Plitvice Lakes vs. Krka National Park: Which Croatian Park Should You Visit?
Croatia is home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking natural landscapes, and its national parks are among the country’s top attractions. Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park both offer stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests, making them must-visit destinations for nature lovers.
While Plitvice Lakes National Park is famous for its cascading turquoise waterfalls and peaceful hiking trails, Krka National Park is known for its swimmable waterfalls and scenic boat rides. If you’re trying to decide which one to visit, here’s what you need to know.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: A Fairytale Landscape
Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s most famous and oldest national park, boasting 16 interconnected lakes, countless waterfalls, and scenic wooden boardwalks. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Best Time to Visit & How to Get There
Best Time to Visit Plitvice
Plitvice is stunning year-round, but the best months to visit are May to September, when the waterfalls are at their fullest, and the park is at its most vibrant. Winter visits can be magical too, with frozen waterfalls and fewer crowds.
Getting to Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice is located about 2 hours from Zagreb and 1.5 hours from Zadar, making it accessible by car or tour bus. There is no direct public transport, so renting a car or booking a tour is the best way to visit.
Top Attractions & Hiking Trails
Veliki Slap (The Big Waterfall)
The tallest waterfall in Plitvice at 78 meters (256 feet), Veliki Slap is a breathtaking sight and one of the park’s highlights.
The Wooden Walkways
The park features several scenic hiking routes (divided into color-coded trails), guiding visitors along wooden pathways over the lakes, offering stunning views at every turn.
Boat Ride Across Kozjak Lake
A free electric boat ride across Kozjak Lake allows visitors to experience the park from a unique perspective. It’s a peaceful way to soak in the natural beauty.
Who Is Plitvice Best For?
Plitvice Lakes is perfect for hikers, photographers, and travelers who love serene nature walks and breathtaking landscapes. If you prefer a peaceful, well-preserved nature escape, this park is for you.
Krka National Park: Waterfalls You Can Swim In
Krka National Park is a smaller but equally stunning park, known for its swimmable waterfalls, boat excursions, and historical sites. It’s a great alternative to Plitvice for those wanting a more interactive experience.
Best Time to Visit & How to Get There
Best Time to Visit Krka
The park is best visited from June to September, when swimming is allowed at Skradinski Buk, and the weather is perfect for boat rides. However, it’s also the busiest season, so visiting early in the morning is recommended.
Getting to Krka National Park
Krka is only an hour from Split and 20 minutes from Šibenik, making it an easy day trip. Unlike Plitvice, Krka can be accessed by public transport, though a rental car offers the most flexibility.
Top Attractions & Activities
Skradinski Buk: The Iconic Waterfall
This is the most famous waterfall in the park, featuring multiple cascades and a designated swimming area (summer only). It’s the perfect spot for cooling off.
Boat Trip to Visovac Island & Roski Slap
Visitors can take a scenic boat tour to Visovac Island, home to a 15th-century monastery, or continue to Roski Slap, another set of beautiful waterfalls with fewer crowds.
Exploring Skradin
The charming town of Skradin is a great place to grab lunch before or after visiting the park, offering authentic Dalmatian cuisine and picturesque streets.
Who Is Krka Best For?
Krka National Park is ideal for swimmers, families, and travelers who enjoy boat rides and a more interactive nature experience. If you want to swim beneath waterfalls and explore historical sites, Krka is the perfect choice.
