Best Things to Do Near Plitvice Lakes National Park
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The Great Waterfall
Around the Lakes
Discover the Best of the Plitvice Region
Nature, History, and Adventure in One Area
- Explore one of Croatia’s most beautiful regions, where waterfalls, forests, rivers, and mountains shape the landscape.
- Discover a mix of natural wonders, underground caves and hidden historical sites.
- Enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, cycling, and off-road rides.
- Discover the region’s complex and turbulent history.
Must Do
Top Things to Do Around Plitvice Lakes
Stunning waterfalls and lakes
Cold War history
Subterranean adventure
MTB & e-bike tours
Scenic routes
Tickets & Prices
Visitors are encouraged to purchase their entance tickets in advance. Ticket prices vary by season.
Opening Hours
Plitvice Lakes National Park is open year-round, with seasonal variations in daily opening times.
Access & Parking
All main entrances offer convenient parking for cars, buses, and bicycles.
Facilities & Amenities
Visitors can find restaurants, toilets, benches, and information centers across the park.
Nature’s Masterpiece
Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
Discover cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, scenic trails, wildlife, and unforgettable natural beauty in Croatia’s iconic park.
Get to Know Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s oldest and largest national park, is a UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its lakes, waterfalls, and diverse forests. Located between the Mala Kapela and Lička Plješivica mountain ranges, it spans nearly 300 km² across Lika-Senj and Karlovac counties. Protected as Croatia’s first national park in 1949, Plitvice features a unique travertine lake system formed over thousands of years by natural tufa barriers, creating 16 cascading lakes divided into Upper and Lower Lakes. The Upper Lakes are larger with gentle shores, while the Lower Lakes lie in a deep canyon, ending in the impressive Sastavci Waterfalls, where the Korana River emerges. Though mostly forested, the lakes and waterfalls are the park’s main attraction. Visitors can follow wooden boardwalks, hiking trails, and scenic viewpoints to experience natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and serene landscapes year-round. Plitvice Lakes offers a truly unforgettable experience for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
NP Plitvice Info Center
+385 (0)53 751 014
Visitor Questions
Plitvice Lakes FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Plitvice Lakes?
Plitvice Lakes is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience:
Spring: Nature comes alive with fresh greenery and flowers. Water levels are higher, making waterfalls more powerful, and the park is less crowded with lower ticket prices.
Autumn: Forests turn into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visitor numbers drop, prices are lower, and the scenery is perfect for photography.
Winter: The quietest and most affordable season. Snow and ice can transform the waterfalls into a magical winter landscape.
Summer: Warm weather and long days make it popular, but it is the busiest and most expensive time, and water levels may be lower.
Are there any restrictions at Plitvice Lakes National Park?
Yes, to protect the park’s fragile ecosystem, visitors must follow several important rules:
Collecting plants, stones, wood, or any natural “souvenirs” is strictly prohibited.
Feeding wild animals is not allowed.
Swimming in the lakes and waterfalls is forbidden.
Littering is prohibited — waste must be disposed of only in designated bins.
Visitors must stay on marked trails and boardwalks at all times.
These rules help preserve Plitvice Lakes’ unique landscapes, wildlife, and water quality for future generations.
Is a guided tour available, and can I cover the whole park in a day?
Park routes are clearly marked, so it’s easy to explore without a guide. If you’d like deeper insight into the lakes, waterfalls, and natural processes, you can always join a local guide on one of the many daily tours available.
K programs cover the full lake system and typically take 6–8 hours, making it possible to experience the entire park in one day, depending on your pace and stops along the way.
Is Plitvice Lakes suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or visiting with pets?
Plitvice Lakes has many wooden boardwalks, forest paths, and uneven natural surfaces, so most routes are not suitable for wheelchairs and can be challenging with strollers. Some entrance areas and facilities are accessible, but the main lake trails involve stairs and narrow paths.
Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted to enter the lakes or disturb wildlife.
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices vary depending on the season and age group. You can purchase tickets online in advance (recommended to secure your preferred date and avoid queues) or at the park entrances on the day of your visit. Online tickets often include time-slot reservations and seasonal pricing for adults, children, students, and seniors.
For the most up-to-date prices and booking options, check the official Plitvice Lakes National Park ticket page before your trip, especially in peak seasons when availability can be limited.
Are there restaurants, cafes, or picnic areas inside the park?
Yes — there are restaurants, cafes, and picnic areas inside Plitvice Lakes National Park. Several restaurants and snack bars are located near the main entrances and popular viewpoints, offering Croatian cuisine, light meals, drinks, and refreshments.
In addition, there are designated picnic areas where visitors can rest and enjoy a packed lunch amid nature. However, open fires and eating outside marked picnic zones are not allowed to protect the park environment.
It’s a good idea to bring water and snacks with you, especially if you plan a longer hike through the lakes and trails.
Off the Beaten Path
Zeljava Airbase – The Most Unexpected Thing to Do Near Plitvice
Step into Cold War history inside an underground airbase near Plitvice — explore solo or join a guided adventure through aircraft tunnels and military relics.
Solo Visit
Zeljava airbase is free and open to explore, but most visitors only scratch the surface, seeing abandoned aircraft and tunnel entrances while the vast underground network remains dark, silent, and mysterious.
Guided tour
Join an expert guide for a full, detailed exploration of the underground airbase, moving safely through tunnels while uncovering Cold War secrets, hidden sections, and stories the concrete walls still hold.
Epic Photo Locations
Snap unforgettable shots of the massive tunnel system, abandoned aircraft, hidden military relics, and the seemingly never-ending runways.
Urban Exploration
Looking for something different and truly unique? Step inside Europe’s largest underground airbase, wander vast tunnels, explore abandoned aircraft, and uncover hidden military chambers — a dramatic adventure like no other.
Zeljava Airbase – History and Adventure
Built during the Cold War, Željava Airbase is one of Europe’s largest underground military complexes. Carved deep into the Plješevica mountain near the Croatian-Bosnian border, it once housed fighter aircraft, radar systems, and thousands of personnel. Its tunnels stretch for kilometers, with massive entrances, hangars, and aircraft shelters hidden within the mountain. Designed for complete self-sufficiency, the base could withstand nuclear attacks, making it a formidable Cold War stronghold. Today, Željava stands abandoned, yet the tunnels, runways, and military relics still convey the scale, engineering, and strategic importance of this hidden giant. Visiting Željava is an unforgettable experience, whether on your own or with a guide. Guided tours offer a full, detailed exploration of the underground tunnels, aircraft shelters, and secret chambers, revealing stories and Cold War history most solo visitors miss. Tours also highlight the best photo spots, dramatic architecture, and hidden sections, providing a safe yet adventurous experience. With expert guidance, you can uncover the secrets of this vast underground world and enjoy a one-of-a-kind adventure near Plitvice Lakes that combines history, mystery, and exploration.
Subterranean Adventure
Just a short drive from Plitvice Lakes, Barać Caves offer a unique subterranean adventure through ancient limestone formations. Visitors can explore winding tunnels, stalactites, stalagmites witnessing the natural processes that shaped the caves over thousands of years. Guided tours provide insights into the geology, history, and fascinating formation of the caves, making it an ideal experience for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers looking for something different near Plitvice Lakes.
Guided Tour
Visiting Barać Cave is only possible on a guided tour, where you’ll discover winding tunnels, spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, and learn the story behind this karst wonder.
Recreation & Picnic Area
Recharge at the park’s recreation area with a playground, football field, badminton court, and picnic spots — ideal for families and groups.
SPELEON
Visit the SPELEON Centre of Subterranean Heritage to learn about caves, karst landscapes, and underground wildlife. Interactive exhibits, displays, and play areas make it a fascinating stop for both adults and children.
Hiking Trails
Explore the surrounding forest on three circular hiking trails named after local wildlife — wolf, lynx, and bear — ranging from easy walks to longer scenic routes for all levels.
Stay Active
Plitvice Valleys Cycling Adventure
Cycle through the scenic Plitvice Valleys, passing forests, rivers, and historic old town Drežnik. Stop by Barać Caves and enjoy an active day immersed in Croatia’s natural beauty.
Bike rental
For solo exploration, you can rent bikes at Degenija Tours or Plitvice Bike & Bed and set off at your own pace to discover the Plitvice Valleys and nearby attractions.
Degenija Tours
Rent a bike or join a guided tour with Degenija Tours to explore the Plitvice Valleys, enjoying scenic routes, historic sites, and hidden gems with expert local guidance.
Plitvice bike&bed
Rent a bike or join an e-bike tour with Plitvice Bike & Bed to explore the valleys and nearby attractions, combining comfort, local knowledge, and an unforgettable cycling adventure.
Scenic Routes
Discover carefully planned cycling routes through the Plitvice Valleys, passing rivers, forests, historic Drežnik, and nearby Barać Caves — perfect for enjoying nature and unforgettable views.
Horseback Adventure
Experience the Plitvice Valleys from a new perspective on horseback with Ranch Terra. Ride through forests, meadows, and rivers while enjoying nature, fresh air, and scenic views. Suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike, this adventure combines relaxation, exploration, and a unique way to discover the beauty of the region.
Trail Riding
Enjoy guided horseback rides through the stunning Plitvice Valleys, forests, and meadows. Suitable for all ages and experience levels, the calm, well-trained horses allow you to explore nature safely while spotting local wildlife like deer, rabbits, and pheasants.
Trips
Choose between two unforgettable horseback adventures. The Half-Day Trip to Deer Valley Ranch (5h) features a visit to the open-air zoo to feed and photograph deer, a stop at the historic Drežnik Grad tower, and a homemade snack. The One-Day Trip to Barać Caves (7h) combines a guided tour of the Upper Barać Cave, lunch in nature, and exploration of karst formations, cave history, and underground wonders. Both trips offer expert guidance, breathtaking landscapes, and a full immersion into Plitvice’s natural and cultural treasures.
Riding school
On request, we also organize riding schools for those who stay longer at the ranch or those who have the possibility to visit the ranch for several days.
Water Adventure
Nicknamed “The Waterfall Playground,” this destination offers an unforgettable adventure in tandem boats. Experience the thrill of optional waterfall jumps ranging from 1 to 8 meters high, swim behind cascading waters, or glide over 9 of the 10 waterfalls. After receiving guidance on paddling and safety instructions, you’ll be ready for the ultimate experience.
Guided Tour
Expert guides will lead you safely along the Mrežnica River, providing tips, instructions, and support throughout the trip. Their local knowledge ensures a fun, safe, and memorable kayaking adventure for all skill levels.
No Experience Needed
No previous kayaking experience is required — Plitvice Outdoor guides provide full training and assist you throughout the trip. All you need is a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of adventure.
Equipment & Tour Inclusions
Your kayaking trip includes all essential gear for a safe and enjoyable adventure: tandem sit-on-top kayak, helmet, life jacket, splash jacket, and wetsuit. Depending on the season, neoprene shoes, long-john wetsuit, and waterproof containers for personal items like cameras or medicine are also provided.
Hidden Gem
Experience a unique summer adventure on the refreshing waters of the Mrežnica River. Paddle through beautiful scenery, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful, secluded spots for an unforgettable day in nature.
Thrill quest takes you on guided underground adventures at Zeljava Airbase.
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Plitvice, Croatia
+385 99 840 35 36
info@thrillquest.hr
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