Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Split — Guided Group Tour
About This Tour
Visit Croatia's #1 natural wonder on this full-day guided group tour from Split. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 16 terraced turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls, cascading through ancient beech and fir forests. Your guide leads you along wooden boardwalks suspended over crystal-clear water, past the thundering Great Waterfall (Veliki Slap at 78 meters — Croatia's tallest), through flowering meadows, and into hidden caves formed by thousands of years of travertine deposits. After the walking trail, rest your feet with a scenic electric boat ride across one of the larger lakes and a panoramic train ride through the forest. The 3.5-hour drive from Split passes through the Croatian interior — a completely different landscape from the coast — with live commentary from your guide. At just €65 per person (park entry paid separately on arrival), this is the most affordable way to experience Plitvice from Split.
Tour Highlights
- 16 terraced turquoise lakes — UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Veliki Slap — Croatia's tallest waterfall at 78 meters
- Wooden boardwalks suspended over crystal-clear water
- Electric boat ride & panoramic train through the park
- Licensed guide with live commentary on the drive
- Most affordable Plitvice day trip from Split at €65
What's Included
Included
- Air-conditioned bus transportation
- Licensed tour guide
- Insurance
- Fuel surcharge
Not Included
- Plitvice Lakes entrance fee (paid in cash on arrival — see FAQ for prices)
- Food & drinks
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes — boardwalks can be wet and slippery
- Cash for park entrance fee (€35 adults in summer, €21 in spring/autumn)
- Student card if applicable — discounted entry available
- Packed lunch or snacks — food options in the park are limited and overpriced
- Rain jacket — Plitvice has its own microclimate and showers are common
- Camera — the turquoise water is surreal in photos
- Water bottle — refill at natural springs in the park
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Plitvice Lakes entrance fee in 2026?
The park entrance fee is NOT included in the tour price and must be paid in cash (euros) on arrival. Summer prices (June–September): Adults €35, Students €24, Children 7–18 €13, Children under 7 free. Spring/autumn prices (April, May, October): Adults €21, Students €13, Children 7–18 €5, Children under 7 free. Bring your student card for the discount.
Is Plitvice Lakes worth the 12-hour day trip from Split?
Absolutely. Plitvice is Croatia's most visited national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason — 16 turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls in an ancient forest. The 3.5-hour drive each way passes through beautiful Croatian countryside, and your guide provides live commentary. Most visitors call it the highlight of their Croatia trip.
What is the difference between the group and private Plitvice tours?
The group tour (€65/person, 12h) travels by bus with other guests and follows a set schedule. Private tours (from €580/group) include a dedicated vehicle, flexible timing, hotel pickup, and a personal guide. The group tour is the most affordable option; the private tour offers freedom and comfort for families or small groups.
Can you swim in Plitvice Lakes?
No — swimming is strictly prohibited in Plitvice Lakes to protect the fragile travertine ecosystem. However, you can enjoy the electric boat ride across the lake and walk along boardwalks just centimeters above the water. If you want to swim in a national park, consider our Krka Waterfalls tour instead.
What should I wear and bring to Plitvice Lakes?
Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip — boardwalks can be wet and slippery. Bring cash for the entrance fee, a rain jacket (Plitvice gets rain even on sunny coastal days), packed lunch or snacks, and a water bottle. The walking portion covers approximately 6–8 km on mostly flat boardwalks and forest paths.
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