Plitvice Lakes: Early Access Day Trip with Entry Ticket

Summary

Walk forest paths at Plitvice Lakes before big groups arrive

You’ll start early from Split or Trogir to reach Plitvice Lakes before most crowds—walk wooden paths over turquoise water with a local guide who actually grew up nearby. Ride a peaceful boat across Donja Jezera and try local food after (lunch not included). Entry ticket is sorted for you so there’s no stress at the gate—just fresh air and those unreal colors.

What’s the experience like?

The van left Split while it was still kind of blue outside — not quite sunrise, but you could tell it was coming. I slouched in my seat, half-awake, and watched the countryside slip by. Our guide, Ana, kept us chatting with little stories about growing up near here (she pointed out a bakery she used to skip school for — made me wish we’d stopped). By the time we reached Plitvice Lakes, I’d woken up enough to notice the air smelled different — a bit sharp and earthy. There were only a few other groups around since we’d started early. That felt like a win already.

Ana led us along these wooden walkways that kind of hover over the water. The lakes really are that blue-green color you see in photos — but it’s quieter than I expected. You mostly hear water moving and sometimes birds. At one point, I leaned on the railing and just watched tiny fish darting below; there’s something weirdly calming about it. Ana explained how the lakes are separated by these natural travertine barriers (I had to Google that later). She answered every random question someone threw at her — even when someone asked if you could swim (nope, not allowed). It was about 5km walking all together, but honestly you don’t notice until your legs start complaining during lunch.

The boat ride across Donja Jezera was slower than I thought it’d be — in a good way. There’s this moment where everyone goes quiet and just looks at the cliffs reflected in the water. Afterward, we stopped for lunch at a place outside the park (not included), where I tried some grilled trout because Ana said it’s what locals order. Still think about that crispy skin sometimes. On the way back to Split, most people dozed off or scrolled through photos; I just kept replaying that silence on the lake in my head. You know when something feels bigger than you expected? Yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Pick up at meeting point
• Travel through countryside to Plitvice Lakes
• Walk through Gornja Jezera lakes
• Boat ride to Donja Jezera area
• Stop for lunch (not included)
• Return to starting point

Top questions

Is entry to Plitvice Lakes included in this day trip?

Yes, your entry ticket to Plitvice Lakes is included in the tour price.

How much walking is involved during this tour?

The route covers around 5km on uneven surfaces; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Does this tour include hotel pickup from Split or Trogir?

The tour includes pickup from designated meeting points in Split or Trogir.

Is lunch provided on this Plitvice Lakes day trip?

No, lunch is not included; there is a stop where you can buy food after sightseeing.

Can children join this group tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult throughout the trip.

Are pets allowed on this excursion?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour.

What should I wear for visiting Plitvice Lakes?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sportswear; pack a raincoat or umbrella if rain is possible.

Is swimming allowed in Plitvice Lakes during this day trip?

No swimming is permitted anywhere inside Plitvice Lakes.

What’s included

Your day covers pickup from Split or Trogir by air-conditioned vehicle, all road tolls and parking fees taken care of, entry tickets for Plitvice Lakes reserved ahead so you won’t have any trouble at the gate, plus guidance from an official English-speaking guide who knows these trails well—you’ll just need to bring your own lunch money and comfy shoes.