Plitvice Lakes
Croatia's natural wonder - a staircase of sixteen turquoise lakes linked by countless waterfalls and wooden walkways through forest, the country's oldest national park.
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Illustrative image - a scene in the spirit of the place, not a photograph of it. Real photos are below.
UNESCO World Heritage
Plitvice Lakes is Croatia's most famous natural wonder and its oldest national park, a UNESCO site where sixteen terraced lakes of impossibly turquoise and emerald water descend in a staircase, linked by countless waterfalls. Wooden walkways and paths wind directly across and beside the water through lush forest, and electric boats and a road train link the upper and lower lakes.
What you actually see
- The turquoise lakes - the staircase of vivid blue-green terraced lakes.
- The waterfalls - the countless cascades linking the lakes, including the great Veliki Slap.
- The wooden walkways - the paths winding across and beside the water.
- The forest setting - the lush woods around the lakes.
When to go
Late spring and early autumn for the fullest waterfalls, mild weather and thinner crowds; spring brings snowmelt and green forest, autumn brings colour. Summer is hot and very busy, so book a timed entry and go early.
Honest expectations
It is extremely popular, so in summer the narrow walkways jam with visitors; book a timed ticket and start early. Swimming is forbidden to protect the lakes. It is a long day of walking, so wear good shoes, and note there is no shortcut past the crowds on the boardwalks.
Nearby
The Krka waterfalls and the Dalmatian coast are to the south; Zagreb is to the north.
What to pack for Plitvice Lakes
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
