Zeljava military airbase
History and adventure tour
Željava Airbase is arguably the second-best thing to do in the Plitvice area, right after the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. A guided tour of Željava takes you deep into Europe’s largest underground military airport, where massive bunkers, abandoned runways, and the wreck of an old airplane reveal the secrets of a turbulent past. With your local guide, you’ll explore hidden tunnels and learn about World War II, the early years of Yugoslavia, the Cold War, the Croatian Homeland War, and the fall of Yugoslavia. Along the way, you’ll hear personal anecdotes and stories about the people who worked here, as well as the political tensions that eventually led to the base’s destruction. This unique mix of history, Cold War atmosphere, and underground exploration makes the Zeljava Airbase tour one of the most unforgettable things to do near Plitvice Lakes.
- Once a top-secret military complex, Željava Airbase was one of the most ambitious and expensive Cold War projects in Europe, costing a staggering $6 billion.
- Built to withstand a 20-kiloton nuclear strike, Zeljava’s massive underground tunnels—stretching over 3 kilometers—were designed to shelter 58 MiG-21 fighter jets.
- Abandoned after the Yugoslav Wars, this decaying fortress now stands as a haunting yet fascinating relic of military engineering and Cold War history.
History Comes to Life
Go beyond the ruins—hear real stories about the Cold War, the fall of Yugoslavia, and the people who worked at the Zeljava airbase.
Thrilling Adventure
Explore 3 km of dark tunnels with a flashlight, and step into a hidden world beneath the mountains.
Full Access & Expert Guidance
Navigating Zeljava air base alone is tough. A guide ensures you see everything—hidden chambers, key sites and secret details most visitors miss.
Zeljava airbase tour photos
Itinerary
The Zeljava tour will start in front of an abandoned airplane Douglas C-47 Skytrain or Dakota. Driving across runways, we begin to catch views of a plane-shaped hole in the hill. Reaching the entrance of the Zeljava tunnels, we are in front of the highlight of the tour. While checking the flashlights, we will get to know the basic information about the object and the safety rules that we need to follow. During our 3-kilometer walk through dark tunnels, we will talk about construction, operational days and destruction of the base. We will cover personal stories and experiences of employees, relationships, and conflicts. The tour will end back at the airplane.
Duration: 2Hours
Languages: English, Croatian
Includes: Strong flashlights
Not included: Transfer
Meeting point: In front of the airplane
Location: Douglas C-47 B Dakota 71212 YAF
- Group discounts (3+ people) apply at checkout.
- Not suitable for children under 8, people with claustrophobia.
- Please contact for bigger groups or private tours.
- Cancel 1 day before the tour for refund
