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Waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

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A waterfall-filled wonderland

The oldest and largest national park in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its spectacular waterfalls, crystalline lakes, and densely forested canyons. The best things to do in this Central Croatia destination include hiking along its trails and boardwalks and exploring via boat, panoramic vehicle, and train. Wildlife spotting in the national park is also popular, with some eagle-eyed visitors spotting brown bears, lynx, deer, and wolves. Fortunately for most travelers, the four-legged locals are rather elusive, especially during the busy summer months.

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Time Zone
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When to visit

Hot temperatures don’t seem to put off too many visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park, with the park at its busiest in the summer months between June and September. To avoid the hottest weather—and the peak crowds—you’ll want to come early in the morning or late afternoon. Alternatively, spring is a great time to see the waterfalls at their fullest after the winter rains while the autumn leaves put on a stunning show.

Getting around

The main way of getting around Plitvice Lakes National Park is on foot. Looping around the park are eight purpose-built walking trails, among these boardwalks that enable you to see the lakes and waterfalls up close. Most trails include boat trips and rides on panoramic vehicles or sightseeing trains. Visitors can also rent rowing boats on Kozjak Lake in the summer and go skiing in the park during the winter.

Traveler tips

To make the most of your time in Plitvice Lakes National Park, it’s worth planning as much as possible, including buying tickets and booking accommodation and tours well in advance. You should decide which of the park's eight routes (aka programs) to prioritize ahead of your visit; as four start at Entrance 1 (North) and four at Entrance 2 (South), you’ll want to ensure you arrive at the correct entry point. Most visitors opt for the shortest routes, Programs A and B, which start at Entrance 1.

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People Also Ask
Q:How long should I spend in Plitvice Lakes National Park?
A:

Two days is ideal. Most travelers opt to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park on a day trip, but even with a very early start, it can be tricky to squeeze in all the attractions. With two days, you will feel less rushed—and you can better avoid the day crowds.

Q:What else is there to do around Plitvice Lake National Park?
A:

While Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its spectacular interconnected waterways and waterfalls, boat trips, and train rides, there are lots of attractions outside the park, too. Nearby highlights include the Barać Caves and the picturesque village of Rastoke, known for its watermills. Adventurous travelers will love kayaking in Mrežnica Canyon.

Q:How long does it take to walk around Plitvice Lakes National Park?
A:

Visitors can choose from eight different walking trails—known as programs—in Plitvice Lakes National Park, with some also including boat and train rides. The shortest walk (A) takes around 2.5 hours and only includes the lower lakes, while the longest (K) encompasses the entire park and takes around eight hours.

Q:How do you avoid crowds at Plitvice Lakes National Park?
A:

The best way to avoid the crowds at Plitvice Lakes National Park is to stay in the park overnight. Alternatively, you can arrive around 15–20 minutes before it opens to ensure you’re at the front of the line, or you can visit in the late afternoon when the crowds have thinned out a bit.

Q:Should I stay overnight at Plitvice Lakes?
A:

Yes, it’s worth staying overnight at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Accommodation options within the park include spa hotels, bungalows, and campsites, and there are some great bed-and-breakfasts in the surrounding towns and villages. However, the park can get pretty busy—especially in the summer—so you’ll need to book well in advance.

Q:Can you swim in Plitvice Lakes National Park?
A:

No, visitors cannot swim at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Swimming in the park has been banned since 2006 to protect the fragile ecosystem and natural beauty of the national park. Instead, visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear water and epic scenery on electric boat trips and purpose-built boardwalks.

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