Split to Plitvice Lakes: Guided Day Trip with Boat Ride

Summary

Wander between waterfalls & lakes with a local guide from Split

You’ll wander wooden paths above turquoise water, hear stories from your local guide, cruise across Plitvice’s Lower Lakes by boat, and pause for snacks near Croatia’s tallest waterfall—all in one day trip from Split. Expect moments of quiet awe and plenty of photo stops before heading back with new memories (and maybe a souvenir or two).

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the color of the water at Plitvice Lakes to look so unreal—almost like someone had turned up the saturation just for us. We left Split early, still half-awake, and by the time we reached the park, the air felt cooler and smelled faintly of pine needles and wet stone. Our guide, Marko, had this way of telling stories about each lake that made you forget you were following a group—he pointed out a tiny orchid growing in a crack by the path, and I nearly missed it because I was busy gawking at yet another waterfall.

The walk through the Upper Lakes was longer than I thought (my legs definitely noticed), but it never got boring. There was this moment where everyone went quiet—just listening to water trickling down mossy rocks. Marko told us how locals used to believe fairies lived here; honestly, I could see why. We hopped on a little boat across the Lower Lakes after that. The ride was slow enough to catch your breath and watch dragonflies skimming over the surface. I tried to say “Veliki Slap” like Marko did—he laughed and said my accent made it sound like a dessert.

Lunch wasn’t included but we stopped for snacks near the big waterfall (I had some salty cheese bread from a stall—still warm). I bought a fridge magnet shaped like one of the wooden walkways; probably cheesy, but now it’s on my fridge back home. The drive back to Split was quiet—everyone sort of dozed off or scrolled through photos. Even now, sometimes when I hear water running in my apartment, I remember that silence by the lakes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day trip to Plitvice Lakes Park

• Depart early from central Split
• Explore Upper Lakes with guide
• View waterfalls and canyons
• Take sightseeing boat on Lower Lakes
• See Veliki Slap waterfall
• Take photos and buy souvenirs
• Return to Split by coach

Top questions

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

The tour lasts most of the day, with an early morning departure from Split and return in the evening.

Is lunch included on this Plitvice Lakes guided tour?

No, lunch is not included but there are snack stops available during the tour.

Does this tour include hotel pickup in Split?

The tour includes coach transportation from central Split; check if your hotel is covered or use nearby public transport options.

What should I wear for walking in Plitvice Lakes?

Comfortable walking shoes and sports clothes are recommended due to uneven paths and variable weather.

Is this guided day trip suitable for people with walking disabilities?

No, it is not recommended for participants with walking disabilities due to required walking distances.

Are entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes included?

You receive entrance tickets upon arrival at Plitvice; your voucher covers bus transportation.

How big are tour groups for this day trip?

The group size varies but you’ll be accompanied by an English-speaking professional guide throughout.

Can I bring pets on this tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour according to park rules.

What’s included

Your day includes coach pickup from central Split, skip-the-line entry tickets handed out when you arrive at Plitvice Lakes, a guided walk through both Upper and Lower Lakes areas with an English-speaking local guide, plus a scenic boat ride across the Lower Lakes before returning by bus in the evening.