Visit Plitvice Lakes from Rijeka & Opatija

Tip 1: Make it a day trip!

With 300km2 of wooden paths, you should really make your visit to Plitvice lakes a day trip. Don’t worry about getting lost, the paths are excellently marked. Sitting at the Bosnia Herzegovina border, Plitvice lakes is the oldest nature park in Southeast Europe, and very well organised.

It made the Unesco World Heritage register in 1979 due to its breathtaking beauty. Some call it Narnia during the winter and Garden of Eden during the summer. The autumn brings out golden and red colours of leaves, while during the spring time this national park flourishes with life.

It’s almost impossible to describe its beauty, you’ll simply have to go and experience it. The water is crystal clear so you can see fish swimming right below your feet. And the lakes and waterfalls turn to ice during the winter. If you have a big fan of “Frozen” at home, they’ll feel like stepping into Disney world.

The biggest hit are definitely the waterfalls which come in different shapes and sizes from a shy little waterfalls to Niagra-like cascades. 16 interconnected lakes tumble into each other, one after the other, in a series of stunning waterfalls. 

Tip 2: Plan your trip to Plitvice Waterfalls in advance

This Instagrammer’s heaven attracts over million travellers each year, so make sure to book your ticket in advance online. Plitvice has longer hours in the summer months. You can check official park hours for your dates here.

If you haven’t arrived with your car to Rijeka or Opatija, you can always contact us to help you with a private car rental or you can contact one of the local tourist agencies that organise group day trips to Plitvice.

This national park is open 365 days per year. However, some trails and access points close depending on weather. The Upper Lakes often close during the winter.

Plitvice Lakes has a continental climate, so make sure wear appropriate clothes. Velebit mountain prevents warm Mediterranean weather to reach the region, so the summers here are quite short and fairly wet, while winters get very cold. Appropriate clothing would include good, anti-slippery trainers, comfortable waterproof and breathable trousers and light jacket during spring and autumn. During winter you ill need several layers of clothes, while during summer you should wear a hat and sun cream. Make sure to check the weather report!

Tip 3: Make the best of your day trip to Plitvice

A lot of people ask us if they can swim in the lakes. The answer is – no. You can swim in Krka waterfalls, but it’s forbidden in Plitvice. So, you can leave your bathing suite in your apartment and choose another day to check out the best beaches in Rijeka.

You don’t have to worry about being hungry. There are some restaurants and snack stands available inside the park.

To make the best of your day, we suggest exploring different activities on the official website of Plitvice National Park. There are lake tour programmes available and marked hiking & cycling trails. You can go rowing in wodden boats or even skiing and sleighing during the winter. If you’re an outdoor type, you’ll love it!

FRIENDLY WARNING: Due to COVID-19 restrictions which are changing on almost weekly basis and could affect the organization of events and working hours of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Feel free to contact us if you have any concerns or questions. Also, you can get up to date info on the official Croatian Government dedicated site  and Total Croatia News portal with special section on traveling during pandemia.