Plitvice Lakes: Guided Day Trip from Zagreb with Boat & Tram

Summary

Walk wooden paths past waterfalls ride boats and trams through Plitvice’s wild beauty

You’ll follow wooden walkways over turquoise lakes, hear stories from your local guide as you cross by boat and tram, and stand close enough to Veliki Slap to feel its spray. There’s time for an optional lunch at a nearby restaurant before heading back to Zagreb—expect tired legs and new favorite memories.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect my shoes to be squeaking already by the first wooden bridge — but there we were, just an hour or so from Zagreb, following our guide Marko into Plitvice Lakes. The air was cold enough to sting but smelled like wet leaves and moss (in a good way). There was this low thunder from the falls somewhere ahead, and honestly, I felt a bit like a kid about to see something you only get in picture books.

Marko kept pointing out small things I’d have missed — the way the water changes color every few steps, or how locals say the lakes “sing” when it rains. He had this habit of pausing mid-sentence if he spotted a bird or something interesting. We took the boat across one of the bigger lakes, all of us quiet except for some German tourists whispering behind me. The water was so clear I could see fish darting under our reflections. The main keyword here is Plitvice Lakes guided tour from Zagreb — and honestly, having someone who knew where to go made it feel less like ticking off sights and more like wandering with a friend who grew up nearby.

The tram ride back up felt almost too short after all that walking. My legs were tired but in that good way, you know? We ended at Veliki Slap — Croatia’s tallest waterfall — and I just stood there blinking at the spray on my glasses. Lunch after was optional but worth it; I tried some stew that tasted smoky and rich (still no idea what half of it was). If you want a day trip Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb with someone who actually cares about sharing their home, this is it. I still think about those colors under the water sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Walk through waterfalls and lakes
• Follow English speaking tour guide
• Visit Upper Lakes (Gornja Jezera)
• Visit Lower Lakes (Donja Jezera)
• See Big Waterfall (Veliki Slap)
• Take train and boat rides inside park
• Optional lunch at local restaurant
• Return to Zagreb

Top questions

How long does the guided tour at Plitvice Lakes last?

The sightseeing part inside Plitvice Lakes lasts about 4 hours, plus travel time from Zagreb.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Lunch is optional at a local restaurant near Plitvice Lakes; it’s not included in the base price.

Are boat and tram rides part of the tour?

Yes, both boat and tram rides within Plitvice Lakes are included in the guided tour.

How much walking is involved during the visit?

The tour covers approximately 5km of walking on uneven surfaces through both Upper and Lower Lakes.

Is pickup from Zagreb included?

The tour includes transport by air-conditioned vehicle from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes and back.

Can children join this guided day trip?

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

Are pets allowed on this excursion?

No, pets are not allowed on this guided tour of Plitvice Lakes.

What should I wear for visiting Plitvice Lakes?

Comfortable closed shoes (like sneakers), sportswear, and possibly a sweater or jacket depending on season are recommended.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Zagreb in an air-conditioned vehicle, all entry fees for Plitvice Lakes, guidance throughout by an official English-speaking guide, plus boat and tram rides inside the park. Lunch is available as an optional extra if you’re hungry after exploring both Upper and Lower Lakes—just ask your guide for recommendations before heading back home.