Split: Self-Guided Plitvice Lakes Day Tour with Boat Ride

Taking a trip to Croatia isn’t complete without experiencing the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park. This tour offers a chance to see one of the country’s most famous natural wonders at your own pace, departing from Split. Whether you’re a nature lover, a fan of scenic landscapes, or just looking for a day away from the city, this experience is designed to deliver.

What we find particularly appealing about this tour is its flexibility—you get to explore the park on your own terms without the pressure of a guided group, plus the inclusion of boat and train rides that bring a bit of adventure and comfort to your day. The price point of $59 makes it accessible for most travelers, especially given what’s included.

That said, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Entry tickets aren’t included in the price, so you’ll need to pay cash on the day, which might be a small inconvenience if you’re unprepared. Also, since it’s a self-guided experience, it’s best if you’re comfortable navigating on your own or following some basic instructions.

In general, this tour suits travelers who want to see the lakes without the constraints of a guided tour, enjoy scenic rides, and appreciate exploring at their own pace. It’s perfect for those who value a mix of guided transport with free time to wander and take photos.

Key Points

• Flexible & Self-Guided: You choose how long to stay at each part of the park, making it great for personalized experiences.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned coach, boat, and train rides ensure you stay comfortable while exploring.
• Affordable Price: At $59 per person, it offers good value when considering the transportation, boat, and train components.
• Includes Scenic Rides: The boat cruise and woodland train are highlights, offering both views and a relaxing way to move between park sections.
• Entry Tickets Extra: You’ll need to pay for park entry on the day in cash, which varies depending on the season.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.9/5 rating from over 1,400 reviews, most travelers find it well-organized and worthwhile.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Getting to Know the Experience

This tour is designed for those who want to enjoy Croatia’s scenic beauty without being tied to a strict schedule. The journey begins with a comfortable bus ride from Split, which also serves as a chance to learn some local facts from the onboard commentary. As you approach the park, the anticipation builds—this is one of Croatia’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Once inside, the real magic begins. You’re free to roam the wooden pathways that hug the lakes’ edges, offering close-up views of the crystal-clear waters, waterfalls, and lush greenery. The wooden boardwalks are a signature feature, giving you the feeling of walking on the water itself. If you’re a photographer—or just someone who loves capturing nature’s artwork—you’ll find endless opportunities here.

One of the tour’s big pluses is the scenic boat ride on the lower lakes. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the waterfalls from a different perspective—sailing through terraced lakes with the rushing water creating a soothing soundtrack. The boat ride is also an excellent spot for snapping some memorable photos.

To explore further, travelers hop on a climate-controlled woodland train, which takes you through the forested sections of the park. This means you don’t have to worry about tiring out on your feet; instead, you get a comfortable ride amidst the trees, with views that are just as captivating as walking.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package includes bus transportation, the panoramic boat ride, and the electric train ride. These features are designed to maximize your experience without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself. The insurance included provides peace of mind, so you can focus on enjoying your day.

However, entry to the park is not included and must be paid in cash on the spot. The prices fluctuate depending on the time of year—costing around €39.80 for adults during peak season (June to September), with discounts for students and children. During the quieter months (January to March, November, December), the fee drops significantly to around €10 for adults.

Notably, guides are not included in this tour, which can be a pro or con depending on your style. Many reviews highlight the benefit of going at your own pace, especially if you’re familiar with the park or prefer to explore without a group. Some travelers mention that even without a guide, they received helpful info via the bus or WhatsApp group, or from the friendly driver and staff.

The Journey: Comfort and Timing

The bus ride from Split to Plitvice takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours each way, with stops for bathroom breaks and snacks. While this is a long day, most reviews agree it’s worth it for the scenery and experience. The coach is described as comfortable and modern, with some reviewers noting the onboard commentary is informative.

Once at the park, the actual exploration can take around 4-5 hours, depending on how much time you wish to spend at various points. Many reviews mention that the walk is flat and manageable, with some travelers saying they covered around 8 miles. The boat and train rides break up the walking and add a relaxing component to the day.

Timing is flexible—you can start your self-guided exploration directly upon entry, or take advantage of the planned schedule to ensure you see the highlights like Veliki Slap, the largest waterfall, and the lower lakes.

The Value for Money

At $59, the tour provides a solid value considering the transportation, boat, and train rides, which alone can cost extra if booked separately. The main cost not included is the park entry fee, which varies seasonally. For those who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transport or tickets, this package simplifies everything.

Multiple reviews highlight the good value for the experience. For example, one traveler appreciated the way the long bus ride was made enjoyable thanks to the guide’s humor and storytelling. Others praised the opportunity to explore at their own pace, making it a flexible alternative to guided group tours that can feel rushed or crowded.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience suits travelers who are comfortable navigating on their own or enjoy exploring at their speed. If you’re a confident walker and want to customize your trip, you’ll love the freedom to linger at the lakes or take quick breaks. The scenic boat and train rides are excellent for those who prefer a more relaxed way to see the park.

It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling solo or as a couple, who want a straightforward, affordable way to visit Plitvice Lakes without the complexities of guided tours. However, if you prefer guided commentary or detailed storytelling, you might find this less satisfying.

Despite not being suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, the tour’s flat terrain and scenic rides make it accessible for most able-bodied travelers who enjoy outdoor walking and natural beauty.

The Sum Up

All in all, this self-guided day tour from Split to Plitvice Lakes offers a balanced mix of comfort, flexibility, and breathtaking scenery. It’s especially appealing for independent travelers who want to manage their own pace while enjoying included scenic rides that highlight the park’s best features. The high review rating and positive feedback from past travelers point to a well-organized experience that truly delivers.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, affordable way to see one of Croatia’s most iconic national parks, this tour likely hits the spot. It’s perfect for nature lovers who want freedom, scenic views, and the convenience of organized transportation—all at a reasonable price. Just remember to bring cash for your park tickets, and be prepared for a long but worthwhile day.

FAQ

Are the entry tickets included in the price?
No, entry tickets are not included. You’ll need to pay for them in cash on the day, with prices varying based on the season.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the reviews don’t specifically mention children, the flat terrain and scenic rides suggest it could be manageable for older kids. However, very young children or those needing wheelchair access might find it less suitable.

Can I explore the park on my own?
Yes, this is a self-guided tour, so you’re free to wander at your own pace once inside. The included transportation and rides help make your day more comfortable.

How long does the trip take overall?
The bus ride from Split takes about 3.5 hours each way, and you’ll spend around 4-5 hours inside the park exploring and enjoying the rides.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are a must, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. Cash is needed for park entry, and a camera or smartphone for photos.

Is there any guided commentary?
No, guides are not included during the park exploration. However, onboard commentary during the bus ride provides some background info, and the reviews suggest the experience is still quite informative.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
This tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users or pregnant women, mainly due to the nature of the terrain and walking involved.

What’s the best time of year to visit?
Peak season (June-September) has higher entrance fees but likely better weather. The quieter months (January-March, November-December) are cheaper but might have cooler weather.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot now without paying upfront. Payment for park tickets is made in cash on the day of the tour.

This self-guided Plitvice Lakes tour from Split combines the freedom of exploring at your pace with the comfort of included scenic rides—making it a fantastic way to see one of Croatia’s crown jewels without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: