Getting from Split to Plitvice Lakes
Getting from Split to Plitvice Lakes
Getting from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park is a popular route for travelers who want to combine Croatia’s coastal charm with its inland natural wonders. The park lies about 250 km away, and while the journey is long, the breathtaking scenery makes it worthwhile.
Here’s how to get from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park—whether by car, bus, or guided tour—so you can choose the option that best fits your trip.
How to Get from Split to Plitvice Lakes and How Far Is It?
By Car
Driving from Split to Plitvice Lakes is the most flexible option, taking between 3.5 and 5 hours depending on traffic and stops. The route covers about 250 km and follows major highways.
Recommended Routes:
- A1 Motorway (E65/E71/E75): Take the A1 north from Split, exit at Gornja Ploča or Karlovac, and follow signs for Plitvice Lakes. This is the fastest and most convenient option.
- D1 Road: A slower but scenic alternative that passes through towns and villages. It takes longer but offers charming views of rural Croatia.
Driving Tips:
- Tolls apply on the A1 motorway, so be prepared with cash or card.
- Fuel stations and rest stops are available along the way.
- Parking at the park is paid and located near Entrance 1 and Entrance 2.
By Bus
Intercity buses run daily from Split Bus Station, located near the ferry port, to Plitvice Lakes. The ride takes about 5–6 hours and arrives at bus stops near Entrance 1 and Entrance 2.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, no need to drive yourself.
- Cons: Less flexible schedules, longer travel time, and limited return options in the evening.
- Tip: Always check the latest timetable on trusted platforms.
→ See the bus schedule from Split to Plitvice Lakes.
By Guided Tour
Guided tours are the most convenient choice if you prefer a stress-free experience. They typically last 12–14 hours, starting with early-morning pick-up in Split.
- Tours usually include round-trip transport, a professional guide, and most itineraries cover both Upper and Lower Lakes with the park’s boat and panoramic train rides.
- While more expensive than the bus, tours save you time and planning, ensuring you see the highlights efficiently.
Best Way to Get to Plitvice Lakes from Split
The best option depends on your travel style. Independent travelers may enjoy renting a car for flexibility, while budget travelers might prefer the bus. However, for most visitors, tours from Split to Plitvice Lakes are the easiest, most time-efficient, and stress-free option. With transportation, tickets, and guides included, you’ll spend less time planning and more time enjoying the park.
Plitvice Lakes National Park Tickets
Explore below our curated selection of Plitvice Lakes tickets and guided tours:
Bestseller Plitvice Lakes Ticket
Plitvice Lakes National Park Entry with Panoramic Train & Boat Ride
5.3K+ reviews
€23
Headout
Everything from buying the tickets to entering the National Park was a breeze. The National park is exquisite and the boat ride was a lovely experience and a rest for my husband…
Top-Value Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour
Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
50+ reviews
€35
Headout
Our guide was excellent. He was personable & knowledgeable. He was very approachable & amazing with multiple languages.
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Split
From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
2.8K+ reviews
€65
Viator
Absolutely stunning lakes and a great tour out from Split. It’s a bit of a drive but the bus is lovely and comfortable so it’s an easy trip. The day in the park itself is spectacular and worth the drive…
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Zadar
Zadar: Plitvice Lakes Guided Day Tour with Tickets
2.8K+ reviews
€58
GetYourGuide
had a truly wonderful experience with Bojan! The tour was comfortable, well-organized, and fun […] I wholeheartedly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Croatia.
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Zagreb
From Zagreb: Plitvice & Rastoke Guided Day Trip with Ticket
2.7K+ reviews
€85
GetYourGuide
It was a great trip from Zagreb to see Plitvice. Included a short stop at Rastoke Village where you can explore and take a break on the way to Plitvice. […] The locations themselves are amazing, highly recommended to take this tour.
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Trogir
Bestseller Plitvice Lakes Ticket
Plitvice Lakes National Park Entry with Panoramic Train & Boat Ride
This Plitvice Lakes Ticket offers comprehensive access to Plitvice Lakes National Park, granting entry at either the North or South entrance. Immerse yourself in the park’s beauty with included perks, such as a panoramic train ride and an electric boat excursion on Kozjak, Plitvice’s largest lake.
“Everything from buying the tickets to entering the National Park was a breeze. The National park is exquisite and the boat ride was a lovely experience and a rest for my husband…” Katharine, Oct. 2023 [Source: Headout]
Top-Value Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour
Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
With this Plitvice Lakes ticket, you’ll join a fully guided tour of the park with skip-the-line entry. Explore the waterfalls, lakes, and woodland walks with ease. Along the way you’ll also enjoy a panoramic train ride and a relaxing electric boat trip across one of the largest lakes, for added scenery and serenity.
“Our guide was excellent. He was personable & knowledgeable. He was very approachable & amazing with multiple languages.” James, Sep. 2025 [Source: Headout]
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Split
From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour
Travel in comfort from Split with this Plitvice Lakes Guided Tour that covers round-trip transportation, and expert guide narration. You’ll get to walk through upper and lower lake trails, ride a scenic boat, and experience the park’s highlights — all while the drive is taken care of.
“Absolutely stunning lakes and a great tour out from Split. It’s a bit of a drive but the bus is lovely and comfortable so it’s an easy trip. The day in the park itself is spectacular and worth the drive…” Elizabeth, Sep. 2025 [Source: Viator]
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Zadar
Zadar: Plitvice Lakes Guided Day Tour with Tickets
Departing from Zadar, this guided tour provides everything you need for a seamless Plitvice Lakes adventure — transport, admission, and a knowledgeable guide. Walk the wooden paths, admire the iconic waterfalls, and relax on a tranquil boat ride before heading back to the city.
“I had a truly wonderful experience with Bojan! The tour was comfortable, well-organized, and fun […] I wholeheartedly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Croatia.” Yuliia, Sep. 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Zagreb
From Zagreb: Plitvice & Rastoke Guided Day Trip with Ticket
Embark on a 10-hour day trip to Plitvice National Park with a seasoned English-speaking guide and convenient van transportation from Zagreb. The package covers the entry ticket to Plitvice National Park and includes a visit to the charming Rastoke Village for an enriched experience.
“It was a great trip from Zagreb to see Plitvice. Included a short stop at Rastoke Village where you can explore and take a break on the way to Plitvice. […] The locations themselves are amazing, highly recommended to take this tour.” Ella, Sep. 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
Top-Rated Day Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Trogir
From Split or Trogir: Plitvice Lakes Tour with Entry Tickets
Experience a 12-hour guided Plitvice Lakes Tour with entry tickets to Plitvice Lakes National Park included. Enjoy convenient pickup and drop-off, transportation by minivan or tour bus, departing from either Split or Trogir.
“I recommend this tour! A well-thought-out route: it was interesting, beautiful, not boring and not too tiring. […] Our transport was very comfortable, with air conditioning.” Анастасия, Aug. 2025 [Source: GetYourGuide]
