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Overview: car trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes
The Split to Plitvice Lakes transfer covers approximately 160 miles (260 km) and takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes by car. This journey offers the perfect opportunity to transform a simple transfer into an unforgettable day trip through Croatia's stunning landscapes. With a Daytrip private transfer, you can experience the convenience of door-to-door service while adding exciting sightseeing stops along the way.
As you travel from Split's coastal charm toward the natural wonder of Plitvice Lakes National Park, you'll pass through Croatia's diverse terrain. The route takes you from the Adriatic coastline through rolling hills and eventually to the lush forests surrounding the lakes. Why rush directly to your destination when you can enhance your travel time with memorable stops at fascinating locations?
Consider adding Krka National Park to your itinerary, where you can marvel at magnificent waterfalls cascading over natural limestone barriers. Or perhaps explore the historic Klis Fortress. Your journey from Split to Plitvice Lakes becomes more than just a transfer; it’ll become an integral part of your Croatian adventure.
About Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia's oldest and largest national park, is a breathtaking natural wonder that draws visitors from across the globe. Established in 1949 and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979, this remarkable destination showcases nature's artistry through a series of 16 interconnected lakes that cascade into one another through travertine barriers.
The park's formation is a fascinating geological story that began thousands of years ago. Water flowing over limestone and chalk deposits created natural dams, resulting in the terraced lakes we see today. This continuous process means the landscape is ever-changing, with new travertine barriers forming while others grow or dissolve over time.
The lakes themselves are renowned for their distinctive colors, ranging from azure to green, gray, and blue. These color variations occur due to different mineral compositions and organisms in the water, along with changing light conditions throughout the day. The best time to visit depends on what you hope to experience. Spring brings abundant waterfalls with melting snow, summer offers lush greenery, autumn transforms the surrounding forests into a canvas of golden and red hues, while winter creates a magical frozen wonderland.
The park's biodiversity is equally impressive, with over 1,200 plant species, 161 bird species, and numerous mammals, including bears, wolves, and rare European lynx. While these animals typically avoid human contact, their presence highlights the park's ecological importance. Visitors can explore Plitvice Lakes via a network of wooden walkways that meander across the water, allowing for close-up views of waterfalls without disturbing the sensitive ecosystem.
Unlike many national parks worldwide, swimming is prohibited in Plitvice Lakes to preserve the delicate ecological balance and protect the travertine formations. However, the visual feast of cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests more than compensates for this restriction. The park's elevation ranges from 1250 to 4200 feet (380 to 1,280 meters) above sea level, creating diverse microclimates and habitats throughout the area.
From Split to Plitvice Lakes: travel tips
Planning your journey from Split to Plitvice Lakes? Here are some essential travel tips to ensure your trip goes smoothly:
Add sightseeing stops to your journey
The drive from Split to Plitvice Lakes offers numerous fascinating attractions along the way. With Daytrip, you can customize your transfer by adding stops at places like Krka National Park or the fortress town of Knin. This transforms your travel day into an enriching experience rather than just time spent getting from point A to point B. Plus, your driver will wait while you explore, eliminating the stress of finding parking or navigating unfamiliar roads.
### Plan for a full-day visit
Plitvice Lakes National Park is vast, covering 296.85 square kilometers. To fully appreciate its beauty, allocate at least 6-8 hours for exploration. The park offers several hiking routes of varying lengths and difficulties, with the longest taking up to 8 hours to complete. Check the official Plitvice Lakes website for the most up-to-date information on trails and visiting conditions.
### Pack the appropriate gear
Even in summer, the wooden walkways around the lakes can be slippery, so comfortable walking shoes with a good grip are essential. The weather in the park can differ significantly from coastal Split due to the elevation change, so bring layers regardless of the season. Don't forget your camera! The landscape offers countless photo opportunities as you travel through this natural wonderland!
How to get from Split to Plitvice Lakes
There are several options for your Split to Plitvice Lakes transfer, each with its own advantages. Let's explore them from most to least convenient:
Private transfer from Split to Plitvice Lakes
The most comfortable and flexible way to travel from Split to Plitvice Lakes is with a Daytrip private car service. This door-to-door transfer takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes direct, though you can extend this pleasantly by adding sightseeing stops. Your journey begins at your accommodation in Split and ends directly at your chosen location in Plitvice Lakes, eliminating the hassle of navigating public transportation.
With Daytrip, you'll travel with a professional English-speaking local driver in a clean, comfortable vehicle. Unlike public transportation, you can customize your trip with stops at attractions like Krka National Park, Trogir, or Sibenik.
### Bus from Split to Plitvice Lakes
Buses are the most common public transportation option for traveling from Split to Plitvice Lakes. The journey takes approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the route and time of day. During peak tourist season (April to October), multiple buses operate daily, but departures become less frequent in the off-season.
Tickets typically cost between $15-$30 one way, making this an economical choice for budget travelers. However, be aware that buses will drop you at the park entrance, and you'll need to walk to your accommodation if staying nearby. You'll also need to plan your return trip carefully, as the last bus from Plitvice to Split usually departs in the early afternoon. Check the current timetables and book tickets in advance, especially during high season.
### Car rental from Split to Plitvice Lakes
Renting a car gives you maximum flexibility for your trip and the freedom to explore at your own pace. The direct drive takes about 2.5-3 hours, but you'll need to factor in time for parking at Plitvice Lakes, which can be challenging during peak season.
Rental cars in Split typically start around $40-70 per day, plus fuel costs. The route is well-maintained and mostly follows the A1 highway, making it an easy drive. However, keep in mind that you'll be responsible for navigation, parking fees, and potential one-way drop-off charges if you're not returning to Split. Also, you'll miss out on the local knowledge a private driver can provide about the best spots to visit along the way.
### Train from Split to Plitvice Lakes
Unfortunately, there is no direct train connection from Split to Plitvice Lakes. The Croatian railway network doesn't extend to the national park area. While you could take a train part of the way, you would then need to arrange additional transportation to reach Plitvice Lakes, making this an impractical option for most travelers.
Things to do when you get to Plitvice Lakes
Once you arrive at Plitvice Lakes after your journey from Split, here are some must-do activities to make the most of your visit:
Explore the park's walking trails
Plitvice Lakes National Park features a network of well-maintained trails that cater to all fitness levels. The park offers seven different routes, ranging from 2 to 8 hours in duration. These trails are marked with letters (A through K) and color-coded signs for easy navigation.
Route C is often recommended for first-time visitors as it provides a comprehensive 4-6 hour tour of both the Upper and Lower Lakes. For those with limited time, Route A offers a 2-3 hour walk focusing on the Lower Lakes, where some of the most impressive waterfalls are located. Check the visitor information center for up-to-date trail maps and advice on the best route for your interests and available time.
### Ride the panoramic train and electric boat
To cover more ground and rest your legs, take advantage of the park's transportation system. A scenic panoramic train (actually an electric tram) connects the Upper and Lower Lakes, offering beautiful views as it traverses the park. Your entrance ticket includes unlimited rides on this train, which is especially useful for reaching distant sections of the park.
Similarly, an electric boat carries visitors across Lake Kozjak, the park's largest lake. This 20-minute boat ride is not only practical but also provides unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape that aren't visible from the walking paths. Both the train and boat operate from April through October, with reduced service in the shoulder seasons and no service during winter.
### Visit Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall)
At 255 feet (78 meters) high, Veliki Slap is the tallest waterfall in the park and one of Croatia's most impressive natural features. Located in the Lower Lakes section, this thundering cascade creates a constant mist that supports unique microhabitats for plants and animals.
The best viewpoints for photographing Veliki Slap are from the trails above it, where you can capture both the waterfall and the valley beyond. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday lighting. During spring and after heavy rainfall, the waterfall is at its most powerful, creating a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.
### Experience the Upper Lakes section
While the Lower Lakes get more attention due to Veliki Slap, the Upper Lakes section offers a quieter, equally beautiful experience. Here, you'll find a series of smaller lakes and waterfalls surrounded by dense forests. The elevated wooden walkways take you directly over crystal-clear water, where you can observe fish swimming below and unique aquatic plants.
Galovački Buk, at 80 feet (25 meters) high, is the most impressive waterfall in this section. The Upper Lakes also feature Prošćansko Lake, the highest and second-largest lake in the system. This area tends to be less crowded, especially in the early morning, offering a more serene communion with nature during your day trip to this remarkable destination.
When is the best time to visit Plitvice Lakes
The best time to visit Plitvice Lakes largely depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip from Split to this natural wonder.
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), making it the most popular time to visit. The park's lush vegetation is in full bloom, and the longer daylight hours give you more time to explore. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher accommodation prices near the park. If you visit in summer, arrive early in the morning to enjoy some tranquility before the day trippers arrive.
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer excellent alternatives with fewer visitors. Spring brings powerful waterfalls as snow melts, while autumn transforms the surrounding forests into a spectacular display of red, orange, and gold colors. Temperatures during these seasons range from 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C), perfect for hiking the trails without overheating.
Winter (November to March) presents a completely different but equally magical experience. The frozen waterfalls and snow-covered landscapes create a winter wonderland, though some paths may be closed due to ice. Winter visits also offer the advantage of significantly reduced entrance fees and almost no crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature during your travel from Split.
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Verified reviews from 2,102 travelers who booked this route
Nov 2, 2024
" Really friendly driver who even helped us with our luggages up the stairs at our hotel. Greatly appreciated! "
Sheau Woei P.
Korea, Republic of
Apr 16, 2024
"We had a fantastic trip with Ivo. He was a safe driver, gave us lots of time at every stop, showed us interesting sites along the way, and explained the history of what we were seeing. He was personable and entertaining. Definitely the best way to travel through Croatia!"
Caroline C.
Canada
Oct 1, 2023
"Our trip with Ivan was excellent. Thankyou we were very happy with all aspect. Ivan was also excellent we highly recommend him. "
Megan J.
Australia
Sep 10, 2023
"We were very happy with our trip to Plitvice, Nick was a very good driver, gave us interesting commentary, we enjoyed the experience.
"
Phil S.
Australia
Aug 1, 2023
"Mladen drove us from Split to Plitvice. He was 10 minutes early to the pick-up and ready to go when we appeared. He was a careful driver and very good with the road. He was also informed on what we wanted to try to accomplish on our stop in Kruskovac. He helped us find 2 of my wife's cousins. He was very patient with us and the cousins as we knew no Croatian and they knew no English. He listened carefully as the one cousin related her ills over and over. Very compassionate. We were blessed to have him."
Bruce H.
United States
Jul 18, 2023
"Hi, we had a great experience Zeljko was great friendly and informative. Will definitely use mydaytrip again and will recommend to friends and family.
"
Erika C.
United States
Jun 19, 2023
"We were very happy with our trip with George, he was a careful, attentive driver who entertained us with humorous stories along the way.
He was very prompt on arrival. His car was clean and comfortable.
We would be very happy to have him as our driver again."
Nancy A.
Australia
Jul 4, 2022
"Hi, we had a great experience with our driver. He was friendly and a good communicator. We made it to our cabin which was a little hard to find, but Slaven helped us get our bearings and made sure we had checked in before leaving. We felt very comfortable and safe and it was easy to make our reservation."
Katie T.
United States
Oct 1, 2019
"We had Ivan for both of our trips. He was punctual, personable, very helpful, and an excellent driver. The overall experience was one that we would recommend.
"
Frank G.
United States
Sep 20, 2019
"A very good experienceDriver reliable, polite helpful
Car was clean
Trip was very quick
Driver stopped for rest room break when asked
All in all a very good experience and YES well use your company again in the future"
Marshall S.
Australia
Jul 31, 2019
"Hi there. I took three trips with you while I was away recently and each one was perfect. Great job! I will be sure to recommend to all of my friends and family"
michelle f.
Canada
Jul 31, 2019
" My experience with Daytrip was wonderful. Our driver, Milivoj, was friendly, professional, and I felt safe and comfortable during the journey.
My partner and I especially enjoyed Milivoj's local knowledge and personal/historical anecdotes about places we drove past on our journey. It made the time pass quickly!
Warm regards,
Jessica "
Jessica G.
Australia
Jul 18, 2019
"We have an enjoyable time using your service.
The driver is punctual, helpful and thoughtful.
We will definitely use you guys again
keep it up!
Shawn
"
Shawn Y.
Singapore
Jul 1, 2019
"The trip by Ms Natalija was fantastic. She was very nice & helpful.
She gave us advice on how to get to the entrance of the lakes and even gave us a lift back to the lakes after dropping off our luggage at our accommodation to save us few km of walking there."
Jenny T.
Singapore
May 17, 2019
"The trip was great, Slaven was really helpful and also lovely to talk to throughout the drive.
We are all very happy with him :)"
Melanie C.
Jan 8, 2019
"My overall experience for this trip was fantastic. Goran is a
responsible driver who pick us up timely and ensure that we
are being attended by the host when we arrived at our next
destination.
I will surely engage the company again for my next holiday destination
and recommend to others if they intend to travel on their own.
"
Ann T.
Oct 11, 2018
"Ziga was a fantastic driver. All very smooth and enjoyable, and would definitely recommend this way of travel in general, as well as Ziga in particular. Great trip!
"
Linda Jean V.
Sep 12, 2018
"Our Driver Milijov was on time and the car was like new, clean and very comfortable. Millijov gave us some interesting facts along the way but also knew when to let us enjoy the scenery. It was so easy to arrange this ride. I would recommend this company to anyone looking for private transfers."
Aileen L.
Australia
Aug 23, 2018
"We had a very pleasant drive with Zeljko V, who was on time, courteous and intelligent.
Your staff managing the queries were also very helpful and quick in responding to our request to vary the trip to include the side trip to Krka National Park.
We are very happy with your service,
Alexander and Constance L."
Alexander L.
Aug 5, 2018
"Bozo did a great job. He was very accommodating for this group, making a few adjustments to the route. He was pleasant and helpful - well done.
I am a travel agent in the USA and have now used your service on about 4 occasions. I was a bit unsure at first since you are new and relatively unknown but now I am a believer! Finding a private driver for these types of "transfers" from city to city (even crossing countries) is wonderful for my business and I hope to work with you often in the future.
Regards,
Susan Maxwell"
Susan M.
United States
Questions & Answers about Traveling from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park
The best way to get from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park is with a Daytrip private transfer. You'll reach this incredible UNESCO World Heritage site in under 3 hours without the hassle of car rental or public transport. Plus, you can sightsee en route!
The best way to get to Split Airport from Plitvice Lakes National Park is with a Daytrip private transfer. By avoiding public transport, you can eliminate travel-day stress and schedule a departure time that best suits you and your flight schedule.
Zagreb is somewhat closer to Plitvice Lakes (by about 70 miles, or 30 minutes to an hour in the car.) Travelers who want to see it all should consider a private transfer service because public transport routes tend to take a bit longer.
There is no direct train on this route. Travelers can take a train from Split to Zagreb and then take a bus to the lower lakes. For a faster route, choose a Daytrip private transfer and schedule the journey in advance with flexible online booking.
With Daytrip, it's easy to get from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park without a car. Your professional driver will transport you comfortably from door to door in a luxurious car. You can also be your own tour guide on the way with optional sightseeing.
This is a great option for a day trip. With Daytrip's private car service, you'll receive comfortable and convenient round-trip transport with a friendly, professional driver. You can customize your meeting point for pickup and drop off and visit beautiful sights during the road trip to the lakes.
Visit these sights on the way
Klis Fortress
Although its television debut has made it well known, this ancient fortress is still a gem with plenty of space to wander. The City of Meereen from Game of Thrones
Trogir
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this little island is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The Stone Beauty
Sibenik
Unlike cities like Trogir and Hvar, which were founded by outside conquerors, the UNESCO-listed town of Sibenik is the oldest Croatian-founded settlement. The Oldest Adriatic Gem
Krka National Park
Overflowing with natural beauty, Croatia's seventh national park is also the only one where you can swim! Seven Stunning Scenes
Zadar
Inhabited for over two thousand years, Croatia's oldest city is one of the Mediterranean’s most historically interesting towns. Port of Plenty
Church of Croatian Martyrs at Udbina
Situated overlooking one of Croatia’s most scenic and historically-significant landscapes, this modern church offers a unique experience. Dedicated to History
