If you’re planning your trip to this stunning location, it’s wise to carefully plan your day at the park. Plitvice Lakes attract loads of visitors year after year, so it can get pretty crowded during peak times.
To avoid disappointments and make the most of your visit, it’s important to buy your tickets in advance and prepare for your time in the park. This ensures you can smoothly enjoy the natural wonders that make Plitvice Lakes so special.
Where is Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes?
You’ll find Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes on the D429 road, nestled between Korana and Jezerce. If you’re coming from the direction of Hungary, this will be the first entrance you reach, also known as the North Entrance.
Getting to Plitvice Lakes National Park
You can get to Plitvice Lakes National Park only by car or bus. The D429 road is part of the bus routes between the interior of Croatia and the coastal regions. Many of these buses stop at Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes National Park. For the latest bus schedule, check out the Zagreb Bus Station website.
The Perks of Entrance 1 at Plitvice Lakes
Starting from Entrance 1 is special because it leads directly to some of the park’s most iconic sights. Near this entrance, you’ll find the famous Big Waterfall (Veliki Slap), the symbol of the park itself. Plus, it’s ideal for those wanting to explore the wonderful world of the lower lakes first. The scenery here, with sky-blue lakes, lush forests, and fairy-tale waterfalls, is simply breathtaking.
Hiking Trails
From Entrance 1 at Plitvice Lakes, you can choose from several hiking trails, depending on how much time you want to spend in the park. Shorter routes are perfect for a quick, memorable visit, while longer ones allow for a deeper exploration. Definitely try to climb up to the viewpoints for a stunning panoramic view.
Handy Tips
- Timing: Going early in the morning helps avoid large crowds and lets you enjoy nature’s beauty undisturbed. This is especially important in summer, and the morning air is cooler, too.
- Gear: Wear comfy hiking or sports shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot on dirt paths and boardwalks. Don’t forget to bring water, some snacks, sunscreen in summer, and a raincoat in autumn.
- Photography: Charge your phone, have enough storage, or bring your camera! Plitvice Lakes is a place where every corner is perfect for a photo.
Plitvice Lakes National Park shows a different face in every season. Entrance 1 is a perfect starting point for exploring the National Park at any time of the year, whether you’re on a day trip or a longer vacation.
Parking at Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes
There’s a huge parking area at Entrance 1, providing ample space for visitors arriving by car. Parking fees may vary by season and car type, so it’s a good idea to check the official website of Plitvice Lakes National Park in advance.
The parking is located across from the entrance on the other side of the main road, offering a convenient starting point for exploring the park. As the initial paved parking spots fill up, the rest of the parking extends into the forest, where you can find more spots along the winding roads.
If you arrive later and find a spot further in, you might need to walk 10-15 minutes to reach the park entrance.
A pedestrian bridge over the main road provides access to the entrance.
Ticket Purchase
It’s best to buy your tickets online in advance through the official website of Plitvice Lakes National Park, especially during peak times, to avoid long lines and ensure entry. When buying online, you’ll need to choose an entrance and time slot.
Of course, you can also buy tickets on-site, but be prepared for crowds, especially during summer months and weekends, and tickets might run out before you arrive.
Ticket prices at Plitvice Lakes National Park vary by season, visitor age, and other factors, so for the latest information and prices, always check the official website.
Our advice? Plan your day in advance to make the most of your time at Plitvice Lakes, ensuring every moment of your visit is memorable and seamless!
