Mrežnica River Canyons
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Croatia, famed for its 16 terraced lakes connected by cascading waterfalls and lush forests.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Mrežnica River Canyons
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A UNESCO World Heritage site in Croatia, famed for its 16 terraced lakes connected by cascading waterfalls and lush forests.
"Absolutely incredible park. Beautiful water, easy trail to hike with multiple routes depending on the time you have. Pricey but worth it."
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and time slot in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Big Waterfall
Lower Lakes
Witness the raw power of nature at Croatia's tallest waterfall. A truly awe-inspiring sight.
Wooden Boardwalks
Throughout the park
Wander through a fairytale landscape on charming wooden paths winding over crystal-clear lakes.
Upper Lakes Serenity
Upper Lakes
Discover a more tranquil side with smaller, interconnected lakes and lush alpine forests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Waterfall
Choose Your Adventure: Trails for Every Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and time slot in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain.
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
Refill stations are available, saving you money and plastic.
🍎 Pack Snacks
Food options inside can be limited and pricey.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Secure your entry and time slot in advance, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrain.
💧 Bring a Water Bottle
Refill stations are available, saving you money and plastic.
🍎 Pack Snacks
Food options inside can be limited and pricey.
📸 Capture the Magic
Every turn offers a postcard-perfect view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about Plitvice Lakes' breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as a fairytale landscape with stunning waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. The well-organized trails and transport systems are praised, though some find the ticket prices and food options a bit steep. Despite crowds, the sheer magnificence of the park makes it an unforgettable experience for most.
"We went on a weekday, but I think it is always crowded but now we could breath a little we were not sardines on the trail :)) if you are older or have kids I recommend trail A because it is pretty and short.
We went and took the bus from stop 1 to stop 3 but I do not recommend only if you want a hike of 10 km and see more of the park because the way back was very long😅 foot :))"
Kinga Mereg
"Absolutely incredible park. Beautiful water, easy trail to hike with multiple routes depending on the time you have. Pricey but worth it. Keep in mind there’s no swimming. This is a must visit."
David Prince
"We had an incredible day at this amazing place! We booked the 8am slot at the lower lakes entrance (North- entrance 1) and it was nice and quiet at that time. The lower part of the lakes is more dramatic and has the bigger waterfalls, and by walking up them (rather than down) you get a better view. We walked all the way up to the top the lakes (including the boat trip) and then got the land train back to the start. There are plenty of places to stop and enjoy a picnic and you can refill your water bottles at the sinks in the toilets. Everything was well organised and smooth, including the queue system for the boat and train. Would definitely recommend this as a day out, its breathtakingly beautiful! 🤩"
Naomi Prior
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by car, taking about 1.5-2 hours. Buses are also available, but check schedules as they can be less frequent.
Yes, it's a longer day trip (around 2.5-3 hours drive each way), but many visitors do it. Consider an early start.
There are parking lots available near the entrances. Parking fees apply, typically around €2 per hour.
Yes, buses run from major cities like Zagreb, Zadar, and Split. It's advisable to book tickets in advance.
Yes, the park offers panoramic buses and electric boats to help you navigate longer routes and save time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by season, but expect around €40 per person for a standard adult ticket, which often includes bus and boat rides.
It's highly recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, as time slots can sell out.
Opening hours vary significantly by season. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
No, swimming is strictly prohibited in the lakes and waterfalls to preserve the delicate ecosystem.
While you select a time slot for entry, there isn't a strict time limit for your visit once inside, though some routes are recommended for specific durations.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular routes include Trail A (short, lower lakes), Trail C (combines lower and upper lakes), and Trail H (longer, covers most of the park).
You can see the highlights in 4-6 hours, but to fully explore and enjoy the park, 6-8 hours or even a full day is recommended.
The wooden boardwalks can be challenging for strollers and wheelchairs due to steps and uneven surfaces. Some main paths are more accessible.
Entrance 1 (Lower Lakes) is popular for its dramatic waterfalls, while Entrance 2 (Upper Lakes) allows you to build up to the Big Waterfall.
Dogs are generally not allowed on the trails or in the park, except for service animals. Check the official park rules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are a few restaurants and cafes within the park, but options can be limited and pricey.
The area around the park has several restaurants offering local Croatian cuisine.
Picnic areas are available, and bringing your own food is a great way to save money and enjoy the scenery.
Expect traditional Croatian dishes, often featuring grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and local cheeses.
Options can be limited, so it's best to inquire directly or pack your own meals if you have specific dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! But focus on viewpoints along the boardwalks, the Big Waterfall, and the reflections in the lakes.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the park's beauty.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check park regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Commercial photography may require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Waterways of Plitvice
Navigating the park is an experience in itself, with a network of wooden boardwalks that allow visitors to walk directly over the water and alongside the falls. These paths offer intimate views of the aquatic life and the intricate formations.
It's important to remember that swimming is strictly forbidden in the lakes and rivers to protect the delicate travertine formations and the water's clarity.
Planning Your Plitvice Adventure
Plitvice offers several well-marked hiking trails, ranging from short loops to full-day explorations. Trail A is a good option for a shorter, scenic walk focusing on the lower lakes, while Trail H is for those who want to cover a significant portion of the park, including both lower and upper lakes.
The park is open year-round, offering different experiences in each season. Winter transforms Plitvice into a snowy wonderland with frozen waterfalls, while autumn paints the landscape in vibrant hues.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit