Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most stunning natural wonders, renowned for its cascading lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests. Beyond just wandering its scenic trails, the park offers a wide range of tours and experiences that deepen your connection to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Whether you prefer a relaxed guided walk, an adrenaline-pumping kayak trip, or exploring independently, there’s something here for every type of traveler. We particularly like the guided walking tour with train and boat ride, which combines ease, expert insight, and the best views—perfect for first-timers. For a more active adventure, the kayaking tours along the Mreznica River provide a chance to see Croatia’s natural beauty from an entirely different perspective. These experiences showcase the park’s diverse landscapes and allow you to enjoy Croatia’s outdoors in a safe, well-organized way.
In this guide, you’ll find a mix of guided and self-guided tours, as well as active water adventures, all with excellent reviews and great value. We’ve ranked these options based on their uniqueness, accessibility, and the ability to make your visit memorable. Keep reading to discover which tour suits your style and schedule best.
1. Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour with Train and Boat Ride
Enjoy a guided tour of Plitvice Lakes, established in 1949 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. This tour offers the perfect way to see the park’s highlights with an expert guide, helping you understand the history and geology of this unique landscape. You can choose from a 3-hour, 6-hour, or 8-hour option, making it flexible for different schedules.
The guided walk takes you along the park’s well-maintained trails, past stunning waterfalls, and across scenic boardwalks. The tour includes a train ride through the park’s forests and a boat cruise on Kozjak Lake, which are both highlights for many visitors. The reviews show a high satisfaction rate (4.4/5 from over 1,200 reviews), with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized experience. For those looking for a comprehensive introduction to Plitvice, this tour offers excellent value for its price ($29 per person).
Bottom line: If you want a hassle-free, informative way to explore the park’s main sights, this guided walk is a reliable choice. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors who appreciate expert commentary and the convenience of transportation within the park.
2. Kayaking on Upper Mreznica River – Slunj, Croatia
Skip the crowds and experience Croatia’s outdoors from the water with this kayaking adventure on the River Mreznica. Priced at about $65, it’s an exceptional value considering the level of activity, guided instruction, and included transfers. You’ll paddle downstream, passing up to 15 waterfalls—some jumpable—and enjoy swimming in warm pools along the river.
This trip is ideal for travelers craving a mix of adventure and natural beauty. The full equipment is provided, and guides like Denis are praised for their attentive, friendly approach. The reviews consistently rate it 5 stars, highlighting safety, fun, and the stunning scenery. The route is family-friendly, with options to jump into the water or simply relax and take in the views.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers, families, or anyone wanting a day of thrill and fresh air outside the park. The included transport makes it a seamless experience, making it one of the top ways to combine outdoor fun with Croatia’s scenic landscapes.
3. Kayaking Mreznica Waterfalls close to Plitvice Lakes
For a more relaxed yet equally scenic water adventure, consider this kayaking tour along the Mreznica River. Priced at just under $66, it’s an excellent way to explore the forested canyons and waterfalls from the water. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, and no previous experience is needed since full instruction is provided.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to stop for swimming or bring your own picnic by the riverbank. Paddling past cascading waterfalls offers spectacular views, and the calmer rapids make it accessible even for beginners. The guides, including Angelo and Pao, are known for their local knowledge and friendly attitude, which enhances the experience. Reviewers describe it as “absolutely beautiful,” with “super friendly guides” and “good safety briefings.”
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want to combine gentle kayaking with time to relax and absorb Croatia’s natural beauty. It’s perfect if you’re heading to Plitvice but want a peaceful water adventure that’s easy to fit into your schedule.
4. Kayaking Adventure on Mreznica River close to Plitvice Lakes
This kayaking adventure at around $57 offers a lively 4-hour trip along the Mreznica River, taking you through rapids, waterfalls, and swimming spots. The trip is highly rated at 5/5 with over 100 reviews, and guides like Sara make safety and fun their top priorities. You’ll paddle through crystal-clear waters, jump from waterfalls, and enjoy the untouched scenery away from busy tourist spots.
The tour is well-suited for families or those looking for a bit of adrenaline. The reviews note the friendly guides and the “amazing time” had by all, including teenagers and adults alike. It’s a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s natural landscape with active participants in mind.
Bottom line: If you want a lively, well-organized kayaking experience with opportunities for jumps and swimming, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for those comfortable on the water and open to some physical activity.
5. Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, this admission ticket grants full access to Plitvice Lakes’ trails, boardwalks, and boat rides. Price at just over $15, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy the park’s famous lakes and waterfalls. The ticket includes a ride on the park’s panoramic view, shuttle buses between the Upper and Lower Lakes, and an electric boat cruise around Kozjak Lake.
The park’s trails are well maintained, and the scenery is breathtaking—bright blue lakes, tumbling waterfalls, and lush forests. Reviews highlight how easy it is to customize your visit, with many recommending arriving early to beat the crowds. The self-guided approach is perfect for those who love flexibility or are traveling independently.
Bottom line: For independent travelers who want to control their own pace and explore Croatia’s most famous natural site, this ticket offers great value and flexibility.
6. Half day tour around Plitvice Lakes
If time is limited but you want a taste of Plitvice’s beauty, this half-day tour is a practical option. Lasting about 3 hours, it covers the Lower Lakes area, includes a big waterfall, and features a panoramic boat and train ride. Starting from Lička Kuća, it’s a good way to see the highlights without a full day commitment.
The tour is suitable for those with limited time or travelers who prefer guided experiences. While reviews are limited (33), those who have taken it praise the knowledgeable guide and the efficient schedule. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick but comprehensive experience.
Bottom line: If your schedule is tight but you still want to enjoy some of the park’s best features, this half-day tour provides a good overview with guided insight.
7. Plitvice Lakes Tour: Secured Tickets, Train & Boat Ride
This guided tour is designed for travelers arriving from Zagreb, Zadar, or Split, offering reserved tickets and an organized itinerary. For about $42, you get a 4- to 5-hour experience that includes skip-the-line tickets, a walk through the park, and a train and boat ride. The guide, Karlo, is praised for his geological insights and helpfulness.
The tour takes you to the park’s most famous spots, including waterfalls, lakes, and panoramic views. The convenience of pre-booked tickets and a guided experience means avoiding long lines and missing out on the highlights. Reviews mention how leaving early helped avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Bottom line: For those who want a well-organized, hassle-free visit, this guided tour offers excellent value and time-saving features, especially for travelers short on time or unfamiliar with the area.
8. Zadar: Plitvice Lakes Guided Full-Day Trip with a boat ride
This full-day trip from Zadar offers travelers a comprehensive experience of Plitvice Lakes in a single day. At $59, it includes a guided tour, the park’s highlights, and a boat ride on Kozjak Lake. It’s perfect for those staying in Zadar but wanting to see Croatia’s most iconic lakes.
The trip covers major sights, offers insightful commentary, and includes ample time to snap photos and enjoy the scenery. Reviews note how well-organized and knowledgeable the guides are. It’s one of the best options for travelers limited on time but eager to experience the park fully.
Bottom line: Suitable for day-trippers from Zadar, this tour balances guided insight with free time for personal exploration, making it a good value for a full-day adventure.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time constraints, and interest levels. For a comprehensive introduction with minimal effort, the Plitvice Lakes: Guided Walking Tour is ideal. If you’re more active or want to focus on outdoor adventure, the kayaking tours—like those on the Mreznica River—offer unmatched scenery and fun. Self-guided tickets provide maximum flexibility for independent explorers, while full-day guided trips suit travelers who want a structured experience.
Booking early, especially for popular tours, ensures you secure a spot. Peak season (May to September) can get crowded, so plan ahead for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a wide array of tours and experiences that cater to different interests and schedules. For a hassle-free, informative day, the guided walks with train and boat rides are hard to beat. Active travelers will love the kayaking adventures, which reveal Croatia’s natural beauty from a new angle. If you prefer exploring independently, purchasing a park ticket gives you the freedom to wander at your own pace.
No matter which option you choose, booking early is key. These tours enhance your visit and help you avoid frustrations — so pick what fits your style and get ready to enjoy one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.