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Plitvička Jezera National Park: A Cascade of Emerald Lakes

Discover Plitvička Jezera National Park: a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site with cascading lakes, stunning waterfalls, and lush forests.

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Plitvička Jezera National Park, Croatia's oldest and largest national park, is a stunning natural wonder featuring 16 interconnected lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a breathtaking experience for nature lovers.

A brief summary to Plitvička Jezera

  • Plitvička Jezera, HR

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance to secure your entry and avoid potential queues, especially during peak season.
  • Arrive early in the morning to experience the park with fewer crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the lakes.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be traversing wooden pathways and potentially hiking.
  • Bring water and snacks, although there are limited options for purchase within the park.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Zagreb, take a direct bus to Plitvička Jezera. Buses depart regularly from Zagreb's main bus station and the journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Ensure the bus stops at Plitvička Jezera, as some may bypass the park. Upon arrival, the bus stop is conveniently located near the park entrances. A one way ticket will typically cost between €16 and €40.

  • Car

    If driving from Zagreb, take the Zagreb-Rijeka highway to Karlovac, then follow signs to Plitvice via the old road to Split (E71 or D1). The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Parking is available at both Entrance 1 and Entrance 2 for a fee of €1 per hour. Be aware that parking can fill up quickly during peak season.

  • Taxi

    From the settlement of Plitvička Jezera, a taxi ride to Entrance 1 or 2 of Plitvice Lakes National Park is a short and convenient option. Taxis are readily available in the village. The ride typically takes only a few minutes and costs between €4 and €6.

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Discover more about Plitvička Jezera

Plitvička Jezera National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, is a mesmerizing landscape of sixteen crystalline lakes interconnected by a series of over 90 stunning cascades and waterfalls. The park is divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes, each with unique geological features. The Upper Lakes, formed on impermeable dolomite rock, boast larger, gentler shores, while the Lower Lakes are carved into a deep canyon of permeable limestone, ending in the impressive Sastavci waterfalls where the Korana River springs. Visitors can explore the park via well-maintained wooden footbridges and pathways that snake over the lakes and around the shores, providing access to breathtaking views. Electric boats and panoramic trains (long buses) offer alternative ways to navigate the expansive park. The park's rich history extends back to prehistoric times, with evidence of human settlement and control over vital communication routes. The park's unique geomorphology is attributed to aquatic mosses and algae, which facilitate the creation of tufa barriers, a key feature of the lakes. The area's scientific value has been recognized for nearly 170 years, with ongoing research contributing to its preservation. Plitvice Lakes National Park is not only a visual feast but also a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna, including over 1,400 plant species and various animal species such as brown bears, wolves, lynxes and numerous bird species. Whether you're captivated by the cascading waterfalls, the vibrant emerald-blue lakes, or the serene forest trails, Plitvička Jezera offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Croatia's natural beauty.

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