A Weekend in Plitvice Lakes: The Perfect Itinerary

A weekend in Plitvice Lakes offers a unique opportunity to explore this breathtaking national park known for its crystal-clear waters, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. This itinerary is designed to help you balance a memorable day of adventure with moments to relax and appreciate the natural beauty around you. Whether you're hiking Croatia's scenic trails, spotting wildlife, or capturing photographs of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll find plenty of things to do in Plitvice Lakes.

Berthold Werner / CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Morning: Getting to Plitvice Lakes

Begin your adventure by arriving in Plitvice Lakes early in the morning. If you are traveling from Zagreb, you can catch a bus operated by FlixBus or a local carrier, which takes about 2.5 hours. The bus typically costs between €15-25. Rijeka is another option with a shorter bus ride of about 2 hours and a similar fare.

Once you arrive, head straight to your accommodation. There are numerous guesthouses within the area offering a range of prices. Expect to pay €40-100 per night for a double room, depending on the season and amenities.

Late Morning: Exploring the Lower Lakes

After settling in, grab a light breakfast at a local café, like Bistro Nahlad or the Restaurant Lička kuća. Both serve local dishes and pastries. Then, make your way to the park entrance to start your hiking Croatia adventure.

To fully experience the park, enter through Entrance 1, which is best for visiting the Lower Lakes. The trails here are well-marked and accessible, with wooden boardwalks that allow you to get up close to the waterfalls and turquoise lakes.

Afternoon: Hiking Routes

The recommended route for the Lower Lakes is Trail A, which spans around 3-4 kilometers. This trail should take roughly 2-3 hours. You'll encounter stunning sights including the beautiful Veliki Slap, one of the park's main attractions, towering at 78 meters tall. Binoculars are handy for spotting the local wildlife, such as deer and various bird species.

After your hike, take advantage of the refreshment options nearby or enjoy your packed lunch amid the scenic surroundings.

Late Afternoon: Boat Ride

Post-lunch, continue your exploration along the scenic paths of the Upper Lakes. The paths are interconnected, giving you the chance to see more waterfalls and lakes. You can also take a relaxing boat ride on Lake Kozjak, which connects the upper and lower lakes, to experience the park from a different perspective.

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

After a full day of hiking and exploration, consider dining at Restaurant Galerija or Lokanda Rastoke. Dishes featuring local specialties such as grilled fish or lamb can be found on the menu, with prices typically ranging from €10-30 per meal. The ambiance can be romantic or family-friendly, depending on your preference.

Day 2: Full Day in Plitvice Lakes

Morning: Early Start

On your second day, rise early to maximize your time in the park. Before breakfast, take a moment to enjoy the sunrise over the lakes. If you're fortunate, you might capture incredible photographs of the shimmering surface reflecting the early morning colors.

You can have breakfast at your accommodation or grab something from one of the local bakeries before heading back to the park, where you will focus on the Upper Lakes this time.

Late Morning: Upper Lakes Exploration

Follow Trail B, while focusing on the breathtaking Upper Lakes. This 4-5 kilometer trail also features an estimated 3-4 hours of hiking. Key attractions include the stunning Galovac and Milino Lakes.

Keep an eye out for colorful butterflies and dragonflies that flit around the flowers along the trail. Another highlight is the charming wooden bridge that spans over the lowest part of the lakes, allowing for excellent photography opportunities.

Afternoon: Wildlife and Picnic

After exploring the Upper Lakes, take a break for a picnic lunch on the shores of one of the quieter lakes. This is a great time to observe local wildlife. If you are lucky, you might spot a lost fox or a wandering wild boar.

If you prefer exploring more of the park's hidden gems, consider visiting the nearby village of Rastoke, known for its traditional watermills and waterfalls. It is about a 30-minute drive from Plitvice Lakes, but worth a visit if you have the time.

Late Afternoon: Leisurely Walk and Photography

After your picnic, return to the trails for some leisurely walking. Make your way to the various viewpoints, such as the large platform overlooking the cascading waterfalls. Focus on capturing the landscapes in the late afternoon light for stunning photographs.

Evening: Departure

As your weekend in Plitvice Lakes comes to a close, consider enjoying one last dinner at a local eatery. The informal atmosphere of a konoba (traditional tavern) can be a nice way to end your adventure, with meals averaging €15-40 and offering hearty traditional Croatian fare.

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to enter Plitvice Lakes?

The entrance fee for Plitvice Lakes is about €30-50 for adults during high season (April to October) and around €20-30 during the off-peak season. Children under 7 can enter for free, while those aged 7-18 get a discounted rate of around €10-20.

What are the best trails for hiking in Plitvice Lakes?

The National Park features several well-marked trails suitable for various fitness levels. Trail A primarily covers the Lower Lakes and is about 3-4 kilometers, while Trail B explores the Upper Lakes and is around 4-5 kilometers. Both routes are rich in stunning scenery and provide a good overview of the park.

Can I stay overnight in Plitvice Lakes?

Yes, there are various accommodation options ranging from hotels and hostels to guesthouses. Prices range from around €40 to around €120-190 per night depending on the season and amenities. Booking in advance during the summer months is recommended.

What should I bring for a trip to Plitvice Lakes?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, a camera for photography, and any necessary hiking gear. A refillable water bottle is advisable, as there are plenty of refill stations around the park.

Is it possible to explore the park in one day?

While it's possible to visit essential parts of Plitvice Lakes in a single day, a weekend allows for a more relaxed experience. You can explore both the Lower and Upper Lakes at a comfortable pace, enjoying the scenery and wildlife without rushing.

Ready to go

Ready to book your adventure? Browse experiences in Croatia on Roundtripski. Keep planning with the adventure guide to Krka and the adventure guide to Hvar.