Wondering how to visit Plitvice Lakes and make the most of your trip?
You’re in the right place! This stunning national park is one of Croatia’s top destinations, and visiting it the right way can make all the difference.
When I planned my trip to Croatia, I knew Plitvice Lakes had to be on my itinerary. I had seen photos of its emerald lakes, wooden boardwalks, and waterfalls. And I couldn’t wait to experience it in person. But as I started researching, I quickly realised there were so many details to consider.
Which is the best entrance for Plitvice Lakes? What’s the entrance fee to Plitvice Lakes, and should I book in advance? Where can I find parking at Plitvice Lakes? And most importantly, which Plitvice Lakes routes offer the best views?
If you’re asking yourself the same questions, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered!
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know, from the best time to visit and ticket prices to insider tips for avoiding crowds. Whether you’re spending just a few hours or a full day exploring, this guide will help you plan the perfect visit.
Is Plitvice Lakes worth visiting?
Absolutely! Visiting Plitvice Lakes is one of the best things you can do in Croatia. This national park isn’t just a pretty place—it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of the most famous lakes in Croatia.
Covering 300 km², the park is made up of 16 stunning lakes. It is split into two sections: the Plitvice Upper Lakes, known for its wide, peaceful pools, and the Lower Lakes, where you’ll find dramatic waterfalls and wooden walkways winding over turquoise waters.
Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or just love being surrounded by nature, Plitvice Lakes is 100% worth the trip. The colours are incredible year-round!
How much time do you need in Plitvice National Park?
Not sure how long to spend in Plitvice Lakes? The short answer—at least a full day.
Most people visit Plitvice Lakes in one day—and that’s what I did too!
With an early start, you can see the Upper Lakes, the Lower Lakes, and all the main waterfalls without feeling rushed.
But here’s the thing—by mid-morning, the park gets packed. If you don’t time it right, you’ll be stuck in crowds, shuffling along the boardwalks instead of enjoying the views.
If you want a quieter experience, consider staying overnight near the park. This way, you can start exploring first thing in the morning, before the crowds arrive, or go later in the day, once the big tour groups have left. It also gives you more time to take things slow, soak in the views, and stop at the best Plitvice Lakes routes without feeling rushed.
A half-day visit isn’t recommended. Sure, you’d get a glimpse of the waterfalls, but it won’t feel like you truly experienced the park. I recommend checking out both the Upper and Lower Lakes. So, aim for at least 6 hours—anything less, and you’ll leave feeling like you missed out.
If you love hiking or want to avoid the busiest times, two days in Plitvice might be worth it. You’ll have time to explore the less crowded trails, see the park in different lighting, and really take in the beauty without constantly looking at the time.
So, what’s the best option? One full day is ideal, but if you want a slower, more relaxed experience, staying overnight is definitely the way to go!
What is the best time of year to visit the Plitvice Lakes?
Plitvice Lakes is open all year round, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons. From lush green landscapes in spring to frozen waterfalls in winter, each time of year offers something different.
Summer (June – August) brings hot weather, longer days, and clear skies, making it a great time for photography. But here’s the downside—it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
Expect long queues, packed boardwalks, and higher ticket prices. If you do visit in summer, arriving before 8 am is a must to avoid the crowds.
Plitvice Lakes in winter (November – March) are completely different. Think snow-covered trails, frozen waterfalls, and hardly any tourists.
It’s peaceful and magical, but keep in mind that some routes may be closed due to ice (the Upper Lakes close during winter). The park also runs on shorter opening hours, and the boats and shuttle buses may not operate.
For the best balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices, the ideal months to visit are May, early June, September, and October.
- May and early June: The park is green and full of life, and the waterfalls are at their strongest after spring rains.
- September and October: Fewer tourists, mild temperatures, and if you visit in October, you’ll see beautiful autumn colours.
- Bonus tip: May and October have cheaper ticket prices compared to peak season!
How to get to Plitvice Lakes: Car, Bus & Best Tours
Plitvice Lakes is well-connected to major cities in Croatia, making it easy to visit whether you’re driving, taking a bus, or joining a guided tour.
A road trip is the most flexible option, but there are also frequent buses and organised tours from Zagreb, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik.
Getting to Plitvice Lakes by Car
Driving is the most convenient way to reach Plitvice Lakes, especially if you want to arrive early in the morning or explore at your own pace.
The park is easily accessible via well-maintained roads, and there are two main entrances with parking available.
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Here are the estimated driving times from major cities in Croatia:
- Zadar to Plitvice Lakes – 1h30
- Šibenik to Plitvice Lakes – 1h50
- Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes – 2h
- Rijeka to Plitvice Lakes – 2h
- Split to Plitvice Lakes – 2h30
- Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes – 5h
How to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb
If you don’t have a car, taking a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes is the best option. Several companies, like FlixBus, Prijevoz Knežević and Arriva Croatia, operate daily buses from Zagreb Bus Station to Plitvice.
The journey takes between 1h45 and 2h50, depending on the route and number of stops.
Another popular choice is a day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes. Many companies offer tours to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb, which include transport, entrance tickets, and a guided visit. These are ideal if you want a hassle-free experience.
💡 EXTRA TIP: Most buses stop at both Entrance 1 and Entrance 2, but it’s always best to confirm before booking!
How to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zadar
The quickest way to get from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes is by car, as the park is just 1h30 away. If you’re not driving, you can take a bus from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes, which takes around 2 hours. Companies like Autobusni Promet and Prijevoz Knežević operate daily services.
Alternatively, you can book a Plitvice Lakes tour from Zadar, which includes round-trip transport and a guided visit. This is a great option if you don’t want to worry about public transport schedules.
How to Get to Plitvice Lakes from Split
Driving from Split to Plitvice Lakes takes about 2h30, making it a manageable day trip. However, if you don’t have a car, you can take a bus from Split to Plitvice Lakes, which takes around 3h30. Prijevoz Knežević operates this route daily.
If you prefer a guided experience, there are several Plitvice Lakes tours from Split, which include transport, entrance tickets, and a guide. These tours often leave early in the morning and return in the evening, making it a stress-free way to visit the park.
How to Get to Plitvice Lakes from Dubrovnik
Plitvice Lakes is far from Dubrovnik, but if you’re up for the journey, it’s possible to visit! The drive from Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes takes around 5h30, so staying overnight is recommended.
There are no direct buses from Dubrovnik to Plitvice Lakes, so if you’re relying on public transport, you’ll need to take a bus to Zadar or Split first, then transfer to another bus heading to Plitvice.
While a day trip is possible from cities like Zagreb, Zadar, or Split, Dubrovnik is simply too far. The journey takes over 5 hours each way, making it impractical for a same-day visit. If you’re coming from Dubrovnik, staying overnight near Plitvice is the best option.
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Where to stay to visit the Plitvice Lakes
There are plenty of accommodation options near Plitvice Lakes National Park, including hotels, guesthouses, lodges, and even places to stay inside the park itself.
Where I Stayed: Camping Plitvice
During my visit, I stayed at Camping Plitvice, a great choice for those looking for a comfortable stay near the park. While it is a campsite with space for caravans and tents, they also offer fully equipped mobile homes, which is where I stayed.
The mobile homes are spacious and can accommodate up to six people. They include two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a removable third bed that can sleep two extra guests. Each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen and a private outdoor space, ideal for enjoying sunny days.
In terms of shared facilities, Camping Plitvice offers:
- Restaurant (with the option to include breakfast in your stay)
- Pool
- Children’s playground
- Sports field (including CrossFit equipment)
- Barbecue area
- Changing rooms
The restaurant serves a good variety of fresh and high-quality food, and we found the breakfast option to be worth it. On top of that, the staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful throughout our stay.
Most importantly, location matters when visiting Plitvice Lakes. Camping Plitvice is just a 7-minute drive from Entrance 1 and 9 minutes from Entrance 2, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to visit the park early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Other Accommodation Options near Plitvice Lakes
If Camping Plitvice isn’t what you’re looking for, here are other popular stays near Plitvice Lakes.
Hotels Inside Plitvice Lakes National Park
There are a few hotels located within the park itself, which is perfect if you want to be as close as possible:
- Hotel Jezero – The most well-known hotel inside Plitvice, located right next to Entrance 2. It offers basic but comfortable rooms and an on-site restaurant.
- Hotel Plitvice – A mid-range hotel with a great location near the park’s entrance. It’s an older hotel but convenient for those who want to visit Plitvice first thing in the morning.
💡 EXTRA TIP: Staying inside the park lets you access Plitvice Lakes before the crowds arrive, but options are limited, and rooms tend to sell out fast.
Hotels & Guesthouses Near Plitvice Lakes
If you prefer to stay outside the park, you’ll find plenty of cosy guesthouses, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly stays nearby. Here are some top choices:
No matter where you stay, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially if you’re visiting in peak season!
Plitvice Lakes Tickets: Prices & How to Buy
To protect the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park and manage the high number of visitors, daily admissions are limited.
Especially during peak seasons, purchase your tickets in advance through the official Plitvice Lakes website. Tickets can be bought up to one day before your visit.
Unless tickets sell out, you can also buy them at the park entrances. There are ticket desks at Entrance 1, Entrance 2, and at the auxiliary Entrance Flora (near Entrance 2).
Ticket prices vary throughout the year. As of 2025, the following rates apply for one-day tickets for adults (but make sure to check the official website for the most up-to-date prices before your visit):
- From January to March and from November to December: 10€
- From April to May and in October: 23€
- From June to September: 40€ (before 4 pm) or 25€ (after 4 pm)
There are discounted tickets for students and children, making it more affordable for families and young travellers to visit Plitvice Lakes.
💡 EXTRA TIP: From June to September, while afternoon tickets (after 4 PM) are cheaper, they offer less time to explore the park’s vast landscapes. To fully experience Plitvice’s beauty, consider opting for a full-day ticket.
The entrance fee includes access to the park’s electric boat and panoramic train services, enhancing your experience.
If you want more time to explore, two-day tickets are also available at a discounted rate. Here are the two-day ticket prices for adults:
- January to March and November to December: 15€
- April to May and October: 39€
- June to September: 60€
Guests staying at on-site accommodations like Hotel Jezero or Hotel Plitvice can extend their one-day tickets at the hotel reception.
Plitvice Lakes Opening Hours
The opening hours at Plitvice Lakes change throughout the year. During high season (June – August), the park opens as early as 7 am and closes at 8 pm. However, in other months, it opens later and closes earlier, with the shortest hours in winter.
To avoid any surprises, I strongly recommend checking the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Plitvice Lakes National Park Parking
Visitor parking is available at Entrance 1 and Entrance 2, with designated spaces for motorcycles, cars, campers, trailers, and buses. Parking is paid upon exit at the payment booths, and both cash and credit cards are accepted.
Here are the latest parking fees at Plitvice Lakes as of 2025:
| Vehicle Type | 15Mar-31May | 1Jun-30Sep | 1Oct-30Nov |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motorcycle | Free | 5€/day | 3€/day |
| Car | 1€/h | 2€/h | 1.5€/h |
| Camper | 10.5€/day | 17€/day | 15€/day |
| Car with trailer | 10.5€/day | 17€/day | 15€/day |
Where to start your visit: Is entrance 1 or 2 better at Plitvice?
With two entrances to choose from, many visitors wonder which one is best for exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park. The truth is—it depends on your priorities.
Entrance 1 (Best for First-Time Visitors & Shorter Visits)
If it’s your first time at Plitvice or you have limited time, Entrance 1 is the best option. Here’s why:
- It’s closest to the Lower Lakes, where you’ll find Veliki Slap, the tallest waterfall in Croatia.
- The most famous viewpoints are easily accessible from here.
- You’ll walk facing the waterfalls, making for better views and photo opportunities.
- Ideal for those taking Route A, B, C, or K.
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you’re visiting early in the morning, Entrance 1 tends to be busier, as it’s the preferred starting point for most visitors.
Entrance 2 (Best for Avoiding Crowds & Longer Visits)
If you prefer a quieter start or plan to take a longer hiking route, Entrance 2 might be the better choice. Here’s why:
- It’s closer to the Upper Lakes, which tend to be less crowded early in the day.
- If you start here, you’ll walk downhill towards the Lower Lakes, which some find easier.
- The P3 boat stop is nearby, making it easy to start with a scenic boat ride before hiking.
- Ideal for Routes E, F, H, or K.
💡 EXTRA TIP: Entrance 2 is closed in winter, so if you’re visiting during the colder months, Entrance 1 is your only option.
So, which entrance should you choose at Plitvice National Park?
- Short on time? Start at Entrance 1 for the Lower Lakes and top waterfalls.
- Prefer fewer crowds? Begin at Entrance 2, especially in peak season.
- Want a boat ride first? Entrance 2 is closer to P3, where you can take the electric boat across Kozjak Lake.
- Visiting in winter? Entrance 1 is your only option, as Entrance 2 is closed.
Best way to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park: recommended hiking trails
Plitvice Lakes offers 8 marked hiking trails, each with different lengths and difficulty levels. Four trails start at Entrance 1 (marked green), while the other four begin at Entrance 2 (marked orange).
The right choice for you depends on how much time you have, your fitness level, and what you want to see.
If you want to plan ahead, I strongly recommend checking the official trail details on the Plitvice Lakes website (they call it programs).
But to make things easier, here’s a quick summary of each official route:
Program A (3.5 km; 2-3h; Entrance 1) – Lower Lakes
A scenic walk through the Lower Lakes canyon, passing Veliki Slap and lakes Milanovac, Gavanovac, Kaluđerovac, and Novakovića Brod. When you reach Kozjak Bridge, you can walk back or take the shuttle to Entrance 1.
Program B (4 km; 3-4h; Entrance 1) – Lower Lakes
Covers everything in Program A, plus an electric boat ride across Kozjak Lake and a panoramic vehicle ride back (you can also walk back).
Program C (8 km; 4-5h; Entrance 1) – Lower & Upper Lakes
Extends Program B to include the Upper Lakes, featuring Veliki Prštavac and Mali Prštavac waterfalls, with a combination of hiking, a boat ride, and a shuttle return.
Program K1 (16.5 km; 6-8h; Entrance 1) – Full Park (Lower & Upper Lakes)
A comprehensive loop covering both Lower and Upper Lakes, perfect for hikers wanting a full-day adventure.
Program E (5.1 km; 2-3h; Entrance 2) – Upper Lakes
A circular route around the Upper Lakes, crossing Kozjak Lake by boat, with a return via panoramic vehicle to Entrance 2.
Program F (4.6 km; 3-4h; Entrance 2) – Lower Lakes
Includes a boat ride to the Lower Lakes, a walk past waterfalls and scenic boardwalks, and a panoramic vehicle return to Entrance 2.
Program H (8.9 km; 4-6h; Entrance 2) – Upper & Lower Lakes
A well-balanced route covering both Upper and Lower Lakes, featuring hiking, a boat ride, and a panoramic train ride. Start at the Upper Lakes to then walk the trails at the Lower Lakes.
Program K2 (17.5 km; 6-8h; Entrance 2) – Full Park (Lower & Upper Lakes)
Similar to Program K1, this full-loop hike explores both sections of the park but starts from Entrance 2.
💡 EXTRA TIP: If you visit in winter, note that some trails (especially those requiring boat or shuttle transport) may not be accessible due to snow or ice. Always check the latest conditions before you go!
How to visit Plitvice Lakes: Step-by-Step Guide
Instead of sticking to just one trail, I decided to combine multiple routes to make the most of my visit. This way, I got to see the Lower Lakes, the Upper Lakes, ride the boat and shuttle, and even visit incredible viewpoints outside the “official” park area.
Now, I’ll walk you through exactly how to follow this custom route for the best experience! 😊
Just so you know, I did this trail in June, starting at 9 am and finishing around 4 pm, including a short break for lunch.
Step 1: Start at entrance 1 & visit Veliki Slap
Begin your hike at Entrance 1 and start exploring the Lower Lakes section. Follow well-marked signs towards Veliki Slap, the tallest waterfall in Croatia. Right from the start, you’ll get stunning photo opportunities, as the viewpoint here offers a full view of the waterfall in all its splendour.
Step 2: Follow the A/B/C/K Trails & Visit Šupljara Cave
After admiring Veliki Slap, continue along one of the main trails (A, B, C, or K), all of which take you through the Lower Lakes area. Along the way, take a short detour to Šupljara Cave, a dark but easy-to-access cave that offers unique views over the lakes once you reach the top.
The cave requires climbing a few steps, but the views make the effort worthwhile!
Step 3: Head to Kozjak Lake & Take the Panoramic Bus
From the cave, continue the trail towards Kozjak Lake. When you reach the wooden bridge over the lake, turn left and look for signs leading to ST1 (panoramic bus station). This is a good spot to take a short break before catching the bus.
From there, continue to ST3 station (note that although it does not indicate ST1 station, the bus goes to ST3, stopping first at ST2).
💡 EXTRA TIP: The panoramic bus connects 3 different points of the park (St1, St2 and St3) and runs every 30 minutes. I remind you that the trip is already included in the price of the ticket! Check the shuttle bus operating hours.
Step 4: Walk to the Upper Lakes & Stop for Lunch
Once you reach ST3, follow the signs for Route H, which leads towards Lake Kozjak and the Upper Lakes. This section of the trail to the lake takes longer, so it’s a good time for a lunch break if you packed a snack.
Along this trail, you’ll find several benches with spectacular lake views—a perfect spot to stop and eat.
Step 5: Take the Boat to Pier P3
Continue towards the pier and take the boat to P3. This peaceful ride across the lake offers a chance to relax and take in the surroundings. Despite the boat often being full, there’s a calm atmosphere—most people simply enjoy the moment.
Once at Pier P3, you’ll find one of the largest restaurant areas in the park. It’s a great place to grab a coffee or snack before heading to the final section of the hike.
Step 6: Visit the Best Viewpoints Outside the Park
For some of the best panoramic views of Plitvice Lakes, take a short detour outside the official park area. With Pier P3 in front of you, turn left towards Entrance 1.
Follow the paved road until you reach a junction. Turn left again, following the Selo Plitvica sign. A few metres ahead, the road crosses an area where cars pass through—here, look for an opening in the vegetation and follow the trail parallel to the road.
💡 EXTRA TIP: There are several viewpoints along this trail, offering incredible photo opportunities. Just follow the openings in the vegetation to find them!
At the final viewpoint, a steep staircase leads down to Veliki Slap. However, if the stairs are closed (as they were during my visit), you may need to turn back and return to Entrance 1 the same way you came.
This 12 km route offers a complete experience of Plitvice Lakes, covering both the Lower and Upper Lakes, a boat ride, the panoramic bus, and unmissable viewpoints. The difficulty level is easy, making it accessible for most visitors.
If you don’t want to visit the section outside the official trails you can simply follow Trail C or H, but I recommend Trail C which starts at Entrance 1. This way, you’ll be facing the waterfalls most of the way.
What to pack for Plitvice Lakes
Packing the right essentials can make your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park much more enjoyable.
While some facilities are available inside the park, having everything you need with you ensures a comfortable and stress-free experience. Here’s what to bring:
- Water to ensure you stay hydrated
- Lunch and snacks (however, if you prefer, there are some cafés and bars at some points of the trail)
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
- Rainproof for rainy days
- Sunscreen (especially in summer) as some trails have little shade
- Backpack to store all the above, but also to collect any rubbish you produce (there are some bins along the way)
Other tips for visiting the Plitvice Lakes
- Drones are not allowed: Plitvice Lakes is a strict “no drone zone”, so aerial photography is off-limits. But don’t worry—there are plenty of stunning viewpoints along the trails where you can capture breathtaking shots!
- Swimming is strictly forbidden: bathing in Plitvice Lakes is not allowed to protect the ecosystem.
- Toilets are available along the trails: You’ll find them at shuttle and boat stops, as well as near cafés. Make sure to use them when you see one, as facilities are spaced out.
- Pets are welcome: You can bring your dog, but they must be on a leash at all times.
- Luggage storage is available: If you’re travelling with bags, you can store them near the entrance to explore freely.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds: Plitvice is one of the busiest attractions in Croatia, and the trails are narrow with two-way traffic. Arriving before 8 am helps you enjoy the park before the crowds build up.
- Stay overnight near the park to start exploring the park early. Most tours start arriving at 10 am.
Final Thoughts on Visiting the Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in Croatia, and planning your visit well makes all the difference. From choosing the best entrance to picking the right trail, knowing how to visit Plitvice Lakes ensures you have the best experience possible.
If you have a full day, you’ll be able to explore both the Lower and Upper Lakes, take a scenic boat ride, and enjoy stunning viewpoints—some even outside the official park area!
The best time to visit is May, early June, September, or October, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are more manageable.
To have the best experience, arrive early—ideally before 8 am. This gives you time to explore the park before the big tour groups arrive and enjoy the waterfalls in a more peaceful setting.
Buying your tickets in advance is also a must, especially in peak season, as daily entry is limited and tickets often sell out.
A little planning goes a long way! Get there early, book your ticket ahead of time, and you’ll have a much more enjoyable visit to Plitvice Lakes.
Have you been to Plitvice before, or are you planning a visit? Let me know in the comments! 😊
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