plitvice lakes trip zagreb

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The Ultimate Zagreb To Plitvice Lakes Day Trip (2024)

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During my solo travels in Croatia , I took a fantastic day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb. This beautiful National Park had been on my radar for years so I was excited to finally see it with my own eyes. These days, Instagram has a habit of hyping places up, and the reality often falls short. The photos I’d seen online were so stunning that I was intrigued to experience the real deal. Could it live up to expectations?

Essential links Tours: GetYourGuide / Viator Car hires : Rentalcars.com

Like Croatian National Parks? Read my guide to visiting Krka Nat Park from Split!

How far is Zagreb from Plitvice Lakes?

Located south of the capital, the distance from Plitvice National Park to Zagreb is 87 miles or 140 km. Driving takes around 2 hours by car, or slightly longer if you’re taking a coach trip. Either way, it’s must closer than visiting during a day trip from Split or Dubrovnik.

How to get to Plitvice Lakes

In this next section, I’ll run through the options for visiting the park. There are several ways to get there from the capital at varying prices.

Visiting Plitvice from Zagreb by day tour

This is how I took a Plitvice day trip from Zagreb. I have to say it really took the pressure off organising things myself. I’m happy to navigate local buses but I wanted to explore as much of the park as possible before it got dark and the winter bus schedule was slightly limiting. The other benefit of my organised day tour was meeting other friendly travellers and learning from our Zagrebian tour guide. He was a wealth of knowledge, telling us all about Croatian history and culture.

There are two types of tours from Zagreb to Plitvice :

Large group tours by coach : These Plitvice day tours from Zagreb run April to October costing around €80 . Because of the logistics of navigating such a large group, they do a medium 3-4 hour walk in the park. Small group tours (max 8) by minibus : The option I took at €100 . These run year-round . In good weather, they take a longer 5-6 hour walk in the park allowing you to see more. In the off-season, they do the 3-4 hour circuit (unless there’s snow when they do a shorter one, but our guide said they always warn guests in advance of this). ^ This tour linked was fantastic, the guides are real historians and I learnt so much! Which is best? If you’re visiting in the off-season, your only option is a small group tour. If you’re visiting April-October, I would still recommend this option to see more of the park and feel less like cattle. Of course, the tours aren’t super cheap so it depends if you have the extra € to spare.

Private tours from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

If you’re travelling in a group of between 2 and 15 people, it can be cost-effective to take a private tour. You’ll have a vehicle and tour guide to yourself. These start from €150 each and decrease per person as you add extra passengers. For example, at 5 passengers, you’ll only pay €130 per person.

Book your private group tour

Bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

You can travel the 136 km journey from Zagreb to Plitvice National Park by bus; an inexpensive option compared to organised tours. Tickets start from €11 each way and the journey takes between 1 hour 50 minutes and 2 hours 40 minutes. How to book tickets? One option is to book them in advance using Omio . Alternatively, get them at the bus station. Although you can do this on the day, in peak season you may want to guarantee a ticket by purchasing a day in advance. Board a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes from Autobusni Kolodvor Zagreb . Buses arrive in Plitvička Jezera (entrance 1 of the National Park). The frequency of buses to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb depends on the season. In Feb 2022, there was only a 10.30am and 2.30pm bus. In peak season, they depart at 5.45am, 6.30am, 7.30am, 8am, 10.30am etc. Check the exact schedule at the bus station but they are very frequent, up to 10 times daily .

Zagreb Airport to Plitvice National Park: jump on a connecting bus outside the terminal building destined for Zagreb bus station. From here, you can board the bus from Zagreb to Plitvice. 

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by car

Driving is relatively straightforward in Croatia so this is a good option should you wish to visit Plitvice National Park from Zagreb independently. Use Rentalcars.com to find and rent a vehicle in Zagreb. Leave Zagreb via the E65 to Karlovac. Leave Karlovac by Route 1, following it all the way to Plitvice. Parking is not free at Plitvice (unless you park quite far away and walk) and you may struggle to find a place in peak season, so be sure to check their website info before visiting for a day trip by car. Parking generally costs €1 per hour at entrance 1.

What’s the best season to visit Plitvice Lakes?

The best time to visit Plitvice is a balance between beauty and busyness! Winter (November-February): Plitvice in winter is often cold and snowy. It can be a winter wonderland with roaring waterfalls powered by freshly-melted ice. Certain sections of the park will be closed. With daytime temperatures around 1-degree Celcius, wrap up warm and be careful on the boardwalks and trails as they can be slushy and slippy.

Spring (March-May): The park starts to reopen as coach tours to Plitvice from Zagreb begin from April. The weather gets warmer and the park becomes green again. Summer (June-August): Plitvice is green, bountiful and beautiful. It’s peak tourism season and up to 18,000 tourists a DAY arrive at the park. You’ll need to purchase your tickets a few days ahead of time. Bring sunscreen, a hat and enough water. Autumn (October-September): Tourism season is winding down so this can be a lovely time to visit Plitvice Lakes. The weather cools down but is not yet frosty.

Plitvice Lakes entrance fees (2024)

• Jan-March & Nov-Dec:  €10.80
• May-October: €23.50
• June-September: €40.

If you’re taking a Plitvice Lakes tour from Zagreb, the entrance fees will be covered in the tour price. This is why tour costs fluctuate by season.

Plitvice Lakes day trip from Zagreb – what to expect

Time to get excited for your adventure! Plitvice is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. Here’s what to expect when travelling from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes:

Stop at Rastoke

Rastoke is a charming village on the banks of the River Korana, part of the larger town of Slunj. Just 25km from Plitvice, it makes a handy stop-off point. Day tours generally call here, the small groups allowing passengers to order some food or simply wander the picturesque village full of waterfalls. It’s best to visit Rastoke before Plitvice rather than after. The Rastoke waterfalls are impressive but will seem underwhelming if you’ve been gazing at Plitvice all day!

Arriving in Plitvice from Zagreb & learning about the park

Plitvice is no slow burner: some of the most majestic views of the park greeted us as soon as walked in! Our guide, Goran, began telling us all about the park. It became Croatia’s first national park in 1949 and a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1979.

The karst park is made of limestone and dolomite rocks. Water enriched with carbon dioxide penetrates them, carving weird and wonderful shapes. With 32 caves, the Čudinka pit and Vršić pit are two of the most impressive karst structures dipping below ground to 203 metres and 154 metres respectively. Other sites of interest include Mračna špilja (Dark Cave), Golubnjača Cave and Vile Jezerkinje (Lake Fairies’ Cave). You can’t swim in the lakes for several reasons, one being that chemicals (from sunscreen etc) would upset the balance of the water and mess up nature’s careful balance.

The different routes

If you’re taking a tour to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb, you won’t have a say about the route you take. Coach trips will take route B and small groups will generally take route C in high reason and route B in low season. Route A is optimum if you want a short stroll to snap a few photos, or if it’s bad weather. During certain winter periods, the park will close apart from the route A sections. Route K is a huge trek taking up to 8 hours. Considering the journey time between Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes, it would be hard to do it in a day. Consider staying overnight in Plitvička Jezera so you can arrive at the park early.

Boat trip on Kozjak Lake

After a gentle hour and a half of walking along the boardwalk and admiring our stunning surroundings, we arrived at Kozjak Lake . This is your respite stop for the day with toilets and a cafe serving overpriced tourist food. If you didn’t eat in Rastoke or bring sandwiches, you’ll have to grab something for fuel here. We boarded the 1pm boat crossing Kozjak Lake. The price of the boat is included in your entrance fee so just show your ticket.

Return leg – Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb

The benefit of taking a tour is that you don’t need to worry about this. Your tour will take you from Plitvice to Zagreb, arriving late afternoon. If you’re taking public transport, you can board the Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb bus . From entrance 2, it’s a short walk to the bus stop where you’ll find a ticket office, or you can buy your ticket on the bus.

Final thoughts on visiting Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb

I really enjoyed my day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes. No, Plitvice in winter isn’t as green and beautiful as during the summer months (unless you visit when there’s snow and experience the winter wonderland vice – it had mainly all melted during my trip) so manage your expectations and don’t check Instagram before you go! However, visiting in the off-season gave me the opportunity to see Plitvice without the crowds. We had the place virtually to ourselves. What a unique experience! I don’t think I’d enjoy it much during the busy summer months.

Here’s the link again to the fantastic tour I took

Is it worth staying overnight in Plitvice?

In terms of exploring the park, it’s not a challenge to get the best of it during a day. It’s easy to travel to from Zagreb to Plitvice, get immersed in nature and head home during the afternoon. However, I can see one huge benefit of staying overnight in Plitvice in peak season: being able to arrive in the park before the crowds ! Tour groups generally arrive around 11am so there are a few precious hours before the crowds descend. In peak season, this would be the undeniable benefit of staying overnight. There are a few hotels like Hotel Jezero and highly-rated apartments like Art Apartmant .

Thanks for reading!

I hope you have a better idea of how to get to Plitvice Lakes and what to do there. It’s well worth the journey 🙂

Read my other Croatia posts…

• 7 day itinerary for Croatia
• Solo travel in Croatia: what to expect & tips
• Top things to do & see in Zagreb
• 15 cute cafes in Zagreb
• Where to see street art in Zagreb
• 35 amazing things to do in Split
• Things to do in Trogir
• Visiting Krka National Park from Split
• 21 amazing Split day trips – islands & more!
• 18 best restaurants in Split
• The top coffee shops in Split
• Guide to visiting Split Old Town
• Marjan Hill
• Things to do & see in Dubrovnik
• Lokrum Island, Dubrovnik
• How to visit Bosnia & Herzegovina from Dubrovnik
• What to do & see in Zadar, Croatia
• Visiting Dugi Otok island
• A day trip to Pag Island from Zadar

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

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TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING EUROPE Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains, I use RailEurope . The search feature allows you to compare prices, and they show live departure times on the website. For buses, I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  Use Omio to compare trains and buses in one search. It’s so handy! For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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How to Visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb on a Day Trip

Plitvice Lakes is the largest and the most visited Croatian National Park. It’s so popular that as of spring 2019, the number of visitors is limited to 10,000 a day, to help preserve the lakes and the tufa formations. This year also marked the 40th anniversary since the park was admitted to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Situated in the Dinaric Alps region, the park covers an area of 300 km². It’s an ideal stop if you’re traveling to or from the Adriatic coast since it’s right next to the main state road that connects continental and coastal Croatia.

To fully experience the park, I recommend you give yourself at least a couple of days to explore. There’s an abundance of accommodation options in the area like hotels, private rooms, apartments, and wooden cottages that make you think of a cozy evening in front of the crackling fire while the hills around you are covered in snow.

However, if your time in Zagreb is limited, a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb is still a great way to spend your day. The distance between Zagreb and the park is only 140 km (approximately 87 miles) and there are a bunch of transport options to choose from!

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Where to Stay in Zagreb

Here are our recommendations for where to stay in  Dubrovnik. We’re in the process of creating comprehensive guides on where to stay in other Croatian cities, but for now, we recommend checking out Booking.com as early as possible or taking a look at the following places to stay in Zagreb.

Budget accommodation in Zagreb: If you are looking for a cool apartment to stay in town, with sun-drenched spaces, modern furnishing, and even a barbecue,  we recommend Apartment Spectre , it has great reviews on Booking.com . Another option is Centar Guesthouse , just steps from the main square, you can read reviews and book here .

Mid-rage places to stay in Zagreb: If you can spend a bit more, then we suggest you check Timeout Heritage Hotel Zagreb , in the heart of the lower town, here you can check prices and reviews. If you prefer the comfort of a rental home, discover Houzz21 , not far from the city zoo. You can book a stay here .

Luxury accommodation in Zagreb: Upgrade your days in Zagreb by staying at Art Hotel in the center of town. From this hotel, guests love the friendly staff and amazing location, check it here . Alternatively, check the newly opened Manda Heritage Hotel here .

>> Read Next: The 8 National Parks in Croatia: Local Favorites & Hidden Gems <<

Getting to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb via Public Transportation

The Croatian public transport has a certain reputation, and it’s not a very good one. I have personally experienced a fair share of public transport dramas, from old buses that stop working in the middle of nowhere to unpleasant bus drivers.

There’s always a possibility that you’ll bump into unexpected road closures that make you go around and add a couple of hours to the charming experience that is public transport.

But don’t be discouraged. Yes, such incidents can happen, but they’re isolated events rather than a rule. Feel free to use public transport, especially if you’re on a budget since it’s the cheapest option when it comes to traveling in Croatia.

The best way to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb via public transportation is by the bus that leaves from the bus station in Zagreb. There are 3-10 departures every day (depending on the season) and the one-way ticket costs between 75 ($11) and 90 kunas ($13).

You can buy the tickets online here or at the station, up to one hour before departure.

If you’re buying online, make sure that you enter “Plitvička jezera” under destination, and not just “Plitvice” because the former takes you directly to the park entrance and the latter would take you to the neighboring village.

The drive would take about 2.5 hours. Bear in mind though, that the May through September period is the high tourist season in Croatia, and there’s a possibility of a traffic jam that could prolong the drive. For that reason, I would recommend booking an early departure (anything before 12:00 PM would work).

>> Read More: How to Visit Krka National Park from Split on a Day Trip <<

If you’re a train lover, unfortunately, you’re out of luck. There are no train lines that can take you directly from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes. You could take a train to Karlovac and then take a bus to the park, but it’s a longer, more expensive option.

The train takes longer (it stops at every station between Zagreb and Karlovac to pick up passengers) and Karlovac to Plitvice Lakes is about 90 km (50 miles).

You would have to book two different modes of transport and spend more time and money. Logistically, it just doesn’t make sense.

Getting to Plitvice Lakes via Private Transportation

If you’re traveling solo, your best option is the public bus, but if you’re traveling in a group you might want to consider taking a taxi or renting a car and splitting the expenses.

If you’re opting for a taxi, the return trip would cost you about 2378 kunas ($352) per vehicle. The vehicles can carry up to eight passengers which takes you to a price of 298 kunas ($44) per passenger.

There are a couple of local taxi companies that offer transport from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and you can find them here .

It’s not a bad option considering the drive is more comfortable and shorter than the bus ride (about 2 hours) and if you encounter a traffic jam, chances are the driver knows a shortcut or a detour.

If you or someone in your group is a driver, I would highly recommend renting a car. There are a lot of options, and the prices vary, depending on the type of vehicle, insurance, etc.

We’ve rented cars dozens of times in the Balkans through various search engines and have settled on Discover Cars as the best car rental search engine – it searches over 500 trusted rental companies to find the cheapest price for your rental! Compare prices for car rental in Zagreb here.

It’s a simple drive, especially if you decide to use a Zagreb-Split highway. The drive takes about 1.5 hours. The exit signs for Plitvice Lakes are well marked, and the best route is to use exit no.3 (Karlovac) and continue driving on the state road D1 for about 80 km (50 miles). That way you’ll arrive directly at the two main park entrances.

>> Read More: 25 Insanely Instagrammable Places in Zagreb <<

You could use a state road on the whole route, but the drive might last a little longer, depending on the traffic.

For a round trip from Zagreb to the park, the gas would cost you about 200 kunas ($30).

If you decide to use a highway, you’ll have to pay a toll and if you use the exit I mentioned it will cost you 40 kunas ($6) for a round trip. You’ll also have to pay a parking ticket at the Plitvice Lakes, 10 kunas ($1.48) an hour during the high season (June 1 to 30 September) and 8 kunas ($1.18) per hour in the low season.

When you take in all the expenses, renting a car is somewhat pricey but the major plus of renting is the freedom to explore some beautiful and interesting locations on your route, such as Rastoke, a small village next to Slunj.

The village is situated on the state road D1, directly en route to Plitvice Lakes if you’re traveling from Zagreb. Rastoke is known for its waterfalls and watermills and it’s even called The Small Lakes of Plitvice.

The entrance fees are 30 kunas ($4.44) for adults and 20 kunas ($2.96) for students, pensioners, and children from ages 7-18. The entrance is free of charge for people with disabilities and children up to age 7.

Visiting Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb on a Guided Tour

Booking a tour is, of course, the easiest way to visit Plitvice Lakes on a day trip from Zagreb. In my experience, it’s the option most travelers opt for, mainly because they don’t have to plan a thing and the prices are acceptable.

I recommend this tour , it has a lot of positive reviews and, unlike most of the other tours, the park entrance fee is already included in the price. It will cost you 798 kunas ($118.14) and you’ll also get to visit Rastoke, take a boat and a train ride inside the park, and you’ll have a guide. Check prices and availability here.

The Get Your Guide platform offers a bunch of other Plitvice Lakes tours (check available tours here) and is, in my opinion, the best site to find and book tours in Croatia.

There are, of course, a lot of tour options to choose from and you can check the availability, prices, and types of tours to find what’s best suited for your budget. Keep in mind that cheaper tours often do not cover the Plitvice Lakes entrance fee, so keep that in mind when booking.

>> Read More: 13 Cool Things to Do in Korcula, an Island Paradise in Croatia <<

Price of Visiting Plitvice Lakes

The park’s price list is very elaborate. Let’s cover the high season period first. Note that if you visit the park after 4:00 PM (3:00 PM from August 26 to September 30), you’ll get a slight discount.

From June 1 to September 30 the adult ticket costs 250 kunas ($37) if you visit the park before 4:00 PM, and 150 kunas ($22.21) if you visit it after 4:00 PM.

Students get a discount (if they can provide a valid student ID card) so they’ll pay 160/100 kunas ($23.69/$14.80). For children (7-18 years) you’ll have to pay 120/70 kunas ($17.76/$10.36).

In the mid-season (April 1 to May 31 and October 1 to October 31) the adults will have to pay 100 kunas ($14.80), students 75 kunas ($11.10), and children 50 kunas ($7.40).

In the low season (January 1 to March 31 and November 1 to December 31) the price for adults is 60 kunas ($8.88), for students 50 kunas ($7.40), and children 30 kunas ($4.44).

Regardless of the season, children under the age of 7 and people with disabilities have free entrance. All tickets include a boat and a train ride inside the park and insurance. 

General Information about Visiting Plitvice Lakes

If you’re not visiting Plitvice Lakes on a guided tour that already includes an entrance ticket in the price, I strongly advise you to buy/reserve your tickets online at the park’s online shop , and not to rely on buying them at the park’s entrance.

There might be no available tickets, especially in the high season (a frequent occurrence since the park management decided to reduce the number of visitors). You can check the availability of tickets  here .

If you’re buying the ticket online, there are a few things you should pay attention to. You have to purchase them at least 24 hours before your arrival, and you have to choose one of the park’s entrances and the exact time slot of your arrival.

You’ll receive a voucher, which you have to print out and show at the entrance to pick up your ticket. You can pick it up 30 minutes before your reserved time slot, or one hour after it.

For instance, you’ll buy a ticket for 10:00 AM. You can pick up your ticket at the entrance between 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM, but you can only enter the park between 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM. If you’re late, your ticket is canceled and you won’t get a refund. 

Be very careful about picking a time slot, factor in the possible traffic jams, road conditions, etc.

Keep your ticket on your person at all times, since park officials often request visitors to present them.

The park is open 365 days a year, from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, but the working hours change, depending on the season (you can check them here) .

Keep in mind though that you can exchange your vouchers and enter the park two hours before closing time at the latest. 

Tips, Additional Information, and What Not to Do in the Park

• There are three official park entrances (EN 1 Rastovača, EN 2 Hladovina and EN 3 Flora). Most people use the first two entrances, since they’re closest to the state road, parking spots, and bus station.

• If you plan to visit the park during the summer, I sure hope you like crowds. You’ll have to arm yourself with patience (a lot of it!) and try not to let it ruin your experience. That’s why I prefer visiting the park in late spring. Nature is waking up from a winter’s sleep, so everything is green and fresh. Early in autumn is also a good option (just think of the beautiful autumn colors of the trees).

You should be careful if you want to visit the park during the winter. It’s beautiful when everything is snowy and frozen, but some parts of the park will be closed for visitors. 

• Be sure to bring firm and comfortable shoes since you’ll do a lot of walking (FYI, flip-flops are not appropriate shoes, learned that the hard way). Bring some food and water too, especially if you’re traveling by public transport. You don’t want to be stuck in the middle of Croatia’s mountains without provisions. For the late spring/summer season, bring sunscreen and a mosquito repellent (trust me, you’ll need it). 

• Check the weather forecast before traveling and dress accordingly. Remember that the temperature is always a little lower in the mountain region than in Zagreb. Pack a raincoat, just in case. 

• Do not litter. I can’t stress this enough. Nature should be cherished and preserved, so please pick up and throw away any trash. 

• Don’t damage the plants. I know some of those flowers are beautiful, but picking them is strictly forbidden. Also, don’t feed the animals and don’t try to touch them. Park rangers take their job very seriously and you could get a fine if they catch you.

• If you want to try out the local cuisine, there are a couple of restaurants in the park. They can be quite expensive in the high season, but you have a lot of other options in the neighborhood. Also, the park allows you to bring in your food and there are a few spots where you can sit down and enjoy your lunch. 

• The trails are marked for a reason. If you see an unmarked trail, don’t follow it. It can be dangerous, you could get lost or fall off a cliff. Follow the instructions and stay safe!

• The park is pet-friendly, so if you want to bring a dog, you can… just make sure your pet is on the leash the whole time. 

• Although Croatia is very safe to travel to, destinations like Plitvice Lakes attract unsavory characters that prey on the tourists (or more precisely, their pockets and wallets). Be careful where you keep your money and pay attention to your surroundings.

• Have fun, enjoy the beautiful nature, yummy food, and experience Croatia!

What to Pack for a Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes

If you’re visiting the Plitvice Lakes on a day trip, you’ll likely want to make sure you have these items with you!

Mosquito repellent:  You can bring ones  with DEET  or  without DEET , or I love having some of these  mosquito repellent wipes  that I can keep in my bag in case I suddenly start to get swarmed and don’t have my regular repellent with me.

Sunscreen: You can buy sunscreen in Croatia, but it’s likely cheaper at home or bought  online  in advance. I love this  solid Neutrogena sunscreen . Who doesn’t love a good solid for liquid swap? Great to keep in your bag without worrying about sunscreen explosions

1 rain jacket:  There can be some surprising weather sometimes even in the summer in Croatia, so bring a jacket that can handle rain and a bit of wind. We like this  Columbia rain jacket for men and this Marmot Precip jacket for women . For colder weather, an ultra-light down jacket rolls up and packs easily in your day bag so it’s good to bring along – I have one similar to this .

Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll want to wear at the very least good sneakers for your trip to Plitvice Lakes, and you may be more comfortable with hiking shoes if you’re planning to do several hikes in Croatia on your trip. I recommend these  Ahnu hiking boots for women and these  Keen boots  for men.

A secure backpack: We both carry the  CitySafe backpack by PacSafe not only on our travels but in our day-to-day lives. It’s cute, it’s functional, it’s comfortable, and it’s secure. We’re talking about interlocking zippers (which you can then put through a second clasp for two layers of security), slash-proof wire mesh construction, and RFID blockers to keep your data safe.

It’s neutral enough to be unisex, it’s roomy enough to fit a small laptop, large camera, and tons of odds & ends, and it fits under the plane seat in front of you. We’re obsessed.  Check it out for yourself!

More Croatia Travel Resources

Headed to Croatia? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip. First read our guide to  planning a trip to Croatia , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more. We also have a  Croatia packing list with detailed season-by-season tips.

While in Zagreb, check out our list of the city’s  best photo destinations .

If you’re still putting together your itinerary, here’s a great list of  places to visit in Croatia,  our  Croatia national parks guide,  and  Croatian waterfalls guide  to help you choose. We also have a  day trip guide for Dubrovnik  and  Split  if you’re to be visiting these cities as well.

Next, check out our  Balkan currency guide  which explains how money works in Croatia and local tipping customs.

If this will be one of your first trips in the Balkans, check out our massive  list of things to know before traveling the Balkans  as well as our  Balkan bus ,  road trip , and  itinerary  guides. 

We publish new content nearly every day! Bookmark our pages on  Croatia  and the  Balkans  so that you don’t miss out on any new info or resources that we publish before your trip!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

I’m sure you’re aware that travel insurance is a good idea for traveling in Croatia (or really, any part of the world)! We have both been paying customers of  World Nomads  for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.

While the Balkans are perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel, so it’s better to play it safe.

>  Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here  <<

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Tea is a native Croatian and a passionate promoter of Croatia’s cultural and historical heritage. She holds an MA in History and has been working as a tour guide and museum educator. She enjoys hiking and traveling with friends, and believes that there’s no problem that can’t be solved with Balkan food.

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Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes: Complete Guide (2024)

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolutely stunning area of natural beauty. The park is full of cascading waterfalls, bright blue lakes and a 22 km boardwalk that takes you all through the forest.

Visiting the Plitvice Lakes on a trip to Croatia is a must and a journey to the park makes for a great day trip from Zagreb. The photographs that you can take with even just your phone are just stunning and you will feel like a photographer while you’re there.

This blog post will give you all the details on how to take a great day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and enjoy the wonderful waterfalls and lakes.

Where is Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in Croatia, and it is situated to the south of the country’s capital, Zagreb. The distance between Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes is approximately 130 kilometres (81 miles). The journey time varies depending on the mode of transport but typically journey time will be around 2.5 – 3 hours.

Plitvice Lakes formed over thousands of years through a fascinating process of geological and hydrological evolution. The park’s distinctive features, including its interconnected lakes and cascading waterfalls, owe their existence to the dissolution of limestone bedrock.

As a geographer, the landforms in the park are just incredible. It is so crazy to think that water is so powerful when it is flowing to create something so huge and beautiful.

The Plitvice Lakes themselves are a result of the collapsed dolines filling with water. Over millennia, the water’s movement and gravity-driven flow carved out the distinctive terraces and waterfalls that visitors marvel at today.

Plitvice Lakes National Park’s unique formation process, creating the wonderful lakes and waterfalls has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List, attracting nature enthusiasts and tourists from around the world.

Why take a trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes?

Zagreb is one of the best cities to travel to Plitvice from. The distance between the locations is relatively short and the drive is scenic and gives wonderful views.

While Zagreb is a lovely city, there isn’t much to do and so taking a day away from it to explore the natural beauty of Croatia is a great plan. Plitvice Lakes is a UNESCO site and is one of the most visited locations in the country, it would be a shame to miss an opportunity to see it.

Getting from Zagreb airport to the city centre to then go to Plitvice Lakes could all be done in the matter of a few hours, meaning you could get off your flight and go straight to the park.

The distance between Zagreb and Plitvice is around 130 km, making it very achievable to arrive before lunch and be back in Zagreb in the late evening. Alternatively, you could travel from Zagreb to Plitvice, stay the night in a nearby hotel and continue down the Adriatic Coast to explore cities like Split and Dubrovnik.

Zadar is another good city to take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from, it is roughly the same distance from the park as Zagreb is.

How do you get from Zagreb to Plitvice?

Via guided tour.

There are multiple ways of getting from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes but the best method is by tour bus. It is best to join a guided tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes to allow you to really enjoy your experience at the lakes rather than fuss about transport.

Many tour operators in Zagreb offer day trips to the park, which can provide a hassle-free and informative experience. These tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a guided tour of the park’s highlights.

Taking a guided tour of the park with an external company can actually work out cheaper than buying a ticket for a tour from the Plitvice Lakes website. The prices for tours done by park rangers are significantly higher than other outside providers.

I’ve rounded up 3 of the best tours available that take you from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park and given some key information about each of them.

Buses to Plitvice Lakes run regularly from Zagreb Bus Station, and the trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. It’s a convenient and cost-effective option, with various bus companies offering services throughout the day. You can check the bus schedules and book tickets in advance online or at the bus terminal. Doing the former is best to make sure you’re not disappointed. Visiting Plitvice Lakes is a very popular activity from Zagreb and tickets sell fast for coaches – weeks in advance in peak season!

I recommend the provider Flixbus as they are known for being on-time and having nice coaches which offer comfortable seating, power outlets and toilets on all of their buses. Sometimes they do charter other coaches though for certain time slots but don’t worry, they are just as comfortable.

The earliest bus departure from Zagreb is at 05:45 arriving to Plitvice Lakes at 08:10 the same day. While the latest bus departure is at 21:30 and arrives at 23:15 the same day. The prices for the cheapest one way adult tickets range from  €6 to €14 . Discounted tickets for children and students are available on some departures.

The bus stops at both Plitvice Lakes Entrance 1 and Entrance 2 so depending on your park tickets you can easily access both ends of the park. In my opinion, Entrance 2 is better as the routes that you can hike around the lakes and waterfalls are longer and give you an opportunity to have a boat and bus rides.

Another way to travel from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is by car. The journey time will be slightly shorter than that of a coach and allows you more freedom to explore. There is parking available on the site of the National Park at both entrances. At the time of writing, the cost per hour is around 1.10 euros.

What are the opening hours of Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The opening hours of the park vary with the seasons and the amount of daylight. The best time to visit the park is in the summer as the park is open for the longest amount of time. If you’re visiting in winter then I recommend going early so that you can maximise the amount of time you have in the park.

How much is it to enter Plitvice Lakes?

1-day entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes vary in price per season. In high season you can expect to pay 40 euros for an adult ticket while in low season they drop significantly to just 10 euros. Students have a reduced rate of entrance as well as children and people with disabilities.

Even within high season there are different prices depending on how busy the national park is expected to be.

There are also discounts when visiting the park as a group. To qualify for this you must email the park in advance and have more than 15 people in your party and they must be aware of your visit no sooner than 2 days before your arrival.

Children under 7 years old can visit the park for free.

2-day tickets to the park have good reductions on price even in high season. If you’re planning on staying near the park then I highly recommend opting for the 2-day ticket which will give you extra time to explore the park at a decent price.

You can find a full price list for visiting Plitvice Lakes here .

What is included in an entrance ticket?

While the prices might seem quite high in comparison to other national parks around Europe, you are getting a lot included in your ticket cost. When you arrive at the park you will choose from a map which route you’d like to follow and this corresponds to what methods of transport your ticket will cover.

For example, if you choose Route H at Plitvice Lakes and enter through Entrance 2, your ticket will cover the cost of your entrance, 2 bus rides and a 20 minute boat ride which allow you to complete the route. Your ticket allows you to explore all 22 km of boardwalk, no matter what route you take, and all 36 km of hiking trails meaning once you’ve finished your desired route you can continue on elsewhere.

Ticket prices also cover accident insurance and a contribution to the management and protection of the park.

What can you do at Plitvice Lakes?

The main attraction at Plitvice Lakes National Park is of course the lakes and waterfalls. Walking the boardwalk around the park is very relaxing and scenic. You’ll come away with some fabulous photographs which will capture beautiful memories of your trip from Zagreb to Plitvice.

As I mentioned above, your ticket price includes a ride in a sightseeing bus and a boat ride which both give panoramic views of the park and are helpful stops to relax your legs and break up the walk.

There are lots of routes that you can choose to take through Plitvice Lakes, all alphabetically listed and they are signposted very well so you won’t get lost along the way. The best route to take is Route H, starting from Entrance 2. It’s recommended that you set aside between 4 and 6 hours to complete it.

It begins with a sightseeing bus ride, then there is a 5 km walk along the boardwalk, through forests and alongside lakes and waterfalls. After completing this section you’ll find yourself at the ferry dock and you will take a 20 minute ride across one of the biggest lakes in the park. To reach the end and the biggest waterfalls, you’ll then complete another 4 km of walking before you take the bus back to Entrance 2.

You can complete the routes yourself or with the help of a tour guide, but as I mentioned above, tours provided by the park are quite pricey. Opt for a tour that I have linked for a cheaper alternative.

There are many cafes and restaurants throughout the park serving fast foods and desserts, handy for those that don’t want to carry a packed lunch. There are also small shops selling basic groceries should you want to make yourself a picnic style meal.

The souvenir shops scattered throughout the park are also fabulous. There are some beautiful handmade souvenirs in the shops that would make perfect gifts. You can also buy guidebooks on Plitvice Lakes and there are some very interesting books about the formation of the waterfalls and lakes, available in many languages.

There are other amenities such as luggage storage and toilets at each entrance of the park and throughout.

Can you swim at Plitvice Lakes?

No. You can’t swim at Plitvice Lakes and you haven’t been able to since 2006!

Lots of tour companies around Zagreb will try to entice you into visiting the park with outdated images of people swimming in the lakes. You are not allowed to swim in any part of the lakes or waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes.

The rangers and staff at Plitvice Lakes National Park are committed to protecting the lakes and the surrounding area and with thousands of tourists coming and going every day in peak season, it would be very unsustainable for visitors to be allowed to swim.

Overnight Stays Near Plitvice Lakes

There are dozens of hotels, guest houses and apartments near Plitvice Lakes and their close proximity allows you to spend the night by beautiful scenery and have easy access to the park.

Staying for a night after visiting the lakes is a great way to unwind before moving on with your trip, especially if you’ve had a long journey travelling from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes. It also allows you to utilise a 2-day ticket and get the most out of the park.

Here are some of my top rated picks for places to stay near Plitvice Lakes:

The distance between Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes National Park is around 130 km. Journey time will depend on what method of transport is used but typically it will take 2-3 hours to get to the park from Zagreb.

The bus journey time from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park is usually between 2.5 and 3 hours. The route that the bus takes will give you scenic views along the way which will make the journey time pass faster.

There are multiple ways of getting from Zagreb to Plitivce. The best way is by a coach using a tour company. Flixbus also has regular services running between Zagreb and Plitvice.

Zagreb is much closer to Plitvice Lakes than Split. It is one of the best cities to travel to the park along with Zadar. A recommended route from Zagreb would be a stop at Plitvice lakes overnight before heading on to Split to see the beautiful coastline. If you’re staying in Split then Krka National Park would be a better option to see lakes and waterfalls.

The walking distance at Plitvice depends on which route you chose to take and which entrance you start from. There are short routes starting at 3.5 km ranging up to huge hikes of 18.3 km.

No, swimming is not permitted at Plitvice Lakes as a way of protecting the natural beauty. Swimming has been banned since 2006 but many tour companies still promote images of people swimming in the lakes.

Putting aside around 6 hours in the National Park should be enough to explore and complete the most popular routes. Spending the night in a hotel nearby to the lakes after your visit will allow you to time to fully explore the park though.

Plitvice is definitely worth the money. High season tickets can be quite pricey but for what you’re getting it is well worth the investment. To get more for your money’s worth, visit the park during low season or buy a 2-day ticket.

Yes. Dogs are permitted to join owners on their visit to the National Park but must remain on their leash at all times. Owners of smaller dogs should be aware that they may need to carry their pet over steep and uneven terrain.

Conclusion: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

Taking a trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes would make for the perfect day trip. The park is very popular among tourists and many locals will tell you that their visit was the highlight of their trip to Croatia.

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is just beautiful. The walks through the forest are so relaxing and peaceful, even during peak season. The boat ride that is included in your ticket price offers a beautiful location for photographs and is a highlight of the visit.

If you’re thinking of taking a trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes then you should definitely start planning it! The park is a must-see destination in Croatia and shouldn’t be missed!

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Charlotte is the founder of The Geo Room. She is a Geography University Student with a passion for travel and combines her love for Geography and travelling right here on The Geo Room. As an expert in both fields, Charlotte shares tips and tricks to do with both Geography and travel to help readers understand more about the world we live in, and how to make the most of travelling around it.

T his post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my  full disclosure  for further information.

How to Get From Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes: 5 Options in 2024

Wondering how to get from zagreb to plitvice lakes i’ve got you covered.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolute must visit on any trip to Croatia. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a breathtaking series of turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever experience.

But how do you get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes? Well, there are a few ways.

Having called Zagreb home since 2014, I’ve made my way to the lakes through every season, trying out various modes of transportation including driving, buses, and organized tours. Each has its own appeal, depending on your timeline, budget, and travel preferences, and I’m keen to share these insights with you.

In this post, I’ll break down the travel options from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes, helping you pick the right one for a smooth and enjoyable journey to the Plitvice Lakes.

Table of Contents 👇

Getting from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

When arriving in Croatia, you’ll most likely fly into the Zagreb airport , which is the perfect starting point for your Croatian adventure.

Before you venture out to the magnificent Plitvice Lakes, I’d suggest spending at least a few days in Zagreb . Wander through the cobbled streets of the Upper Town, marvel at the medieval architecture, and sip coffee in one of the many trendy Zagreb cafes .

There are tons of great day trip options from Zagreb , and Plitvice Lakes is definitely among the top choices. This national park, known for its stunning waterfalls and crystal clear lakes, is just a short drive from Zagreb and makes for a perfect day out.

Getting there from Zagreb is super easy, with 5 main options : renting a car, taking a bus, joining a small group tour, joining a large coach bus tour, or reserving a private transfer.

How Far is Plitvice Lakes From Zagreb?

The distance between Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes is 130 kilometers (80 miles) and it takes about 2 hours to reach the national park. Because of the park’s location in central Croatia, halfway between Zagreb and Zadar , the only way to reach it is by road .

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes By Car

A Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes drive is the best way to visit the lakes if you want the freedom and flexibility to see the lakes on your own terms. I recommend renting a car from Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best rates.

All major car rental companies have offices either at the Zagreb Airport or in the city center, making it super easy to find and pick up a vehicle.

The drive from Zagreb is relatively easy and the E65 highway is new and well maintained. The Croatian highways have a toll system, so you’ll need to get a ticket at the toll booths on your way out of the city.

After driving about 40 kilometers, you’ll take Exit 3 toward D. Resa/Karlovac . You’ll drive through the center of Karlovac and continue onto the D1 Road (Državna cesta D1 in Croatian ). Then you basically just drive straight the entire way until you reach the park!

For a route overview, or to follow exact GPS directions, just click on the Google Map above.

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Bus

Taking the bus to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb is a popular way to visit the national park.

The frequency of the buses depend on the season. During the summertime, buses depart daily, and multiple times per day, from Zagreb’s main bus station. In the off season, buses are less frequent, so be sure to check the up-to-date Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes bus timetable on the Zagreb Bus Station’s official website .

The bus ride from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes takes just under 2.5 hours, and most of the buses drop you off at Entrance 1 of Plitvička Jezera National Park.

Flixbus offers the best and most affordable option for traveling from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes. With comfortable seats, free WiFi, and a direct route, Flixbus is the perfect choice for stress-free travel. Other companies also provide service to Plitvice Lakes, too, and can be found on the Zagreb Bus Station website above.

Just keep in mind that by taking the bus, you’ll have less flexibility to explore nearby places like Rastoke Village and will have to stick to the departure times set by the bus company.

If you do decide to take the bus, make sure to purchase your ticket in advance and book the earliest departure time. Trust me on this one! Most tours arrive at the park around 10:00 AM, and things can get crazy busy in the summertime. So if you can arrive before then, you’ll have a much more enjoyable experience.

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Small Group Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Day Trip

Joining a Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes day trip is an excellent option if you don’t want to have to worry about driving, parking, or navigating the national park on your own. Small group tours like this one cap the number of travelers to around 8 people, giving you a more personalized experience without the cost of a private tour but also without the large crowds of a big bus tour.

Most of these tours include pick-up and drop-off at select Zagreb hotels , a guided walking tour through the national park, admission ticket to the park, and some even stop at Rastoke Village.

Personally, I’d choose this small group tour (it has raving reviews!):

“FIVE STAR experience, greatly enhanced by a superb guide. I had expected to love Plitvice Lakes and I did. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is indeed a wonder to behold. However getting to and from the park and navigating the crowds within the park requires an expert guide and we had one! Our guide, Ivan, managed our small group’s expectations and experience superbly. He was thoroughly professional, very informative and a great driver.” – Sally ( Read more reviews )

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Private Transfer

If you’re all about traveling in comfort and love having the freedom to explore at your own beat, then you might want to consider booking a private tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes . Sure, it’s a bit of a splurge compared to other options, but think of it as the VIP experience — tailor-made for relaxation and ease.

By booking a private tour, you won’t have to worry about finding the best car rental company, negotiating the best rates, finding parking, or dealing with the stress of driving in a foreign country. A private tour takes care of all those logistics for you, allowing you to focus on fully immersing yourself in the beauty of the national park!

This Plitvice Lakes private tour from Zagreb picks you up right in front of your accommodation and transports you straight to the national park in an air conditioned vehicle. On the way, you’ll stop for coffee at the charming Rastoke Village and won’t have to wait in line to purchase a ticket once you arrive at the park.

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Bus Tours

For a convenient and affordable trip to Plitvice Lakes, large group tours by coach are always a popular choice. While they are pre-planned and usually well-organized, these tours are actually not that much cheaper than small group tours. For that reason, I’d always recommend booking a small group tour over a large group bus tour.

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Train

If you were hoping to take a train from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes, you’ll be disappointed to learn that the train system in Croatia is not very extensive.

While there is a railway route from Zagreb to Split (and vice versa), the train does not stop at Plitvice Lakes. Rather, it passes through Rudopolje and Vrhovine train stops, which are the closest to the national park.

From both of those stops, you’d still need to drive about 30 kilometers to reach the lakes. There is no bus connection available, and Ubers in this part of Croatia are scarce, so I recommend avoiding this option.

Where to Buy Plitvice Lakes Tickets

If you decide to visit the waterfalls on your own and not with a guided tour, you’re going to need to purchase tickets to Plitvice Lakes National Park. I highly suggest purchasing your tickets to the park online, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (the months of June, July and August).

Tickets can be purchased in advance on the official Plitvice Lakes National Park website . While it is possible to buy tickets at the entrance to the park, summer can get very busy and crowded, and there are a limited amount of visitors allowed in the park per day. You wouldn’t want to travel all that way just to be turned away!

So the best way to ensure you get in is to buy your tickets online. You will also have to select a time slot to enter the park when purchasing your ticket. The earliest you can enter is at 7:00 AM, and then every hour on the hour until 5:00 PM.

However, if you’re visiting during the summertime, you’ll want to get to the park as soon as it opens. This way, you’ll practically have the park to yourself (or at least get to enjoy it with a lot less people) before the large tour groups start to arrive around 10:00 AM.

How to Get From Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb

If you book a small group tour or a large coach bus tour, your ticket will typically include the return trip to Zagreb.

If you’ve decided to rent a car and drive yourself to the park, or take the bus, the route back to Zagreb is the same as the one taken to get here. However, if you have the time and are feeling adventurous, consider taking a detour and exploring some of the smaller towns and villages along the way.

A few places you might consider stopping at are Željava Air Base , an abandoned underground military airport on the border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the village of Rastoke (a historic village built over a series of mills and waterfalls).

What is the closest airport to Plitvice Lakes?

Zadar airport is the closest airport to Plitvice Lakes at just about 120 kilometers away. However, the nearest international airport is Zračna luka Franjo Tuđman in Zagreb, at 135 kilometers away.

What city is closest to Plitvice Lakes?

The two major cities that are closest to Plitvice Lakes are Zagreb and Zadar.

How do I get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park?

You can get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park by renting a car and driving, taking the bus, or joining an organized tour.

Can you do a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb?

Absolutely! Plitvice Lakes is one of the best and most popular day trips from Zagreb. The national park is truly spectacular and well worth the visit.

Is Split or Zagreb closer to Plitvice Lakes?

Zagreb is closer to Plitvice Lakes compared to Split. Zagreb is approximately 130 kilometers away, making it about a 2 hour drive to Plitvice Lakes. On the other hand, Split is roughly 241 kilometers away from the lakes, making it about a 2.5 hour drive to the lakes.

Final Thoughts

Now you know all the ways to get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes!

I hope this guide has given you all the insights you need to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether you’re driving, taking the bus, or joining a tour, you’re in for a treat once you reach the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Before you go , find out which entrance to Plitvice Lakes is best !

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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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7 best Plitvice Lakes tours from Zagreb in 2024

Ready to book one of the best Plitvice Lakes tours from Zagreb?

You’re in the right place because I’ve handpicked the 7 best Plitvice tours here.

As someone who has done a Plitvice tour and traveled Croatia extensively throughout the years, I’ve made sure to only highlight the best tours to Plitvice from Zagreb in this post — so know all these have been vetted!

Plitvice National Park is the most famous national park in Croatia. It’s known for its gorgeous waterfalls, lush jungle, scenic water, and its UNESCO status. It’s an incredible place to spend a day trip.

No matter your preferences or budget, this list has something for you! Ready to learn about the best tours to Plitvice ?

Let’s dig in!

Read next: Ultimate guide to the beautiful Plitvice Lakes

This post contains referral links for products I love. Adventurous Miriam earns a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through my links. I appreciate your support ♡ Learn more

🇭🇷 Top 3: Best Plitvice tours from Zagreb

Private eclectic experience of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Private transfer

English speaking tour guide

Round-trip transportation (with air con)

10-12 hours

Walking poles included

From Zagreb: Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes Day Tour with Ticket

Small group (max 8 people)

Admission fee and boat included

From Zagreb: Transfer to Split & Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour

Visit Plitvice on your way to Split

English speaking and knowledgeable tour guides

One-way transportation (with air con)

Tour of Plitvice Lakes

Need to know.

Before you go, there are a few things you should know.

• A trip to the beautiful waterfalls in the national park of Plitvice includes 6-7 km of walking on slightly uneven surfaces and wooden paths. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes .
• If you visit during summer, wear mosquito repellant and sunscreen .
• Check the weather forecast and bring a rain poncho , especially if you’re visiting during rainy season. I went there in the high-season (June) and it rained a bit.
• Bring water .  You can buy water at the entrances and the ferry stop by the big lake.

💧7 best Plitvice Lakes tours from Zagreb

1. private eclectic experience of rastoke and plitvice lakes national park.

⭐️  RATING:  5.0 from 67 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10-12 hours | 💧 BOOK NOW

This Plitvice Lakes tour from Zadar is the best option on this list. You’ll visit 3 beautiful stops besides Plitvice Lakes. And the best part? It’s a private tour so YOU decide the pace.

In the morning, you’ll be picked up by your professional guide and driver in Zagreb. They’ll tell you about the area you drive through, including the nearby city of Karlovac.

Your first destination is the charming and tranquil village Rastoke, known for its watermills. Once you’ve taken the photos you want, it’s off to Rakovica to taste some of the finest local cheese and learn how it’s produced!

Now to the best part: Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Before you enter, your expert guide will give you an overview of the park, and the different trails you’ll follow. They’ll show you all the highlights, including the Upper and Lower Lakes as well as the boat across Kozjak lake and the bus ride inside the park. You decide the pace, so you can take breaks and all the photos you’d like.

⭢ Bottled water, snacks and walking poles are included in this exclusive natural wonder tour .

2. From Zagreb: Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes Day Trip with Ticket

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 from 470 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours |💧  BOOK NOW

Adventure and exploration await on this small-group tour to Plitvice from Zagreb .

Enjoy a comfortable ride before you make a short stop in the picturesque watermill village of Rastoke, called “Little Plitvice”. Take a stroll through the town and admire the unique rural architecture before continuing to Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia’s oldest and most visited national park.

You’ll explore the 16 emerald-blue lakes and the best waterfalls as you move through the Lower and Upper lakes.

Your guide will be by your side all day, telling you cool stories about the places you’ll see and answering any questions you have. This is one of the best group tours that ensures a unique experience.

3. From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Day Trip

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 from 350 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9.5 hours |💧  BOOK NOW

This Zagreb to Plitvice tour is a great skip-the-line group tour.

Begin your day by hopping on a van that’ll take you to the unique natural wonder of Plitvice Lakes. Your first stop is the charming Rastoke village, where you can snap some pics of its 17th-century watermills straight out of a fairy tale.

Once you’re at the amazing Plitvice Lakes, you’ll be treated to the breathtaking scenery of 16 crystal-clear lakes, surrounded by thundering waterfalls, as you stroll through an 8.5 km hiking trail and take a 20-minute boat ride.

Your guide will give you the inside scoop on the Croatian national park, and you’ll get to enjoy scenic views of the Croatian countryside during the ride to and from the park.

4. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Rastoke – small group 

⭐️  RATING:  5.0 from 63 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours |💧  BOOK NOW

There’s something magical about water falling down jungly cliffs. It’s a quintessential way to enjoy the best of nature. And what better way to experience this natural phenomenon than on this  Plitvice park tour from Zagreb ?

Your adventure starts in the quaint village of Rastoke, where the Slunjčica river meets the Korana river, creating a natural wonder that’s similar to Plitvice Lakes. They even call Rastoke “the Small Lakes of Plitvice”.

After spending 30 minutes in Rastoke (admission ticket not included), you’ll get to explore one of the oldest and biggest national parks in Croatia – Plitvice Lakes National Park.

This place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers an epic hiking experience through stunning landscapes that’ll leave you speechless. Get ready to be wowed!

5. From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes Full-Day Private Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 from 23 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours |💧  BOOK NOW

Are you ready for an epic adventure? Plitvice tours don’t get much better than this Plitvice Lakes Full-Day Private Tour .

You’ll start by leaving Zagreb and heading to the charming village of Rastoke. Take in the beauty of the waterfalls and river while sipping on a cup of coffee.

Next up, get ready to explore the lakes inside the Plitvice National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the incredible rock formations in the Dinara karst region. You’ll be blown away by the panoramic views, the waterfalls and lakes in this area, trust me!

Once you’re done exploring Plitvice, it’s time to recharge at a local dairy farm, where you can taste a variety of delicious domestic cheeses.

After that, you’ll head to the Museum of Croatian War of Independence, which is located in the former backyard of a ruined Austro-Hungarian military base in Karlovac. Here, you’ll learn more about the history of the war and gain fascinating insights into Croatia’s past.

6. Plitvice Lakes National Park – private day-trip from Zagreb

⭐️  RATING:  5.0 from 17 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  8-12 hours |💧  BOOK NOW

Escape to a serene tropical paradise on this unforgettable Private   Plitvice tour from Zagreb where crystal-clear water and lush forests await.

Start your day in Rastoke, where you have 30 minutes to explore (no admission ticket needed) before heading to Plitvice Lakes National Park. This is one of the oldest and biggest national parks in Croatia, and it’s seriously stunning!

You’ll be exploring Plitvice with a local licensed guide who knows all the best spots to check out. Plus, it’s a private day trip, which means you’re in control of the time.

7. From Zagreb: Transfer to Split & Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.8 from 121 reviews | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours |💧  BOOK NOW

Are you headed to Split? Then why not include Plitvice on your trip from Zagreb!

Get ready for an epic 12-hour group transfer from Zagreb to Split or Trogir that includes a tour of the most beautiful place in Croatia along the way. Your tour guide will pick you up at a time that works for you, and then you’ll be off on a comfy drive to the national park.

As you make your way to Plitvice Lakes, you’ll stop at several viewpoints to take in the beautiful scenery. Once you’re there, you’ll get to explore the whole park area, which features 16 lakes connected by waterfalls and cascades. It’s seriously breathtaking!

After the tour, you’ll stop at a local restaurant for lunch (totally optional), where you can try some traditional dishes and delicacies. Your guide will be happy to give you some recommendations for the best food and drinks to try. Then, it’s time to head to your final destination in Split or Trogir.

FAQ about Plitvice Lakes tours from Zagreb

Can you visit plitvice lakes from zagreb.

Yes, you can visit Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb. The best way to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb is by taking a bus from the bus station in Zagreb or joining a tour .

Many tour companies offer day trips from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes, which include transportation and a guided tour of the park.

This is a great option if you prefer to have everything taken care of for you, and want to learn more about the park from an experienced guide. The tours typically last around 8-12 hours and can be booked here .

How to get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by car

You can get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb by renting a car and drive yourself. The journey takes around 2 hours and there are several car rental companies to choose from.

From Zagreb, follow the  E65  to Karlovac. Once in Karlovac, follow Route 1 all the way to Plitvice. It’s very straight-forward.

How to get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by bus

There are 3-10 bus departures every day (depending on the season) and the one-way ticket costs between 75 ($11) and 90 kunas ($13).

You can buy the tickets online or at the station, up to one hour before departure. The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on traffic.

tour of the national park

How long is the drive from zagreb to plitvice lakes.

The drive from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. The distance between Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes is approximately 130 kilometres (80 miles), and the route takes you through some beautiful Croatian countryside.

More posts from Croatia you might like

• Best things to do in Split, Croatia (and where to find Game of Thrones locations)
• How to visit the frozen Plitvice Lakes in winter
• 10 awesome things to do in Dubrovnik: Best attractions in Croatia
• How to spend an amazing one day in Zadar
• 20 fun facts about Croatia you didn’t know
• 24 best things to do in Croatia (plus FREE Croatia itinerary)
• The ultimate Croatia travel guide for first-timers
• Basic Croatian phrases you need to know (English to Croatian)
• How to rent a car in Croatia
• 3 best Plitvice Lakes tours from Split you can’t miss
• Is Plitvice Lakes worth visiting? Everything you should know

Miriam Risager is the founder of Adventurous Miriam. She has traveled to 62 countries in the past 18 years and has done most of it solo. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their travel adventures across the world.

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Plitvice Home » Getting to Plitvice Lakes » Getting from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

Getting from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

If you are visiting Croatia for the first time you probably ask yourself how far is Zagreb from Plitvice Lakes National Park. As Croatia is a pretty small country, distances between places are fairly small. The distance from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park is just under 129 kilometers , starting from the very center of Zagreb.

Bus From Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes:

It takes just under 3 hours by bus from Zagreb to Plitvice. There are about ten buses that are running daily from Zagreb to this popular visitor destination. The ticket prices are about 100 HRK one way which is about 12 Euro.

All buses leave from Zagreb’s main bus station which is located in Avenija Marina Drzica Street in the city’s downtown (GPS 45.803849, 15.993311)  – see the below map.

The journey itself is pleasant , especially in the warmer periods of the year when roads are clean and dry. If you can choose your place, try to sit on the left side of the bus as that side, in my opinion, offers better views over the countryside and rivers that you will pass by.

As far as comfort is concerned, buses in Croatia are fairly comfortable, most of them are air-conditioned, and some of them have free wi-fi, so the journey was, at least for me, always fun and enjoyable.

Plitvice Lakes Hotels - Book Here

However, in winter months, when temperatures are low and can reach -10 C, roads can be slippery and/or frozen, in combination with foggy weather conditions it can be hazardous so under these conditions journey time takes much longer.

Popular Routes: Zagreb to Plitvice , Zadar to Plitvice , Split to Plitvice

Bus timetables

Timetables change according to season meaning in the winter months, which is a low season, there are usually about 8 to 9 bus departures a day , while in summers, the number increases to up to 15 a day . The earliest departure from Zagreb is usually at 6:30 am arriving at Plitvice Lakes bus station at 8:45 am. The latest departure is at 7:15 pm in the high season (or 5:30 pm in the low season) arriving at 9:30 pm (or 7:30 pm) at Plitvice. The journey duration is between 1 hr 50 minutes and 2 hrs 40 minutes, depending on the bus route.

Book Plitvice Lakes Hotels

Bus Ticket prices (Fares)

How much is the bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes? Prices for a one-way ticket are from 6 to 12 euros , depending on the route and bus company. Child tickets are cheaper and for a return ticket, you get about a 20% discount.

Zagreb Airport to Plitvice Lakes

If you are arriving in Zagreb by plane and would like to travel directly from the airport to Plitvice, take the airport bus to the town. It will take you to the main Zagreb bus station, the same one from where you can change and take a bus to Plitvice Lakes. This is a pretty straightforward and very popular journey so buses tend to get filled up pretty quickly, especially in the high, summer season. Therefore, if you know your arrival date, I would recommend buying your bus ticket in advance to avoid disappointment. Get it here

Driving to Plitvice:

It takes 2 1/2 hours to drive from Zagreb to Plitvice. In the summertime, it is very pleasant to drive while winter roads can be slippery and/or frozen so under these conditions the driving time takes longer.

You can also take Uber to get you from Zagreb town center or from the Airport, see details here or a private day tour, see details here

The shortest driving route between these two places is mapped below. It shows the driving route from Zagreb via Karlovac to Plitvice Lakes National Park Entrance 1 and 2 . It is a fairly straightforward route, just follow directions to Karlovac and once you arrive at the outskirts of the town, make sure you take the right turn towards Plitvice – have a look:

Map of Driving from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes:

Video of Driving from Plitvice to Zagreb

Here is a video of my recent drive on this route:

Similar info You may like

• Getting to Plitvice Lakes
• Getting from Pula to Plitvice Lakes
• Getting from Split to Plitvice Lakes
• Upper Lakes
• Lower Lakes
• Things to Do

Getting Here

• from Zagreb
• Bus Station
• Entrance Fee
• Opening Times
• Petrol Station
• When & What to Pack

Discover more

• Walking/Hiking

• Privacy Policy

Plitvice Lakes Guide is © www.plitvice-lakes.info

Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes

Table of Contents

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by bus

• Due to many departures, prices can vary depending on the season , but to get the best deal, we recommend buying a ticket in advance.
• Buses from Zagreb depart from Zagreb main bus station which is located around 3 kilometers southeast of the city center.
• There is no main bus station at Plitvice, but there are two bus stops on the main road. Bus stops are connected with Park’s entrances; Entrance 1 – Rastovača and Entrance 2 – Hladovina. Buses to and from Plitvice Lakes stop only at the bus stops specified in the route information and on your bus ticket.
• Make sure to be at the bus station at least 15-20 minutes before the departure time.
• Average travel time is between 2.5 and 3 hours.

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by car

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by train

Renting a car to plitvice lakes, private transfer to plitvice lakes, day tours to plitvice lakes, what to see on your way to plitvice lakes.

• Karlovac – the city of four rivers and green valleys
• Rastoke (Slunj) – picturesque village in a small canyon with waterfalls, often called “ Little Plitvice ”

FAQ – Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

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ZAGREB – PLITVICE DAY TOUR

Plitvice lakes private tour is the best selling tour in croatia, book plitvice tour online, plitvice lakes day tour from zagreb.

Day tour to Plitvice Lakes National park with a few stops along the way. The tour includes a walk and a coffee break at Rastoke millers village and a walk through the amazing Plitvice Lakes. Optional activities are a visit to open air Homeland war museum and cheese tasting.

HIGHLIGHTS: fully private tour departure every day Rastoke millers village sightseeing Plitvice Lakes sightseeing (boat and bus ride included)

Plitvice day tour from Zagreb includes:

• Free Pick-up and drop off at your accommodation
• Private Air conditioned transportation by car or minivan
• Private English speaking licensed tour guide
• Wi-Fi during the tour
• Visit to Rastoke millers village
• Plitvice Lakes guided tour
• Easy cancellation
• Duration 9 hours
• Entrance fees for the National park Plitvice lakes (boat and bus ride)
• Croatia Homeland war museum in Turanj
• Start/end of tour in Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Ljubljana or Istria
• Coffee break at the Rastoke millers village
• Local food tasting
• Lunch in a local restaurant

Plitvice Tour from Zagreb

We start our Plitvice private tour from Zagreb at the arranged time from your accommodation or agreed location.

The first location of Plitvice lakes tour is a small village Rastoke, near the city of Slunj.  There you will have a short break for sightseeing, taking photos and a cup of coffee surrounded by the beautiful waterfalls. Rastoke Millers Village is a place with a striking river that transforms into many waterfalls like Hrvoje, Buk and Vilina kosa (Fairy’s hair). Rastoke is actually a great introduction to the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Nature and people live in harmony there which is the main reason why Rastoke is also protected by the regional institute for protection of cultural monuments.

We will continue to the Plitvice Lakes National Park and start a tour of the 16 beautiful lakes that includes walks around the park, sailing on the lake by boat and driving with a tourist train. Plitvice Lakes National Park is the most popular park in Croatia and is listed in the UNESCO world heritage list. The Park is a part of the Dinara Karst area which is characterized by carbonate bedrock, numerous karst forms and the rare occurrence of surface flows. The vast amount of water and lake creation in such areas is a unique and precious sight.

After Plitvice lakes you have the option to recharge your energy at a local dairy farm where you can taste many varieties of award winning domestic cheese. The last location to visit is the Croatian Independence War Museum in Karlovac located in the former backyard of a ruined Austro-Hungarian military base.

Fully private Plitvice Lakes Day tour from Zagreb prices

 * babies and children: Free

Plitvice Lakes National park

The oldest and the biggest Croatian national park – 16 lakes and waterfalls on the UNESCO heritage list.

Rastoke millers village

Small millers village called ”Little Plitvice” is the best intro to the Plitvice Lakes National park.

Plitvice Lakes day tour from Zagreb map

TOUR REQUEST

Number of Passengers —Please choose an option— 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 or more

Your Message

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PLITVICE LAKES TOUR FROM ZAGREB

What is the price of the plitvice lakes tour from zagreb.

The price of the Plitvice Lakes Tour depends on the number of travelers and goes from 85 EUR. Important notice is that Plitvice Lakes tour from Zagreb is free for children and babies.

Does Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zagreb run in the time of Covid-19?

Plitvice Lakes Tour runs all year round. In the times of Covid-19 we only run private tours to limit unnecessary contacts between the travelers. We are extremely careful and all our vehicles are cleaned and disinfected after each tour.

What is the duration of Plitvice lakes national park from Zagreb?

The duration of Plitvice Lakes National park from Zagreb is not fully determined. Why so? It’s because we try to customize the tour to each traveler. The minimum for a basic short tour is approximately 7 hours (4h drive and 3 hours inside the park). Usually, our tour lasts for 10 – 12 hours   because we add Rastoke millers village sightseeing and we spend 4 to 5 hours inside the Plitvice Lakes national park and a coffee break at Rastoke millers village. We hate to rush and we give our clients enough time to rest and to make those memorable photos.

What is included in the Plitvice Lakes National park from Zagreb?

The tour Plitvice Lakes National park from Zagreb includes:

• private car transfer
• private guide (with you inside the Plitvice Lakes National park too)
• Rastoke millers village sightseeing
• Plitvice Lakes National park sightseeing

What should I bring to my Plitvice Lakes National park tour from Zagreb?

If you are taking our Plitvice Lakes national park tour, please bring comfortable clothing and footwear (appropriate for the season in which you are visiting). If you are coming in summer then you should have sun protection, light clothes, a hat… In the winter time you can expect snow and ice on the paths, even a strong wind so winter clothes is a must. In any other time a raincoat in your backpack is a great idea. Other than that, it’s obligatory to bring a good camera because you will want to take all the possible photos of the stunning Plitvice Lakes National park.

When should I book Plitvice Lakes tour from Zagreb?

Even though we like our reservations in advance so we can make our plans, we are very flexible with all our reservations, so you can even book the Tour to Plitvice Lakes on the same day.

Can I get a refund for my Plitvice Lakes tour if I cancel it?

Yes, you can get a refund if you decide not to take the tour without any penalties. We would like to ask you that you try to do it at least a day earlier if possible.

Is the entrance fee included in the total price of Plitvice Lakes national park?

We don’t include entrance fees for our tours for several reasons. One reason is that people sometimes decide not to enter a certain destination/attraction and it’s not possible to get a refund from the park. The second reason is that if you buy Plitvice Lakes entrance fee online you can use you benefits (if you are retired, a student, children). The tickets can also be bought on the spot, at the beginning of the tour which makes it easier for us depending on the route of the sightseeing that you chose.

What is the price of an entrance fee for the Plitvice lakes National park on the tour to Plitvice from Zagreb?

The prices of the entrance fees for Plitvice Lakes national park vary on the time of the day and the season in which you take the Plitvice Lakes Tour. More info on the ticket prices find at Plitvice lakes National park Price list 2021

Can I swim inside the Park on my Plitvice Lakes Tour?

Unfortunately, it’s not allowed to swim inside the Plitvice Lakes National park because the bacteria that we might bring in the water might damage the unique natural system the Lakes have and which makes them special. But we have a solution for you. We can customize your Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zagreb and include a spot along the way suitable for swimming.

What route should we take inside the park on our Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zagreb?

There are planned routes that you can take inside the park planned by the park management. If you take our day tour from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes, we will, according to your preferences and physical state, plan the best route for you.

Can you pick me up and return to Zagreb airport after the Plitvice Lakes tour from Zagreb is over?

Yes, no problem at all. We can agree on pick up and drop of from the Plitvice Lakes Tour at the time and place that suits you. Just let us know in advance so we can plan your time accordingly.

Will the guide accompany us inside the Plitvice Lakes national park?

Yes, the guide will be with you during the whole tour, including inside the Plitvice Lakes National park. The guide will make the whole sightseeing much easier for you and give you the liberty to focus not on the time schedule but on the enjoying part of the tour.

Our Tours You might also like …

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ISTRIA TOUR

Book the Istria tour from Zagreb and check it out why CNN’s columnist wrote “No, Istria is not the new Tuscany , It’s the old Tuscany.”

ZAGREB – DUBROVNIK TOUR

Our tour from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is highlights tour of Croatia. Along with Zagreb, Plitvice and Dubrovnik, you can see Trogir, Zadar, Å ibenik, Istria, …

Day Trip Zagreb- Rastoke-Plitvice lakes

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• WiFi on board
• Coffee and/or Tea
• Entry/Admission - Rastoke
• Entry/Admission - Plitvica
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infant seats available
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• You'll get picked up See departure details
• 1 Rastoke Stop: 2 hours - Admission excluded See details
• 2 Plitvice Lakes National Park Stop: 2 hours - Admission excluded See details
• You'll return to the starting point

• mermchel123 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles AWFUL! DO NOT BOOK! We booked via trip advisor/viator. The tour operator never contacted us, never responded to messages or emails, did not answer the phone, and DID NOT SHOW UP. We ended up renting a car and driving ourselves to Belgrade. HORRIBLE TOUR COMPANY. Read more Written July 11, 2022
• mradosevic 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Satisified client i have been using their service 6 times and every time they were excellent. always on time with clean cars and very professional drivers. I would recommend it. Read more Written November 14, 2019
• Alou1127 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful Experience w/ Sit'N'Trip It was indeed a very sound and wonderful experience with Sit’N’Trip. We were worried then that we might miss the tour to Plitvice because we forgot to bring our pass/confirmation ticket (too late when we realized) and the internet connection was not possible for us that time (to at least retrieve the softcopy), but, the Sit’N’Trip staff without any hesitation calmly offered to settle everything, and yes he did! They also have kind, humbly and well & adept tour guide. We will surely recommend Sit’N’Trip to our colleagues. Read more Written November 5, 2019
• agnomarialisette 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A Trip to Croatia Me and my colleagues stayed at Zagreb for almost 6 days. Since day 1, we enjoyed much of Croatia from its weather to its really delicious foods! Wandering every night at the city center with a cold breeze is very relaxing too. But before leaving this very beautiful town of Zagreb, we were given a chance to visit this well-known natural park of Plitviće. Christian, from Sit 'n' trip, drove us to the park and did helped us enter since we forgot our vouchers which is needed for the tour. He's punctual, courteous and very nice plus a good looking person. Maybe we won't make it without him. All thanks to Christian! As we enter, we really enjoyed what we saw. The lakes, falls and streams were extremely beautiful! Can't help but smile and take pictures from every corner. Dommy, our tour guide was also accomodating. He made our tour comfortable. He let us know different kind of behind stories of the park. All in all, it was fun and satisfying. One memorable experience from croatia. Hoping we'll be back to this place again. Read more Written November 2, 2019
• Rdukes 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Took Daytrip from Budapest to Dubrovnik Not the cheapest way to travel but paying for cab /Uber rides to and from train stations + the convince of door to door travel this was a great find. Family run business. Very responsive to my e-mails and we were given pictures of the drivers an their automobiles + Mobil’s which I used several times to help coordinate pickups and locations. The drivers couldn’t have been nicer. “ We have all day, where would you like to stop.” Was a typical response. We were picked up at dockside in Budapest and taken to our hotel in Zagreb. 3 night stay and on to Split. Same there and then to Dubrovnik. Worked perfectly for us. Would recommend. Read more Written October 20, 2019
• jltravels2019 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent Service We hired a driver to take us from Dubrovnik to Split via Mostar and Medjugorje. Our driver was prompt and knowledgeable. Their pricing was competative. We had a great time and would definitely recommend Sit'N'Trip . Read more Written October 11, 2019
• p_nikolina 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A pleasant experience with Sit'n'Trip I booked a transfer Zagreb - Belgrade - Zagreb. The ride was more than pleasant, the driver Kristian professional, kind and very polite. The car was comfortable and clean. Everything was done on time and as agreed. We will definitely continue to use the services of this company in the future. Read more Written September 20, 2019
• bruno_bruno_11 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience with Sit'n'Trip Experience I got from this complany was really through the roof. For each and every person travelling to Sarajevo, or whatever city in europe - I would kindly recommend them Read more Written September 17, 2019
• stankyy22 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Daytrip from Vienna to Ljubljana and Bled My friends and I had a great time travelling with Sit n trip. Six of us requested for a custom made day trip from Vienna. We got a really amazing itinerary. It included a visit to Slovenia,more precisely to Lake Bled and Ljubljana. Peter Muller, our driver made the whole trip really stresless and enjoyable. Sit n trip team arranged a boat ride to Bled Island so we could explore the Church of the Assumption of Mary. Upon arriving to Ljubljana a visit to Ljubljana Castle was also arranged for us, followed by a fun wine tasting in 300-year old wine cellar. The ride back to Vienna was,again, really relaxing and we were back in no time. I'm really happy we found Sit n Trip agency, and we are all thankful for a great day trip. I recommend them for all the travelers out there! Read more Written September 12, 2019
• Destination-unknown7 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great personalised service in Dubrovnik and Zagreb We booked transfers in Dubrovnik and Zagreb and it was seamless from beginning to the end. Timely meet and greet, professional drivers, great cars, perfect service. We needed baby car seat and it was provided as requested. We will surely use Sit'n'trip in the future! Read more Written September 11, 2019
• HrvojeCap 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Clean and comfortable ride. I was traveling form Zagreb to Vienna airport. The ride was extremely smooth and the car was nice an clean. Driver Igor was very professional but also very easy to talk to. I would suggest it to everybody who is in a need of a comfortable transfer. Read more Written September 9, 2019
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Zagreb to plitvice lakes.

The National Park Plitvice Lakes is an absolute must-see when visiting Croatia , the National Park is situated in the county of Lika, close to the border to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The park is open all year round. 

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by Bus

The most economical and environmentally friendly way of getting from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is to take the bus, the bus travel time is from 2 to 2.5 hours.

Price and tickets Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes Bus

The cost of a bus ticket from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes, ranges from 12 to 15 Euro , depending on departure time and occupancy of the buses. In the off-season period, it is possible to find cheaper tickets. Tickets can be bought online or at the bus station, if you have an online ticket you can go straight to the platform at the bus station.

Schedule and Frequency Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes bus

The number of departures from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes varies depending on the time of year; in winter, there are about a handful of daily departures, whereas in summer, there can be up to 15 daily departures . Below, you can see some of the most popular departure times. Please use the search form above for a full schedule on any date.

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Map travel route Zagreb (HR) to Plitvice Lakes (HR)

Bus station zagreb - departure location.

The departure bus station in Zagreb is located at the address Avenija Marina Držića 4, 10000 Zagreb, which is about 20 minutes walk from the city center, you can find more info about the bus station  here :

Bus Station Plitvice Lakes

At Plitvice Lakes, there isn't a bus station, just bus stops along the road . You can get off at either bus stop, whether it's Entrance 1 or Entrance 2.

Day trip Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

If you are staying in Zagreb, and wish to visit National Park Plitvice on a day trip , you have the following options.

• Public bus as mentioned above, is the most economical if you are only 1-2 persons, but less flexible. 
• Rent a car in Zagreb, depending on the time of the year you can rent in Zagreb. if you drive following the fastest route, it should take you about 2.15 min to get to Plitvice from Zagreb center. Additional cost: road toll which is about 8 Euro (return), plus the cost of the gas you spent.
• Book a car with a driver for a day.
• Organized day trip, from Zagreb you have several travel agencies offering small group (2-8 persons) or larger group day trips.

Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by Car

Driving to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb is easy (I have personally done it dozens of times), the fastest travel route is about 140 Km from Zagreb Center, the route goes via Highway A6 to Karlovac, from here on you follow the country road.  As mentioned above, the trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Stops on the way

I recommend you plan time also to visit Rastoke / Slunj or Little Plitvice as it is also called. Rastoke is on the route 30 Km before you reach Plitvice. 

Well, I probably shouldn't mention this, but Restaurant Degenija , located 10 km before Plitvice Lakes, has delighted my family with its amazing cheesecake several times!

Video Guide to National Park Plitvice Lakes

FAQ - Zagreb to Plitvice

How long is the bus ride from zagreb to plitvice lakes.

The bus driving time i between 2 and 2.5 hours , and the buses drive nonstop. Note in summer season, buses might be a bit of schedule, due to heavy traffic.

How frequent are the buses from Zagreb to Plitvice lakes?

In summer seasons there are up to 15 daily departures , the first bus leaves Zagreb around 6 a.m. and the last bus around 7 p.m. In the winter season, buses are less frequent, but you still have around 5 daily departures.

What is the cheapest way of traveling from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes?

Unless you are a large group, the cheapest way of traveling is to take the bus, the price for a one-way adult ticket is about 15 Euro. Round trip 30 Euro.

Can you do a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb?

Yes, you can in the summer season, you can do a day trip taking the bus , join an organized group trip, or drive to the park and back on your own.

How much is the bus from Zagreb to Plitvice?

The average price for a one-way bus ticket from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is around 15 Euro. If you book ahead you might be able to get the ticket with a discount.

Is there a train from Zagreb to National Park Plitvice?

No, unfortunately, there are no trains, the best and cheapest option to travel is to take the bus.

Should I buy a ticket for the national park for Entrance 1 or 2?

When you arrive from Zagreb both Entrances are a good option , I would recommend Entrance 1 if you arrive early in the morning. If you plan to travel back from Plitvice Lakes to Zagreb , I would recommend you take the bus from Entrance 2 (As this stop comes first on the way back - hence you will get a better seat on the bus).

Where should I stay overnight at Plitvice Lakes?

If you arrive by bus, you should preferably find something within walking distance, as taxis can be expensive/hard to come by. The National Park has several hotels near the entrances as well as two camping sites Korana Camp and Borje Camp, both camping sites have free buses to and from the national park.

My personal favorite in terms of accommodation, having stayed at several hotels and apartments in the area is this place here , but you need a car to stay there.

Should I continue to Zadar or Split from Plitvice Lakes?

Both cities are worthwhile a visit, and you have a good bus connection from Plitvice Lakes to Zadar as well as Plitvice Lakes to Split .

Summary of transportation from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

Other popular bus routes from zagreb.

Text and travel tips by Morten Smalby

How to Do A Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Split or Zagreb

Last Updated on January 15, 2024

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

One of the most spectacular places to visit on a trip to Croatia is undoubtedly Plitvice Lakes National Park. And while nature enthusiasts could probably spend days exploring the park, many travellers opt to go on a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Split or Zagreb.

If you wondering what is the best way to go about this, then here’s everything you need to know about travelling from here from Zagreb and Spilt as well as how to make the most of your limited time in the national park!

Table of Contents

How to Get from Split to Plitvice Lakes

There are three main options to get from Split to Plitvice Lakes: organised tour, car or bus.

For travellers short on time, one of the most popular ways to visit the national park is by taking a Plitvice Lakes Tour from Split.

Most tour options will include transfers to and from your hotel in Split and a guide to help you get the most out of your time in the park. Most tours do not include entrance fees into the park which need to be paid separately upon arrival.

One of the most highly rated options is this small guided tour that departs from Split or Trogir. It includes a tour of the national park with an engaging guide and the option to have lunch at a local tavern after your walk.

Another good option is this tour that departs from Split but drops you off in Zagreb at the end of the day. This is ideal if you’re short on time and want to minimise travel days.

Travellers who value their privacy or are in a large group can also organise a private tour.

Keep in mind though that the disadvantage of taking a tour is that you will likely arrive at the same time as many other tour groups which means the park will be very busy, particularly in the summer months.

You also will be pressed for time on a tour, so it’s not a great option if you want to spend longer in the park.

If you’re on a budget while travelling in Croatia , then taking the bus from Split to Plitvice Lakes is the best option.

There are regular buses throughout the day, particularly during the summer months, however, if you want to make the most of your time at the national park, then you should take the 7 AM bus from Split which will get you to the park around 10:30 AM.

A better option if you want to avoid the crowds, is to take a bus from Split to Plitvice Lakes the night before, get accommodation near the entrance of the park and then have a full day to explore. This will mean you can avoid the crowds for the first couple hours of the day.

Arguably the best way to do a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Split is by renting a car and driving. This gives you the flexibility to drive up the night before, stay at one of the numerous guest houses which don’t necessarily need to be right at the entrance of the park and get an early start the next day to explore the park.

If you’re planning to rent a car in Croatia, then Rentalcars.Com is the best way to find a good deal as they compare prices across all the major car rental companies.

Taking out third-party excess insurance from iCarHireInsurance can be a good option, as well, as it covers you for any deductible should you need to make a claim.

Expect driving one way from Split to Plitvice Lakes to take approximately 3 hours.

How to Get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

Similarly to if you’re travelling from Split , then you have three main options for taking a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Zagreb: organised tour, bus or driving.

There are several Plitvice Lakes tours from Zagreb that travellers can take if they want the convenience of this option.

Many tours, such as this highly-rated tour also stop at the village of Rastoke which is a picturesque place that is pleasant to wander through. Many of the tours from Zagreb also include admission tickets to Plitvice Lakes.

If you’re maximising your time spent in Croatia, then you can also take this guided tour which drops you off in Split at the end of the day.

You can organise a private tour if you’re a larger group.

Similarly to if you’re taking a day trip from Split , the bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is the most affordable option for budget travellers.

There are morning buses from Zagreb that arrive in Plitvice Lakes about 2.5 hours later. There are then a few return buses departing in the late afternoon to travel back to Zagreb.

To make the most of your day trip, I suggest taking the bus the night before you intend to visit and then getting an early start to explore the park!

The driving distance from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is just over 2 hours so this gives travellers a few more options when planning a Plitvice Lakes day trip from the Croatian capital.

If you’re happy to get an early start, then driving from Zagreb still allows you to get to the park early enough to beat the majority of tour groups. Otherwise, driving up the night before will allow you to make the most of your visit.

Many car rental companies also allow you to pick up your car in Zagreb and then drop it off somewhere else in Croatia (like Split or Dubrovnik) for a minimal additional fee.

Plitvice Lakes Day Trip Tips

Regardless of whether you’re planning on taking a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Split or Zagreb, or whether you will travel independently or on an organised tour, here are some tips and things to consider to ensure you make the most of your time at this natural wonder!

Best Time to Visit Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is one of the most highly visited attractions in all of Croatia with daily admissions reaching a peak of 17,000 people in the busy summer months. This has led to concerns about overtourism in the park and measures being put in place to protect this national park.

One such measure is the cost of tickets varies dramatically throughout the year with summer prices reaching €40 compared to €10. Prices in the shoulder season of April to May & October are currently €23 for full-price entry.

Keep in mind that concession prices are available for students and children over 7. Those under age 7 and people with disabilities can enter the park for free.

If you want to minimise the strain on the national park while also having fewer visitors to contend with, then I strongly urge you to consider visiting in the winter or shoulder months. Parts of the park do end up closing in the winter months so it’s best to go earlier or later in the winter to try and avoid any closures.

Buying Tickets for Plitvice Lakes

You’ll need to purchase your tickets in advance if travelling independently to Plitvice Lakes. You can do that at the official website here. Tickets don’t need to be printed and can be shown on your mobile device when entering the park.

When purchasing your tickets, you will be given the option of choosing Entrance 1 or Entrance. If you’re planning on arriving early, then I suggest choosing Entrance 1 as this is the most popular part of the park and you can then see it before the majority of tours arrive.

Alternatively, Entrance 2 might be a better choice if arriving at the same time when many tour groups arrive.

There is an electric train that goes between the two entrances which is included in the entrance ticket so you can easily travel between the two of them if you need to.

Choosing a Route

There are several well-marked routes in Plitvice Lakes to help you see all of the highlights of the national park.

If you have a full day and are starting at Entrance 1, then I recommend taking Route C. This will first take you through the Lower Lakes, allow you to take a boat trip across the lakes, explore the Upper Lakes and then take the train back to the entrance.

All in all, Route C should take you about 4 hours to complete. If you’re starting at Entrance 2, Route H follows a similar itinerary.

If you don’t want to walk for as long, then Route A or B are shorter alternatives. Finally, Route K is designed for hikers who are looking for a longer and more challenging walk through the park.

Generally, the routes are all fairly well marked, however, it’s a good idea to download Maps.Me on your phone so you have a reference point if you get confused.

Dress Appropriately

When planning a Plitvice Lakes day trip from Split or Zagreb, it’s important to remember that the weather here can be quite different from the Croatian coast!

Regardless of the season, it’s worth packing a rain jacket to ensure you stay dry while visiting the park. The temperatures drop here a lot quicker in the autumn and winter months, so depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you also consider taking plenty of layers such as a fleece top as well as packing a beanie and gloves.

Finally, while the walking paths are typically wood-planked, they can get slippery when it rains so you should ideally wear a good pair of walking shoes during your visit to Plitvice Lakes.

Bring Lunch & Water

If you want to spend the majority of your day exploring the park, then I highly suggest packing your own lunch rather than relying on the restaurants in the national park.

While there are a few places to eat, they are fairly spread out and depending on the route you choose, it might not make sense to go out of your way to find a place to eat. Instead, a packed lunch allows you to enjoy a break at one of the many fantastic lookout spots in the park!

Furthermore, make sure to bring enough water to keep you hydrated while exploring Plitvice Lakes. There are only a few places in the park where you can fill up your water bottle, typically around where the restaurants are, so make sure you have enough to last you between those stops!

Where to Stay Near Plitvice Lakes

As we’ve discussed, I highly recommend visitors to Plitvice Lakes, travel up from Split or Zagreb the night before so they can get an early start at the park. Here are a few good options for places to stay.

House Turkalj – A small family-run guest house located about a ten-minute drive from Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes. They have a few private rooms with shared kitchen facilities as well as complimentary beer and rakija.

Hotel Plitvice – A mid-range hotel located right next to the entrance of the park, making it ideal if you don’t have your own transport. They offer private rooms suitable for couples or families and breakfast is included in the daily rate.

Falling Lakes Hostel – One of the best options for backpackers in Plitvice Lakes, this hostel offers a range of dorms and private rooms. They organise an affordable shuttle to the entrance of the lakes early in the morning as well as a great common room to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Plitvice Lakes!

Visiting Plitvice Lakes is one of the highlights of any trip to Croatia and there are plenty of options for travellers who wish to take a day trip from Split or Zagreb.

Are you planning to spend a day in Plitvice Lakes? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments below!

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Hi is there anywhere close to either entrances to park a motorhome, preferably overnight

Appreciate the info given as it helps immensely in our planning! Cheers!

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