Plitvice Lakes: Guided Day Trip from Split with Boat Ride

Summary

Winding trails, waterfalls & quiet moments at Plitvice from Split

You’ll wander wooden trails above turquoise lakes, feel spray from Croatia’s tallest waterfall on your skin, cruise quietly across glassy waters by boat, and share laughs with locals over lunch—all on this guided day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes. Expect muddy shoes and memories that linger longer than your photos.

What’s the experience like?

You know that feeling when you finally step off the bus after hours of winding roads, and the air just smells different? That’s how it was when we arrived at Plitvice Lakes from Split—like pine needles and river spray. Our guide, Ana, met us with this easy grin and handed out park tickets (don’t bother buying ahead, by the way—they sort it as a group). She warned us about the wooden walkways being slippery if it rained. It had drizzled earlier so I clung to the railings like an amateur tightrope walker. The sound of water everywhere—sometimes rushing loud, sometimes just a hush under your feet—kind of hypnotizes you after a while.

I’d seen photos of Plitvice before but walking alongside those turquoise lakes is something else. The colors shift every few steps—Ana said it’s minerals and sunlight but honestly, it felt like magic or some trick of the eyes. There were ducks gliding around and I kept stopping to watch them (probably annoying our group). We hiked up past little cascades and big ones too—at one point someone behind me gasped so loud I turned thinking something was wrong, but it was just their first look at Veliki slap, Croatia’s tallest waterfall. You get a bit damp standing near it; my hair curled up instantly in the mist.

The boat ride over the Lower Lakes was quieter than I expected—no music or chatter really, just people soaking in the view or snapping photos. The water looked almost fake, that blue-green glassy thing going on. Afterward we stopped for lunch at a place Ana recommended (not included but worth it for grilled trout if you’re into fish). I tried to order in Croatian and butchered it; the waiter laughed and helped me out. It’s those little bits that stick with me more than any postcard shot.

By late afternoon we were all tired in that good way—you know? Muddy shoes, memory cards full, everyone quieter on the ride back to Split. I still think about that moment by the waterfall where everything felt loud and silent at once. If you’re looking for a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Split with someone who knows their stuff (and includes pickup), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Travel from Split to Plitvice Lakes
• Hike around the Upper Lakes
• Take sightseeing cruise on Lower Lakes
• Enjoy scenic boat ride
• Optional lunch at traditional restaurant
• Return to Split

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes?

The tour lasts about 12 hours including travel time between Split and Plitvice Lakes.

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available in selected areas of Split upon request.

Do I need to buy entry tickets for Plitvice Lakes myself?

No, don’t purchase tickets in advance—the tour operator arranges group tickets for everyone.

What should I wear for visiting Plitvice Lakes?

Wear casual clothes and comfortable walking shoes; bring warm clothes or an umbrella if traveling outside summer.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

No, lunch is optional and not included in the tour price—but there’s time to eat at a traditional restaurant recommended by your guide.

Are infants allowed on this tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Is this day trip suitable for people with walking disabilities?

No, it’s not recommended due to uneven paths and moderate hiking involved.

Can I bring my pet on this tour?

No pets are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off within selected areas of Split (just ask when booking), all transport throughout the journey, insurance coverage during your visit to Plitvice Lakes, plus guidance from an English-speaking local who handles group entry tickets—so you can skip ticket lines and focus on soaking up waterfalls instead.