Zadar , Croatia

Zadar to Zagreb via Plitvice Lakes Tour

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About this experience

If you need to get to Zagreb from Zadar, it makes absolute sense to stop in and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. By far Croatia's most popular National Park, and also UNESCO listed, Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolute must when exploring Croatia. Your day begins with our professional English speaking driver picking you up from your address in Zadar. Then you are on your way to the lakes and while on route feel free to use the complimentary WIFI in the vehicle. Now you have 4hrs to freely explore the stunning park. We offer both a tour with or without a guide. with Be sure to walk the easy trails that line the shores of the 16 interconnected lakes, and take in the magical falls that seem to be everywhere you look. Once your time is up your driver will be waiting for you at the agreed location and you will be off to your lunch stop. Then we make our way to Zagreb where your driver will drop you off at your accommodation.

Available options

With a Tour Guide for the Park

Minivan suitable for 8<br/>Pickup included

Explore the park on your own

Minivan suitable for up to 8<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

WiFi on board

A lunch stop at Rastoke is included after your visit to Plitvice. This lunch is at your own expense.

Air-conditioned vehicle

Electric Boat & Train Ride

Private Transfer with English Speaking Driver

Detailed itinerary

Your journey begins from Zadar, where our professional english speaking driver will pick you up from your address in one of our private vehicles. Then it's a relaxing ride through the Zadar hinterland and the Velebit Mountains to the entrance of Plitvice Lakes. This part of the trip takes 1hr 45mins.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that will leave you speechless. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this stunning park spans 295 square kilometers of pristine wilderness, featuring 16 crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and enchanting waterfalls. Whether you're an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply seeking tranquility, Plitvice is the perfect destination for a one-of-a-kind experience. As you step into Plitvice Lakes, you’ll be mesmerized by the kaleidoscope of colors. The park’s lakes—ranging from vibrant turquoise to deep emerald green—glow with clarity, reflecting the sunlight in mesmerizing hues. Formed over thousands of years, these lakes are separated by stunning travertine barriers, creating a series of cascading waterfalls that will take your breath away. The park's most famous waterfall, Veliki Slap, plunges a dramatic 78 meters into the lake below, making it one of the tallest in Croatia. Everywhere you look, the beauty of nature unfolds.

Rastoke is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Croatia, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional architecture. Known as "the little village of waterfalls," Rastoke is situated at the confluence of the Slunjčica and Korana rivers, where the waters cascade over limestone cliffs, creating picturesque waterfalls and crystal-clear pools. This enchanting village is famous for its historic wooden houses, watermills, and rustic charm, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. This is where we will make our lunch stop and it is a 1 hr drive from Plitvice to Rastoke.

After Lunch in Rastoke Watermill village we will make our way to Zagreb. This part of the trip will take 1 hr

What's not included

Gratuities

Personal Expenses

Plitvice Lakes Entrance Tickets are not included cca 40 Euro per person.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Zadar

Zadar is a historic city on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, known for its rich Roman and Venetian heritage, stunning sunsets, and unique Sea Organ. The city blends ancient history with modern attractions, offering visitors a unique cultural experience by the Adriatic Sea.

Top Attractions

Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje)

A unique architectural marvel where the waves create musical tones through underwater pipes.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Roman Forum

Ancient Roman ruins in the heart of Zadar, showcasing the city's rich history.

Historical 1 hour Free

St. Donatus Church

A well-preserved 9th-century circular church with a rich history.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Zadar Archaeological Museum

A museum housing a vast collection of archaeological artifacts from the region.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate (around 30 HRK)

Greeting to the Sun

A solar-powered installation that creates light shows and musical tones based on solar activity.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Black Risotto (Crni Rižot)

A traditional Dalmatian dish made with cuttlefish, giving it a distinctive black color.

Main Course Contains seafood, gluten (rice)

Peka

A slow-cooked dish of meat or octopus with vegetables, cooked under a bell-like lid.

Main Course Can be vegetarian or with meat/seafood

Brodet

A rich seafood stew made with various types of fish and shellfish.

Main Course Contains seafood, gluten (often served with polenta)

Rožata

A creamy, caramel-flavored custard dessert similar to crème brûlée.

Dessert Contains dairy, eggs, sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking in national parks Kayaking Cycling Beach lounging Sunset watching at the Sea Organ Spa treatments Visiting museums and historical sites Attending local festivals

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant festivals. The sea is warm, and all tourist facilities are open.

22°C to 35°C 72°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Croatian
Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Croatian Kuna (HRK)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Zadar is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers

Getting there

By air

Zadar Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Zadar Railway Station

By bus

Zadar Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with frequent services.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Camme

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Borojevic Square Ulica Matoševa

Day trips

Plitvice Lakes National Park

150 km • Full day

A stunning national park with cascading lakes and waterfalls, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.

Krka National Park

70 km • Full day

A beautiful national park with waterfalls, swimming areas, and hiking trails.

Šibenik

60 km • Half day

A historic coastal city with a well-preserved old town, cathedrals, and fortresses.

Festivals

Zadar International Donat Festival • August Zadar Film Forum • November Festiva Dalmatina • July

Pro tips

Visit the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun at sunset for a magical experience.
Explore the Old Town on foot to discover hidden gems and historic sites.
Try local specialties like black risotto and peka for an authentic Dalmatian dining experience.
Take a day trip to nearby national parks like Plitvice Lakes or Krka for stunning natural beauty.
Learn a few basic Croatian phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.