Explore national park Plitvice
DalmaTravel | 08.03.2026.
Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park is like stepping into a living watercolor painting. As Croatia’s oldest and largest national park, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a labyrinth of 16 interconnected emerald lakes and over 90 cascading waterfalls. Whether you are a dedicated hiker or a casual nature lover, the park's misty canyons and vibrant flora offer an almost otherworldly experience.
Famous Spots & What to See
The park is divided into two sections: the Upper Lakes and the Lower Lakes. Both are connected by wooden boardwalks that take you right over the rushing water.
- Veliki Slap (The Great Waterfall): Located in the Lower Lakes, this is the tallest waterfall in Croatia (78 meters). It’s the "postcard shot" of the park.
- Lake Kozjak: The largest and deepest lake. Your ticket includes an electric boat ride across it, which is a perfect moment to rest your legs and enjoy the panoramic views.
- Lower Lakes Canyon: This area features dramatic limestone cliffs and four lakes (Milanovac, Gavanovac, Kaluđerovac, and Novakovića Brod) with some of the most intense turquoise water you'll ever see.
- Sastavci Waterfalls: A stunning spot where the Korana River begins, crashing down in a series of beautiful drops.
Ticket Prices (2026 Season)
Prices vary significantly depending on the time of year. Below are the standard daily rates for adults and children.
| Visitor Category | Low Season (Nov–Mar) | Shoulder Season (Apr, May, Oct) | High Season (Jun–Sep) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults | €10.00 | €23.00 | €40.00 |
| Students | €6.00 | €14.00 | €25.00 |
| Children (7–18) | €4.00 | €6.00 | €15.00 |
| Children (Under 7) | Free | Free | Free |
Note: Tickets include the electric boat ride and the panoramic "train" (shuttle bus) within the park.
Pro Tips for Your Visit
- 1. Book in Advance: This is the most important tip. The park uses a timed entry system and tickets often sell out days (or weeks) in advance during summer.
- 2. Arrive Early: The park opens at 7:00 AM. If you arrive at opening, you’ll have about two hours of peace before the large tour buses from Zagreb and Split arrive.
- 3. Choose Your Route: There are 7 labeled "Programs" (A, B, C, E, F, H, K). Program C (from Entrance 1) is widely considered the best "all-in-one" route, covering both Upper and Lower lakes in about 4–6 hours.
- 4. Footwear Matters: The wooden boardwalks can be slippery when wet, and some trails are uneven. Leave the flip-flops at the hotel; wear sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes.
- 5. No Swimming: It’s tempting, but swimming is strictly forbidden to protect the delicate tufa (travertine) barriers that create the lakes. If you really want to swim, head to Rastoke nearby or Krka National Park.
- 6. Pack Snacks: While there are bistros at the main transit hubs (P3 and ST2), they can be crowded and pricey. Bring plenty of water and a picnic to enjoy at the designated rest areas.
