Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park · Plitvička Jezera, Lika-Senj County, Croatia
Last updated 2026-10-30
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The lakes are fed by rivers and springs and separated by natural dams of travertine, which grow slowly as calcium carbonate is deposited. Entrance 1 is closest to the lower lakes and the big waterfall; Entrance 2 serves the upper lakes. A boat crosses Lake Kozjak, and a shuttle bus links the far ends. Tickets are timed and sell out in summer; arrive at opening to walk the boardwalks before the crowds. Swimming is not allowed.
Ticket Price
Adult EUR 40 (≈ USD 45) in June-September, around EUR 23-25 in April-May and October, and EUR 10 in November-March. Timed entry - book on the official site; children and students pay less.
Opening Hours
Open daily; summer ticket sales 7:00-16:00 and the park opens at 7:00; outside summer it opens at 8:00. Check trail closures before visiting.
Transportation
Buses from Zagreb (about 2-2.5 hours) and Zadar stop at Entrance 1 and 2; parking is available at both entrances. A car is convenient but not essential.
Best Season
In Croatia, summer (Jun-Sep) is when boat tours and trails operate; winter is for ice sports and aurora.
Pro Tip: Book the first entry slot
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Book the first entry slot Plitvice is crowded by mid-morning. Book a timed ticket, arrive at opening, and follow the marked boardwalk route rather than shortcutting.
Member-Only Tips
Upgrade to unlock insider hacks, best photo spots, and crowd timing advice.
Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
Yes. Entry is timed and capped; book online for a specific entrance and hour. Peak-season tickets cost about EUR 40, with lower prices in shoulder and winter months.
Entrance 1 is closest to the Upper Lakes and the main waterfall; Entrance 2 is better for the Lower Lakes and the boat. Check the route map before booking.
Four to six hours covers the lakes, boardwalks and boat. The full loop is about 18 km, but shorter routes are clearly marked.
No. Swimming, drones and leaving the boardwalks are prohibited to protect the travertine and water quality.