Plitvice Lakes is included in the list of the most beautiful places not only in Croatia, but throughout Europe. The untouched, majestic nature of the park evokes the sincere admiration of millions of tourists. According to many vacationers, Plitvice Lakes in Croatia is a piece of paradise with a unique atmosphere. In 1979, this part of the country was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

general information

A huge natural area stretching over 300 m2. The hilly terrain is decorated with lakes with clear water, reminiscent of scattered aquamarines, connected by waterfalls, straits and framed by forest.

The attraction in Croatia occupies part of the Lika-Senj and Karlovac counties. The nearest town is Slunj.

Historical excursion

The uniqueness of the lakes lies in the amazing history of their appearance - without human intervention. Nature itself worked on the park, creating a bizarre landscape.

Interesting fact! The oldest park in Croatia. The first mention of the lakes dates back to 1777. Until the middle of the last century, not everyone could visit them, since there were no hiking trails.

After the war, many mines and shells remained in the park, but today the area has been completely cleared of mines. The history of the park's origin is shrouded in legends, but here is the most interesting one.

Once upon a time in Croatia there lived a Black Queen who prayed to the sky to shed rain and stop the drought, the heavens had mercy, and the rainwater formed the Plitvice Lakes. In addition, there is a belief that the lakes will remain as long as bears live in this area.

The highest point is 1280 meters, the lowest is 450 meters. Guests arrive at the upper gate to the conservation area and stroll down. Every step reveals amazing natural beauty.

Lakes

The map of Plitvice Lakes in Croatia includes 16 large and also many small bodies of water. All of them are located in a cascade, the distance between the highest and lowest is 133 meters.

Lake Kozyak

Interesting fact! The largest lake is called Kozyak - it covers an area of ​​more than 81 hectares, the deepest point is about 46 meters. Next come the lakes: Proščansko and Galovac. They form most of the water surface of the Plitvice Lakes.

The lakes originate from two rivers - Crna and Bela, and the reservoirs are also filled with other rivers. There is a spacious observation deck above the Korana River.

Waterfalls

The number of waterfalls on the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia increases every year. Today there are 140 of them, but the water gradually breaks the stones, forming new paths. The main Plitvice waterfalls: Velike kaskade, Kozjački, Milanovacki.

Interesting fact! The Sastavtsi waterfall with a height of more than 72 meters is recognized as the most beautiful.

Caves

There are 32 caves on lakes in Croatia. The most visited: Crna pečina, Golubnjača and Šuplyara. In many, archaeologists have discovered traces of ancient settlements.

Forests

A considerable area of ​​the Plitvice Lakes is covered with forests, mainly coniferous and also beech. Real thickets can be found in the small settlement of Chorkova Uvala, located in the north-west of the park.

Interesting fact! In total, more than 1,260 different plants grow on the lakes, 75 of which are unique and can only be seen here. The area is not cleared of fallen trees; they form natural fences.

Animal world

The Plitvice Lakes of Croatia are home to a large number of animals. Here you can find brown bear, squirrels, martens, wolves, wild boars and badgers, deer, roe deer and otters. In total, the protected area is home to about two hundred different animals and more than 150 species of birds. There are trout in the lakes, but fishing is prohibited here, but you can feed the fish with bread. The unique population of butterflies is of great interest; there are more than 320 species.

Good to know! In summer, the air temperature varies between +25-+30 degrees, the water warms up to +24 degrees. In winter, the lakes freeze completely.

Tourist routes

Photo: Plitvice Lakes in Croatia.

Plitvice Lakes is the largest national park in Croatia. Several walking paths of varying lengths and degrees of difficulty have been developed for tourists here. The paths are wooden floorings, comfortable for walking. In addition to walking around the park, people also travel by train, boat, and ferry. Of course, it is more convenient to use transport, but in this case it is impossible to get to the most hidden corners of the Plitvice Lakes.

It is important! The protected area is accessible only to rangers; tourists are prohibited from walking here.

Each route combines the possibility of walking and traveling by transport. The ticket price includes a boat ride and a panoramic train ride. The average duration of each route is 3 hours.

The most interesting places are concentrated higher and hidden from view, and are not easy to get to. If you have time, set aside two days to explore the Plitvice Lakes, especially since there are comfortable hotels and inexpensive accommodation on their territory. Travelers with good physical fitness choose longer routes with organized excursions.

Each route is designated by letters from A to K. The cost of the ticket does not depend on the chosen route. There are signs throughout the park indicating the route and the path to the exit.

Good to know! Picnics are prohibited on the territory of the Plitvice Lakes; you cannot light a fire or swim in reservoirs. There is a cafe for guests.

Conventionally, the park is divided into two parts – upper and lower. From the entrance located at the top, routes follow - A, B, C and K (it has two entrances - at the top and at the bottom). From the entrance at the bottom of the park there are routes K, E, F and H. The longest are routes K and H, which will take 6 to 8 hours to explore.

Interesting fact! Most tourists come to this part of Croatia from June to August, with much fewer visitors in spring and autumn. Each route is equipped with comfortable benches and, of course, take a camera with you to take amazing photos as a souvenir of the trip.

How to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb

How to get to Plitvice Lakes by bus

The easiest way to get to the natural attraction is by bus. Transport departs from the bus station, located 1.7 km from the central railway station and 17 km from the airport at Avenija Marina Držića, 4. If you can walk from the railway station, then it is better to get from the airport by bus, which departs every 30 minutes, ticket price is about 23 kn.

Buses leave from the bus station every 1-2 hours daily. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office, but in the summer, given the influx of tourists, in order to get to Plitvice calmly, it is better to buy a ticket on the official website of the bus station.

The ticket price depends on the carrier company and varies from 81 to 105 kuna.

All buses heading to Plitvice are passing, so the driver must be warned to stop at the main entrance or as close to the park as possible. The journey takes from 2 to 2.5 hours. The cost of a return ticket is fixed – 90 kn. You can buy it directly on the bus or at the ticket office at entrance No. 2.

How to get to Plitvice Lakes in Croatia by car

From Zagreb you can get to Plitvice Lakes via direct road 1. Many people confuse the routes with the A1 highway, but there is a toll on it. The required road 1 is narrow and free.

Good to know! Karlovac can be reached by taking the toll motorway and then following road 1.

How to get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes in other ways

• To get there by taxi, the trip will cost approximately 170 euros or 1265 kuna.
• To get from Zagreb as part of an excursion tour, to purchase such a tour, just contact any agency. Price approximately 750 kn. During the excursion you can explore Plitvice Lakes and see the villages located nearby.

Compare accommodation prices using this form

Practical information

Where to stay

Plitvice Lakes are very popular among holidaymakers, so there are excellent conditions for tourists. You can rent a hotel room or stay at a campsite. By the way, campsites are in demand among Western tourists; the living conditions here are quite comfortable; vacationers spend the night in tents, which are sometimes more spacious than a hotel room. In addition, the campsites are located in picturesque places of the park; on their territory there are showers, toilets, places where you can wash dishes and clothes, and equipped kitchens.

You can view the prices and book a tent or caravan on the official website of the campsite.

Prices for hotel accommodation are, of course, higher. On average, a budget single room with breakfast will cost 560 kn, and a double room – 745 kn.

It is important! Tourists traveling by car prefer to stay 20-40 km from Plitvice Lakes; prices here are much lower, and the road to the entrance will take about 10-15 minutes.

Find out PRICES or book any accommodation using this form

What's the cover charge

Information on ticket prices is regularly updated on the official Plitvice Lakes website. In addition, the website provides detailed information about each route.

Ticket prices for one day:

• children from 7 to 18 years old: from January to April and from November to January - 35 HRK, from April to July and from September to November - 80 HRK, in July and August - 110 HRK (before 16-00), 50 HRK ( after 16-00);
• adult - from January to April and from November to January - 55 kn, from April to July and from September to November - 150 HRK, in July and August - 250 HRK (before 16-00), 150 HRK (after 16-00) .

Ticket prices for two days:

• Children under 7 years old have free admission;
• children from 7 to 18 years old: from January to April and from November to January - 55 HRK, from April to July and from September to November - 120 HRK, in July and August - 200 HRK;
• adult - from January to April and from November to January - 90 kn, from April to July and from September to November - 250 HRK, in July and August - 400 HRK.

If you decide to get to Plitvice Lakes by car, you can leave it in a paid parking lot, the cost is 7 HRK per hour. For cars with trailers and buses, parking costs 70 kuna per day. Motorcycles and scooters can be parked for free.

Prices in the article are indicated for March 2018. The relevance of prices can be checked on the official website of the national park np-plitvicka-jezera.hr.

Thinking of visiting Croatia for the first time?

I even envy you a little, because you are yet to be enchanted by this wonderful country! There are countless places in Croatia that are definitely worth visiting!

Let me help you plan your route a little. Here's what you'll learn from this post:

Plitvice Lakes National Park- a must-see place!

Plitvice Lakes (Plitvička jezera) were the first thing I wanted to visit in Croatia!

That is why I spent only one day in Zagreb and escaped from the bustle of the city to this amazing place to admire the ensembles of waterfalls.

And I didn’t regret it one bit. Why?

I hope everything becomes clear to you once you look at these photos.

But to make it clearer, I will still answer some of the most popular questions:

1. WHAT ARE THESE LAKES AND WHY IS IT WORTH GOING HERE?

Plitvice Lakes is an ensemble of 16 natural lakes. National park included in the list UNESCO World Heritage Site because of the spectacular views, rare fauna and unique turquoise waters.

They are located in the very heart of the country, 130 km from the capital. This is very cool, because it is convenient to get there from Zagreb and Split, so you can arrange such a one-day tour for yourself.

2. HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND AT PLITVICE LAKES?

It depends on what you want to do there and how much time you generally have.

Well, let’s say, if you just want to check in here (or you’re running out of time), one day is enough. There are a bunch of one-day tours from the same Zagreb or Split.

But as for me, then You won’t be able to fully enjoy this amazing place in a day.. I spent here two days and I think this is an ideal option!

On the other hand, if you want to have fun here to the fullest (below I will tell you what options there are) and are not in a hurry, then you can stay for three days. It won't be boring, I tell you!

LIFE HACK: Try to come here early in the morning, then there will be no crowds in the park and you can take cool photos. When there are a lot of tourists here, this unique atmosphere is lost.

3. HOW MUCH IS THE ENTRANCE COST?

By the way, if anyone is interested, you can even go to the park with your dog, it is not prohibited. I saw with my own eyes people walking there with their dogs.

6. HOW TO GET TO PLITVICE LAKES?

Unfortunately, trains don't go there, and I was unable to use my Eurail pass.

If you don't want to rent a car, no problem! There is a convenient transfer from Zagreb.

You can also get there by public transport. A lot of people go there buses. Quite often, and travel on them is cheap. View schedule and. You have to pay extra for luggage, as when flying on low-cost airlines (7-10 Croatian kuna, about 1 euro). Typically, if you buy tickets on the website of carriers, such as, for example, Autotrans, you can save 5%. By the way, they also have Wi-Fi on their buses!

NOTE: The parking fee is 7 kn/hour (1.3 euros).

7. WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO GO TO PLITVICE LAKES?

Anytime, really. I went there in early October, the weather was still good, and the water was an incredible turquoise color. But at any time of the year this place is beautiful in its own way. I bet it looks great under the snow too!

In short, it doesn’t matter when, just go, you’ll love it!🙂

You don’t need to take hiking boots, regardless of the season, because the roads here are smooth, and you will also be comfortable in regular shoes (well, that is, comfortable ones, not heels, of course). But do not forget that this park is still located in a mountainous area, and in the evenings it is cool here, so you should still bring warm clothes!

8. WHERE TO STAY IN PLITVICE LAKES?

Recently, more and more places where you can stay have appeared in the National Park. Just like mushrooms after the rain!

OTHER ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK:

Luxury hotels:(from $100 and more) - Hotel Jezero is the only one located in the park, and this is its great advantage.

The largest Croatian national park, Plitvice Lakes, is a true natural wonder of the world! It is located among the inaccessible forests of the Croatian Dinarik Mountain, which on old maps were designated as the “Devil's Forest”. Let's take an interesting and exciting journey together into the world of waterfalls, lakes and pristine nature, admire the landscapes in photographs and learn interesting information about this miracle of nature. I also ask you to share your impressions, photographs and reviews in the comments to the article.

The 16 lakes of Plitvice National Park shine in the high mountain valley, like pearls set in a dense forest, and no one can take their eyes off them when they see them for the first time. Each lake flows into the next, forming foamy, thundering waterfalls - over thousands of years of existence, the flows of these lakes dissolved the limestone rock and filled the valley.

Plitvice lakes form two separate groups: Upper and Lower, their total length is more than 8 km in length, and the occupied area is 2 km 2!

Every year new waterfalls are born in Plitvice. Scientists have found that this occurs thanks to calciphiles, Cretaceous plants. The mountains in Plitvice are composed mainly of limestone, so the waters of rivers and lakes are rich in dissolved lime. Calciphiles extract calcium oxide from water and, dying, form solid deposits. Branches and leaves that fall into the water seem to petrify after a year. Such limestone dams grow several centimeters per year. Over time, they block the river. Water breaks through porous, fragile chalk dams, and waterfalls appear.

They still don’t know when this natural beauty was formed - experts disagree on this issue. One version says that Plitvice Lakes arose during the post-glacial period. A special role in their formation was played by mosses, whose evolution led to the stepwise formation of reservoirs.

The Plitvice lakes are located in the form of a gently sloping staircase. The highest of them, Farewell (the second largest), is located at a level of 636 meters above the sea, and the height of the last, lowest of the lakes, Novakovica Brod, is lower by as much as 133 meters! The largest of the lakes, Kozyak, covers an area of ​​82 hectares and its depth reaches 45 meters. It will take at least two hours to walk around this lake along the shore, so a ferry transports tourists across it).

The steps of the Plitvice “ladder” are formed by the formation of travertine barriers. So the water descends from one ledge with a small reservoir, to another, and further. Everywhere the water is surrounded by greenery: shrubs touching the surface of the water or the jets of water slides, grasses growing on land and under water, sometimes forming entire bridges.

It is prohibited to have picnics or make fires in the park; you cannot bring dogs or swim in the lakes. All pleasure boats operate on electric propulsion, so the waters of the lake are protected from gasoline emissions. The lakes themselves are not cleaned, fallen trees are not removed, trying to preserve the natural balance. Visitors to the park move on special wooden floorings.

If the number of lakes is known, then no one even counted the number of waterfalls - not only because their number is constantly increasing, but also because there are simply a lot of them - too many not to lose count) According to some sources of waterfalls in There are about one and a half hundred Plitvice, and also on the territory of the National Park there are 36 caves and grottoes (including unique caves under waterfalls) and a unique beech and coniferous forest, preserved from ancient times and with the ability to regenerate itself. Most of the caves are concentrated in the eastern part of Plitvice. The Golubnyatsa Cave, 165 meters long, is decorated with stalactites. There is also a protected area within the national park, access to which is prohibited to everyone except rangers.

The forests around Plitvice Lakes saw fighting during the Croatian War of Independence. Soldiers from both conflicting sides took up positions in caves and mined the surrounding area. After the war, the lakes and surrounding forests were cleared of unexploded ordnance, and the tourist infrastructure was restored and is still being intensively developed, but mines are still sometimes found in the vicinity of the park.

An important feature of the national park is the presence of brown bears, rare throughout Europe. One of the mountain ranges was even named in their honor - Medvedzhak. There is a belief that Plitvica will exist as long as at least one bear remains alive. The wars that took place in the territory of the former Yugoslavia at the end of the 20th century reduced the number of these magnificent animals - let's hope that their numbers will recover in the near future. In addition to bears, Plitvice is full of other animals and birds, the diversity of which cannot but surprise. But the most interesting sight, according to experts, is perhaps a wild boar eating nuts in beech forests. Photographers specially come here, find suitable places near beech meadows and wait for a spectacular shot).

The beauty of Plitvice Lakes is breathtaking at any time of the year. Here you can enjoy the view of a winter forest covered with snow or a hot Mediterranean summer - whichever you prefer).

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia... Almost everyone, of course, has heard about this place more than once. What attracts tourists from all over the world here? Stunning nature? Great service? Or perhaps a combination of both factors? Let's try to figure it out together.

Plitvice lakes. Croatia is the cleanest and most picturesque corner of the globe

This favorite of both locals and visitors to the country is geographically located in the center of Croatia, mainly in the Lika-Senj County. Only a small part of it, about 9%, belongs to the neighboring region - Karlovac.

Geologists claim that the Plitvice Lakes (Croatia) were formed thanks to the waters of the Koran River. They flowed through the limestone over hundreds of years, causing barriers and forming natural dams. As a result of all these processes, after a certain time period, a most picturesque system of lakes, mysterious caves and mesmerizing waterfalls arose.

Let's take a look at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Croatia is rightfully considered one of the most visited places, and since 1979, the mentioned park is also on the UNESCO World Heritage Register.

How to get to your destination

Of course, the answer to this question directly depends on what type of transport the traveler is going to use. Although, it’s probably worth warning right away that planes don’t fly here, and it’s unlikely that anyone will ever decide to build an airport among such a riot of pristine nature. The railway is also not built. Only the usual buses and cars remain.

Note that the attraction is located in a very remote corner of the country, and therefore it is worth preparing in advance for a long journey from the coastal resorts. For example, to get to the lakes from “Dubrovnik” or “Western Istria”, it will take no less than 5 hours (one way, of course).

The ideal option is to rent a car. Then, if you have a modern navigator, there is a chance to find yourself in place in 3-4 hours. If this is not possible, you should simply book an excursion directly to the coast, at a hotel or at any travel agency at your vacation spot. Fortunately, recently, more and more often we meet staff who speak, if not Russian, then at least English. In general, an agreement can be reached.

An excursion into history: how it all began

In general, the idea of ​​attracting foreign tourists to this part of the country arose relatively recently, in 1983. And immediately there were not only a lot of people who wanted to admire the waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes (Croatia, of course, is famous not only for its waterfalls, but the spectacle is still mesmerizing), but also numerous philanthropists who were ready to invest colossal sums in the development of the region.

In a short time it was even necessary to develop a special program for the development of the reserve. As part of the project, swimming equipment was purchased for organizing recreation on the water, trails were laid for tourists eager to walk on foot and without a guide, fireplaces and picnic areas were equipped, and a new modern hotel was built. In the press, after a large-scale action, they gave extensive advertising.

This approach turned out to be very profitable, and the results were immediate. Not only ordinary travelers, but also important people flocked to the park. For example, Ivo Josipović, the current President of the Republic of Croatia, considers Plitvice Lakes a great place not only for recreation, but also for holding various kinds of business meetings, conferences and meetings.

Tragic milestones in history

Nowadays, few people doubt that Croatia can offer one of the most pleasant and inexpensive types of holidays in Europe. The Plitvice Lakes Nature Reserve and its enormous popularity are further confirmation of this statement. However, this amazing place also had to endure a real tragedy.

Just over 20 years ago, in 1991, the reserve more than once became the site of armed clashes between those who took an active part in the Yugoslav War. The blood of both national heroes and ordinary citizens of this small but amazing country was shed here.

Anyone, even the smallest Croat, can now tell a tourist about the so-called Bloody Easter.

Plitvice Lakes National Nature Reserve: Croatia worth visiting. Tips and tricks

First of all, we note that the park is multi-level, i.e. it begins at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, but gradually the tourist, without knowing it, climbs to 1200. What follows from this? According to experienced travelers, it is recommended to take care of comfortable shoes in advance: ballet flats and heels will definitely ruin your walk.

Plitvice Lakes National Park offers many hiking trails. However, before you hit the road, you should try to adequately calculate your own physical capabilities. For example, elderly travelers or young parents with small children will benefit from a short trail that can be covered in 2 hours, or even using the services of an electric train. The strong and resilient will certainly go on a 7-8 hour walk.

There is no need to be afraid of getting lost. Even if a tourist accidentally finds himself in the park without a map or an experienced guide, he still won’t get lost. Why? Everything is extremely simple: at each fork there is a sign or a special navigation board.

Dangers Lurking

Local residents warn against thoughtlessly moving around the park. The thing is that, in addition to the presence of poisonous plants, the park is home to many wild animals, some of which can be very aggressive during the mating season or during breeding.

Often, in an effort to see trout or simply admire the clear blue water, tourists come very close to the edge of the reservoir. It’s definitely not worth doing this without following at least basic safety rules: Croatia is not only cold, but also very deep.

What you should pay attention to

We are all accustomed to the fact that the presence of a reservoir naturally implies further water procedures, which means that when going on an excursion, you definitely need to take swimming accessories with you. However, swimming is prohibited here.

It's a shame, of course, but there are also positive aspects to this. Agree, this is in fact almost the only way to preserve nature in its original form.

In addition, you should not expect that when you go on vacation to such a park, you will set up a tent, light a fire, set up a barbecue and begin the long-awaited preparation of barbecue. Of course, you can try, but the fine for such a gross violation of the rules will be considerable.

A gift for a true photography enthusiast

Have you ever seen pictures taken at Plitvice Lakes? Experts say that even beginners can take great shots. And all thanks to the very successful and soft light. Moreover, this phenomenon is observed at any time of the year and in completely different weather conditions.

This means that even if you do not have professional skills, and the quality of the camera leaves much to be desired, you will still add memorable photographs to your collection with the inscription: “Plitvice Lakes. Croatia". The photo will surely decorate any family album.

How to plan a day on the lakes

It is generally unrealistic to get acquainted with the reserve, as the guides recommend, in a couple of hours. Once you find yourself among this splendor, you almost immediately feel the desire to spend as much time here as possible, or even not to leave at all. Experienced travelers say: if any place on the planet can surprise you, it’s Croatia! Plitvice Lakes... Holidays here require calm, leisurely and complete immersion in nature. But at seaside resorts there is always fun and bustle.

Most likely, a traveler who wants to get to know the reserve better will need to spend the night on its territory. However, this fact should in no way alarm or repel. Three hotels have been built in the surrounding area, each of which awaits its visitors throughout the year. However, those who are planning to visit reservoirs during the so-called high season should take care of their overnight stay in advance, otherwise none of the hotels may simply have free rooms.

The pricing policy is very, very acceptable. A night will cost the guest approximately 70 euros. Agree, taking into account European prices, it is not that expensive.

Plitvice Lakes is a cascade of 16 lakes connected by straits and waterfalls. This is a real treasure of Croatia and one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The national park-reserve, on the territory of which the lakes are located, occupies an area of ​​300 square meters. km, it is the largest in the country.

The park is located in the valley of the Korana River, in the basin of the Dinaric Highlands. The main task of the reserve is to preserve the fauna, unique landscape and vegetation. Every year 1.2 million people visit Plitvice Lakes.

Plitvice Lakes Nature Reserve: general information

According to scientists, the Plitvice Lakes are more than 4,000 years old. And the area was discovered and described only 400 years ago. The region of Plitvice Lakes received the status of a National Park in 1949, and in 1979 it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Plitvice lakes are divided into two groups - upper and lower. The upper ones lie in a dolomite valley surrounded by dense forests. Roe deer, bears, wild cats, lynxes, wolves, etc. live here. The lower lakes are located on a limestone rock and are small in size. The water in the reservoirs amazes with its bright emerald blue color. This color is given to lakes by the presence of bacteria and algae, as well as a high content of calcium carbonate.

Upper:

• Kozyak.
• Proshche;
• Ciginovac;
• Mali Jovinovac;
• Round;
• Golovac;
• Veliki Jovinovac;
• Milino Lake;
• Gradinsko;
• Batinovac;
• Veliki Burget;

Lower:

• Milanovac;
• Kaludjerovac,
• Gavanovac;
• Novakovic Brod.

The lakes are located down one after another and extend to 5460 m. The largest and deepest lake is Kozjak, its length is about 3 km and its depth is 47.6 m. The second largest and highest is Prošče, it is located at an altitude of 636 m above sea ​​level. This lake is fed by two rivers - Bijela and Crna. The lowest lake is called Novakovica Brod, it lies at a level of 503 m above sea level. The end of the chain of lakes ends with the Sastavci waterfall, which spews a stream of water from a height of 72 m into the Plitvica and Korana rivers.

In addition to waterfalls and lakes, there are 36 more caves in the National Park. The most famous are Golubnyacha and Mratsna. The cave fauna is found here, which is represented by bats, crustaceans and insects.

Climate and weather in Plitvice Lakes

This area has a special microclimate, since the lakes are located at the junction of two climatic zones: marine and continental. The air temperature here is 3-4 degrees lower than on the Adriatic coast. Precipitation and cloudy weather are often observed here. During rains, the temperature difference can be 15 degrees. In winter, Plitvice Lakes freeze and there is a lot of snow. Therefore, it is better to choose the time from April to November to visit.

Plitvice Lakes routes

There are 8 routes on Plitvice Lakes. The easiest is route A, the walk will take about 3 hours. The longest and most difficult is route K, it is better to spread it out over a couple of days. You can view the route program with a map of Plitvice Lakes on the official website. Detailed maps are sold at the entrance to the park, indicating places for photography.

How to get to Plitvice Lakes

You can get to the National Park from any resort town by bus, taxi, rented car or on a tour, which are provided by all agencies and many resort hotels in Croatia. Check the cost of bus tickets on the bus station websites. By the way, you should buy them in advance, otherwise, once you arrive at the bus station, you are unlikely to leave - tickets sell out very quickly.

Distance from Croatian resort towns to Plitvice Lakes:

• from Zadar - 132 km;
• from Zagreb 134 km;
• from Sibenik - 187 km;
• from Split - 256 km;
• from Pula - 275 km;
• from Dubrovnik - 454 km.

Tourist information

Address: Josipa Jovica 19, Plitvicka Jezera.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is open all year round. Visiting times and ticket prices depend on the month.

Working hours:

Entrance ticket prices (valid for 2018):

Tourist category	From November 1 to March 31		From July 1 to August 31
Adults	for 1 day: 55 kn for 2 days: 90 kn	for 1 day: 150 kn for 2 days: 250 kn	for 1 day: 250 kn (until 16:00), 150 kn (after 16:00) for 2 days: 400 kn
Children (from 7 to 18 years old)	for 1 day: 35 kn for 2 days: 55 kn	for 1 day: 80 kn for 2 days: 120 kn	for 1 day: 110 kn (until 16:00), 50 kn (after 16:00) for 2 days: 200 kn
Students (with student ID)	for 1 day: 45 kn for 2 days: 70 kn	for 1 day: 100 kn for 2 days: 180 kn	for 1 day: 160 kn (until 16:00), 100 kn (after 16:00) for 2 days: 300 kn

Children under 7 years old, as well as people with disabilities, have free admission.

The ticket price includes travel on the ferry and panoramic tram.

Infrastructure and rules for visiting Plitvice Lakes

There are 2 hotels on the territory of the National Park, and many small hotels and villas around it. You can book hotels near Plitvice Lakes in our website. Also near the park there are kiosks with souvenirs, shops with ice cream and water, cafes, and a couple of fast foods. For those coming here by car, parking is provided (7 kn/day - approximately 0.94 euros). Panoramic trams run throughout the park, and you can travel across large lakes by ferry.

Things to consider:

• It is advisable to check the weather forecast before visiting;
• if the weather is cloudy, it would be a good idea to take a raincoat;
• on a sunny summer day, be sure to wear a hat;
• wear comfortable sports shoes;
• be sure to take a warm sweater or jacket with you (depending on the season);
• if you want to take a walk without crowds of tourists, come here at the very opening.

What not to do on the territory of the National Park:

• swim in lakes;
• deviate from routes;
• organize camping;
• make a fire;
• scream;
• catch and feed fish and animals;
• pick flowers;
• ride a bike (there are separate bike routes near the park).

290 km from Plitvice Lakes there is another natural park -.

Plitvice Lakes on the Plitvice Lakes map

Plitvice Lakes is a cascade of 16 lakes connected by straits and waterfalls. This is a real treasure of Croatia and one of the most beautiful places in Europe. The national park-reserve, on the territory of which the lakes are located, occupies an area of ​​300 square meters. km, it is the largest in the country.

The park is located in the valley of the Korana River, in the basin of the Dinaric Highlands. The main task is..." />