Private Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke tour with drop off in Split

If you’re planning to spend some time in Croatia and want a taste of its most breathtaking scenery, this private tour from Zagreb to Split is worth considering. The package offers a full day of exploring UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes, the charming village of Rastoke, and finishing up right in Split. We haven’t taken this particular tour ourselves, but based on detailed descriptions, reviews, and its features, it seems like a solid choice for those who want a hassle-free way to pack a lot into one day.

What immediately catches your eye is the personalized experience—a private guide, door-to-door service, and no need to worry about navigating or ticket queues. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a scenic boat cruise makes it a convenient, all-in-one package. We also love that it’s tailored for travelers with limited time, helping you see some of Croatia’s natural gems in just about 10 hours.

However, a key consideration is that entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes are not included, which could mean extra cost and a bit of planning on your part. Also, since this is a full day trip with multiple stops, it requires moderate physical activity, particularly for walking in the national park—something to keep in mind if you’re less mobile or traveling with young children.

This tour seems best suited for nature lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a guided, worry-free day out that combines scenic beauty with cultural interest. If you’re after flexibility, or prefer exploring independently, it might feel a bit structured. But for those who value comfort, expert guidance, and a curated experience, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience ensures your group gets undivided attention from guides.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics much simpler.
• Visit two unique spots—Rastoke village and Plitvice Lakes—on the same day.
• Scenic boat and train rides help you enjoy the best parts of Plitvice Lakes easily.
• Entrance fees are not included at Plitvice Lakes, so budget accordingly.
• Good value for the price when you consider the comprehensive itinerary and convenience.

Why This Tour Might Be a Great Fit

This tour is designed for travelers who want to maximize their day without the hassle of planning details. If you’re arriving in Zagreb and want to see one of Croatia’s most famous natural sites—the stunning Plitvice Lakes—but also want to include a charming stop at Rastoke village, this tour hits the mark.

The private transport makes for a comfortable ride, and the guided aspect ensures you won’t miss out on interesting facts or hidden gems along the way. Plus, ending in Split saves you the trouble of returning to Zagreb or navigating public transport after a long day.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Rastoke Village

Your journey begins with a quick 30-minute stop at Rastoke, a picturesque village famed for its waterfalls and watermills. The photos you’ll take here are well worth it—think winding streams, historic watermills, and charming houses. From the reviews, it sounds like this part of the trip is all about capturing beautiful moments and enjoying the peaceful vibe of the village.

The admission is included, so you get to wander freely and soak in the scenery without extra charges. We love this early stop because it provides a gentle start—and a chance to stretch your legs—before heading into the more expansive National Park.

Stop 2: Plitvice Lakes National Park

The highlight of the day, naturally, is Plitvice Lakes National Park. Known globally for its terraced lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery, it’s a must-see for nature lovers. Your guide will take you through the most beautiful parts of the park, and—you’ll love the boat cruise and train ride—these are great ways to see the park’s key sights without getting exhausted.

While the admission tickets are not included, the tour’s cost typically covers the guided experience, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase tickets at the gate. Expect around four hours here, which should give you enough time to see Veliki Slap waterfall and some of the park’s best viewpoints.

From the reviews, travelers find the experience highly rewarding, with one reviewer describing the park as “amazing,” and noting that the road to Split was pleasant. The convenience of having a guide means you’ll get plenty of insights into the park’s geology and geography, making it more meaningful than just wandering on your own.

Stop 3: Drop-off in Split

The final highlight is the drop-off at your Split accommodation. This makes the day even more convenient, especially since Split is a major hub for exploring further. The one-hour stop at Old Split allows a quick look at the historic center, though the main focus remains on the journey and the scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour ticks several boxes in terms of value. All taxes, fees, bottled water, and a local guide are included, along with hotel pickup and drop-off—which is a real bonus. The private transportation guarantees comfort and flexibility, with air conditioning to help you beat any Croatian summer heat.

The big consideration is that entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes are not included, which means you’ll need to budget additional funds. The tour’s price is competitive given the length and the all-in-one nature, but travelers should be aware of potential extra costs.

Food isn’t included, so plan for lunch on your own. There are usually options available near the park or in Rastoke, but you’ll want to bring snacks or plan a meal accordingly.

Transport and Timing

Starting at 8:00 am, the tour is designed for a full day of sightseeing, wrapping up around 6 pm. The private coach or minivan ensures a quiet, comfortable ride, and the moderate physical activity involved makes it suitable for most travelers in decent shape.

The small group aspect—since it’s private—means you can tailor the experience to your interests, though the itinerary itself is quite structured.

The Experience From Real Travelers

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “We had an amazing day! The service before booking was great, our guide Marko was super polite and helpful, the car was good and clean, the park was amazing, and even the road to Split was pleasant.” Such feedback highlights that the tour is well-organized and offers a genuinely enjoyable experience.

Another comment points out that the scenic views and the guide’s knowledge significantly enhance the experience, making the day both informative and visually rewarding.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable walking shoes—the park involves some walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring water and snacks; although bottled water is provided, extra sustenance helps during busy days.
• Remember that entrance fees are not included—budget for this in advance.
• The tour’s timing means you’ll want to be ready at 8 am, so plan your morning accordingly.
• If you’re traveling with mobility issues, check with the provider beforehand about any specific accessibility concerns, as moderate physical activity is expected.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a stress-free way to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful natural sights, this trip fits the bill. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time, who want a guided experience without sacrificing comfort. Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone wanting a scenic break from urban sightseeing will enjoy what’s on offer.

It’s also an excellent choice if you prefer private, personalized service over large group tours. Just note, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to explore independently, the extra costs for entrance fees and meals might make this less ideal.

FAQs

Are entrance fees to Plitvice Lakes included? No, they aren’t included in the tour price. You’ll need to purchase tickets separately at the entrance, so budget accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or families? The description doesn’t specify, but since it involves moderate physical activity and walking, travelers should consider their children’s comfort levels.

How long is the drive from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes? The total tour duration is about 10 hours, which includes the drive, stops, and sightseeing.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I bring on the tour? Wear comfortable shoes, bring water, and consider packing some snacks or a light lunch, as food isn’t included.

What is the tour’s main highlight? Most travelers rave about the stunning scenery of Plitvice Lakes and the charming Rastoke village, with the boat and train rides being a real plus.

Is this tour available year-round? The information doesn’t specify, but given the scenic outdoor nature, it’s best to check with the provider about seasonal availability.

What’s the typical group size? Since it’s a private tour, it’s just your group, which allows for a tailored experience and personalized attention from your guide.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke, ending in Split, offers a well-rounded, scenic experience for those who want to see Croatia’s natural beauty without the stress of planning every detail. The inclusion of hotel pickup, guided tours, and transport makes it especially appealing to travelers who prefer comfort and convenience.

While the additional cost for park entrance tickets is something to keep in mind, many find that the quality of the experience and the ease of having everything arranged makes it worthwhile. The knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the chance to visit two distinct spots ensure you’ll walk away with memorable sights—and plenty of great photos.

This trip is best suited for nature enthusiasts, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to make the most of a single day in Croatia’s spectacular outdoors. For those who love guided experiences and want to avoid the hassles of self-driving or navigating public transport, it’s a smart pick.

Happy travels, and may your Croatian adventures be filled with beauty, good company, and the perfect shot of Veliki Slap!