Exploring the Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb: A Detailed Look
If you’re thinking about adding a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park during your Croatia trip, this private tour from Zagreb might be just what you need. From what we’ve gathered, travelers seem genuinely happy with this experience, frequently rating it a perfect 5 out of 5. That’s no small feat, especially considering how many options there are for exploring this UNESCO World Heritage site.
What makes this tour appealing? First, it’s a private experience, meaning you and your group get exclusive attention, personalized commentary, and the freedom to adapt your day. Second, the all-inclusive nature, especially the tickets and transportation, simplifies logistics—something we all appreciate when traveling. But, it’s worth pointing out that the tour lasts around 8 to 10 hours, so it’s a full day trip, which might be a long one for some.
One potential consideration is the physical effort involved—you’ll need moderate fitness to fully enjoy the walkways and trails in the park. If hiking isn’t your thing or you have mobility limitations, it might be worth considering how much time you’ll want to spend on your feet. That said, this tour is best suited for those who love nature, waterfalls, and a bit of adventure, and who value a more tailored experience over a crowded group tour.
Overall, if you’re after a well-organized, insightful, and scenic day trip that takes care of transportation and tickets, this tour hits the right notes. It’s particularly good for travelers who want a more private, flexible, and comfortable way to see Plitvice without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
Key Points

- Private Experience: Perfect for those who prefer exclusivity and tailored attention.
- All-Inclusive: Transport and park tickets are included, simplifying your day.
- Flexible & Personalized: Guides customize the route and commentary based on your group’s interests.
- Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off at your hotel save you time and effort.
- Focus on Nature: The tour takes in the park’s waterfalls and lakes, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.
- Good Value: The price reflects the private, customized experience, making it a worthwhile splurge for nature lovers.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Zagreb
The Itinerary in Detail

Departure from Zagreb & the Journey to Plitvice
The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a real plus—you don’t have to worry about finding meeting points among the bustling streets of Zagreb. From there, you’ll hop into a private vehicle with your guide, heading south towards the mountainous Lika region, which offers a scenic drive full of Croatian countryside views.
The 2-hour drive (roughly) is part of the fun—since it’s just your group and a guide, you’ll get plenty of conversation, local insights, and perhaps some good music to set the mood for the day.
Exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park
Once at the park, you’ll have about 6 hours to explore its stunning landscape. The entrance ticket is already included, which is helpful; no need to worry about buying tickets on the spot.
The park features 16 lakes connected by a series of waterfalls and cascades, creating a landscape that looks like an artist’s masterpiece. Reviewers rave about the beautiful waterfalls and crystal-clear waters. One reviewer said, “Lake Plitvice is so beautiful and worth the trip,” which seems to echo most visitors’ sentiments.
Your guide will lead you along trails suited to your group’s pace and interests, offering custom commentary—a real advantage over busy group tours. As one reviewer pointed out, Ana was “punctual, knowledgeable, and conducted our tour according to our kids’ interests,” making it clear that guides are flexible and attentive.
Highlights & Experiences
You can expect to see some of Croatia’s most iconic scenery—calm lakes, roaring waterfalls, lush greenery, and perhaps some wildlife. Even on a rainy day, some reviewers still found it breathtaking, with one saying it was “the most beautiful place I’ve ever seen,” despite the weather.
While the tour doesn’t include lunch, you’re encouraged to bring snacks or plan for a break. Bottled water, coffee, and tea are provided, helping you stay refreshed.
While in Zagreb, here are other experiences we've covered
- Plitvice and Rastoke day trip from Zagreb w/ticket (guar. dep.)
- Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke Day Trip from Zagreb with Entry Ticket
- Plitvice & Rastoke guided tour w/ticket from Zagreb (8pax) EN/ES
- Transfer from Zagreb to Split with Entry Ticket to Plitvice Lakes
- From Zagreb: Rastoke and Plitvice Guided Trip with Ticket
- Zagreb: Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket
The Return Trip
After enjoying the park for about six hours, you’ll head back to Zagreb. The private transportation makes the whole process smooth and stress-free, especially after a day of walking and sightseeing.
Authentic Traveler Insights

From multiple reviews, it’s clear that the guides make a big difference. Ana, in particular, gets high praise for her knowledge and personable approach. One reviewer said, “Ana Marie was informative and gave us history and explanations along the way.” This personalized touch turns a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.
Another perk is the flexibility. As Sarah shared, “Ana was able to make changes to plans quickly based on long lines.” If you’re worried about crowds or want to prioritize certain areas, having a guide who can adapt makes the day more enjoyable.
A few reviewers mentioned the moderate physical fitness requirement, so be prepared for some walking. The trails are extensive, but the pace is typically manageable. If you’re traveling with kids or less mobile travelers, it’s worth considering their stamina.
Pricing & Value
At around $419.63 per person, this private tour is a bit of an investment. But when you consider the exclusive transportation, guided commentary, park entry tickets, and hotel pickup/drop-off, it offers quite a lot of value. The convenience and personalized experience often justify the price, especially for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, curated outing rather than navigating public transport or large tour groups.
Some might compare this to larger group tours that cost less but lack the same level of attention and flexibility. It’s about weighing comfort and customization versus savings.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you appreciate personalized service, want to avoid the crowds, or are traveling with a small group that desires flexibility, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want to really take their time soaking in the waterfalls and lakes without feeling hurried.
It’s also suitable for those who might find the logistics of visiting on their own daunting, since everything from transportation to tickets is handled. However, travelers should be prepared for a full day of walking and standing, so this isn’t the best choice for anyone with mobility concerns.
Final Thoughts

This private trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb offers a comfortable, flexible, and scenic way to see one of Croatia’s most stunning natural sites. The combination of private transport, a dedicated guide, and all tickets included means you can focus on enjoying the landscape rather than stressing over logistics.
The tour’s high reviews for knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and good value make it stand out among other options. While it’s a longer day, it’s well-suited for those who want to deeply experience Plitvice at a comfortable pace, with the added benefit of customization.
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to explore this UNESCO site with a small, private group—and you’re okay with a full day out—this tour could be a great fit.
Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with ticket included
“Ana was an awesome host, in spite of the wet weather. The tour was very educational and enjoyable. Of course, Lake Plitvice is so beautiful and wor…”
FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, the manageable pace and personalized guidance can make it suitable. Just keep in mind the moderate physical activity involved.
How long does the tour last?
Expect around 8 to 10 hours from start to finish, including transportation, park exploration, and return.
What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes, bottled water, coffee, and tea.
Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the guide focuses on your group and provides commentary tailored to your interests, which means you can prioritize what you want to see.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. You should plan to bring snacks or eat in the park’s facilities.
What about weather?
Rain can occur, but most reviewers still found the experience beautiful. Dress appropriately and carry rain gear if needed.
How big is the group?
This is a private tour for up to eight people, providing a more intimate experience.
Is the tour available year-round?
While specific seasons aren’t mentioned, this type of tour typically runs whenever the park is open, weather permitting.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and weather-appropriate clothing is advised depending on the season.
If you’re after a thoughtfully curated, scenic, and relaxed way to see Plitvice Lakes, this private tour looks like a solid choice. The combination of ease, personalized guidance, and stunning views makes it a memorable day out—worthy of your Croatian adventure.
More Private Tours in Zagreb
- 3 Day Private Tour: Zagreb-Plitvice-Split-Mostar-Dubrovnik
- From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Private Day Tour
- Zagreb Departure Private Transfers from Zagreb City to Zagreb Airport ZAG
- Private Plitvice lakes and Rastoke day tour from Zagreb
- Private transfer Zagreb to Split or Split to Zagreb
- Eclectic Private Walking Tour in Zagreb
More Tickets in Zagreb
- Private Plitvice Lakes Tour – Day Trip from Zagreb (entrance ticket included)
- Zagreb: Museum of Illusions Entrance Ticket
- From Zagreb: Rastoke and Plitvice Guided Trip with Ticket
- Transfer from Zagreb to Split with Entry Ticket to Plitvice Lakes
- Plitvice & Rastoke guided tour w/ticket from Zagreb (8pax) EN/ES
- Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke Day Trip from Zagreb with Entry Ticket
More Tour Reviews in Zagreb
- 3 Day Private Tour: Zagreb-Plitvice-Split-Mostar-Dubrovnik
- Bustling Belgrade Day Tour
- From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Private Day Tour
- Croatian Folklore Show Live Performance Experience
- From Zagreb to Varadin: Market, Food & Winery Tasting Tour
- Taste Zagreb Heritage Wine Tasting with Traditional Lunch
More Zagreb experiences we've covered
- 3 Day Private Tour: Zagreb-Plitvice-Split-Mostar-Dubrovnik
- Bustling Belgrade Day Tour
- From Zagreb: Ljubljana and Lake Bled Private Day Tour
- Croatian Folklore Show Live Performance Experience
- From Zagreb to Varadin: Market, Food & Winery Tasting Tour
- Taste Zagreb Heritage Wine Tasting with Traditional Lunch
- Private Trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with ticket included
- Museum of Lost Tales Zagreb
- Zagreb: 2.5-Hour Cycle Back to Socialism Tour
- Private Plitvice lakes and Rastoke day tour from Zagreb
- Zagreb to Split via Plitvice Lakes (3 hours stop is included)
- Private transfer Zagreb to Split or Split to Zagreb


