plitvice Lakes tour from Zadar organizes everything for you, including transportation, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide. You’ll share this experience with up to 15 other travelers, ensuring that you still get a personalized experience without the feel of a crowded excursion.

To really maximize your experience, book a private tour of Plitvice Lakes from Zadar. Your driver will pick you up at your accommodation, or in front of your cruise ship, and take you on a scenic journey to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

When you arrive, you’ll have the opportunity to walk along wooden pathways, take in panoramic views from high up on the viewpoints, and get up close to the falls all with a guide who knows the park inside and out.

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Private Transfers From Zadar to Plitvice Lakes

Want to visit the park and not have to worry driving, parking, or relying on a group tour? Consider booking a private transfer to Plitvice Lakes. A taxi or an Uber from Zadar to Plitvice and back starts at around 150 EUR, depending on the time and season.

If you still want the comfort and convenience of a private transfer but don’t want to splurge, this small group transfer is a solid option. You’ll be picked up at your hotel in Zadar and taken to Plitvice in an air-conditioned minivan with a small group of fellow travelers.

Bus From Zadar to Plitvice Lakes

The most budget-friendly option to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zadar is to take the bus. Croatia does not have a very good train system, but that’s why the bus system is well developed.

There are several daily departures from the Zadar main bus station, and the journey can last anywhere from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on the route.

The Zadar to Plitvice Lakes bus will drop you off near Entrance 1 of the park, leaving you with just a short walk to the ticket booth.

There are several bus companies that run from Zadar to Plitvice, but I like FlixBus best. They offer the most direct routes and are usually cheaper than the other providers, plus they have free wifi onboard.

How far iz Zadar from Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The distance between Zadar and Plitvice Lakes National Park is only 119 kilometers (74 miles).

How do I get to Plitvice Lakes without a car?

You can get to Plitvice Lakes without a car by joining a group tour, private tour, taking the bus, or taking a private transfer.

Is there a bus from Zadar Airport to Plitvice Lakes?

No, there is not a direct bus from Zadar Airport to Plitvice Lakes. You will first need to get to Zadar’s main bus station, and from there, you can take a bus to Plitvice Lakes.

Is Plitvice Lakes closer to Zadar or Split?

Because of its location in the middle of the Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is closer to Plitvice Lakes than Split.

Final Thoughts

If you skipped to the bottom, no worries!

Here are the best ways to get to Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar:

• Rent a car and drive to Plitvice Lakes yourself
• Join a small group day tour or private tour of Plitvice Lakes
• Take a private transfer or taxi to the park
• Go with FlixBus for budget friendly travel

No matter which transportation option you choose, your visit to the park will certainly be one of the highlights of your trip!

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Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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Europe , Croatia · 23/09/2022

How To Visit Plitvice Lakes in One Day: Croatia’s Most Beautiful National Park

Last updated on April 16th, 2024 at 09:13 am

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most famous lakes in Europe and obviously in Croatia ;

A day trip to Plitvice Lakes is a must-add to your Croatia bucket list! If you’re visiting Croatia, you must experience the natural wonders of the lakes of Plitvice.

On my first trip to Croatia, while I visited Zagreb , I took a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park; this national park and its breathtaking views had been on my travel bucket list for a while. I was very excited to go there.

I can assure you the photos you see online lives up to expectations; it’s a gorgeous place, even better in real. It’s a great day trip to take in summer and winter.

Here’s my travel guide on how to visit Plitvice Lakes in one day. And without a car as well for travellers who, like me, don’t drive.

How To Visit Plitvice Lakes in One Day From Zagreb or Split or Zadar

If you don’t drive or can’t rent a car, don’t worry, you can still manage to visit Plitvice in one day. Some buses go to Plitvice, and if the idea of going alone doesn’t appeal, you can also book a tour of Plitvice.

It’d be a shame to miss out on this amazing National Park just because you don’t or can’t drive. It’s one of the best day trips in Split, Zadar, or Zagreb.

There are plenty of great things to do in Zadar and Split as well, but adding a day trip to Plitvice is a great addition to your itinerary; you won’t regret it!

If possible, spend at least one full day at the lakes to maximise your trip to Plitvice.

Of course, it’s also a good option if you can spend the night over, but visiting Plitvice in one day is doable, so don’t worry.

Exploring Plitvice Lakes is a family-friendly activity, making it an ideal outing for you and your kids! If you’re planning a family trip to Croatia, here’s a two-week itinerary crafted with children in mind.

In this Plitvice travel guide, I will share my experience, my itinerary of my day trip there, and all the tips to visit the national park and plan a great day there.

Plitvice Lakes National Park Day Trip

Get from zagreb to plitvice lakes.

So, if you’re wondering how to get to Plitvice Lakes, don’t worry; it’s quite easy.

Plitvice lakes from Zagreb

Plitvice National Park is 140km (87 miles) from the capital, Zagreb.

It takes roughly two hours by car or 2h15/2h30 min by bus. During the peak season, summer, there are a lot of buses running through every day.

It’s relatively easy to book a day trip by bus yourself but a bit more complicated during winter as there aren’t as many buses going to Plitvice. But there is still the option to book a tour to admire Plitvice lakes under the snow.

The bus goes from Zagreb’s central bus station to Plitvice entrance 1 and entrance 2.

Of course, booking a tour is an option all year round, not only during the winter.

Getting from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes

Take a bus from Zadar to Plitvice – Depending on what route the bus you choose to take, it takes between 1h45 to 2h50.

Just like in Zagreb, most buses run daily between April to October. The bus goes from Zadar’s central bus station to Plitvice Entrances 1 and 2.

You can always book an organised tour if you don’t fancy organising your day trip to Plitvice Lakes.

There are two entrances at Plitvice Lakes where you can start your exploration; those two entrances offer you a few different routes to choose from, depending on what kind of time you have and if you want to take the longer route or not.

You can also find maps of those routes in the park and estimated times of how long it takes to explore those trails.

Plitvice Lakes Day Trip Itinerary

Getting around inside plitvice lakes.

Plitvice Lakes National Park covers over 73 000 acres of land.

Waterfalls link no less than sixteen lakes in Plitvice between the Mala Kapela and Licka Pljesivica mountains that compose the National Park of Plitvice Lakes.

Getting around Plitvice is easy; everything in the park is well indicated, and you follow the trail you chose for the day. I’d say it’s pretty hard to get lost there if you respect the rules, don’t go off the trails indicated by the park, and respect nature.

I can assure you that Plitvice Lakes in Summer is a great day trip, so keep on reading to plan a great day trip!

They are seven routes in total that go through Plitvice Lakes, starting from entrances 1 and 2. Route A, B and C start from entrance 1. Routes E, F, H and K start from entrance 2. The trails from entrance 2 are the longest ones.

The shortest route is 3km long, and the longest is 18km.

You can check out the four trails in more detail here .

My Plitvice Lakes in One Day Itinerary

We chose to do Trail B . It takes 3-4 hours , so we thought including a lunch break would be perfect for exploring the park without rushing and taking our time. Trail B includes a scenic boat ride on one of the lakes and a shuttle ride ( We choose to walk instead of using the shuttle, which is much nicer). This trail is very popular as you see many of the main points of interest in the park, and it’s easy to do in one day.

However, we could have quickly gone for trail C instead to see more of the park, as we still had plenty of time before our bus ride back to Zagreb.

Starting at Entrance 1

Our bus from Zagreb arrived at the entrance a bit earlier than anticipated, so we decided to check the souvenir shop to buy some beautiful blue rain caps as it was a wet day. And to see what souvenir I wanted at the end of the day.

As I already said above, we chose to follow trail B. After arriving inside the park, when it was our time to enter, we checked out the map with all the trails, and that’s how we picked trail B. I had done no prior research, and I regret it now, as Trail C would have been a better fit.

When you first go down, you’ll be greeted by the lower lakes; you can take some breathtaking photos on the way down to The Big Waterfall and see that it’s swamped.

• Veliki Slap (the Big Waterfall)

The moment you step into the park, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views; while it looks beautiful, it’s even more impressive. It makes you appreciate how wonderful nature is. I could have spent hours enjoying the views.

The first thing you’ll see arriving at entrance 1 is Veliki Slap, and I’d recommend checking it out first; it gets hectic. The photos above show the crowd descending the slippery bath to the fall. Those photos were taken in the afternoon, and it wasn’t nearly as crowded when we visited in the morning.

Once we finished the Big Waterfall, we followed the trail that led us through the lower lake of Kaluderovac and stopped by Supljara cave before continuing.

I saw two people who fell on their butts. Luckily they didn’t hurt themselves, but that wasn’t fun. I’d say it’s OK if you miss it, it was fun to check out, but it was complicated to walk around as it was rainy, so be careful.

There are signs at the cave entrance to warn you about that.

After visiting the cave, we continued exploring, following the trail B sign to check all the rest of the lower lakes; Gavanovac; Milanovac, all the way to Kozjak, where we found the resting areas with some food huts and table to eat your picnic.

I took photos of the ducks for a small break while visiting the park. We visited Plitvice Lakes summer time. However it was a bit rainy that day, but it didn’t make the day trip less enjoyable.

After a break, we continued our route with the scenic boat ride on Lake Kozjak to join the other side of the lake.

The boat ride takes around 15min, and the view is beautiful; it was still raining a bit when we were cruising through the lake, and the mountains were smokey, which gave the landscape an eerie atmosphere. It was a beautiful moment.

I’d have loved boating on the lake, but sadly, it was closed that day. I guess it was because of the rain.

At this point, you’d typically take the shuttle to join back at the entrance, as it is part of the trail. However, it felt like it would have been a shame to use the shuttle when we still had plenty of time left and could enjoy a pleasant afternoon stroll along the lakes to return to the entrance. We followed part of trail C to go back to the entrance.

Make sure to mind your steps, especially when you walk backwards.

For the little story, I was going back to try and check what was behind a mot and almost fell into the lakes as the path crumbled under my foot; I landed on my knee and handed the day with a bloody knee.

After a quick toilet stop to clean my knee there, we returned to the entrance, chilled a bit more inside the gazebo, and enjoyed the view of the big waterfall before returning to the bus station to return to Zagreb.

Things To Do In Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Šupljara cave 
• Largest and deepest Lake: Kozjak

You can check out more of the main thing to do in Plitvice on the official website map of places of interest.

Best Time To Visit Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice is open 365 days a year, making it a year-round destination.

August and July are the busiest time to visit the park. I saw Plitvice Lakes one day in August, on a cloudy and rainy day; therefore, the crowd were less, and it was a delightful visit; the mist gave the National Park an eerie vibe, as you can see in my photos.

While rain may not sound appealing, it’s good as the water levels tend to be lower during the summer; therefore, the waterfalls might be less impressive, so the rains help.

The recommended periods to visit the park are Spring and Autumn. But Plitvice is an excellent destination to visit all year round as each season brings charm to the park.

During Spring, the waterfalls are roaring; in Autumn, you can admire the beautiful autumn colours and foliage; and in summer, you get the best weather.

Buying Tickets To Plitvice National Park

You can buy tickets to Plitvice online to save time.

Prices change according to the time of the year.

One-day Adult tickets // children tickets

• Jan, Feb, March & Nov, December:  80 HRK (10.8 Euro or 11.85 US$). // 35 HRK (4.7 Euro or 5.2 US$)
• May & October:  180 HRK (24.15 Euro or 26.5 US$) //   50 HRK (7 Euro or 7.5 US$)
• June, July, August, September:  300 HRK (40 Euro or 44.5 US$) // 120 HRK (16 Euro or 18 US$ )

Children below the age of 7 can visit for free.

If you’re travelling with a dog, your furry friend can also visit Plitvice Lakes in one day with you on the lead.

How much time do you need in Plitvice National Park?

If you plan on visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park, then you need at least 8h, in my opinion, to visit the park’s main attractions without rushing and enjoying yourself.

Tips To Visit Plitvice Lakes

• Make sure to buy your Plitvice Lakes tickets in Advance – Tickets sell out quickly, especially during peak season. It would be best if you bought them in advance. The ticket you buy will have a time slot (which you can choose), so you can’t enter the park at any time. You want to buy in advance to get the best time slot possible.
• Arrive for the opening time if possible – Even if your ticket has a time slot, it is still best to arrive before the allocated time as many people will be waiting to enter or to buy a ticket if you haven’t done it online. You can also check the souvenir shop.
• Bring a picnic and snacks with you – you’ll spend a whole day there, so pack yourself a picnic or at least some snacks if you would instead buy yourself food at the park. There are resting areas with little huts that offer food service; however, it’s pretty crowded, so if you want to save time and money, I recommend you bring your picnic.
• Start at entrance 1 – especially if you plan to visit Plitvice Lakes in one day; this way, you’ll get to the lower lakes, and you’ll be able to check out Veliki Slap before it gets even busier.
• Remember to respect the rules – Plitvice is a UNESCO site , it is forbidden to swim in the lakes and never let any garbage anywhere.

What To Pack To Visit Plitvice Lakes In One Day

• A good pair of non-slippery walking shoes don’t have to be hiking shoes, but you need shoes that hold your feet and ankles well to avoid injuries. Some areas of the park get slippery.
• Sunglasses – the sun’s reflection on the lakes can feel aggressive, so wearing sunglasses helps.
• Sunscreen – make sure to protect your skin, especially when you visit during summer.
• If you’re visiting in winter, make sure to layer and wear a light jacket on top to block the wind and rain.
• Pack some snacks and water – you’ll be walking a lot and need the energy to keep yourself hydrated; it is a workout.

This concludes my Plitvice Lakes in a one-day itinerary with all the best tips you need to know to plan your visit to this stunning national park!

I had a fantastic time visiting Plitvice Lakes in one day; I’d recommend you stay two days, however, if you want to explore the park entirely. I know I’ll do that next time as I would love to visit Plitvice during wintertime and admire the beauty of nature under the snow.

But if you’re short on time, one day to see the highlight of Plitvice National Park is more than enough, and this travel guide gave you all the best tips to plan a killer trip to Plitvice! I hope you enjoy your one day in Plitvice lakes like we did!

Like this Plitvice Lakes One Day Itinerary? Please share it on Pinterest. How To Visit Plitvice Lakes in One Day: Croatia National Park

✈ Best Travel Ressources To Plan Your Next Trip If you need help planning your next trip, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here are my favourite websites and apps to plan a trip! ✈ How To Find Flights? My favourite website for booking flights is Skyscanner; it is a good comparator for finding the cheapest flights. Google Flight is also a good help when it comes to comparing flights. ✈ Where To Book Accommodations? The best sites to book accommodations are Booking.com or Expedia. They both allow you to collect points for a discount; it’s worth comparing the two as they often have different pricing for the same hotels. Another perk about Booking.com and Expedia is that you can get bundle deals for flights and accommodations, which can sometimes help you save a lot of money. And don’t worry; you can also select to add accommodation for only a specific part of the trip if you’re not only staying in one place. ✈ Best Sites To Book Activities My go-to website when I need to book an activity is GetYourGuide when I can’t get a ticket directly on the website or if it’s easier to go through them. I always check if the price is the same, though, as the whole point is for it to be easier but not more expensive. If I don’t find the activity I want on GetYourGuide, I like to check Viator for more options! You can also check out Klook if you need to book more than just activities and would like to get everything from the same website—(i.e. transport cards, car rental, hotel…). ✈ Other helpful travel resources – Radical Storage: If you need a place to keep your luggage for an extended period when you travel, I recommend using them. It was a great help when we needed a place to keep our luggage safely while we left the city for a few days. – TheTrainline: If you love to travel by train like me, then TheTrainline needs to be your go-to website for train travel in Europe. It is very reliant and easy to use. ————————————————————————————————————- Disclaimer: This resources box contains affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you book anything through my links at no additional cost. These links help me support the blog and generate more content. Happy travels!

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Sharyn says

25/09/2022 at 01:08

What a beautiful place. I will keep this in mind for when I eventually visit Croatia.

25/09/2022 at 19:59

I really want to visit Plitvice. We should have been there in 2020 but we all know what happened!

Ildiko says

26/09/2022 at 16:30

Plitvice is absolutely stunning. I have visited and was in awe. The color of the water, the many little waterfalls, and boardwalks are all spectacular.

Melissa says

01/10/2022 at 22:32

Great post! I missed the lakes when I visited Croatia, and I have always wanted to return!

Anja | Anja On Adventure says

02/10/2022 at 10:24

Love the post! I visited Plitvice many times since I live close by, in many seasons. I like spring alate autumn the most because there is usually the most water and waterfalls are wow! Plus, less crowds.

Marina says

15/10/2022 at 18:21

Croatia has been on my list for a long time now and you just made me wanna go asap! Thank you for sharing this one-day itinerary, will keep it for my trip planning!

Elizabeth says

15/10/2022 at 21:47

One of my favorite places in Croatia. I went in the summer but I hear it is magical in the winter when it snows.

ANUKRATI says

17/10/2022 at 09:13

Loved reading the post. Can’t wait to experience Pltvice in person.

18/12/2022 at 19:52

Soooo helpful in planning – I hope to visit Croatia!!

Danielle says

01/04/2023 at 22:41

So gorgeous and just as beautiful in person! Plitvice Lakes was one of the biggest highlights of my time in the Balkans. Would love to go back.

Goya Galeotta says

02/04/2023 at 15:35

Wow, what a beautiful place! Plitvice has been on my list for far too long – I can’t wait to visit!

01/05/2023 at 22:05

My friend visited Plitvice recently and heard great things about it. It looks wonderful and already in my list now.

06/05/2023 at 23:56

I’ve got Croatia on my list. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a perfect day trip…beautiful!

Josy A says

07/05/2023 at 19:35

What an amaaaaazing place to hike and see those stunning blue lakes! It is a huge shame your day finished with a bloody knee – but it looks like you loved it before that last topple.

I would be veeery tempted to come back for multiple days as the scenery is so lovely…

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From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Panoramic boat ride
• Electric train ride
• Tour escort
• Zadar Old Town walking tour (available to join on any day at 6:00 PM)
• Entrance ticket(Price vary from 10E to 40E depends on the season and the number of pax)
• Ul. Alesandra Paravije 5, 23000, Zadar, Croatia • Meet your guide at Ul.Alesandra Paravije 5 (Zadar in & out office). Please enter the office, where you will be checked in and greeted by your tour guide (it is necessary to arrive at the meeting point 15 min before the start of the tour).
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 70 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll start at Ul. Alesandra Paravije 5 Ul. Alesandra Paravije 5, 23000, Zadar, Croatia • Meet your guide at Ul.Alesandra Paravije 5 (Zadar in & out office). Please enter the office, where you will be checked in and greeted by your tour guide (it is necessary to arrive at the meeting point 15 min before the start of the tour). See address & details
• 1 Plitvice Lakes National Park Stop: 5 hours See details
• 2 Zadar Stop: 2 hours See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• dinbasildon 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A well organised trip to a beautiful place The waterfalls were beautiful. Definitely worth the day trip. Jelena and the driver were friendly and informative guides. Read more Written 21 April 2024
• 77fitnessr 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Krka national park tour Friendly, knowledgeable, personable. Excellent tour, would highly recommend, stunning way to spend a day. Thank you. Read more Written 21 April 2024
• Guide23810371149 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful Was really good, very pleasant and an easy walk. Well organised and amazing views, plenty of time to explore. Fantastic guide 😊 Read more Written 21 April 2024
• Excursion66565701541 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely way to spend a Sunday Tour guide was very informative but in a relaxed way. Not pushy for sales but helpful with recommendations. Fabulous views/scenery round the waterfalls. Read more Written 21 April 2024
• pawe_b872 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Krka Park The views were amazing. I took a lot of fantastic photos. The guide talked very well and showed us around the attractions. Read more Written 18 April 2024
• Passport51313330927 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Plitvice lakes This was an amazing tour at plitvice lake beautiful views and gorgeous weather, our host Jelena was full of knowledge and information. Thank you for a great experience! Read more Written 15 April 2024
• nicholasmU9691SK 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Guided Tour of Plitvice Lake National Park The views were great, and there were plenty of spots to get photos with the group. The only discrepancy was the writeup for the tour, it said we would have about 4 hours of free time after arrival, when in reality we stayed with the group for the duration of the tour & couldnt pick our trails. I wish that had been made more clear, but the trip was great! Just an fyi, the bus is a mix between a tiny bus and a XL van. Jelena (our guide) was mindful of everyone and happy to chat about the park or traveling in general! She did a wonderful job being clear about expectations on when the group would need to be ready to move on to the next leg of the tour. Read more Written 15 April 2024
• 999meneerm 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great trip Beautiful trip, the guide was very knowlidgeable and enthusiastic about a wide variety of relevant topics. You also have plenty of time to explore everything Read more Written 14 April 2024
• 816nialln 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic tour Fantastic tour, very charismatic and informative guide around the most beautiful place in Croatia. The walk was not too long of difficult and the guide was very direct in telling us the plans for the whole day. Read more Written 12 April 2024
• 66brynnk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great! Super fun day the guide Bojan was really friendly and helpful!! We took a nice boat ride to and from the park, and the park itself was lovely!! Read more Written 12 April 2024
• samij946 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Must See Day Trip The tour guide was amazing and she made the day flow so smoothly. The route is about 10km but with the breaks and easy terrain it feels cruisy. The views were phenomenal and the waterfalls are definitely a must see. Read more Written 12 April 2024
• rajata386 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Amazing trip. Must try!! Liked the guide and her explanation. She was really helpful. Lakes were breathtaking. Highly recommended. Read more Written 12 April 2024
• MariaR11648 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing place. Our tour guide was amazing, she was very nice and she took time to explain the history of the lakes, it's worth the price and I definetly recommend Read more Written 11 April 2024
• Unis99 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles April Trip The trip was well organised, punctual and interesting. We had Jelena who was great! Very good pace and had lots of great information to share with us Read more Written 10 April 2024
• 961zuzaz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect Beautiful lakes and views. The guide was very nice and her knowledge was huge. Definitely recommend this trip . Don’t forget to take something warm to wear because it might get chilli Read more Written 10 April 2024

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From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride & Zadar Old town tour provided by Zadar In and Out