From Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour with Tickets

Exploring Croatia’s Natural Wonders: A Deep Dive into the Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zagreb

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and want to see one of its most breathtaking sights, a trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must. This tour offers a chance to visit this UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its cascading lakes, waterfalls, and lush woodlands. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a solid way to experience Croatia’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the inclusion of Rastoke village and the knowledgeable guides who make the journey both informative and enjoyable. The tour also seems to offer good value, considering it combines transportation, park entrance, and expert commentary—all for around $118 per person. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the length of the tour, which some might find a little long, especially if you’re not used to extensive walking or hiking.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day trip to one of Croatia’s most iconic natural sites, especially those who appreciate well-organized trips with expert guides. It’s also a good pick if you want to combine scenic village visits with the lakes, all in a single day.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Price: For $118, you get park entry, transportation, a guide, Wi-Fi, snacks, and water—making it straightforward and hassle-free.
• Beautiful Stops: The tour includes Rastoke village and the stunning Plitvice Lakes, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews highlight guides who are knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive—making the experience more engaging.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel is in a modern van or minibus with Wi-Fi, which is helpful for staying connected or entertained during the drive.
• Long but Rewarding: The overall length can feel a bit tiring, especially for those not accustomed to walking 8,000 meters or more.
• Weather Considerations: Since some reviews mention visiting in winter or in less-than-ideal weather, it’s good to prepare accordingly—though the scenery can be even more dramatic in winter.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary – What You Can Expect

Starting Point in Zagreb:
Your adventure begins at Nikola Ubi Zrinski Square, just a short walk from Ban Jelačić Square. The meeting spot is easy to find, and the tour company, Toural Travel, offers the convenience of a prepared guide. Expect to hop into a comfortable van equipped with Wi-Fi, snacks, and bottled water, which makes the roughly 2-hour drive feel more like part of the experience rather than just transportation.

Rastoke Village: A Charming Stop
Your first stop is the picturesque village of Rastoke. This place acts as a perfect introduction to Croatian scenery—small waterfalls, traditional watermills, and the Slunjica River flowing into the Korana River. It’s a lovely spot for stretching your legs and snapping some photos before heading into the national park. Several reviews mention how memorable Rastoke is, with travelers describing it as “a beautiful destination” and “a stop that leaves a lasting impression.”

Journey to Plitvice Lakes
After Rastoke, the trip continues toward Plitvice. The park entrance fee is included in the ticket price, so once you arrive, you’re free to explore without worrying about extra costs. The park’s entrance area offers a chance to see the marble travertine formations, which are part of the ongoing process shaping the landscape.

Walking Through the Park
Once inside, you’ll navigate winding paths that snake around the lakes, over wooden bridges, and past waterfalls. The highlight is the Large Waterfall (Veliki slap), standing 78 meters high. It’s a thunderous, awe-inspiring site that many reviews mention as a favorite. The natural beauty is hard to capture fully with photos, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to try.

The Lakes and Waterfalls
The 16 lakes are separated by travertine barriers, creating a series of cascading water features. Travelers describe the scenery as “incredibly beautiful,” and many note how well the park’s natural formations are preserved. The lakes are a vibrant turquoise, contrasting beautifully with the greenery around. Some visitors mention that the best views are accessible after a boat ride, which seems to be part of the route, adding to the sense of adventure.

Hiking and Overall Experience
The total walking distance is about 8,000 meters, which some find a bit long—especially if you’re not used to long hikes. An reviewer mentions it being “a bit hard to walk all 8,000 meters,” but others appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to see the park without rushing. The tour guides are lauded for their attentiveness, offering breaks and helping with mobility issues if needed.

Return and End of Tour
After a full day of exploring, the van will bring you back to the starting point in Zagreb. The entire experience typically lasts around 10 hours, making it a full-day commitment but one that’s packed with sights and stories.

The Value of This Tour

Considering the price and what’s included—park entry, transportation, a guide, Wi-Fi, snacks, and bottled water—this tour offers solid value. Many travelers comment on how the guides enhance the experience with interesting commentary on Croatia’s landscapes and history. The small group size, limited to around 8 people, ensures a more personalized experience, avoiding the chaos of larger tours.

Food and personal expenses aren’t included, so you might want to bring some extra snacks or plan to eat after the park visit, as park facilities mainly serve fast food. Several reviews suggest packing some food because the park’s restaurant options are limited and fast-food style.

What to Pack and Tips

• Comfortable walking shoes are a must, given the length and uneven terrain.
• Bring your passport or ID if you’re from the EU, as it’s needed for the park entry.
• Weather can vary; a raincoat is included if it rains, but flexible clothing and layers will keep you comfortable.
• Be prepared for a fair amount of walking—some reviews mention that the tour can be physically demanding, especially on hot days or for less active travelers.
• If you’re visiting in winter, be aware that some paths can be icy or frozen, making walking more challenging and limiting access to certain views.

Our Honest Take

This tour is a fantastic way to see Plitvice Lakes if you’re short on time or want a guided experience. The inclusion of Rastoke village is a lovely bonus, offering a taste of local life and history before the natural spectacle. Guides are consistently described as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which can make all the difference in a day full of walking and awe-inspiring views.

That said, be prepared for a full day with quite a bit of walking. If you have mobility issues or prefer shorter outings, this might not be your best option. Also, if you’re traveling during peak season, it’s worth noting that the park can get crowded, and some reviews suggest visiting in spring or winter for a quieter, more intimate experience.

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Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, first-time visitors wanting to tick off a must-see Croatian sight, and anyone comfortable with a full day of walking. It’s also perfect for those who value guided commentary that enriches the experience with local stories and facts. If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized day trip that covers the highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve your spot, especially during busy seasons, to ensure availability. You can book now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the park entrance fee, transportation in a comfortable van, a bilingual guide (English and Spanish), Wi-Fi, a snack, and bottled water.

Are there any extra costs?
You’ll need to cover your own lunch and any personal expenses. The park restaurants mainly serve fast food, so consider packing snacks if you want something more substantial.

How long is the tour?
The whole trip lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, park exploration, and breaks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly stated, but given the long walk and uneven terrain, it’s probably best suited for older children or those comfortable with hiking.

Can I visit in winter?
Yes, some reviews mention visiting in winter, where the park can be beautiful and less crowded. However, paths might be icy or frozen, so dress accordingly.

Do guides handle special needs?
The tour isn’t recommended for people with limited mobility. Guides will help with mobility issues but expect a fair amount of walking.

What is the meeting point?
At Nikola Ubi Zrinski Square, just a few minutes walk from Ban Jelačić Square—easy to find.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the guide’s commentary in English?
Yes, the guide speaks English and Spanish, depending on the option chosen.

All in all, this Plitvice Lakes tour offers a memorable, well-organized experience that balances stunning scenery with practical convenience. Whether it’s your first visit to Croatia or you’re eager to see the iconic lakes, it’s a trip worth considering—just pack your walking shoes and prepare for a day full of natural wonder.

You can check availability for your dates here: