Looking for a slice of magic in Croatia? Plitvice Lakes National Park is where it’s at. This UNESCO World Heritage site in central Croatia packs 16 lakes, 90+ waterfalls and 18 km of wooden walkways into one unforgettable visit. This guide is for first-time visitors who want clear, honest advice on routes, tickets, the best time to visit and where to stay, whether you’re coming from Zagreb, Zadar, Split or further afield.
Plitvice Lakes at a Glance
- Where is it? Central Croatia, roughly halfway between Zagreb and Zadar, in the Lika region.
- How long do you need? A full day is the minimum; 1.5-2 days lets you see both Upper and Lower Lakes at a relaxed pace.
- Best time to visit: Late April-May and September-October for fewer crowds; June-August for peak waterfalls and long days; winter for snowy, quiet landscapes when conditions allow.
- Entrances: Entrance 1 is best for classic Lower Lakes views and Veliki Slap; Entrance 2 is handy for Upper Lakes and hotels.
- Tickets (guide only): As of 2025, adult day tickets range from roughly €10 in low season up to about €40 in peak summer, with discounts for children and students. Prices change, so always check the official price list before you book.
- Getting around: Wooden boardwalks, electric boats and shuttle buses are all included in your ticket and most visitors mix walking with at least one boat trip.
- Who it suits: Anyone happy to walk several hours on boardwalks and gentle hills; not ideal for very limited mobility or strollers due to steps and uneven paths.
Ticket prices and opening hours can change; check the official Plitvice Lakes National Park website for the latest details before you visit.
The mineral-rich waters sculpt the rock, shaping ever-evolving tufa formations. The forests around Plitvice Lakes in the park are home to many rare bird species, including bears and wolves. The National Park sprawls across 300 square kilometres, with the lakes seamlessly connecting over a span of eight kilometres. There are 18 km (11 miles) of wooden walkways and trails throughout the Park.
First things first, Plitvice Lakes National Park is like a tale of two worlds: upper lakes and lower lakes. The upper ones are wild and forested, while the lower ones are more open and cultivated. Trust me, both are jaw-dropping, but if we had to pick, we'd say go high – more waterfalls, more wow!
Now, how to tackle this nature wonderland? You've got options! Stroll the boardwalks, take a boat on Lake Kozjak, hop on a panoramic train, or pedal your way around. Every choice unveils a kaleidoscope of colours, changing with the seasons, weather, and the water's mood.
The number of visitors allowed per day is limited. Get your Plitvice Lakes entrance tickets in advance.
Plitvice Lakes Highlights? Brace yourself:
- Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall): The granddaddy at 78 meters – a jaw-dropping end to the lower lakes.
- Galovački Buk (Galovac Waterfall): Majestic, 25 meters high, 40 meters wide, and it throws in a sunlit rainbow for free!
- Šupljara (The Cave): A cool escape near Veliki Slap with funky stalactites and stalagmites.
- Vidikovac (The Viewpoint): A hill climb from the lower lakes for a postcard-worthy panorama.
Plitvice Lakes National Park location
Situated in the heart of Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park boasts a prime location that offers accessibility from several major cities. It's approximately 140 kilometres from Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, providing a convenient day trip option. For those heading from Zadar, the distance is around 155 kilometers, making it a manageable journey. For those starting their journey from Split the distance to reach the park is approximately 260 kilometers. Read more: Croatia travel information.
This makes it an ideal distance for a guided day tour. Lastly, for travelers venturing from Dubrovnik, the distance extends to approximately 500 kilometers, requiring a bit more travel time but certainly worth the visit.
Drive distances from popular towns:
- Zagreb: 135 km, 2 hours 15 minutes
- Zadar: 136 km, 2 hours
- Split: 260 km, 3 hours
- Dubrovnik: 450 km, 5 hours
- Pula: 275 km, 3 hours 45 minutes
Organised day trips from Zagreb, Zadar, and Split, especially in summer, are stress-free and help with planning and transportation. Read more about Day Trips from Split and Day Trips from Zadar.
Pro Tip: Maximise your experience by staying overnight near the park for an early start.
Getting to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Situated between Zadar and Zagreb, buses connect both cities to Plitvice. Travel tip: If coming from elsewhere, route through Zadar or Zagreb for convenience. Dubrovnik offers direct buses, but they arrive early after a 9-hour journey. Explore private transfers and organised day trips for a hassle-free experience. If you’re based on the coast, check our day trips from Zadar and day trips from Split for more ideas that combine Plitvice with nearby highlights. If you are in or around Zagreb check out our recommended day trips from Zagreb.
Staying at least two days offers early lake access and ample time to explore this natural wonder. For solo exploration, rent a car or opt for intercity buses. Consider joining a guided tour or hiring a guide.
Tours vs DIY: What’s Best for You?
For most travelers, the choice is between joining an organised tour or visiting Plitvice Lakes independently. Tours from Zagreb, Zadar and Split bundle transport, a guide and often your entry ticket, so you don’t have to worry about driving, parking or missed buses. Independent travelers usually spend less overall by booking bus tickets or renting a car and buying park tickets directly, and can stay overnight near the park for an early start, but you’ll need to keep an eye on parking, ticket times and return buses.
I usually prefer to visit Plitvice as a DIY road trip rather than on a group tour, so we rented a car in Zagreb and drove down at our own pace, stopping in places that looked interesting. On the way there and back we explored the fairytale waterfall village of Rastoke in Slunj and the nearby Barać Caves, which turned the drive into a mini-adventure instead of "just" a transfer to the national park.
Here are the best ways of getting to the Plitvice Lakes National Park by bus and car from other parts of Croatia – including Zagreb, Zadar, Split and beyond. There aren’t any airports that are especially close to the Plitvice Lakes. However, most travelers will usually take a trip to Plitvice Lakes as part of their holiday to Croatia. If you are considering coming to Croatia to specifically visit the Park and want to fly to the nearest airport, take a look at flying to either Zagreb airport or Zadar airport.
Travelling to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb by Car: A Scenic Journey
Embarking on a day trip (or even better, an overnight stay in Plitvice accommodations) from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must for your Croatian itinerary. It seamlessly blends the richness of architecture and culture in Zagreb with the breathtaking beauty of nature in Plitvice.
Start your road trip from Zagreb to Karlovac, a charming town 40 km southeast of Zagreb. Navigate through the picturesque state road D1 towards Slunj, Grabovac and Plitvice, situated about 80 km south of Karlovac. Enjoy the scenic drive with a nominal highway fee of around 3 €, covering the distance in under 2 hours.
Driving & Parking at Plitvice Lakes
If you’re driving, you’ll find large paid car parks at both Entrance 1 and Entrance 2, clearly signposted from the main D1 road. Take a ticket as you enter, park up, and pay at the machines before you leave. As a guide, parking is typically charged by the hour and works out at around €1.50–2 per hour depending on the season and vehicle type.
- Arrive early in summer: Aim to park before 9:00 in peak season if you want a space close to the entrance.
- Keep your ticket safe: You’ll need it to pay at the machine on your way out.
- Staying overnight? Ask your hotel or guesthouse whether they can arrange a transfer so you don’t have to move the car between days.
Parking prices and rules can change; always check the latest information on-site or on the official park website.
Travelling to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb By Bus: Easy and Convenient
Opting for a bus journey? It's hassle-free. Numerous buses depart from Zagreb's main bus station, offering flexibility throughout the day. The approximately 2.30-hour trip is not only convenient but also budget-friendly, with a ticket cost of approximately 15 €. We recommend buying tickets in advance online: Bus Zagreb - Plitvička Jezera availability and prices.
Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a family on a getaway, or a solo explorer, here's your personalised road map for an extraordinary journey.
Entrances to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Entrance 1 (north) for the lower lakes, Entrance 2 (south) for the higher lakes—the choice is yours! Each entrance whispers a unique story, so listen closely. And winter wanderers, remember, Entrance 2 takes a brief nap from November to April. The Flora entrance caters to those near hotels Bellevue and Plitvice.
Plitvice Lakes National Park Trails and Programs
At Entrance 1, it's a green party! Choose from 4 routes, each a unique journey through the Lower Lakes. Feeling the orange vibe? Head to Entrance 2 for 4 more routes to explore. Hop on electric boats at Kozjak Lake or catch a ride on the visitor trains – just flash your park ticket, and you're set!
Nature loves a good game of hide-and-seek! The trails are marked, but let's be real - sometimes they play hard to get. Embrace it; getting a bit lost could lead to unexpected wonders! Are you the brisk 2-hour stroller or the all-day adventurer? Your best route depends on your vibe, fitness level, and how much time you've got.
On-the-ground Navigation & Crowd Strategy
Plitvice’s routes look complicated on the map, but on the ground they follow a simple rhythm: walk → boat → shuttle. From Entrance 1, you descend past Veliki Slap and the Lower Lakes boardwalks before crossing Lake Kozjak by boat and looping through the Upper Lakes. From Entrance 2, most visitors start in the Upper Lakes and then work their way back towards Kozjak and the lower section.
- Arrive early or late: In high season, aim for the first entry slot of the day or after mid-afternoon; mid-morning is when the boardwalks feel most crowded.
- Boat & shuttle queues: Expect queues at the main Kozjak boat dock and shuttle stops near the entrances. If the line is long, consider walking one extra section and returning later.
- Photo hotspots: Viewpoints above Veliki Slap and narrow boardwalks are bottlenecks; take photos quickly and step aside so the path keeps moving.
- Stick to marked routes: Shortcuts damage fragile tufa formations and are strictly forbidden, always follow the official signs.
How do I avoid crowds at Plitvice Lakes?
Enter as early as you can or after mid-afternoon, start from Entrance 1 if you want classic views before big tour groups arrive, and save popular boat and shuttle sections for earlier or later in the day. Staying overnight nearby and entering as soon as the park opens makes the biggest difference in peak season.
We entered Plitvice Lakes just after 8:00 in the morning, which meant the first hour or two on the trails felt peaceful and not too crowded. By late morning, though, you could really feel it getting busier, especially around the wooden walkways by the waterfalls.
Entrance 1 (marked in green):
Route A: Lower Lakes, Great Waterfall, Kozjaka Bridge (Easy, 2-3 hours)
Route B: Like A, plus a boat ride on Lake Kozjaka (Easy, 3-4 hours)
Route C: Extension of B, includes Upper Lakes to Proscansko Lake (Moderate, 4-6 hours)
Route K1: Comprehensive exploration from Entrance 1 (Demanding, 6-8 hours)
Entrance 2 (marked in orange):
Route E: Upper Lakes to Proscansko Jezero (Easy, 2-3 hours). Short, sweet journey through the Upper Lakes.
Route F: Boat ride, Upper Lakes, and lower lakes (Easy, 3-4 hours). Unique boat ride, Upper Lakes, and lower lakes exploration.
Route H: Upper Lakes to Great Waterfall from Studovac site (Moderate, 4-6 hours). A mix of bus ride, boat, and stunning waterfall experience.
Route K2: Similar to K1, starting at Entrance 2 (Difficult, 6-8 hours). A challenging trek through the entire lakes' section.
Suggested routes for first-time visitors
If you have 1 day and average fitness: Start at Entrance 1 and follow Route B or C – you’ll see the classic Lower Lakes views, take a boat across Lake Kozjak and continue into the Upper Lakes before looping back by shuttle.
If you have 2 days: Use Entrance 1 for a Lower Lakes-focused day (including Veliki Slap and the postcard viewpoint), then switch to Entrance 2 the next morning to explore the Upper Lakes on Route E or H at a slower pace.
Entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes uses dynamic, seasonal pricing, so ticket costs vary by month, time of day and visitor category. As a rough guide for 2025, adult one-day tickets usually range from about €10 in low season up to around €40 in peak summer, with discounted prices for children and students. Two-day tickets cost more overall, but can be better value if you’re planning a longer stay.
Good to know:
- Ticket prices depend on date, time of entry and whether you choose a one-day or two-day ticket.
- Boats on Lake Kozjak and the shuttle buses are included in the ticket price.
- Tickets are issued for a specific entrance and entry time, you must enter during that slot.
Plitvice Lakes National Park has an official e-ticket system where you select the date and time of your visit. The system shows up-to-date prices and availability and allows you to buy tickets online in advance.
You can still buy tickets at the gate when available, but numbers are limited and popular dates may sell out. Online bookings are prioritized, so we strongly recommend purchasing in advance, especially in high season.
All prices here are indicative only. Always check the official e-ticket system for current ticket types and exact costs.
Entrance Fees to Plitvice Lakes National Park - Two Day Ticket
- January, February, March, November, December: Adults €15.50, Children (7 to 18) €7.50, Students €9.00
- April, May, October: Adults €39.50, Children €10.00, Students €22.00
- June-September: Adults €59.70, Children €22.50, Students €41.00
Best time to visit Plitvice Lakes
Choosing the right time to visit Plitvice Lakes ensures you experience its magic to the fullest. While the park is open year-round, consider the following:
Peak Season (June-August): Expect larger crowds, vibrant greenery, and longer daylight hours. If you thrive on the buzz of fellow travellers and warm weather, this is your time.
Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October): Enjoy milder temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer visitors. Ideal for those seeking a more tranquil encounter with nature.
Winter (November-March): While snow blankets the park, creating a serene atmosphere, some facilities may have reduced accessibility. Winter visits appeal to those craving a unique, snow-covered panorama. If you’re planning a cold-season trip, our Top Reasons to Choose Croatia for Your Winter Break article covers what to expect across the country, including national parks.
What to Pack & Wear for Plitvice Lakes
Think of a day at Plitvice as a gentle mountain hike rather than a city stroll. Boardwalks can be damp from spray, and weather changes quickly, especially in spring and autumn. Closed-toe shoes or light hiking trainers with good grip are essential, avoid flip-flops and very smooth soles.
- Footwear: Comfortable trainers or hiking shoes with a decent tread.
- Clothing: Light layers you can add or remove; a waterproof shell or poncho is handy if showers are forecast.
- Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen in late spring and summer.
- Daypack essentials: Water, snacks, a reusable bottle and a small first-aid kit.
- Tech: Power bank and a dry pouch or zip-lock bag to protect your phone or camera from spray.
- Winter extras: Warm gloves, a beanie and proper winter outerwear; be extra careful on icy paths and boardwalks.
Accommodation near Plitvice Lakes National Park
You can stay right next to Plitvice Park at one of the hotels, clustered near Entrance 2. Currently, the 3-star Hotel Jezero, with 205 rooms, is operational. For camping, Camp Korana offers bungalows and space for 500 camping units, located about 7km from Entrance 1. Another option is Camp Borje, 15km from Entrance 2.
In the wider area, you’ll find several 4-star hotels such as Lakeside Hotel Plitvice, Hotel Palcich Plitvice, Hotel Degenija, 16 Lakes Hotel, and Lyra Hotel Plitvice. There is also a good selection of private accommodations including rooms and apartments in guesthouses, some very close to the park entrances, and others in nearby towns and villages like Slunj.
If you don’t have a car, ensure your accommodation is within walking distance of the Park or arrange transfer options with the accommodation owners.
Food & Drink at Plitvice Lakes
You won’t go hungry at Plitvice, but options inside the park are fairly simple and can be busy at peak times. Near the main entrances and boat docks you’ll find cafés and snack bars serving grilled dishes, stews, sandwiches, pastries and hot or cold drinks.
- In-park options: Simple self-service restaurants, kiosks and cafés near entrances and major boat/shuttle stops.
- Traditional Lika food: Restaurant Lička kuća near Entrance 1 is known for hearty regional specialties in a rustic setting.
- Hotel Jezero & nearby hotels: Offer convenient restaurants and bars, especially if you’re staying close to Entrance 2.
Prices are higher than in a typical local restaurant, so budget accordingly, and expect queues around lunchtime in July and August. Many visitors bring their own water and snacks and then stop for a hot meal before or after the main walk.
Accessibility & Who Plitvice Lakes Is For
Plitvice Lakes is a nature park first and foremost, so full step-free access is limited. Most main routes include a mix of wooden boardwalks, gentle slopes and some staircases. Shorter options like Routes A, B and E suit families with school-age children and anyone comfortable walking 2-3 hours at an easy pace, while the longer K routes are better for reasonably fit hikers who are happy to be on their feet for 6-8 hours.
Wheelchair users and visitors with very limited mobility may find sections of the boardwalks challenging due to narrow planks and steps, but it is sometimes possible to enjoy viewpoints near the entrances and around Kozjak Lake with assistance and careful route choice. Before you go, contact the national park directly or speak to your tour operator about the latest accessibility information and which paths are currently most suitable.
Visiting Plitvice with kids and older relatives was definitely doable, but it required a bit of planning and plenty of breaks. The kids loved the wooden walkways, waterfalls and boat ride, while the older ones found some sections a bit tiring and uneven, so I was glad we chose a shorter route and didn’t try to "see everything" in one day.
Ready to craft your Plitvice story? Pack your curiosity, a sprinkle of adventure, and let's immerse in the wonders that await. See you at Plitvice Lakes National Park—where nature takes center stage!
Plitvice Lakes National Park was granted UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979.
Plitvice Lakes FAQ
Is Plitvice Lakes worth visiting?
Yes, it’s widely considered Croatia’s top inland attraction, with terraced turquoise lakes and more than 90 waterfalls in a compact area. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most impressive national parks in the region.
How many days do you need at Plitvice Lakes?
A full day is enough to see the main viewpoints and walk one of the classic routes, but 1.5-2 days gives you time to explore both Upper and Lower Lakes without rushing, especially in peak season when crowds slow you down.
Which entrance is better - 1 or 2?
Entrance 1 is ideal if you want instant views of the big waterfall and Lower Lakes; Entrance 2 works well for Upper Lakes routes and for guests staying near the park hotels or camps. Many visitors combine both over a 1–2 day visit.
What’s the best time of year to visit?
The waterfalls look dramatic from spring into early summer, while late September and October bring autumn colors and slightly thinner crowds. High summer (June-August) offers long days but also the busiest trails; winter visits are magical but more weather-dependent.
Can you swim in Plitvice Lakes?
No, swimming is not allowed in any of the lakes or waterfalls because of strict conservation rules. If you want to swim under waterfalls, consider combining Plitvice with a day trip to Krka National Park or coastal beaches.
Is Plitvice suitable for young children or visitors with limited mobility?
The main routes include long boardwalks, some steeper paths and occasional steps. Families with small children usually stick to shorter routes and use boats and shuttles; visitors with limited mobility should ask the park or tour operator for the easiest paths and current conditions.
Should I visit Plitvice or Krka if I only have time for one?
Plitvice is better if you want dramatic cascades, lake panoramas and long walks in nature; Krka is more compact and closer to coastal bases like Šibenik and Split. If you’re staying inland or near Zagreb, Plitvice is usually the better choice.
Should I visit Plitvice Lakes with a tour or on my own?
It depends on your travel style. Guided tours from cities like Zagreb, Zadar and Split are easy and stress-free, with transport and a guide included so you don’t have to worry about parking or bus schedules. Visiting on your own by car or public bus is usually cheaper and gives you more flexibility on timing and routes, especially if you stay overnight near the park, but you’ll need to organise tickets and logistics yourself.
What should I wear to Plitvice Lakes?
Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes with good grip and dress in layers so you can adapt to sun, shade and spray from the waterfalls. In summer, light breathable clothing plus a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen works best; in colder months, add a warm mid-layer and a waterproof jacket. In winter, proper winter boots, gloves and a warm hat are essential.
Can I buy food and drinks inside the park?
Yes. There are cafés, snack bars and simple restaurants near the main entrances and at some boat and shuttle stops, where you can buy drinks, sandwiches and hot meals. However, choice is limited compared with a town and prices are higher, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water and snacks and use the park facilities for a coffee or a more substantial meal.
Is parking available at Plitvice Lakes and do I need to reserve it?
Large paid car parks are available at both Entrance 1 and Entrance 2. You normally don’t need to reserve a space in advance; just take a ticket when you enter and pay at the machine before you drive out. As of 2025, parking is charged by the hour and comes to roughly €1.50–2 per hour depending on the season. Arrive early in peak summer for the best choice of spaces and always check the latest parking prices on-site or on the official website.