Krka Waterfalls & River Cruise: Private Day Trip from Split

Summary

Waterfalls mist on your skin, old mills, river cruise to Skradin

You’ll feel the cool spray of Krka Waterfalls on your skin, wander through old stone houses and a working watermill, then take a peaceful river cruise to Skradin where swimming is finally allowed. With plenty of free time and a local guide who knows every twist of the path, this day trip from Split lingers long after you’ve rinsed off the river.

What’s the experience like?

I opened my eyes just as we pulled up near Krka, the bus windows still a bit foggy from everyone’s chatter and coffee. Our guide, Ana, handed out park tickets with a grin that made me feel like I’d known her longer than an hour. The air smelled like wet leaves and something sweet—maybe wildflowers? We wandered off in our own little groups, but I kept drifting back to the sound of water somewhere ahead. It’s louder than you expect, almost like it’s calling you (or maybe I was just hungry).

We had nearly five hours inside Krka National Park. I got lost for a while in those old stone houses—there’s this tiny ethno museum where a local man explained how people used to grind grain at the watermill. His hands moved slow and careful, almost like he was still working there. Sometimes you catch these moments that stick. The waterfalls themselves… well, they’re not quiet. There’s this cool spray on your face if you get close enough, and kids laughing nearby trying to catch little fish with their hands (they never do). I didn’t expect to care about an old hydroelectric station but Ana pointed out it was Europe’s first—she seemed proud of it.

The boat ride to Skradin was quieter than I thought it’d be. People mostly just watched the green banks slip by or took photos that probably didn’t do it justice. The sun came out halfway through and everything smelled sharper—river water and pine needles maybe? In Skradin, some folks went straight for lunch (the grilled fish looked good), others climbed up to Turina fortress. I found a spot by the river and dipped my feet in—cold enough to make you gasp but worth it after walking all day. Swimming here is allowed, not in the park itself, which is something I wish I’d known before packing my swimsuit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Krka National Park and Skradin

• Drive 75 minutes from Split
• Explore Krka National Park for 5 hours
• Visit ethno museum and old watermill
• Take 30-minute boat ride to Skradin
• Swim in Krka river
• Explore Skradin streets and Turina fortress
• Have lunch in Skradin restaurants

Top questions

How long is the drive from Split to Krka?

It takes about 75 minutes by air-conditioned bus from Split to Krka.

Can you swim at Krka Waterfalls?

No, swimming inside Krka National Park isn’t allowed anymore—but you can swim in the river at Skradin city beach after the boat ride.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No, lunch isn’t included but there are several restaurants in Skradin where you can eat during your free time.

How much free time do we get at Krka?

You’ll have almost five hours of free time inside Krka National Park.

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?

The tour includes transfer by air-conditioned bus from Split area but doesn’t specify hotel pickup—check with your provider.

Are guides provided during the tour?

Yes, a professional licensed English-speaking guide is included for your group.

Is this day trip suitable for children or strollers?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in prams or strollers; children must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I bring or wear for this trip?

Dress appropriately for weather conditions; bring swimwear if you want to swim in Skradin and comfortable shoes for walking.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transfer from Split in an air-conditioned bus with a licensed English-speaking guide leading the way. Entry tickets are sorted before arrival so you skip waiting around. There’s nearly five hours of free time inside Krka National Park before taking a 30-minute sightseeing cruise downriver to Skradin—where swimming is allowed—and plenty of chances for lunch or exploring before heading back.