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Plitvice Lakes National Park: A Cascade of Natural Beauty

Discover Croatia's natural masterpiece: sixteen stunning lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests in a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia's oldest and largest national park, is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. A visit here offers an unforgettable experience immersed in nature's splendor.

A brief summary to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and avoid long queues.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on trails and wooden footbridges.
  • Bring water and snacks, although there are restaurants and stalls within the park, options can be limited.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly; bring rain gear as the weather can change quickly.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving to Plitvice Lakes National Park is straightforward, with well-maintained roads leading to the park. From Zagreb, take the A1/E65 highway south towards Karlovac, then follow the D1 road to Plitvička Jezera, a drive of approximately 2 hours. From Zadar, head north on the D1 for about 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, park in the designated parking lots at Entrance 1 or Entrance 2. Parking fees are approximately €1.5 per hour. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season. Tolls on the A1/E65 highway from Zagreb can cost around €8-€12 [These costs may vary]. Parking at the park is approximately €1.5 per hour.

  • Bus

    Reaching Plitvice Lakes by bus is a convenient option from major Croatian cities. Buses depart regularly from Zagreb, Split, and Zadar to Plitvička Jezera. The journey from Zagreb takes about 2.5 hours, while from Split or Zadar, it takes around 3-4 hours. Buses stop near Entrance 1 and Entrance 2. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the park entrances. Bus tickets can be purchased online or at bus stations. A one-way bus ticket from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes costs approximately €10-€15 [These costs may vary]. From Zadar, the bus fare is around €8-€12 [These costs may vary].

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Discover more about Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, is a breathtaking natural wonder in the heart of Croatia. The park boasts a series of 16 interconnected lakes, terraced one above the other and linked by a stunning network of waterfalls and cascades. These lakes are divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes, each with unique geological features. The park's formation is a fascinating process involving karst topography, where limestone and dolomite rocks are shaped by water over thousands of years. Travertine barriers, created by the deposition of calcium carbonate, form natural dams that sculpt the lakes and waterfalls. The waters flowing through the limestone underground dissolve chalk, which then settles to form these travertine formations. Plitvice Lakes has a rich history, with evidence of human settlements dating back to prehistoric times. The park was officially declared Croatia's first national park in 1949. The park's diverse flora and fauna include brown bears, wolves, lynxes, deer, and over 120 bird species. Visitors can explore the park via well-maintained trails and wooden footbridges that wind around the lakes and waterfalls. Electric boats and panoramic trains offer alternative ways to navigate the expansive park. Whether you're captivated by the vibrant colors of the lakes, the thundering sounds of the waterfalls, or the tranquility of the surrounding forests, Plitvice Lakes National Park offers an unparalleled experience of natural beauty.

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