The Lower Lakes are a group of lakes in Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for their stunning turquoise waters and cascading waterfalls.

The Lower Lakes are a must-see attraction in Plitvice Lakes National Park. These lakes are renowned for their distinctive colors, which can range from azure to green, grey or blue. The colors change constantly, depending on the quantity of minerals or organisms in the water and the angle of sunlight. /n The Lower Lakes are surrounded by lush greenery and are home to a variety of wildlife, making them a paradise for nature lovers. The walking trails around the lakes offer stunning views of the waterfalls and the surrounding landscape. The Lower Lakes are a testament to the natural beauty of Croatia and are a must-visit for anyone visiting the country.

The Lower Lakes are a series of stunning cascading lakes in Plitvice.

The Upper Lakes are a series of twelve lakes in Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for their cascading waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

The Upper Lakes are another major attraction in Plitvice Lakes National Park. These lakes are larger and deeper than the Lower Lakes and are known for their stunning beauty. The Upper Lakes are connected by numerous waterfalls, creating a breathtaking spectacle. /n The lakes are surrounded by dense forests, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the lakes via the walking trails or take a boat ride on the largest lake, Kozjak. The Upper Lakes offer a unique and unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.

The Upper Lakes are a group of larger, deeper lakes in Plitvice.

The Big Waterfall, also known as Veliki Slap, is the largest waterfall in Plitvice Lakes National Park. It is a stunning natural attraction, falling from a height of 78 meters.

The Big Waterfall, also known as Veliki Slap, is the largest waterfall in Croatia and a major attraction in Plitvice Lakes National Park. The waterfall is 78 meters high and is truly a sight to behold. The water cascades down the cliff, creating a mist that often results in a beautiful rainbow. /n The Big Waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and is accessible via a walking trail that offers stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. The sound of the water crashing down, the sight of the rainbow in the mist, and the overall beauty of the area make a visit to the Big Waterfall an unforgettable experience.

The Big Waterfall is the largest waterfall in Croatia and a major attraction in Plitvice.

The local villages around Plitvice Lakes National Park offer a glimpse into traditional Croatian life. Visitors can explore the charming rural architecture, enjoy local cuisine, and interact with friendly locals.

The local village near Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a unique insight into the traditional Croatian rural life. Here, you can experience the local customs, traditional way of life, and authentic Croatian cuisine. The village is nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings, offering stunning views of the nearby landscapes. /n The locals are known for their hospitality and are always ready to share their customs and traditions with visitors. You can take a walk through the village, visit local homes, and even participate in some of the daily activities. The local cuisine is a must-try, with many dishes prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The village is not only a place to learn about the Croatian rural life, but also a place to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Experience the authentic Croatian rural life in a local village near Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This natural wonderland boasts 16 terraced lakes, interconnected by a series of waterfalls and cascades, set amidst lush greenery. The park offers well-marked trails for hiking, wooden walkways that meander around and across the water, and boat rides on the largest lake, Kozjak. Discover diverse flora and fauna, including rare bird species and European brown bears. The park is open year-round, with each season offering a unique spectacle - vibrant greenery in spring, vivid colors in autumn, and a stunning frozen landscape in winter. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Lower Lakes

Upper Lakes

Big Waterfall

Local village

Start your day with a visit to the Lower Lakes, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the cascading waterfalls and crystal clear lakes. The wooden walkways provide a unique and intimate experience with nature. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakeside. Pack a lunch from local markets with fresh, local ingredients for a true Croatian experience. The serene environment of the park provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal.

After lunch, head to the Upper Lakes. This area is home to the largest and deepest lakes in the park. The hiking trails here offer panoramic views of the park's diverse flora and fauna. Make sure to stop by the Big Waterfall, the park's largest waterfall.

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant outside the park. Try some traditional Croatian dishes like peka or pljeskavica. The local cuisine is a blend of various influences, offering something for everyone.

End your day with a leisurely stroll around the Local village. The charming streets and traditional houses offer a glimpse into the local way of life. It's the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

The park is well-equipped with wooden walkways and trails that allow visitors to explore the area on foot. This is the most common and recommended way to see the park as it allows you to take in the stunning views at your own pace.

The park offers electric boat rides across the Kozjak Lake. This is a great way to see the park from a different perspective and to reach the Upper Lakes area.

A panoramic train ride is available within the park. This is a great option for those who want to see a large portion of the park without having to walk long distances. The train stops at several points, allowing visitors to hop on and off as they please.

While cars are not allowed inside the park, they can be used to reach the park entrances. There are two main entrances, Entrance 1 (Rastovača) and Entrance 2 (Hladovina), both of which have parking lots.

There are regular bus services from major cities like Zagreb, Zadar, and Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Once at the park, visitors can use the park's internal transport system (electric boats and panoramic trains) to get around.

Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Croatia, but may not be the most convenient option for reaching the park due to its remote location. However, they can be used for transport to and from nearby towns or cities.

Cevapi is a popular Balkan dish and a must-try in Croatia. It consists of small, grilled rolls of minced meat, usually served in a flatbread with onions and a type of sour cream called 'kajmak'. It's a common dish in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Cevapi

Peka is a traditional Croatian dish prepared with meat or seafood and vegetables, cooked under a bell-like dome in a fireplace. It's a slow-cooked, hearty meal that's popular in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Peka

Rakija is a fruit brandy that's very popular in Croatia. It's often homemade and comes in a variety of flavors, including plum, pear, and cherry. It's a common drink in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Rakija

Pljeskavica is a Balkan dish similar to a hamburger. It's a patty made from a mix of meats, often served in a bun with a variety of toppings. It's a popular street food in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Pljeskavica

Pasticada is a traditional Croatian stew made from beef, prunes, and a rich sauce. It's a slow-cooked dish that's often served with gnocchi. It's a common dish in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Pasticada

Karlovacko Pivo is a popular Croatian beer. It's a light, refreshing lager that's brewed in the nearby town of Karlovac, making it a local favorite around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Karlovacko Pivo

Sarma is a traditional Croatian dish made from minced meat and rice wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves. It's a hearty, comforting dish that's popular in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Sarma

Kulen is a type of spicy, smoked sausage that's a specialty of the region. It's often served as an appetizer or snack and is a must-try for visitors to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Kulen

Pag Cheese is a hard, sheep's milk cheese from the island of Pag. It's known for its unique flavor, which comes from the island's salty, windswept pastures. It's a popular appetizer in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Pag Cheese

Black Risotto is a Croatian dish made with cuttlefish or squid, rice, and a generous amount of squid ink, which gives the dish its characteristic black color. It's a popular seafood dish in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Black Risotto

Prosek is a traditional Croatian dessert wine. It's sweet and strong, often served with dessert or cheese. It's a popular drink in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Prosek

Burek is a flaky, savory pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach. It's a popular snack or breakfast food in the region around Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Burek

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

Statehood Day

Corpus Christi

Day of Antifascist Struggle

Victory Day

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Remembrance Day

Christmas Day

St Stephen's Day

Historic watermill village with traditional architecture and waterfalls

Rastoke

Impressive underground caves with guided tours

Barać Caves

Historic city with Roman and Venetian ruins, the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation

Zadar

Croatia's capital city, known for its 18th and 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture

Zagreb

Famous for its large number of waterfalls and flora and fauna

Krka National Park

Known for its beaches and the fortresslike complex at its center, Diocletian's Palace

Split

Known for its protected harbor, beach-lined coast and Roman ruins

Pula

Known for its historic sites, including Trsat Castle, and a vibrant food scene

Rijeka

Historic coastal city known for its distinctive Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls

Dubrovnik

Hvar

Rovinj

Trogir

Colorful spring sunrise in green forest with pure water waterfall

Colorful spring scene of green forest with pure water lake

Panoramic view of the beautiful waterfalls

Plitvice Lakes National Park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is between April and October when the weather is pleasant.

The park's operating hours vary by season. In the summer, it's open from 7 am to 8 pm, while in the winter, it's open from 8 am to 4 pm.

The park is divided into two sections: the Upper Lakes and the Lower Lakes. Each has its own entrance.

There are four different hiking routes to choose from, each varying in length and difficulty.

The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and many species of birds. However, they are rarely seen by visitors.

There are no restaurants within the park, but there are several picnic areas. It's recommended to bring your own food and water.

The park's terrain can be challenging, with steep hills and uneven paths. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.

Swimming is not allowed in the lakes to preserve the natural environment.

The park is very popular, so it can get crowded, especially during the summer months. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.

There are shuttle buses and electric boats within the park to help visitors get around.

The park's waterfalls are most impressive in the spring when the snowmelt increases the water flow.

The park's weather can be unpredictable. Even in summer, temperatures can range from 50°F (10°C) to 86°F (30°C). Always check the forecast before your visit.

There are several hotels and guesthouses near the park if you wish to stay overnight.

The park charges an entrance fee, which varies by season. In the peak season (July and August), it's around $40 for adults.

The park's paths can be slippery, especially after rain. Be careful and watch your step.

There are no ATMs within the park, so bring enough cash for your visit.

The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so respect the environment and follow the park's rules.

Pets are allowed in the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.

The park offers guided tours, which can be a great way to learn more about the park's history and ecology.

In winter, the park can be covered in snow, making it a beautiful but challenging place to explore. Some paths may be closed due to icy conditions.

January is the coldest month in Plitvice Lakes National Park, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Snowfall is common, creating a magical winter wonderland.

February is still quite cold, with a chance of snow. However, the days start to get a bit longer, allowing more time to explore the park.

March sees the beginning of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. The snow starts to melt, revealing the park's greenery.

April is a pleasant month to visit, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Rain showers are common, so pack an umbrella.

May is a great time to visit, with warm temperatures and the park in full bloom. It's also less crowded than the summer months.

June marks the beginning of summer, with long, sunny days. It's a popular time to visit, so expect some crowds.

July is the hottest month, perfect for hiking and exploring. However, it's also the busiest month, so book accommodations in advance.

August is similar to July, with hot temperatures and lots of tourists. It's a great time to enjoy the park's waterfalls.

September is a lovely month to visit, with fewer tourists and mild temperatures. The leaves start to change color, adding to the park's beauty.

October sees cooler temperatures and the peak of fall foliage. It's a great time to enjoy the park's autumn colors.

November is a quiet month in the park, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. The leaves have mostly fallen, giving the park a different kind of beauty.

December is a cold month, with short days and a chance of snow. It's a quiet time in the park, perfect for those who enjoy solitude.

When planning a trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, it's important to consider the weather as it can greatly impact your experience. The park experiences a mix of continental and maritime climates, leading to a wide range of weather conditions throughout the year.

Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). The park starts to bloom and the waterfalls are at their most powerful due to the melting snow. However, it can be quite rainy, so pack waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes.

Summer (June to August) is the warmest period with temperatures often reaching up to 80°F (27°C). It's the busiest time of the year, so expect crowds. Don't forget your sun protection and stay hydrated.

Autumn (September to November) offers a spectacular display of fall colors. Temperatures can range from 45°F to 65°F (7°C to 18°C). Rainfall is common, so again, waterproof clothing is recommended.

Winter (December to February) is the coldest season with temperatures often dropping below freezing, sometimes as low as 23°F (-5°C). The park transforms into a winter wonderland with frozen waterfalls and snow-covered paths. If you're planning to visit during this time, pack warm clothing, and be aware that some paths may be closed due to ice.

Regardless of when you visit, always check the local weather forecast before setting out for the day. The weather can change quickly in the park, and being prepared will ensure you have the best experience possible.

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Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia in One Day

About Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia