Lower Lakes
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice Lakes National Park enchants with its 16 terraced lakes and cascading waterfalls in Croatia.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Lower Lakes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice Lakes National Park enchants with its 16 terraced lakes and cascading waterfalls in Croatia.
"Most beautiful place I’ve ever visited."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on boardwalks and trails. :athletic_shoe: Prioritize comfort!
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall)
Lower Lakes
The park's tallest waterfall, a breathtaking cascade plunging into the lower canyon. A must-see spectacle!
Upper Lakes Boardwalks
Upper Lakes
Wander through a fairytale landscape of turquoise lakes and lush greenery on wooden pathways.
Boat Ride Across Kozjak Lake
Kozjak Lake
Glide across the largest lake, offering unique perspectives of the surrounding nature and waterfalls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Plan Your Route
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on boardwalks and trails. :athletic_shoe: Prioritize comfort!
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
Allow Ample Time
While some visitors see highlights in 4 hours, a full day allows for a more relaxed exploration. :clock1:
Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles, especially in warmer months. There are refill stations available. :droplet:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on boardwalks and trails. :athletic_shoe: Prioritize comfort!
Book Tickets Online
Save time and guarantee entry by purchasing your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. :admission_tickets:
Allow Ample Time
While some visitors see highlights in 4 hours, a full day allows for a more relaxed exploration. :clock1:
Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles, especially in warmer months. There are refill stations available. :droplet:
Capture the Magic
The scenery is incredible! :camerawithflash: Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning photos.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes, describing it as a 'fairytale' and one of the most beautiful places they've ever seen. The vibrant turquoise lakes and numerous waterfalls are universally praised. However, some find the park can get extremely crowded, impacting the serene experience, and note that food and drink options within the park can be expensive.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plitvice Lakes National Park is accessible by car, bus, or organized tour. The nearest major airports are in Zagreb and Zadar. Buses run regularly from these cities and other Croatian towns directly to the park entrances. Driving offers flexibility, with parking available at entrances 1 and 2.
Yes, driving is a popular option. The roads are generally well-maintained. Be aware of potential traffic, especially during peak tourist season. Parking is available at the park entrances.
Buses from Zagreb and Zadar are frequent and convenient. Companies like FlixBus operate these routes. It's advisable to book your bus tickets in advance.
Yes, it's possible to visit Plitvice Lakes as a day trip from cities like Zadar or Split, though it makes for a long day. An overnight stay allows for a more relaxed experience.
Yes, the park offers free shuttle buses and electric boats that connect different sections of the lakes, helping you navigate the larger areas efficiently.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and whether you choose a one-day or two-day pass. Expect to pay more during the summer months. It's best to check the official park website for current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during the peak season (summer) and on weekends, to avoid disappointment and long queues. +1
Opening hours vary seasonally, generally starting early in the morning and closing around sunset. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date hours for your visit.
Yes, there are two main entrances: Entrance 1 (near the Lower Lakes) and Entrance 2 (near the Upper Lakes). Each offers access to different parts of the park.
Refund policies can vary. It's crucial to review the terms and conditions when purchasing your tickets online. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless the park is closed.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The park offers several marked trails (A, B, C, H, K) of varying lengths. Trail H is popular for covering both Upper and Lower Lakes. Trail C is a good option for a comprehensive view.
Many visitors can see the main highlights in 4-6 hours. However, to fully appreciate the park and explore at a leisurely pace, a full day or even two days is recommended.
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located within the park, offering refreshments and meals. They can be a bit pricey, so consider bringing snacks.
No, swimming is strictly prohibited in all lakes and waterfalls to preserve the delicate ecosystem and water quality.
The main boardwalks are generally accessible, but some sections can be uneven or have stairs. The electric boats and shuttle buses are accessible. It's best to check the park's accessibility information.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a beautiful golden glow. Midday sun can be harsh.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is generally prohibited within national parks in Croatia, including Plitvice Lakes, to protect wildlife and the natural environment. Always check current regulations.
Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) or go very early in the morning. Be patient and wait for moments when people pass by to get cleaner shots of the scenery.
Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall), the cascading waterfalls of the Upper Lakes, and the reflections on the still waters of Kozjak Lake are incredibly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of snacks and water, as food options within the park can be limited and pricey. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid overwhelming crowds. The sheer beauty of the waterfalls and the vibrant colors of the lakes are sure to captivate young imaginations. Ensure children are supervised closely on the boardwalks, as they can be slippery.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different lenses; a wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the waterfalls and the expansive lake views, while a telephoto lens can isolate details of cascading water. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water's surface and deepen the blues and greens. Be patient, as capturing the perfect shot often means waiting for moments when the boardwalks are less crowded.
🚶♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers
For those looking for a more challenging hike, explore the less-trafficked upper sections of the park. Remember to carry sufficient water and snacks, as amenities can be spread out. The park's natural beauty and the sound of rushing water make for an invigorating and memorable hiking adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Lakes and Waterfalls
These natural wonders are formed by travertine, a type of limestone deposited by mineral-rich water flowing over moss, algae, and bacteria. Over time, these deposits build up, creating natural dams that form the lakes and waterfalls. The constant process of travertine formation means the landscape is ever-changing, making each visit potentially unique. The park's ecosystem is incredibly sensitive, which is why swimming and touching the travertine are strictly forbidden.
Navigating the park involves a network of wooden boardwalks that wind over and around the lakes and waterfalls. These paths allow visitors to get incredibly close to the water's edge, offering immersive views and photo opportunities. The park also utilizes electric boats to cross the largest lake, Kozjak, and shuttle buses to connect different sections, making it easier to cover the vast area without excessive backtracking.
Planning Your Visit: Trails and Logistics
When planning your route, consider your fitness level and the time you have available. Many visitors find that a single day is sufficient to see the main attractions, especially if they utilize the shuttle buses and boats. However, for a more relaxed experience, or to explore less crowded areas, a two-day pass might be worthwhile.
Beyond the trails, the park's logistics include parking facilities at Entrance 1 and Entrance 2. Entrance 1 is closer to the Lower Lakes and Veliki Slap, while Entrance 2 provides access to the Upper Lakes. The park also has restaurants and cafes, though bringing your own snacks and water is a good idea to save time and money.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit