Getting from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes, you have the option of taking a bus, using your own car, or renting one.
There is also the option of arranging a private transfer, which is preferred by many who do not wish to rent a car for traveling from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes.
Here, we provide a detailed description of each type of transport. Scroll down for information on travel from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by car, bus, private transfer, and train.
Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by Car
Whether you are traveling from the city center or the airport, you need to first reach Motorway A1 to get to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb.
- From the city center, follow the road signs for A1, direction Karlovac, Split, Rijeka.
- From the airport, use the main road to exit the airport area, then after 2 kilometers, take a left turn towards Zagreb city center. After 1 km, make a right turn towards motorway A3, direction Split/Ljubljana, at the cloverleaf junction. Follow the road signs for A1, Karlovac, Split, Rijeka.
- From any other location in or near Zagreb, simply take motorway A3 (Zagreb ring road) and head towards A1 Karlovac.
Once on motorway A1, take your road ticket and proceed to Karlovac, about 39 km. Take the Karlovac exit. Plitvice Lakes (Plitvička Jezera) are clearly indicated on road signs before and after the exit.
After leaving the motorway, first pay the road toll, then continue straight, following national road D1. It starts as a 4-lane road but soon narrows to a 2-lane national road. It is around 80 kilometers from Karlovac on the same road when you reach the Plitvice region.
Be sure to obey speed limits, as there are many speed traps and police patrols along the way.
Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by Bus
A very popular way to travel to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb is by taking one of the many bus routes. This is an affordable option for visiting the Lakes; however, consider the limitations of getting around in the region.
There is a direct line operated by Knežević every morning at 6:45 AM, arriving at 9 AM. Another option, operated by the carrier Arriva, leaves at 10:30 and arrives at 13:07, which may be less convenient for a day trip. For those staying longer, Flixbus operates afternoon lines from Zagreb.
Buses depart from Avenija Marina Držića 4, the main bus station in Zagreb. It is recommended to arrive at the bus station at least 15 minutes prior to departure. Journey time is between 2 hours 15 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes. Buses arrive at Plitvička Jezera, which is essentially Entrance 2.
Check out the Flixbus and Arriva websites for the current timetable.
Avenija Marina Držića 4, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
53231, Plitvička Jezera, Croatia
Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by Private Transfer
Many accommodations in the region offer private transfers from Zagreb. Contact your host in advance for pricing and other details.
Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes by Train
Many tourists inquire about traveling to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb by train. Unfortunately, there is no train service to the lakes.
So, regardless of your starting point, there is no train connection to Plitvice Lakes. Browse the options above and choose the one that best suits you.
