Plitvicka Jezera is one of the oldest and most beautiful national parks in Croatia. Also known as Plitvice Lakes National Park, the UNESCO World Heritage Site will mesmerise you with its crystalline lakes, cascading waterfalls and lush greenery.
Things to do in Plitvicka Jezera
Plitvicka Jezera is known for its exceptional natural beauty and is one of the top hiking destinations in Croatia. Within the park are 16 crystal-clear lakes, connected by a series of cascades and waterfalls. The colours of the lakes are mesmerising and range from cobalt blue to bright turquoise.
Almost 20 kilometres of paths and wooden boardwalks wind through the park and take you past the postcard-perfect lakes and waterfalls. As you hike through the park, watch for native wildlife, including deer, wild boar and wolves. If you’re extremely lucky, you could spot rare brown bears. Electric boats run on the largest lakes and are a great way to shave off walking times.
At 78 metres high, Veliki Slap thunders down a limestone cliff and is one of the largest and most impressive waterfalls in the country. From the lookout, you’ll get spectacular views over the waterfall and the aquamarine lakes that feed it.
In and around Plitvicka Jezera you’ll find cafes and restaurants serving mouth-watering Croatian food. Fill up on black risotto made with squid ink, “boškarin” oxtail soup and rich Croatian stew. Finish with a glass of syrupy maraschino cherry liqueur.
Getting around Plitvicka Jezera
Plitvicka Jezera is located on the Croatian/Bosnian border, a two-hour drive from Zadar and Zagreb. If you’re exploring the park on foot, allow roughly six hours to see everything. For shorter visits, take advantage of the free shuttle buses and boats that run from the main entrance to the upper lakes. Franjo Tuđman Airport Zagreb is a two-hour drive away.