Split to Krka: Waterfalls, Boat & Dalmatian Wine Tasting

Summary

Krka waterfalls day trip with boat ride, Skradin stroll and local wine

You’ll walk under shaded trees along Krka’s wooden paths, hear the rush of waterfalls close-up, take a breezy boat ride to Skradin for a swim or fortress climb, then end your day sipping Dalmatian wine and tasting fresh olive oil at a local family winery. It’s not rushed — just enough time to let each place sink in.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air to smell so green at Krka — like river stones and wild mint after rain, even though it was sunny. Our guide, Ana, kept pointing out tiny flashes of blue in the trees (kingfishers? I still don’t know). We wandered those wooden walkways, sometimes bunched up behind a family or two, but mostly just listening to the waterfalls crash down. The sound is everywhere — it sort of drowns out your own thoughts for a bit. In a good way.

There’s this old ethno-village inside the park where you can peek into houses filled with tools and costumes — I tried to pronounce “pršut” when Ana handed me some local cheese and she laughed (I probably butchered it). She also told us about Nikola Tesla’s connection to the hydro plant here; I had no clue Croatia had one of Europe’s first. After that, we took a slow boat ride downriver to Skradin. The breeze felt salty-sweet and people waved from little boats as we passed by.

Skradin itself was sleepy in that late-morning way — shutters half-closed, cats stretched in patches of sun. Some folks went straight for the fortress climb (the view is worth it), but honestly I just wanted a coffee by the water for a minute. Later we ended up in this tiny village outside town for wine tasting. The winemaker poured us three kinds — one white tasted like apricots and summer heat — plus homemade olive oil with chewy bread and sharp cheese. It all felt very unhurried. I still think about that view over the vines as we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Krka Park, Town, and Winery

• Travel from Split to Krka National Park
• Walk wooden paths in Krka National Park
• See endemic birds, fish, and butterflies
• Visit ethno-village with traditional crafts
• View Jaruga hydroelectric power plant
• Take boat ride to Skradin town
• Walk Skradin, climb fortress, enjoy views
• Have cocktail, lunch, or swim at beach
• Visit local winery in Plastovo village
• Wine tasting with olive oil and cheese

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Split to Krka?

The tour lasts most of the day, including travel time from Split, time at Krka Park, Skradin visit, and wine tasting before returning.

Is swimming allowed at Krka waterfalls?

You can swim at the beach near Skradin where the Krka River meets the sea.

Are food and drinks included on this tour?

Yes, you’ll taste local wine (three kinds), spirits, olive oil, cheese, and bread during the winery visit.

Is transportation provided from Split?

Yes, transportation by air-conditioned bus is included from Split.

Do I need to bring cash for anything?

Your main activities are covered; extra snacks or drinks in Skradin are optional.

Is there an English-speaking guide?

Yes, an English-speaking tour guide leads the group throughout the day trip.

Can I join if I have limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but includes walking on wooden paths.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes for walking and swimwear if you want to swim near Skradin beach.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Split with air-conditioned bus transport, guided walks through Krka’s shaded trails, entry to park sights like old watermills and Tesla’s house, a scenic boat cruise downriver to Skradin with free time for swimming or exploring town, then a relaxed tasting session at a family-run winery featuring three Dalmatian wines plus homemade olive oil, cheese and bread before heading back.