Plitvice Lakes and National Park - complete guide to visit this stunning area in Croatia
Imagine stepping into a fairytale where 16 crystal-clear, turquoise lakes cascade into each other, surrounded by lush, green forests and over 90 breathtaking waterfalls—welcome to Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. As one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Wander along wooden walkways, explore tranquil lakes, and marvel at the park’s tallest waterfall, Veliki Slap. Whether you’re hiking through the serene upper lakes or boating across the expansive Kozjak Lake, Plitvice’s stunning beauty will amaze you. It is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world. Read on to see which are the best trails to follow, and see the most stunning views.
This is the view from the secret spot just down the road from Fenomen Plitvice Resort.
Where to Stay in Plitvice National Park
When we visited Plitvice Lakes National Park, we stayed for two nights. Our accommodation was fabulous and only a 10 minute drive to the entrance of the park. The resort also has a secret lookout point only 500metres from the carpark where you can see the best views of some of the stunning lakes - for free.
Our accommodation was called Fenomen Plitvice Resort. I would advise staying here if you have a car or are prepared - as we did - to pay 30 euro each way for a taxi to the entrance of the park.
We arrived in the afternoon and walked straight down the road and followed a little path hidden behind some trees to find the viewpoint to take this photo. There were no other people around and we were absolutely blown away with just how stunning it was.
Rastoke
There is a small town on the way to Plitvice National Park called Rastoke. It has many waterfalls, and cascades running all through the town. The water runs under houses, around roads and is so picturesque. You can take a leisurely stroll around the village and find the best vantage points to enjoy the rushing water.
The Best Entrances and Tracks in Plitvice Lakes to use
There are two entrances to the Plitvice Lakes and four main tracks to follow. If you are like us and want to see as much as possible and don’t want to do a long hike - then this guide will have all the details.
The park is divided into lower and upper lakes. Two of the tracks A and B only cover the lower lakes. There are absolutely stunning, but we would highly recommend doing Track C which covers the lower lakes, takes a boat trip across the water and then continues to the upper lakes. All these three tracks start at Entrance 1.
Track A (2-3 hours, 3.5 km): If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Plitvice’s beauty, Track A is your go-to. Starting at Entrance 1, this trail takes you around the lower lakes. You’ll get up close to Veliki Slap, the park’s tallest waterfall, and stroll along wooden walkways that give you those picture-perfect views of the crystal-clear water and lush greenery. It’s quick but oh-so-beautiful.
Track B (3-4 hours, 4 km): Track B is a bit longer and starts at the same spot, Entrance 1. It includes everything Track A offers but throws in a boat ride across Kozjak Lake, the largest in the park. You’ll get a mix of walking and boating, which is great for experiencing the park from different angles. If you have a little more time, this track is a solid choice.
Track C (4-6 hours, 8 km): Looking for a more in-depth adventure? Track C is your best bet. It combines the highlights of Tracks A and B and extends into the upper lakes. You start at Entrance 1, enjoy a boat ride, and even hop on a panoramic train. This track gives you a full-on Plitvice experience, perfect for those who want to dive deep into the park’s natural wonders.
This is the track we did and we did it easy in four hours, even with stopping for many photos and wow moments along the way.
Track E (2-3 hours, 5.1 km): Track E starts at Entrance 2 and focuses on the upper lakes. It’s a bit longer than Track A but usually less crowded. You’ll wander through serene forested areas and tranquil lakes, with a short boat ride to spice things up. If you’re after a peaceful escape, this is the track for you.
Unfortunately with this track you miss a lot of the views as they are behind you as you follow the track. You also miss the stunning biggest waterfall in the park. It is a bit quieter though, as many of the day trippers only do the lower lakes.
Helpful tips when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park
This was one of our favourite days - ever! We were so blown away with the natural beauty. I wish we went back the second day. Here are a few tips for you.
If you can - stay at least one night in Plitvice Lakes National Park. There are many hotel choices.
Buy your tickets online (official website) and get the earliest opening time (7am in summer - 8am other seasons)
If you can go in April, May or October it is half the price of the high season. The price literally doubles from 30th May to 1st June. It is even cheaper in the low season from November to March.
By entering the park early, you will have less crowds and therefore be able to enjoy the views and get photos without all the crowds.
Where comfortable shoes - there is a lot of walking, and the tracks can be quite narrow and there is always rushing water everywhere you walk.
Take entrance one as it has the best views along the way.
Don’t carry too much with you as it is a long walk and there are rest stops with toilets and cafes along the way.
Try and do Track C as it does the upper and lower lakes. The lower lakes are stunning, but the upper lakes were even more incredible.
Get a two day pass and go back the second day and just enjoy the views without the need for taking a million photos and videos.
Be patient and polite if it is busy on the tracks as they are narrow and there are many places you can pass someone.
The tracks are not really suitable for young children or any sort of pram, wheelchair etc.