Galovac Lake
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice Lakes boasts 16 terraced lakes connected by stunning waterfalls, with water in mesmerizing shades of blue and g...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Galovac Lake
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice Lakes boasts 16 terraced lakes connected by stunning waterfalls, with water in mesmerizing shades of blue and green.
"Plitvice Lakes is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. It's simply a fairytale."
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive right at opening to beat the masses and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on wooden boardwalks and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Upper Lakes
Northern section of the park
A series of stunning, interconnected lakes with vibrant turquoise and emerald waters, cascading into numerous waterfalls.
The Lower Lakes
Southern section of the park
Dramatic canyons and larger lakes, including the magnificent Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall), offering breathtaking vistas.
Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall)
End of the Lower Lakes
The park's tallest waterfall, a powerful and awe-inspiring spectacle of nature's force.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Best Views
Plan Your Route: Maximize Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive right at opening to beat the masses and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on wooden boardwalks and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance. :admission_tickets:
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There are refill stations available. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Go Early to Avoid Crowds
Arrive right at opening to beat the masses and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on wooden boardwalks and trails. :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance. :admission_tickets:
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. There are refill stations available. :droplet:
Capture the Colors
The water's hues are unreal! :camerawithflash: Best light is often early morning or late afternoon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Plitvice Lakes as an unbelievably beautiful, fairytale-like destination with incredibly clear water and vibrant colors. The numerous waterfalls and lush scenery create a magical atmosphere. However, some find the park can become overwhelmingly crowded, especially during peak season, and that one day might not be enough to fully explore its vastness.
"This is nice plase."
Mariia Leskinen
"Plitvice Lakes is one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen. One day is definitely not enough to see all its attractions. Wonderful lakes, both small and large, waterfalls, clearings, forest paths—it's simply a fairytale. The water in the lakes is incredibly clear, and the colors are simply incredible. Each lake has a different shade of green or blue. All the lakes are connected by numerous waterfalls, creating an incredible spectacle. There are plenty of walking trails, some more challenging than others. I will definitely return."
ANNIKKI27
"I love nature, I like the Makarska Riviera. There are many beautiful beaches to choose from, I visit beautiful destinations every year, thank you for your hospitality!!"
Bosana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach Plitvice Lakes are by car or bus. Many visitors rent a car for flexibility, with parking available at the park entrances. Buses run regularly from major Croatian cities like Zagreb and Zadar. Some travelers also opt for organized day tours from these cities.
Yes, driving is straightforward with well-maintained roads. GPS navigation is recommended. Be aware of potential traffic during peak season.
Buses are a popular and convenient option. Companies like FlixBus operate routes from Zagreb and Zadar directly to the park. It's advisable to book your bus tickets in advance.
Yes, it's possible to visit as a day trip from cities like Zadar or Split, though it's a long day. Many recommend staying overnight to fully appreciate the park's beauty.
Yes, the park provides electric boats and shuttle buses to help visitors navigate between different sections of the lakes, especially for longer routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and whether you visit during peak or off-peak times. It's best to check the official Plitvice Lakes National Park website for the most current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during the summer months, to avoid disappointment and long queues at the entrance.
Your entrance ticket typically includes access to the park's walking trails, the electric boat ride across Lake Kozjak, and the panoramic shuttle bus.
Opening hours vary seasonally. The park generally opens early in the morning and closes at sunset. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, there are usually different ticket options based on the duration of your visit (e.g., 1-day, 2-day passes) and the specific routes you wish to explore.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers several marked routes (labeled A, B, C, K, etc.) of varying lengths and difficulty. Route K is often recommended for a comprehensive experience, covering both Upper and Lower Lakes.
No, swimming is strictly prohibited in all lakes and waterfalls to preserve the delicate ecosystem and natural beauty of the park.
Early morning is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Late afternoon also offers beautiful lighting for photography.
Absolutely! Plitvice Lakes is famous for its 16 terraced lakes, interconnected by a series of stunning waterfalls and cascades. +1
Yes, many of the boardwalks are easy to navigate, and the boat and shuttle bus rides are enjoyable for kids. However, some routes can be challenging.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Everywhere! But especially around the Upper Lakes for vibrant colors and the viewpoints overlooking Veliki Slap. Wooden boardwalks offer unique perspectives.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best natural light, creating a magical glow on the water and surrounding foliage. Avoid midday sun for softer shots.
While any camera can capture the beauty, a wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's colors. :iphone: Even phone cameras capture stunning shots.
No, drone usage is strictly prohibited within the national park to protect wildlife and maintain the visitor experience.
Visit very early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Exploring less popular trails can also yield fewer people in your shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make it an adventure by pointing out different types of fish in the clear water or the various birds in the forest. The sheer scale of the waterfalls is awe-inspiring for all ages. Remember that while beautiful, the park can get very crowded, so an early start is key to a more enjoyable experience for everyone.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Beyond the marked routes, the surrounding areas offer more challenging hiking opportunities. Remember to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear, as the boardwalks can be slippery when wet. Bringing a refillable water bottle is essential, and consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning natural scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Waterways of Plitvice
Visitors can explore these aquatic marvels via a network of wooden boardwalks that wind their way over and around the lakes and waterfalls. These paths allow for an immersive experience, bringing you incredibly close to the cascading water and the vibrant aquatic life. The park also utilizes electric boats and panoramic shuttle buses to help visitors traverse longer distances between the Upper and Lower Lakes, making the extensive park accessible to most.
Respecting the environment is paramount here. Swimming is forbidden to protect the delicate travertine formations and the pristine water quality. Following marked trails and adhering to park rules ensures that this natural paradise can be enjoyed by generations to come. The sheer volume of water and the constant movement create a soothing, almost hypnotic, atmosphere that draws visitors back year after year.
Navigating Plitvice: Trails, Boats, and Buses
To facilitate movement between the different lake systems, electric boats ferry visitors across the largest lake, Lake Kozjak. Additionally, panoramic shuttle buses operate on specific routes, connecting the upper and lower sections of the park. These transport options are included with your entrance ticket and are essential for maximizing your visit, especially if you have limited time.
Planning your route in advance is highly recommended. Consider your fitness level and the amount of time you have. Arriving early in the morning is crucial for avoiding the peak crowds that can make the boardwalks feel congested. Utilizing the park's transport system efficiently will allow you to see more of the park's stunning waterfalls and lakes without feeling rushed.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit