Zagreb to Plitvice & Rastoke: Small Group Day Trip with Tickets

Summary

From Zagreb to lakes and watermills, a day of Croatia’s wild beauty

You’ll step into misty mornings leaving Zagreb behind, wander among Rastoke’s old mills with their rushing streams, then follow wooden paths through Plitvice’s blue-green lakes and hidden falls—all with tickets handled and a local guide by your side. Expect moments that linger longer than photos ever will.

What’s the experience like?

We were already half-awake when the van pulled out of Zagreb—city noise fading, coffee still warm in my hand. Our guide, Marko, had this way of pointing out things you’d never notice on your own: a roadside shrine tucked behind wildflowers, the way the fields shift from gold to green as you head south. By the time we reached Rastoke, I could hear the river before I saw it—sort of a low rushing sound that made me want to just stand there for a minute. The village itself felt like something out of an old storybook, wooden houses perched above waterfalls and mossy stones. Marko told us about the watermills dating back centuries; I tried to pronounce “mlin” (mill) and he grinned—probably not even close.

The drive from Rastoke to Plitvice Lakes isn’t long, but it’s enough for nerves to build up if you’re like me and always worried you’ll forget something important (passport? snacks?). But once we got our entry tickets sorted—no lines, which was a relief—we started down these winding boardwalks that felt almost suspended over turquoise water. There was this moment where sunlight broke through the trees and everything smelled damp and green. You could hear nothing but birds and water crashing somewhere below. At one point I just stopped walking because there was this dragonfly hovering right in front of me—blue wings flickering—and I thought: how is this real?

Marko kept us moving but never rushed anyone, even when someone wanted “just one more photo.” We took a boat across one of the bigger lakes (wind on my face, people mostly quiet), then later hopped on a little park train back toward the entrance. It’s about 8 kilometers total if you do the main route—not hard walking but definitely bring good shoes. Lunch was whatever we packed or grabbed at a kiosk; nothing fancy but somehow it tasted better after all that fresh air. And yeah, by the end my legs were tired but in that good way. On the ride back to Zagreb, everyone was quieter—I think we were all replaying waterfalls in our heads. I still am.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Rastoke village and Plitvice Lakes

• Explore Rastoke watermill village
• Take photos in Rastoke
• Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Walk along paths and boardwalks
• Discover waterfalls and lakes

Top questions

How far is Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb?

It’s about 2 hours by car from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Does this tour include entry tickets to Plitvice?

Yes, entry tickets for Plitvice are included in your booking.

Is hotel pickup available in Zagreb?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at selected locations in Zagreb are included.

How much walking is involved at Plitvice?

The main walking route covers about 8.5 km (5.3 miles), mostly flat paths.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No set lunch is included; you can bring your own or buy food at kiosks inside the park.

Can children join this day trip?

Children under 5 can only join with the small group option; infant seats are available if needed.

What should I wear or bring for this tour?

Wear comfortable closed or hiking shoes and sportswear; bring your passport or ID card.

Does the tour run in bad weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; some parts of the park may be restricted depending on weather.

Are boat and train rides included at Plitvice?

The electric boat and train rides inside Plitvice are included when operating (seasonal).

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from select Zagreb hotels or meeting points, private transportation with an English-speaking guide who stays with you throughout, entry tickets for both Plitvice Lakes (with boat and train rides when available) and Rastoke village visits—all so you can focus on wandering instead of logistics before returning home tired but happy.