Plitvice National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park Tickets

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Plitvice Lakes National Park cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes in Croatia.
























































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We curate the best ways to experience
We partner with the best
All the best options, in one place
Book with complete peace of mind

Quick overview

Choice variety: Options include guided tours with transport, entry-only tickets, and self-guided combos.
Inclusive experiences: Many tickets cover park entry with scenic boat and train rides plus reserved time slots.
Group sizes: Tours range from intimate groups (≤8) to larger groups, offering varied personal attention.
Queue control: Reserved entry minimizes waiting times to 10–30 minutes during peak seasons.
Multilingual support: Live guides in English, Spanish, French, or Italian help navigate the park.
Flexible booking: Free cancellation and advance reservations secure your desired time slot.
Plan your route: Compare products to match the best transport option from Split, Zagreb, or Zadar.

What to expect at Plitvice Lakes National Park Tours

Guests with a tour guide on a wooden path by waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Guest walking on wooden path by waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes, Croatia.
Waterfalls cascading into turquoise lakes at Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.
Waterfalls cascading into turquoise water at Plitvice Lakes, Croatia.
Guests standing by a turquoise lake at Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia.
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Step into natural beauty

Arrive at the park’s entrance and instantly sense serene wilderness. Your guide meets you promptly, ensuring a smooth start. The early light accentuates the lush greenery and sparkling turquoise lakes that await your exploration, experience nature’s vibrant welcome on arrival.

Adventure along wooden boardwalks

Wander along well-marked wooden boardwalks that wind over crystal-clear lakes and gentle cascades. Your path reveals intimate views of moss-covered travertine and shimmering water, inviting you to pause and capture the park’s natural artistry—each step deepens your lasting wonder.

Explore the upper cascades

Venture into the upper lakes region where 12 serene lakes and cascading waterfalls form a tranquil mosaic. Follow gentle pathways and take the panoramic shuttle for higher vantage points—an inspiring trek that offers unrivalled photo opportunities, making memories with every step.

Savor the waterfall’s thrill

Reach the dramatic lower lakes where Veliki Slap plunges nearly 78 meters into a misty basin. Feel the refreshing spray and thunderous roar, a moment that encapsulates Plitvice’s raw power and rare natural beauty, leaving you in pure awe instantly.

Exit with unforgettable memories

Conclude your journey by retracing scenic trails back to the exit. As the day’s magic lingers, exchange stories and photos with fellow travelers, celebrating an adventure that promises more return visits than just a day trip, leaving hearts full forever.

Things to know before booking your Plitvice Lakes National Park tickets

Booking window

• Tickets require a pre‑booked time slot. Book as early as 3–7 days ahead (peak season may sell out 3–4 weeks prior).
• Many bookings are last-minute (0–48 hours), so check availability before your trip.

What’s included

• Options range from full guided tours (with transport, live multilingual guide, and skip‑the‑line reservation) to standalone entry ticket packages with panoramic train and boat rides.
• Selected experiences include secured park ticket reservations; note that park entry fees are payable on arrival.

Entrances & flow

• Tickets specify the entrance used—commonly North or South entrance—helping regulate crowd flow and reducing time spent in queues (security waits typically last 10–30 minutes).
• Skip‑the‑line tours bypass the onsite purchase counter (though security screening still applies).
• For a hassle‑free option, consider an experience that manages entry flow.

Ways to explore

• Guided tours offer expert commentary and fixed routes; self‑guided options let you explore at your own pace.
• Multiple transport methods are available (group coach, small‑group van, or transport‑only packages) to suit different travel styles.
• Some tours combine river and train rides to fully traverse the park’s highlights.

Policies & rules

• Tickets are typically single‑entry; re‑entry may need special arrangements.
• Identification may be required for discounted tickets (child/student rates).
• Cancellation policies vary; read details to ensure flexible rebooking in case of weather changes.

Highlights of Plitvice Lakes National Park

The Veliki Slap area features Croatia’s tallest waterfall cascading approximately 78 meters into a misty basin. Accessible via well-marked boardwalks near Entrance 1, this section highlights Plitvice’s dramatic karst landscape and vibrant aquatic ecology.

The Lower Lakes Boardwalks meander through a limestone canyon over clear turquoise pools. Designed for close-up encounters with cascades and travertine formations, these paved paths offer an immersive experience and scenic transitions to adjoining water bodies.

The Upper Lakes Cascades present a serene sequence of 12 interconnected lakes framed by dense forests. Gentle waterfalls and moss-covered rock formations guide visitors along tranquil trails, emphasizing the park’s untouched natural ambiance and quiet beauty.

The Kozjak Lake section features an electric boat ferry that shuttles visitors between the Upper and Lower Lakes regions. This brief 20-minute ride provides panoramic views of lush surroundings and reflects the park’s emphasis on accessible aquatic exploration.

A panoramic shuttle train service connects higher trails in Plitvice, offering elevated perspectives and efficient transit. This route, running along forested ridges, provides a unique overview of cascading lakes and dense vegetation, complementing the park’s expansive layout.

Šupljara Cave, Kozjačka draga cave, and Čudinka pećina Cave are in the canyon of the Lower Lakes. These caves are geomorphological natural monuments featuring stunning stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers, and lakes.

A visual guide to Plitvice Lakes National Park

A scenic high-angle shot of waterfalls from Plitvice Lakes National Park

Natural wonderland

Turquoise lakes, lush green forests, and tumbling waterfalls and cascades make Plitvice Lakes National Pork one of Croatia's most popular destinations.

A photo of the Plitvice Lake from the lookout Veliki Slap
An Animal spotting at Plitvice National Park
A boardwalk in the water among trees at Plitvice Lakes National Park
Tourists on special tracks around the lake at Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plan your visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Waterfalls cascading over lush greenery in Croatia.

General timings:

  • November to March: 8am to 4pm

  • April to May: 7am to 7pm

  • June to August: 7am to 8pm

  • September to October: 7am to 7pm

Note: Tours of the national park begin when it opens at 7am or 8am and can last the entire day until closing time.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Plitvice National Park is May, June, September, and October. During these months, the weather is mild, and the park is less crowded. You can also experience its beauty in different seasons when you plan your visit during these months.

Plitvice Lakes National Park opening hours

Address: Znanstveno - stručni centar "Dr. Ivo Pevalek" | HR 53231 Plitvička Jezera

Find on map

Getting there

Your ticket includes transfers from a central location. However, if you need to get to the National Park on your own, here is how:

  • By bus: Intercity buses from Zagreb, Zadar, or Split.
    Nearest bus stop: There are bus stops near both entrances for visitors to arrive at and depart from the national park.
  • By car: The distance from Zadar airport to Plitvice Lakes National Park is 120 km.
    Nearest Parking: There are 3 parking areas at Plitvice Lakes National Park. The largest parking lot is P1, which is located near Entrance 1. Two smaller parks-P2 and P3, are also available. These are located near Entrance 2.
How to get to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Entrance to Plitvice Lakes National Park with visitors and a large map display.

There are two entrances to Plitvice Lakes National Park:

  • Entrance 1: Also known as the North entrance, it is located near the Lower Lakes.
  • Entrance 2: Also known as the South entrance, it is located next to the Upper Lakes.
More information on Plitvice Lakes entrances
Person placing suitcase in cloakroom locker at a travel hub.
  • Accessibility: Due to the location of Plitvice Lakes National Park and its terrain, not all paths, trails, and areas are accessible to people using wheelchairs or those with impaired mobility.
  • Restrooms: Restrooms are available at both entrances of the national park.
  • Luggage storage: Visitors can keep their luggage in the free luggage storage areas, which are located near both entrances to the national park.
  • Accommodation: Hotel Plitvice, Hotel Jezero, and Hotel Bellevue are among the many hotels located in or near the national park.
  • Trails and signage: Well-marked hiking trails and clear information boards are available throughout the park.
    Rest areas: Rest stops and designated picnic spots are provided along the boardwalks.
    Cafés: On-site food kiosks and cafés serve light snacks and drinks.
Man pushing woman in wheelchair

Path access: Wheelchair users can access selected paved trails; some areas have uneven surfaces.
Assistance: Service animals are permitted and staff can assist with basic accessibility needs.

No-flash photography sign at SEA Life London.

Photography: Flash photography is prohibited to protect wildlife and natural features.
Bag policy: Large backpacks should be minimized or stored; there are no designated cloakrooms.
Food: Meals are permitted only in designated picnic areas and near café zones.
Behavior: Visitors must keep noise levels low and respect the natural environment.
Re-entry: Once exited, re-entry is not allowed unless a valid same-day ticket is arranged.

Tips & guidelines

  • Visit at quieter times: Arrive early (around 8–9am) to capture softer light and avoid peak crowds.
  • Choose the optimal entrance: Research which entrance is less crowded to shorten waiting times.
  • Reserve your entry: Book time-slot tickets in advance during peak seasons to guarantee access.
  • Plan your route: Prioritize must-see spots like Veliki Slap for memorable photos.
  • Use available transport: Enjoy the electric boat and shuttle train to reduce walking fatigue.
  • Select off-peak seasons: Spring or autumn visits often mean milder weather and fewer visitors.
  • Mind the pathways: Boardwalks can be slippery when wet; take care, especially if mobility is a concern.
  • Dress appropriately: Prepare for changing weather and wear proper footwear for uneven terrain.

Frequently asked questions about Plitvice Lakes National Park Tours

Yes. Advance booking secures a time-slot and avoids long queues at the park.