Plitvice Lakes National Park

The basics

Most visitors opt to explore Plitvice Lakes National Park on a day trip. Guided tours run from a number of Croatian cities, including Zadar (the closest), Split, Zagreb, Trogir, Rijeka, and even Dubrovnik. A Plitvice Lakes tour typically takes in the best viewpoints and boardwalks, while an entrance ticket includes an electric boat ride around the lakes and a ride on the park's panoramic train. It’s possible to take in the highlights in two hours, but for a more comprehensive visit, book a full-day tour.

Things to know before you go

• Restaurants, snack bars, and restrooms are located near the park’s visitor center.

• Regular shuttle buses run between the park’s main attractions.

• Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection (in the summer months), and plenty of water.

• Park buses accommodate wheelchairs but due to uneven terrain, some of the lakes and park attractions are inaccessible for wheelchair users.

• Plitvice Lakes National Park ticket lines can take over an hour in peak season—book tickets online in advance to save time.

How to get there

The airports closest to Plitvice are Zadar and Zagreb. Buses run regularly from both cities to the national park in summer, but it's far more convenient to visit with your own vehicle or as part of a group or private tour. Most Plitvice Lakes National Park tours include round-trip transportation, while those coming from farther afield sometimes offer the chance to end your trip at a second destination.

When to get there

Plitvice is open year-round and while summer is the most popular (and busiest) time to visit, each season brings its own highlights. Spring and autumn are ideal for photographers with fewer crowds, colorful foliage, and high water levels, while the frozen landscapes of winter are unforgettable—although boat trips won’t be possible. To avoid the crowds, plan for an early arrival or stay until sunset.

How to photograph the Plitvice Lakes

The natural beauty of Plitvice National Park is undeniably photogenic, and there are photo opportunities around every corner. Follow the boardwalks between the Upper Lakes (Gornja jezera) and the Lower Lakes (Donja jezera), then climb up to the most dramatic viewpoint—a lookout over the limestone canyon of Veliki Slap, meaning “big waterfall.”

How many days do you need in Plitvice Lakes National Park?

If you want to make the most of your time at Plitvice Lakes National Park, set aside a minimum of one full day to see it. Sprawling across 74,000 acres (29,947 hectares) and consisting of 16 interlinked lakes, the park is simply too big to try and breeze through in a couple of hours.

What is the best month to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The best time to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park is from spring to early autumn, when the park is at its most photogenic. Do note that it can be very hot and crowded during the summer peak season. Aim for early or late in the season if you can.

How long does it take to walk around Plitvice Lakes National Park?

That depends—there are numerous trails which visit different areas of the park, some of which can be traversed in just a few hours. However, if you want to explore the whole lake section of the park, the trail is 11.3 miles (18 kilometers) long and takes around a day to hike.

Is Plitvice Lakes National Park worth it?

Yes, Plitvice Lakes National Park is worth it. As one of Croatia's oldest and largest national parks, it’s been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. Today, the park’s interlinked series of turquoise lakes and postcard-worthy waterfalls promise spellbinding scenery. It's one of the country’s most popular natural escapes, and if you like being active, you’ll love the hiking trails that wind through lush forests of beech and fir.

Do you need hiking boots for Plitvice Lakes National Park?

No, you don't necessarily need hiking boots for Plitvice Lakes National Park. But it’s a good idea to wear sturdy shoes with a good grip as you’ll be walking near lakes and waterfalls. Many of the park's walkways can be damp and slippery, so anything that gives you supportive footing is recommended. Boots are ideal for longer hikes.

Are there toilets in Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Yes, there are toilets at Plitvice Lakes National Park, including by both its two main entrances. However, while there are some toilets alongside certain trails, they aren’t necessarily widely available in the park, so it's advised to make use of the facilities before you embark on a longer hike.

Ways to explore

You can explore Plitvice Lakes National Park independently with a car or on a day trip for easy transit and navigation. Guided tours run from several Croatian cities, including Zadar (the closest), Split, Zagreb, Trogir, and even Dubrovnik. A Plitvice Lakes tour typically takes in the best viewpoints and boardwalks, while self-guided experiences come with entrance tickets (which include an electric boat ride around the lakes and a ride on the park’s panoramic train). It’s possible to take in the highlights in several hours, but for a more comprehensive visit, book a full-day tour.

Accessibility

Only some parts of the park are accessible to wheelchair users; unfortunately, the lake area is not easily accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Water bottle, snacks, sun or rain gear, camera

What to wear

Comfortable layers for hiking, waterproof boots with non-slip tread

Not allowed

Swimming in the lakes, using drones

Amenities

Luggage storage, food and drinks, restrooms, souvenir shops

Address

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in central Croatia. The park is several hours from any major city. Local buses can be slow. You can drive yourself, or prebook shuttle transfers or tours with included transit.

Driving

The driving route depends on your starting point (Zadar, Split, Zagreb, Rijeka, and even Dubrovnik are within day-trip distance of the park). Two paid parking lots are provided on-site.

Public transportation

While some bus routes connect the national park with nearby cities, they’re a slow way to travel. Booking a transport service, or a tour with transit included, is preferable.

Best times to visit

To maximize your time at the park—and beat the peak crowds and temperatures—arrive early in the day when the park opens.

Best days to visit

If you plan to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park in summer, aim for weekdays. Weekends are generally the busiest times.

Best months to visit

Summer is high season in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and crowds and high temperatures can be tricky. While the shoulder seasons bring unpredictable rain, they offer more comfortable sightseeing.