Discover The Mesmerizing Plitvice Waterfalls: A Natural Wonder Of Croatia

Text: A view of extremely beautiful Plitvice Waterfalls cascading behind the lush green trees.

A wonder in itself, Plitvice Waterfalls is a place located within the phenomenal Plitvice Lakes National Park of Croatia. It is famous for its incredible waterfalls, crystal-clear turquoise lakes, and lush greenery as it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The 16 interlocked lakes and waterfalls across over 300 square kilometres make it a paradise for any nature lover enthusiast and photographer. This will surely be unforgettable in whichever way one tries to experience this pristine environment, whether by exploring its scenic hiking trails or attempting to capture the beauty.

Location

A scenic view of the rainbow at Plitvice Waterfalls in Croatia within the National Park.

Photo: OrionCro / Wikimedia Commons

The Plitvice Waterfalls location is within the borders of Plitvice Lakes National Park in central Croatia. It is a natural tourist attraction site that runs along the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina in the central region of Croatia.

How To Reach Plitvice Waterfalls

An aerial view of the waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes, ideal for spending a peaceful day.

Photo: Naval S / Wikimedia Commons

While wondering about how to reach Plitvice Waterfalls, here are some ways mentioned

By Road: One can reach Plitvice Waterfalls by car. The park is well connected by road with highways linking it to the major cities of Croatia, such as Zagreb, about two hours away, and Zadar, about 1.5 hours away.

By Train: The nearest Korana station is 10km from the park. Then you can take a bus or a taxi towards the park entrance.

By Air: The two nearest major airports are Zagreb and Zadar. You can hire a car from either of these airports or even take a bus that will take you straight to the park.

Places To Visit Nearby Plitvice Waterfalls

Here are some of the waterfalls surrounding Plitvice

1. Veliki Slap

A close-up view of Veliki Slap waterfall, one of the tallest Plitvice waterfalls.

Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons

Plitvice Waterfalls has thousands of waterfalls; however, there must be Veliki Slap, as this is the largest one that occupies the crown jewel status of this park. These waterfalls stand tall at 78 metres and are the tallest in Croatia. The waterfall is visibly accessible from the main entry to the park, and its viewpoints can be accessed while walking along the trails. One can get up close and personal for just a few steps to the base of this waterfall and, indeed, get a thrill from its roar.

Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park in central Croatia
Best Time To Visit: Autumn

2. Sastavci Waterfall

A view of Sastavci Waterfall, wherein the waters fall into the crystal-clear Kozjak Lake.

Photo: Naval S / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sastavci Waterfall is another beautiful site by the Plitvice Waterfalls. That is where the river flows over the Kozjak Lake by a series of cascading drops to the deep-blue lake below. This can be regarded as the only multi-tiered waterfall, and water flows over natural rock formations, creating a unique visual effect. It is a serene landscape of the waterfall’s surrounding area, serving almost as an introduction to it and its guests.

Location: The southern end of the park, confluence with Kozjak Lake
Best Time To Visit: early in the morning for the serene view or at the end of spring when the waterfalls are colourful.

3. The Upper Lakes Waterfalls

A view of the panorama of the serenity-filled waters of waterfalls in Plitvice.

Photo: Zysko serhii / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

There is a series of smaller but lovely waterfalls in a quiet, wooded area of the Plitvice Waterfalls. These lead into the first lakes of the park; wooden boardwalks permit walkways over and around the waterfalls. This section’s soft and subdued environment is quite far from the brighter Veliki Slap. This way, tourists have a close relationship with nature. Waterfalls cascading under a thick foliage cover make for the perfect photograph and reflective environment.

Location: North of Plitvice Lakes National Park
Best Time To Visit: Late spring and early autumn

Where To Stay

A view of a hotel room near the Plitvice Waterfalls, for a comfortable stay in Croatia.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

There are several options for accommodation near Plitvice Waterfalls so that everyone’s taste can be satisfied. Hotel Jezero is a comfortable hotel situated beside the lake. Although Plitvice Hotel is located directly next to Entrance 1, so it is relatively easy to make circles while wandering around waterfalls, Camping Korana is suited for those in search of a bit of peace amid nature.

Where To Eat

A picture of Croatian food, the Sarma, and top dining options around the Plitvice Waterfalls.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

There are various good places to eat near the park while visiting the Plitvice Waterfalls. The Lička Kuća brings you authentic Croatian flavour in a downright rustic and very traditional setting. For something slightly casual, try the beautiful views over the river from Korana Restaurant, which serves excellent yummy local dishes. The other good alternative is Restaurant Degenija, which offers superb, locally prepared specialities and breath-taking outdoor seating, which would be an excellent choice for a relaxing meal after a day of visiting the Plitvice Waterfalls.

Best Time To Visit

An aerial view of the Plitvice Waterfalls capturing the park's beauty during spring.

Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The best time to visit Plitvice Waterfalls is from April to October. This season, the weather is quite friendly for hiking since temperatures are warm and fewer people throng there in either spring or fall. It’s during July and August that it’s usually at its tourist peak; it is, therefore, advisable to go there during May and June or September if you detest walking around crowded places. Winter is also so peaceful. Winter has drawbacks. Some parts of the park may not be reached in winter because of snow and ice.

Other Factors To Consider

A peaceful view of the lakes and waterfalls in the park helps plan a visit.

Photo: OrionCro / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Average Cost Of Trip

The cost of visiting the Plitvice Waterfalls for the day would be 2,500 to 3,000 HRK, which is approximately 32,500 to 39,000 INR in cost-included transportation, food, and entry fees for two people. The cost will be more expensive for people from abroad as they have to afford flight and accommodation.

Cash Payment

Credit cards are usually widely accepted, but for little things such as entrance tickets or souvenirs purchased from local shops, be prepared to pay in cash.

Tips For Traveller

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the paths are slippery
  • Bring a refillable bottle of water as the park has several places to refill the bottle.
  • One should start planning a visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Stay on the marked paths and follow guidelines from the park.

Plitvice Waterfalls is one of the dream destinations for nature lovers that features unmatched beauty and provides a serene escape into the natural wonders of Croatia. This would be a journey that gives you every chance of leaving you in awe while you capture the scintillating Plitvice Waterfalls photos or appreciate the scenic view. Book your trip with us to discover the glory of Plitvice Waterfalls.

Cover Photo: OrionCro / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The entrance fee is around 200 HRK (2,600 INR) for adults.
It is better to visit from April to October since it is not a summer month, it would be pretty calm to visit.
Winter is already exciting, but part of the waterfalls is impassable with the snow.
4-6 hours would be enough to discover all parts of the park.
Yes, many more accessible trails are perfect for children and are almost family-friendly.
Yes, guided tours are also available to better understand the park's history, geology, and wildlife.

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