Zadar: Plitvice Lakes with Boat Ride and Zadar Old Town Tour

Explore Croatia’s Natural Wonder: The Zadar to Plitvice Lakes Tour for $53

This day trip from Zadar offers an exciting opportunity to experience Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning waterfalls, turquoise waters, and lush landscapes. For $53 per person, travelers get a well-organized journey featuring transportation, boat rides, and electric train excursions, with a flexible option to explore Zadar’s Old Town afterward. The tour is ideal for those seeking natural beauty combined with cultural insights in a comfortable, moderate-paced setting.

One notable strength of this tour is the positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and good value. A potential consideration is that entry tickets to the park are not included and need to be paid separately in cash. This tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive experience with ample exploration time and some free time for photos and independent discovery.

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Key Points

• Affordable price of $53 includes transportation, boat, and train rides
• Four hours to explore Plitvice Lakes, with guided insight and scenic stops
• Optional evening walking tour of Zadar Old Town at 6:00 PM
• Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site with breathtaking waterfalls and turquoise waters
• Guides like Filip, Bojan, and Monica receive high praise for their friendliness and knowledge
• Travelers recommend bringing warm clothing and decent footwear for uneven surfaces

Departure and Meeting Point in Zadar

The tour starts at Ul. Aleksandra Paravije 5, a central location in Zadar, in front of the Zadar In and Out office. Travelers are advised to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and greeting with the friendly tour guide. The group then departs in an air-conditioned bus, heading through picturesque Croatian countryside towards Plitvice Lakes.

Scenic Journey Through Croatian Countryside

The bus ride from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park takes approximately 2 hours. During the drive, guides share engaging stories about Croatia’s culture and history, setting the scene for the day ahead. The comfortable, modern bus ensures a relaxed journey, with many reviews praising the smooth transportation and timely departures.

Discovering the Wonders of Plitvice Lakes

Upon arrival, travelers are given about four hours to walk around the upper and lower lakes. The paths follow the natural contours of the park, showcasing flowing springs, flowering meadows, and mysterious caves. The waterfalls are a major highlight, with magical views and soothing sounds that captivate visitors.

The tour includes a scenic boat ride on the park’s turquoise waters and a train journey that offers a different perspective of the landscape. These rides help travelers rest their feet and enjoy the diverse viewpoints of the waterfalls, streams, and lush greenery.

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The Route and Key Stops Within the Park

The walking route is flexible, allowing groups to explore at a comfortable pace. Many guides encourage taking photos at notable sites and stopping at meadows and caves along the way. The electric train and boat serve as refreshing breaks and scenic highlights, often praised for their relaxing pace and spectacular views.

It’s important to note that walking on uneven surfaces is involved, and about 6 miles are covered. Travelers should expect a moderate physical effort and bring warm clothing, especially since Plitvice can be cooler than Zadar.

Visiting the Waterfalls and Taking Photos

The waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes are the main attraction, with travelers frequently mentioning the breathtaking vistas. The flowing waters and surrounding greenery make for stunning photographs. Visitors often take advantage of the free time to relax, capture images, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

Multiple reviews note that early morning visits tend to be less crowded, but the afternoon visits are also enjoyable, especially for those who prefer a quieter experience. Some reviews recommend bringing warm clothes since the park tends to be cooler, especially around water and shaded areas.

Optional Guided Walking Tour of Zadar Old Town

After returning from Plitvice Lakes, visitors have the option to join a guided walking tour of Zadar’s Old Town at 6:00 PM. This walking tour is free to join and requires no advance reservation. It explores medieval churches, charming squares, and historical landmarks, offering an excellent way to deepen the cultural experience of the city.

The guides who lead these tours are praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledge, making the walk both informative and engaging. The tour is a perfect complement to the nature adventure, providing a cultural perspective on Croatia’s coastal history.

Practical Details: Inclusions, Costs, and Tips

The tour price of $53 covers transportation, boat ride, and electric train ride, with a guide leading the group. Food and drinks are not included and must be purchased separately at the park. Travelers should bring cash for entry tickets and be prepared for uneven walking surfaces.

Warm clothing is recommended, particularly since Plitvice Lakes tends to be cooler than Zadar, and some parts of the park may be restricted depending on weather conditions. The tour is suitable for individuals with moderate physical fitness and children must be supervised by an adult.

The Experience Review Highlights

The high praise for guides like Filip, Bojan, and Monica highlights the personalized, friendly nature of this tour. Many reviewers mention that guides share interesting facts about Croatia, ensuring a fun and educational experience. The scenery, especially the waterfalls and lakes, consistently earns comments about its breathtaking beauty.

Travelers appreciate the balanced pace of the tour, allowing time for exploration, photos, and rest, making it a relaxing yet comprehensive day trip. Several reviews also emphasize the value for money and the well-organized nature of the trip.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This tour works best for nature lovers and those eager to see Croatia’s most famous waterfalls without the hassle of planning. It’s especially suitable for moderate fitness levels given the distance and uneven terrain. The guided format ensures you gain insights into both the natural environment and Croatian culture.

If you enjoy scenic boat rides, easy walks, and cultural walks in a comfortable setting, this tour offers a comprehensive experience. The option to explore Zadar’s Old Town afterward adds cultural depth without additional hassle.

Summary: A Well-Organized Day Amidst Natural Beauty

This Zadar to Plitvice Lakes tour offers a fantastic value for those wanting to experience some of Croatia’s most iconic scenery. The inclusion of boat and train rides, combined with four hours of exploration, ensures that visitors see the highlights of the park at a comfortable pace.

The highly praised guides, like Filip, Bojan, and Monica, make the experience engaging and informative. While entry tickets are paid separately, overall, the well-planned logistics and spectacular landscapes make this a recommended option for travelers eager to enjoy Croatia’s waterfalls and lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entry tickets to Plitvice Lakes included in the tour price?
No, the entry tickets are paid in cash on the day of the tour and are not included in the $53 price.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate, but must be accompanied by an adult. Expect walking on uneven surfaces and a moderate physical effort.

What should I bring for the day trip?
Travelers should bring warm clothing, comfortable footwear, and cash for park entry tickets. Also, consider packing water and snacks, as food in the park can be expensive.

Can I join the Zadar Old Town walking tour?
Yes, the guided walking tour of Zadar’s Old Town is available any day at 6:00 PM and no reservation is needed.

How long is the drive from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes?
The drive takes approximately 2 hours each way, offering a comfortable journey through Croatia’s scenic countryside.

What are the main highlights of the park?
The waterfalls, flowing springs, and scenic lake vistas are the main attractions, with boat and train rides adding to the experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The walks involve rough, uneven surfaces and cover about 6 miles, so it may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.

What makes this tour stand out compared to others?
The high praise for guides, the scenic combination of boat and train rides, and the flexibility for independent exploration make this a top choice for experiencing Plitvice Lakes from Zadar.

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