Plitvice Lakes National Park is located in the interior of Croatia, approximately two and a half hours north of Split and about two hours south of Zagreb by road. It is the largest and most visited national park in Croatia and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
The park consists of sixteen terraced lakes connected by a series of waterfalls and streams. The water flows from one lake to the next through natural travertine barriers, creating a landscape that is unlike anything else in the region. The color of the water changes depending on the season and the light, ranging from deep blue to shades of green and turquoise.
The park has several marked walking routes of different lengths, ranging from a couple of hours to a full day. Wooden boardwalks run directly over the water in many sections, giving visitors a close view of the lakes and falls. Boats and a panoramic train connect the different parts of the park, which is helpful given the size of the area.
Plitvice is a year-round destination. Summer brings lush greenery but also the largest crowds, so an early arrival is strongly recommended during peak season. Autumn is considered by many to be the most beautiful time to visit, when the surrounding forest changes color. Winter visits are also possible and offer a quieter, often dramatic experience when parts of the park are covered in snow and ice.
Given the distance from the Dalmatian coast, Plitvice is best visited as an overnight trip or as a stop on the way to or from Zagreb, rather than a single long day trip.
