Split to Zagreb: Plitvice Lakes Stop, Boat & Train Ride

Summary

From Split to Zagreb with a pause for waterfalls and forest

You’ll travel from Split to Zagreb with a real break in between: walking Plitvice’s wooden trails past waterfalls, taking a boat across glassy lakes, and riding an electric train through forest air. Expect laughter with your guide, tired legs, and maybe even a little silence as you watch sunlight hit the water.

What’s the experience like?

I thought the drive from Split to Zagreb would just be hours of highway and podcasts, but then we stopped at Plitvice Lakes. I’d seen photos before — all that turquoise water — but walking in, you get this cool, earthy smell, like moss after rain. Our guide, Petra, handed out our tickets (she did all the organizing) and warned us about “slippery bits.” She grinned when someone asked how many steps there’d be. “Enough,” she said. Not wrong.

The wooden paths twist right over the water — sometimes you’re close enough to feel spray on your ankles. We heard frogs croaking under the boards and every now and then a group of Croatian schoolkids would pass by, shouting something cheerful I couldn’t catch. There’s this moment where you turn a corner and suddenly a whole wall of waterfalls is just there, loud enough to drown out any conversation. I tried to take a photo but it honestly didn’t do it justice. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a day trip Split to Zagreb with Plitvice Lakes stop, don’t skip the park.

After hiking up from the lower lakes (my legs noticed), we took a little boat across the big lake — everyone went quiet for a minute except for one kid who kept asking his dad if there were fish underneath. The sun came out while we were on the electric train back up; people started peeling off jackets and laughing about their snack choices (I brought too many apples). Petra made sure no one got left behind before we piled back into the bus for Zagreb. I still think about that green light on the water as we left — kind of peaceful after all that walking.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Transfer from Split to Zagreb with Plitvice stop

• Visit Gray Line Split
• Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Travel to Zagreb by bus

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Split to Zagreb transfer?

No, check-in is required 20 minutes before departure at the office; pickup is not included.

How long do we spend at Plitvice Lakes during this trip?

The exact time varies due to traffic and group pace; expect several hours exploring on foot plus boat and train rides.

Are entrance tickets for Plitvice Lakes included?

You receive entrance tickets upon arrival at Plitvice; they are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is provided; bringing snacks or food is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

No, it’s not recommended for participants with walking disabilities due to uneven terrain.

Can infants join? Are strollers allowed?

Infants can join; strollers are allowed but terrain may be challenging in some areas.

What should I wear or bring for Plitvice Lakes?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and sports clothes; bring snacks and plenty of water.

Are pets allowed on this tour?

No pets are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes transportation by air-conditioned vehicle from Split to Zagreb with a stop at Plitvice Lakes, entrance tickets handed out by your guide at arrival, an English-speaking professional guide leading you through the park’s trails, plus a panoramic boat ride across the lakes and an electric train ride through forested paths before continuing onward by bus toward Croatia’s capital city.