Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls
Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls
Plitvice Lakes waterfalls are the highlight of Croatia’s most famous national park, enchanting visitors with their power and beauty. With more than 90 cascades connecting 16 turquoise lakes, they create a constantly changing natural masterpiece.
From the mighty Veliki Slap to countless smaller streams hidden along wooden trails, the waterfalls offer unforgettable views in every season. Whether shrouded in spring mist, framed by summer greenery, glowing in autumn colors, or frozen into winter sculptures, Plitvice Lakes waterfalls are a wonder to behold year-round.
How Many Waterfalls are in Plitvice Lakes?
There are more than 90 waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes National Park, ranging from tall, dramatic drops to smaller cascades that link one lake to the next. The unique system of lakes is divided into Upper and Lower groups, and the waterfalls serve as natural steps between them.
The number and strength of the waterfalls change with the seasons. In spring, when snow melts in the surrounding mountains, the flow is at its most powerful. During summer, the falls are framed by lush greenery, while in winter, many freeze into surreal icy sculptures.
Top 6 Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall)
The tallest waterfall in Croatia at 78 meters, Veliki Slap is the undisputed highlight of Plitvice Lakes. Located near Entrance 1, it’s the park’s most photographed landmark and especially powerful in spring.
2. Sastavci Waterfall
Right beside Veliki Slap, Sastavci is where the Lower Lakes meet the Korana River. The combination of tumbling cascades and canyon cliffs makes this one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the park.
3. Galovački Buk
Located in the Upper Lakes, this fan-shaped cascade is one of Plitvice’s most beautiful waterfalls. Surrounded by lush greenery and wooden boardwalks, Galovački Buk is a favorite spot for photographers.
4. Veliki Prštavac
The second highest waterfall in the Plitvice Lakes National Park, Veliki Prštavac creates a wide curtain of water and a mist that often forms rainbows. It’s a magical scene that perfectly represents the park’s living landscape.
5. Milanovački Slap
This striking cascade in the Lower Lakes flows into turquoise pools, framed by boardwalks that bring you close to the action. It’s one of the most atmospheric waterfalls to enjoy up close.
6. Mali Buk Waterfall
Smaller in size but big in charm, Mali Buk is a tranquil cascade that flows over mossy rocks into emerald pools. Its intimate beauty makes it a must-see along the Lower Lakes trail.
The Formation of Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls
The Plitvice Lakes waterfalls are not static; they are created and reshaped by a process called tufa (travertine) formation. As calcium carbonate in the water settles on moss, algae, and bacteria, it builds natural barriers that redirect the flow of water. Over centuries, these barriers have formed the lakes and waterfalls that define the park.
This process is ongoing, which means the waterfalls of Plitvice are constantly changing; growing, shifting, and evolving into new shapes. It’s one of the reasons the park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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]
