Plitvice Lakes National Park Tickets & Tours & Informataion January 2025

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most famous and breathtaking natural attractions. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the park spans over 29,500 hectares of forest, lakes, and waterfalls. The highlight of the park is its 16 cascading lakes, interconnected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush greenery. The lakes, ranging in color from emerald green to deep blue, change hues depending on mineral content, sunlight, and water flow. Visitors can explore wooden boardwalks and hiking trails that wind through this stunning landscape, offering close-up views of the waterfalls and serene lake surfaces.

The Basics

Plitvice Lakes National Park is divided into two main areas:

Upper Lakes: Known for their larger, more tranquil lakes surrounded by dense forest.

Lower Lakes: Featuring dramatic waterfalls, limestone canyons, and the iconic Veliki Slap, the park’s tallest waterfall at 78 meters.
There are seven different walking routes and four hiking trails, allowing visitors to tailor their visit to the time they have available, from short 2-3 hour walks to full-day excursions.

Things to Know Before You Go

Entrance Fee: Ticket prices vary by season, with higher fees during peak months (summer). Tickets include access to electric boats and panoramic trains within the park.

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for fewer crowds and vibrant colors. Summer (June-August) is the most popular but also the busiest period. Winter offers a magical snowy landscape, but some trails may be closed.

Bring comfortable shoes, water, snacks, and sunscreen.

Swimming is not allowed in any of the lakes to protect the delicate ecosystem.

How to Get There

Plitvice Lakes National Park is located about 130 km from Zagreb and 240 km from Split. The most convenient way to reach the park is by car, with well-marked roads leading directly to the entrance. If you don’t have a car, several buses operate daily from major cities like Zagreb, Zadar, and Split, with journey times ranging from 2 to 4 hours depending on the starting point. Guided tours from Dubrovnik and other coastal cities are also available but involve longer travel times.

When to Get There

The park is open year-round, with varying hours depending on the season. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to avoid crowds, especially during the summer. The park is particularly beautiful at sunrise, with fewer people and soft lighting enhancing the natural scenery. In winter, check ahead for weather conditions, as snow can limit accessibility to certain areas.

Day Trips from Dubrovnik

Most visitors to Plitvice opt for a day trip from nearby cities like Zagreb, Zadar, or Split, but staying overnight in one of the nearby villages allows you to explore the park at a more relaxed pace. After walking the trails and boardwalks, take a boat ride across Kozjak Lake, the largest lake in the park, or enjoy panoramic views on a scenic train ride. For a deeper experience, join a guided tour to learn about the park’s geology, flora, and fauna. Nearby, you can also visit Rastoke, a charming village with waterfalls and traditional watermills, just a short drive from the park.