Plitvice Lakes National Park: How to Spend 2 Amazing Days from Zagreb

Croatia’s coastline and charming towns are dreamy, but for me, Plitvice Lakes National Park is where the real magic happens!

This magical wonderland is just a short trip from Zagreb (132 kilometers ), and it’s like stepping into a fairytale. Imagine crystal-clear lakes and cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for relaxation and exploration, promising an unforgettable two-day escape. Trust me, you’ll fall in love!

Why Visit Plitvice?

• 16 Turquoise Lakes: Imagine 16 staggering turquoise lakes, each one connected by over 90 cascading waterfalls. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed on your Croatia itinerary!
• Perfect Location: Plitvice is smack dab between Zagreb and the coastal city of Zadar, making it super easy to visit.

Ready to Dive In? I’ve mapped out a perfect 2-day Plitvice Lakes itinerary to help you plan your adventure. We’ll cover everything you need to know:

• Getting There: We’ll explore the best ways to reach Plitvice from Zagreb, whether by bus, car, or even a private tour.
• Conquering the Trails: From easy strolls to challenging hikes, we’ll find the perfect route for your fitness level and time constraints.
• Finding Your Home Base: Discover comfortable accommodation options within the park or nearby towns.
• Securing Your Tickets: Learn insider tips on how to book your tickets in advance and avoid disappointment.

So, lace up your walking shoes, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the magic of Plitvice Lakes National Park! Let’s explore this Croatian national park together!

Bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park awaits, and reaching it from Zagreb is a breeze! The most convenient and budget-friendly option is by bus, with daily departures dropping you off near Entrance 2 of the park.

Here’s how to make your journey smooth:

• Book Online: For guaranteed seats and the best fares, book your bus tickets online in advance. Popular options include FlixBus and GetByBus, but compare schedules and prices across different providers to find the perfect fit for your travel style and budget.
• Direct or Connecting Routes: Some buses offer direct routes, while others connect through other cities. Consider travel time and frequency when making your choice.
• Sit Back & Relax: Once you’ve secured your tickets, enjoy the scenic journey towards your Croatian nature escape! Plitvice Lakes National Park awaits with its breathtaking waterfalls, turquoise waters, and lush forests.

Buying Your Plitvice Lakes National Park Tickets

Plitvice Lakes National Park is calling your name, but let’s make sure you’re ready for adventure! Before you hit the trails, grab your park ticket online. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later. Skip those long lines and dive straight into the Plitvice magic. It’s like having a VIP pass to this watery wonderland!

Ticketing Tips for a Smooth Journey:

• Head to the Official Website: The official Plitvice Lakes website is your trusted source for the latest ticket information. Prices vary depending on age and visitor status (adult, child, student, etc.), so be sure to check the current rates before booking.
• Choose Your Entrance Wisely: The park has 2 entrances, so factor in your planned itinerary when making your selection. Remember, once you’ve chosen your entrance, there’s no switching!

Adult Tickets – Entry fees 2024:

• Jan, Feb, March & Nov, December: 10 Euro or 11.85 US$
• April, May & October: 23.5 Euro or 26.5 US$
• June, July, August & September: 40 Euro or 44.5 US$

Parks Opening Hours

Seasons	Months	Park Opens	Park Closes	Last entry
Winter	November to March	08:00	16:00	14:00
Spring	April & May	08:00	19:00	17:00
Summer	June & August	07:00	20:00	18:00
Autumn/Fall	September & October	07:00 / 08:00	18:00 / 19:00	16:00 /17:00

With your ticket secured and park entrance sorted, you’re all set to embark on an unforgettable adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park! Now, let’s delve into the park’s must-see trails and hidden gems.

2-Day Plitvice Lakes Itinerary

How Much Time Should You Spend at Plitvice Lakes?

Plitvice Lakes is Croatia’s crown jewel, a UNESCO wonder that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. To truly experience its magic, plan on dedicating 2 days in Plitvice National Park . Immerse yourself in a fairytale of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush greenery. While a single day can offer a glimpse of this natural wonder, two days allow you to uncover hidden corners and truly connect with Plitvice’s soul.

Day 1: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes

• Take the bus from Zagreb: Catch an early morning bus for a scenic 2-hour ride to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
• Entrance & Hike: Purchase tickets at Entrance 2 (or book online beforehand). Start your hike clockwise through the Lower Lakes, allowing 2-3 hours to reach boat dock P3.
  • I did Hiking Trail H on this day
• Boat Ride: Take the shuttle boat across Lake Kozjak from P3 to P2.
• Upper Lakes: Continue hiking north via the Upper Lakes, passing Lake Galovac and its falls. It’s a 2-hour walk to P1.
• Overnight Stay: Check-in to your hotel near Entrance 1 or 2 for a comfortable night within the park.

Day 2: Explore Remaining Lakes and Waterfalls

• Free Shuttle: Ride the free park shuttle from your hotel to Entrance 1 around 8am. (My hotel was near entrance 2)
• Remaining Trails: Spend the morning hiking the remaining Upper and Lower Lakes trails southbound back to P3, about 4-5 hours.
• Lunch Break: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the P3 restaurant (don’t miss the trout!).
• Final Boat & Hike: Take the boat back to P2 and hike to Entrance 2 where you started.
• Departure: Head back to Zagreb or continue your Croatian adventure!

Plitvice: Your Own Adventure Awaits!

Plitvice Lakes National Park has a ton of trails, so don’t get overwhelmed! There are 7 routes choose from, perfect for any explorer. Here’s how to navigate your Plitvice adventure:

• Plitvice is a wonderland of waterfalls and emerald lakes, and with seven different trails, you can create your perfect adventure. Want to focus on one area or mix and match? You’re in control!
  • I personally loved hiking Trail H on my first day to see the highlights.
  • Day 2 – I just wandered around taking it all in.
• Don’t worry if the maps seem confusing at first – the park is super easy to navigate with clear signs.
  • And if you need help, friendly park staff or your hotel can point you in the right direction.

Remember, Plitvice is all about slowing down and soaking up the magic. Take your time, enjoy the views, and let the sound of the waterfalls be your soundtrack!

Explore Beyond the Main Trails: Hikes Near Plitvice Lakes National Park

For an extra dose of nature, consider adding the Medvedak Ostri hike to your Plitvice Lakes adventure. This scenic forest trail near Entrance 2 offers a refreshing change of pace, showcasing the lush greenery surrounding the park’s iconic waterfalls and lakes.

Where to Stay Near Plitvice Lakes National Park

This post contains affiliate links. I will receive a small commission for purchases through these links at no cost to you. I appreciate your support!

Ready to recharge after a day of waterfall wowing? Let’s talk cozy places to crash!

Hotels inside Plitvice National Park:

• Hotel Jezero: This parkside gem is your ultimate basecamp for exploring Plitvice. Imagine waking up to stunning lake views and stepping right into the park.
  • The hotel offers comfortable rooms, delicious regional cuisine at their on-site restaurant, and is a short walk from Entrance 2.
• Bonus Tip: Check their website for park ticket deals and packages that can extend your ticket to cover your entire stay, saving you time and money!
  • I only had to buy a 1-day ticket and they extended it for my second day at the park!

Exploring Nearby Villages: Hotels Near Plitvice Lakes

• Village Vibes: Craving a more local feel? Check out Mukinje or Rastovača. These nearby villages have cute hotels, guesthouses, and apartments with that authentic charm.

Remember: No matter where you choose to stay, booking in advance, especially during peak season, is highly recommended.

Unveiling Plitvice Lakes 2 Day Itinerary

From planning to exploring, we’ve got you covered for your Plitvice adventure! With seven amazing trails, you can totally customize your trip. I loved hiking Trail H, but there are so many hidden gems to discover.

Plitvice is super easy to navigate, so don’t stress about getting lost. Whether you’re a chill explorer or a thrill-seeking adventurer, these Croatia Lakes have something magical in store. So lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and get ready to be amazed!

Want more Croatian magic? Check out my blog for the ultimate travel bucket list: “10 Must See Destinations in Croatia for an Unforgettable Journey“ !