Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
Recommended by 95% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Split, Croatia
- 12 hours (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Lose yourself in the UNESCO-listed landscapes of Croatia's Plitvice Lakes National Park—and enjoy a tour option that takes care of the sightseeing logistics—on this full-day tour from Split. With round-trip coach transit and pickup from select hotels, getting there is made simple and hassle-free. Upon arrival, head into the park (admission own expense), and discover its cascading pools, waterfalls, and other scenery.
- Get up close and personal with a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Have the option to enjoy lunch at a traditional restaurant (own expense)
- Exploring with a guide makes it easier to see the sights
- Great-value tour includes round-trip transportation from Split
What's Included
- Transport
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Split selected area on request
- Professional English speaking tour guide
- Insurance
- Entrance ticket to the National Park Plitvice:
- Entrance fee - April, May & October: *Child (7-18 yrs) EUR 5, *Student: EUR 13, *Adult:€21.00 per person
- Entrance fee - June-September: *Child (7-18 yrs) EUR 13, *Student: EUR 24, *Adult:€35.00 per person
- The entrance ticket price is per person, payable only with cash.
- A valid student ID is required for the discounted student price.
- Children up to 7 years old enter the park free of charge
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to your preferred meeting point, or request pickup.
Itinerary
Make an early start with morning pickup from select hotels in central Split, and soak up Croatia's inland scenery on the drive to Plitvice.
On arrival at Plitvice Lakes National Park, follow your guide on a hike, stopping to take photos of the park’s glittering lakes, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic canyons.
Start with a walk around the Upper Lakes, where you can get up close to native wildlife and enjoy dazzling views over the lakes. Then, head to the Lower Lakes to admire towering waterfalls.
Finally, tuck into a tasty Croatian-style lunch at a local restaurant (optional; own expense) before hopping back in the vehicle and setting out on the return journey. End your tour at your original departure point.
On arrival at Plitvice Lakes National Park, follow your guide on a hike, stopping to take photos of the park’s glittering lakes, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic canyons.
Start with a walk around the Upper Lakes, where you can get up close to native wildlife and enjoy dazzling views over the lakes. Then, head to the Lower Lakes to admire towering waterfalls.
Finally, tuck into a tasty Croatian-style lunch at a local restaurant (optional; own expense) before hopping back in the vehicle and setting out on the return journey. End your tour at your original departure point.
1
Plitvice Lakes National Park
4 hours • Admission Ticket Not Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infants must sit on laps
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Wear casual clothes and comfortable shoes for walking if possible
- If you are taking a tour in spring, autumn or winter, don’t forget to bring warm clothes and an umbrella
- Bring a snack and water with you to make your trip as comfortable as possible
- Guests must be at the meeting point at least 15 minutes prior the departure
- Sugaman tours keeps the right to alter or adjust the itinerary due to traffic, or bad weather conditions
- Entrance tickets to the National Park are not included in the price of the tour and depend on the season and the age.
- Please do not purchase entry tickets in advance. Tour operator has a group ticket for the Park.
- Please check the weather forecast for Plitvice lakes on the day of your travel and dress accordingly. Weather forecast can be different than at the coast.
- Pets are not allowed on tour.
- Not recommended for participant with walking disabilities
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 50 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Michael_S
We had a wonderful tour to the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park. Our guide, Barry, was friendly, had a great sense of humor, and was an expert on all things Croatia and Plitvice having done over 1000 tours in the park. Plitvice Lakes was absolutely beautiful. The transportation to and from was stressfree and we stopped for a delicious lunch at a restaurant not too far from the national park on our return trip. We are glad we did this tour and would highly recommend it to others.
Reviews
4.8
based on 1,960 reviews
michelle_w, Apr 2026
Barry was a wonderful tour guide—knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely fun to spend the day with. He handled our large group of 20 with ease and kept everything well organized from start to finish.
Before entering the park, he clearly explained what to expect, and then guided us through the stunning waterfalls and lakes with confidence and enthusiasm. It was clear he has led many tours here and truly loves what he does.
He also provided engaging narration during the drive from Split to the park and back, always checking in to see if anyone had questions. Overall, he made the entire experience smooth, informative, and very enjoyable.
Linda_L, Apr 2026
Mia & Ivan did an excellent job. Mia made the tour both historical and magical. It was a great tour overall and highly recommended.
Lori, Mar 2026
Our local guide cancelled our tour 6 hours after the 24 hr deadline due to a blizzard at Plitvice National Park. They said to contact my vendor and they would approve my refund. I questioned many times the two days previous if the tour would take place but received no answers. Online Viator’s customer support offered no refund (I’m assuming due to being outside the 24 hr window) and it was impossible to find a phone number to talk with a human. Hopefully my Visa can work things out with Viator.
Elaine_A, Nov 2025
Plitvice is a beautiful national park with many waterfalls. Even inbthe fog, it was lovely. We took the last tour of the season in November until next spring. Our tour guides Mia & Sonia were excellent and knowledgeable. They spoke perfect English. Most of the day the weather was foggy and cold. 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit. Thankfully, we dressed in layers and brought hats and gloves. It is a very long ride from Split. Approximately 12 hours round trip. Three hours each way on a comfortable bus, so be prepared. We wore hiking shoes, brought water and our breakfast. There is one midway quick bathroom stop where you can but food & drinks. None of us opted for the biat tro Spagran because everything was closed there. Mia told us there was nothing there at thus time of the season. The park tour ends around 2:30pm. There was a warm and cizy restaurant to have a quick lunch before we left. We were told that during the hot sumner months the oark is packed and everything takes much longer because of the crowds and the heat. All in all it was a pleasant small group of 15. Very manageable.
Adrian_F, Oct 2025
Great all in 1
Hop on... Hop off n u r there at this great national park!
I just wish lunch could be earlier so we get the deserved break
Enjoyable n good introduction from the guides Mia n Sonja
The driver Miki is a great guy too
Ken_C, Oct 2025
Totally excellent with Sanja & Mia as guides. Very well organized and very informative in clearly spoken English
Estefania_R, Oct 2025
Mia and Saja were great guides! Very informational tour and the areas near by. It was a perfect amount of time to explore the lakes and waterfalls.
Travelwith_C, Oct 2025
I enjoy the tour so much though it’s a bit tiring haha. Nice weather, nice view.
Sanja and Mia delivered lots of information about the park and Croatia. I recommend all people should come the Plitvace Lake at least once in the life.
Vivian_F, Oct 2025
I had an amazing time on the Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split! Our guide, Barry, was fantastic—his passion and knowledge made the experience unforgettable. The park's stunning beauty is breathtaking, and Barry ensured we saw all the highlights. Highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Croatia!
Nicole_n, Oct 2025
Barisa was a wonderful tour guide - full of insightful history and anecdotes about the National Park and waterfalls. He made our trip to Plitvače seamless and memorable. Barisa pointed out wonderful stops to take pictures and also helped this solo traveler take photos where I could actually be in the photo versus behind the lens! I also want to share that Dado was a fabulous driver. He handled the bus with care during the high winds that we experienced and safely got us to and from Split with ease. I felt safe and well cared for all day thanks to Barisa and Dado. I highly recommend Šugaman Tours for your adventures in Croatia.
Tracey_V, Sep 2025
Wonderful day out exploring Plitvice Lakes. It does get quite busy however our guide Ivanka was great & kept everything running smoothly. Scenery is amazing & the waters are something else!
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for your lovely review! We’re glad Ivanka helped make your day smooth despite the crowds. Plitvice Lakes truly is a stunning place, and it’s great to hear you enjoyed the amazing scenery and waters.
Šugaman Tours
Kari_D, Sep 2025
Easy walk. Some stair climbing. Not suitable if you have mobility or footing issues.
Beautiful park. Worth the trip
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thanks for the feedback! Glad you enjoyed the park, it's indeed a beautiful place. And yes, the stairs can be a bit challenging for some, so it’s good to keep that in mind.
Šugaman Tours
Telesforo_U, Sep 2025
I wasn’t impressed by Plitvice because I’ve seen better parks like Yosemite, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone National Parks in the USA. Plitvice is very ordinary and nothing compared to them despite all the rave reviews you read in Croatia.
What I hated was that the Guide from Gray Line tours by the name of Mia was so presumptuous. Imagine she held a hat asking for gratuity as she approached each guest while we were waiting for the bus. On the way back, we approached each guest as showed a QR code for the TripAdvisor review page for this Trip and dictated to each guest to identify her as the Guide and to give her an Excellent Rating and also dictated what she would want us to write. This is unacceptable and this is the first time I’ve encountered a guide who extends a hat to each guest for gratuity and dictates to us what to put in each review.
Holly_H, Sep 2025
Unreal beauty with the best local guide Ivanka.
One of themost beautiful parks I have visited. Every turn is jaw dropping beautiful. Our guide was excellent, history, nature, the park itself. Very helpful and willing to give each person on the tour tips on the best things to do, see and experience while in Croatia. 5 stars
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re glad to hear Ivanka made your visit to the “Most Beautiful National Park in the World” truly unforgettable with her knowledge and helpful tips. With views like that, it’s hard to disagree! We’re so gappy you enjoyed the breathtaking beauty and all that Croatia has to offer. Thanks for the 5 stars — we hope to welcome you back soon!
GIOVANNA_P, Sep 2025
We had a great tour guide Ivanka ( I believe her name was) she was great she go to know us all personally ; Ivanka also knew so much about the Park and its history very passionate about her work and history she made it very interesting. I recommend the tour if you are interested in nature beautiful waterfalls never seen before. The walk is long but a slow steady walk that anyone could do. Walking shoes recommended a water proof jacket incase of water sprays , a bottle of water, poncho .... great day out...
Response from Host, Sep 2025
You’re absolutely right, the guide’s name is Ivanka! She’s wonderful at connecting with everyone and sharing her passion and knowledge about the park and its history. Thanks for the great tips too, walking shoes and a waterproof jacket are definitely must-haves. Glad you had such a great day out!
Diane_D, Sep 2025
We were really looking forward to this tour, but unfortunately, our experience with the guide, Frank, was disappointing. He appeared disinterested from the start and provided very little information about the region, the trail, or the park itself.
During the hike, a lost and confused senior briefly joined our group. At first, Frank refused to let him stay, but after a group member insisted, he reluctantly agreed. The situation could have been handled with more compassion and professionalism.
Throughout the tour, there was a noticeable lack of direction and insight. Frank avoided answering questions about the park’s history and features, didn’t offer to take any group photos, and even discouraged us from visiting the final waterfall due to light rain — something most of us were still eager to see.
While the park itself was stunning, we left feeling like we missed out on a fuller experience due to the guide’s lack of engagement and enthusiasm. It was clear why this was the smallest tour group of the day. We truly wish we had been paired with someone more passionate and knowledgeable.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Thank you for your feedback. We're truly sorry the tour didn’t meet your expectations, especially since you were so looking forward to it.
Frane is usually appreciated for his knowledge and focus on safety, though we understand that his approach may have felt disengaged in this instance. The situation with the lost hiker was handled with protocol in mind, but we agree it could have been approached with more warmth.
As for skipping the final waterfall, Frank made a call based on safety due to weather, though we understand your disappointment. We'll work on improving communication in such situations.
We're glad you enjoyed the park itself and truly hope to welcome you again for a more fulfilling experience.
Kelsey_V, Aug 2025
This tour is a really long day from Split (3.5ish hours each way) but absolutely worth it. Because of that, it starts early in the morning but the bus is really comfortable so you are able to sleep there & back. We were in between Plitvice Lakes & Krka as we only had enough time to pick one and could not be happier with our decision. We saw pictures online ahead of time but the lakes were even more beautiful in person. While the tour does not include meals, you do stop twice on the ride (once there and one on the way back) where you can have a snack break. There are also restaurants and cafes at the park (so don’t think you need to pack things for the entire day). It also ended up raining for part of our tour but you are able to buy ponchos/rainjackets/umbrellas at the souvenir shop if needed which was really convenient. Our tour guide, Mia, was incredibly knowledgeable and it was very helpful having someone guide you around the park because it is a really big park and you have to take different modes of transportation once there to see different areas of the park. We got to see both the upper and lower lakes on this tour. Highly recommend this trip!
Lisa_D, Aug 2025
Interesting, but I would do a tour that provided transportation only so we could explore on our own (nothing wrong with tour, just personal preference). Stopped for snacks on the way there and at a great little lunch spot on the way home. Ivanka was a great guide. Side note - the gift shop there is very reasonably priced. I saw some items there that were way more expensived in Dubrovnik and Split.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Totally get wanting to explore on your own, that personal freedom can make a big difference. Glad Ivanka was a great guide and that you enjoyed the stops along the way. Good tip about the gift shop too, it’s always nice to find better prices! Appreciate the honest feedback.
Caren_L, Aug 2025
I had an amazing day at the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Our guide Ivanka made it truly fantastic and unforgettable. It’s a long drive each way from Split and she filled the time with so much great information and made it truly special. and the Plitvice Lakes National Park itself was one of those magical places I’ve ever visited and I’ve traveled to so many countries and well-known places throughout the world. This is definitely worth the time to visit if you’re going to be anywhere near Split or near this park!
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience. We’re thrilled to hear that Ivanka made your day at Plitvice Lakes National Park truly fantastic and unforgettable. It’s great that she filled the long drive with interesting information and made the journey special. We couldn’t agree more Plitvice is truly a magical place worth every moment of the visit. We hope to welcome you again soon on another amazing adventure!
Conrado_A, Aug 2025
Beautiful Park with breathtaking scenery. Lots of walking on uneven trails and stairs. The guide, Mate, was very knowledgeable and friendly. Long drive (3 1/2 hours each way) but worth it. Clean comfortable bus with toilet/snack stop in the way.
100% Recommended!!!!
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Thank you for your enthusiastic recommendation! We’re glad you enjoyed the breathtaking scenery and appreciated Mate’s knowledgeable and friendly guidance. Although the drive is long, it’s great to hear that it was worth it, and that you found the bus comfortable with convenient stops. We hope to see you again soon for another adventure!
Renata_R, Jul 2025
The tour was full of adventures and overall very well organized. At the beginning, our bus broke down, and we had to wait around 45 minutes. The team clearly did their best to manage the situation professionally and efficiently. However, the original bus was extremely old and uncomfortable, and honestly, it should not have been used at all. Thankfully, they replaced it with a much newer and more comfortable bus, which made the rest of the journey far more enjoyable. That new bus should have been used from the start—it made a big difference to the overall experience.
Our guide, Mia, did an excellent job throughout the tour. She was knowledgeable, organized, and led the group smoothly. However, I was left with mixed emotions at the end due to confusion about the hotel transfer. Mia called out my first name only (Renata) when announcing a taxi, and mentioned a hotel and location that didn’t match my hotel name nor location but other couple from the same transfer. Because of that, I assumed it was for someone else with the same name.
When I pointed this out and suggested that she use surnames to avoid such confusion, her tone became a bit defensive—as if the mistake was mine. The conversation felt a bit uncomfortable, a cold bye, which was disappointing after such a positive day.
Despite that, I want to highlight that the tour itself was a great experience, and Mia clearly knows her job well. This feedback is just meant to help improve the clarity of communication during logistics, and to ensure that clients aren’t blamed when confusion arises from missing details.
In summary: a well-organized, enjoyable trip with a few hiccups. Still worth recommending, especially if the better transport is used from the beginning and the communication is a bit clearer.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for your detailed feedback. We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and that Mia did an excellent job as your guide. We apologize for the initial bus breakdown and agree the newer bus should have been used from the start for a better experience.
We’re also sorry for the confusion and uncomfortable interaction during the hotel transfer. Clear communication is very important, and we will address this with Mia to improve future service. Your suggestion about using full names is appreciated and will be implemented.
Thank you again for your comments—they help us improve. We hope to welcome you back for an even better experience.
5s2bwwgfsz, Jul 2025
Highly recommend! Mate was a wonderful guide. He is personable and very knowledgeable. I enjoyed the information provided with the flexibility to wander about.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind recommendation! We’re delighted to hear that Mate’s personable nature and knowledge made your tour enjoyable. It’s wonderful that you appreciated both the informative guidance and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
We hope to welcome you back for another great experience soon!
Amit_K, Jul 2025
Micky and Ivanka were great throughout the day. Ivanka (our guide) was full of energy and shared all the history about the national park when needed. We had a great day and highly recommend it to everyone.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled that Micky and Ivanka made your day special. Ivanka’s enthusiasm and knowledge truly add so much to the experience, and we’re glad it helped you appreciate the national park even more.
We really appreciate your recommendation and hope to see you again soon for more unforgettable adventures!
Praveen_R, Jul 2025
Barry and Mickey were great. Barry, our guide was full of energy and fun. He shared lots of historical facts and information along the way and was great in taking care of all of us. Bus was comfortable and lunch options included good vegetarian fare.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear Bariša and Mickey made your trip enjoyable. Bariša’s energy and knowledge really help create a memorable experience, and we’re glad you felt well taken care of. It’s great that you enjoyed the comfortable bus and vegetarian lunch options as well. We hope to welcome you back on another adventure soon!
Christine_S, Jul 2025
Absolutely stunning national park! Our tour guide Barry was awesome and so full of great history of the park and Croatia in general.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the beauty of the national park and that Bariša made your experience even more special with his knowledge and enthusiasm. We'll be sure to pass along your compliments to him.
S-Tours
Shirelle_R, Jul 2025
You must visit Plitvice Lake when visiting Croatia! Absolutely amazing day. It really takes your breath away. Our tour guide Mia was really lovely. Her English was so good.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thank you for the wonderful recommendation! We’re so glad you enjoyed the breathtaking beauty of Plitvice Lakes and had a great experience with Mia. She’ll be happy to hear your kind words about her. Hope you get to explore even more of Croatia soon!
Jackie_R, Jul 2025
Lovely guide (Ivanka) - bubbly, helpful and fun!
Plitvice Lakes is one of my favourite places in the world - I was so happy to return there.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thanks so much for your kind words! Ivanka is definitely a fun guide who loves helping out. Plitvice Lakes is such a special place — we’re glad you got to visit your favorite spot again!
Leo_H, Jun 2025
The natural park itself was really great and the guide was knowledgeable and friendly. However, the whole experience was spoiled by a mother bringing along a three year old. The child screamed for the most part of the return journey. I understand the child was totally exhausted, but I do not understand a parent brings a three year old to a tour that takes over twelve hours and is exhausting even for an adult. As some parents seem to lack even a minimum of common sense, I would propose a minimum age limit of seven years for long tours.
Terence_H, Jun 2025
We use a wonderful day at the Plitvice lakes. Everything ran smoothly. Bus was well maintained and Micke the driver drove safely. Special thanks to the tour guide, Mia, who really made the day such a success. Highly recommend this tour and team.
Grace_L, Jun 2025
Worth a long trip to visit a beautiful place. The tour guide is funny and knowledgeable. The restaurant where we had lunch was nice.
From $77.66
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Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split
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