From Split: Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Split and spend a day surrounded by stunning waterfalls, lush nature, and genuine local flavors, this tour to Krka National Park is a solid choice. We’ve reviewed countless trips in Croatia, and this one consistently earns high praise, mainly thanks to its well-organized structure, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to enjoy authentic tastes of the region.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the hassle-free transportation—no need to rent a car or worry about directions. Second, the blend of natural beauty and local food and wine—you get a taste of Croatia’s rich produce alongside its breathtaking scenery. The only caveat? Be prepared for a full day, as it’s around 11.5 hours long, offering a lot packed into one trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a reliable, organized way to visit Krka without the stress of independent travel, and who appreciate combining nature with food and drink. If you prefer guided experiences that cover several highlights, this will likely be your kind of day out.

Key Points

• Hassle-free trip with round-trip transportation from Split
• Includes a boat cruise and free time for swimming, hiking, and exploring
• Authentic local tasting experience with wines, cheeses, and olive oils
• Expert guides making the day informative and enjoyable
• Flexible options for different weather and crowd conditions
• Great value for the price, considering the all-in logistics and tastings

An In-Depth Look at the Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tour

This tour is designed for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring some of Croatia’s most captivating sights. Starting early from Split, you’ll enjoy round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus, making the journey comfortable and stress-free. No need to waste precious vacation time figuring out directions or parking—your seat is reserved, and the guides handle the logistics.

The Journey and First Stop: Krka National Park

The drive to Krka National Park takes approximately 11.5 hours round-trip, but the time passes quickly thanks to engaging guides and the anticipation of what’s ahead. Once you arrive, you’ll pay the entrance fee in cash and follow your guide through this lush region known for its numerous waterfalls. The park’s natural beauty is truly vivid, with cascades tumbling over rocks and dense greenery framing the landscape. As one reviewer notes, “the waterfalls are beautiful,” and you’ll quickly see why this park is a favorite among nature lovers.

Many travelers appreciate the way the guide takes care of the details, giving background info and pointing out the best spots to see. One reviewer mentions, “Ivana was our guide and was fantastic! She was great for telling us how to get through the park and giving us background information on Croatian history too.” This personal touch enhances the experience—you’re not just wandering aimlessly but learning a little as you go.

The Ethnographic Village and Watermills

A highlight of the park visit is the stop at an ethnographic village, where you can see traditional costumes, crafts, and old watermills. There’s also a house dedicated to Nikola Tesla—a nod to Croatia’s fascinating past in invention and innovation. This stop offers a glimpse into local life and history, adding depth to your nature walk.

Skradinski Buk and Free Time in Skradin

Next, you’ll board a boat (or bus, during winter) for the scenic journey to Skradin, a charming small town with a picturesque harbor. Here, you’ll have about an hour of free time to explore. You might climb the fortress for panoramic views, stroll through the streets, or relax with a drink or a quick lunch in one of the local cafes. Travelers consistently rave about Skradin’s beauty. One review mentions, “the stop in Skradin was so lovely,” emphasizing how much this peaceful town contributes to the overall enjoyment.

It’s worth noting that swimming near the waterfalls isn’t permitted, which might surprise some. A reviewer pointed out, “Waterfalls were amazing, but it was a bit misleading to think there might be swimming at the falls themselves.” Still, the nearby beaches where the river meets the sea offer opportunities for a quick dip during free time.

The Winery in Plastovo: Taste of Croatia

The tour’s second half takes you to Plastovo, a tiny village hard to reach without a guide. Here, you’ll meet a local family winemaker and sample up to three different wines, alongside cheeses and olive oils, and spirits if you wish to buy. The tasting is a genuine affair—no large commercial winery here, just a warm welcome and authentic flavors.

Multiple reviewers mention how much they enjoyed this part. One said, “the wine tasting was very enjoyable,” and others praised the engaging guides, like Gabriella, who made the tasting a memorable highlight. You’ll also get a chance to purchase local produce directly from the producer, supporting small-scale Croatian artisans.

Returning to Split

After experiencing the natural wonders and tasting local products, the bus takes you back to Split, usually arriving in the early evening. The entire day is packed with activity, but many find it well worth the effort for the variety and quality of the experiences.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Krka National Park

Expect a lush, green landscape dotted with waterfalls, watermills, and scenic trails. The guided walk helps you navigate the park efficiently, pointing out key sights and offering historical tidbits. You’ll have enough free time to hike along the boardwalks, climb to viewpoints, or simply soak in the scenery. Swimming isn’t permitted near the waterfalls, but there are beaches where you can relax during your free time.

Skradin

This quaint town offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quick stroll or a relaxed lunch. Climb the fortress for views over the river, or sit by the harbor watching boats drift by. This stop is about soaking in a small-town vibe and the beauty of Croatia’s river scenery.

Plastovo Winery

Here, the focus shifts to tasting Croatia’s local wines, cheeses, and olive oils. The host—often a family member—provides insights into the region’s agricultural traditions. The wines are described as “delicious,” and the setting is intimate and authentic, making it a far cry from large, commercial wineries.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Considering the price of around $45.56 per person, this tour is a good deal for what you get. The transportation, guides, boat cruise, and tastings are included, with only the park entry fee payable in cash. Many reviews highlight how smooth and well-organized the experience is, with guides going out of their way to make the day enjoyable.

The tour’s flexible approach—adjusting stops based on weather and traffic—means you’re more likely to have an optimal experience rather than being stuck in crowds or bad weather. The guides’ attentiveness to detail and their ability to manage large groups, sometimes with multilingual capabilities, keeps the day flowing smoothly.

The Real Experience

Guests consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly guides, like Ivana, Gabriella, Lovro, and Antonia, make all the difference. They not only explain the sights but also weave in interesting facts and humorous anecdotes, making the day both educational and fun.

The tasting of wines, cheeses, and olive oils is more than just a quick flavor test—it’s an essential part of experiencing Croatian culture and local agriculture. The setting, often in scenic villages or family-run wineries, adds to the authenticity.

Practical Considerations

The day’s long duration means packing comfortable shoes, especially for walking in the park and climbing at Skradin. It’s wise to bring cash for the park entry fee and any purchases at the winery. The full-day schedule makes it suitable for active travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and relaxing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for those who want to see Croatia’s natural beauty without the hassle of driving. It suits travelers who appreciate a good story behind their wine and local food, and who enjoy having a guided, organized experience. It’s also ideal for first-timers wanting an overview of some top sights in a full but manageable day.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and enjoy small-group atmospheres, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially recommended for those who don’t mind a full day and want to combine outdoors, culture, and culinary delights in one trip.

FAQs

Is transportation provided? Yes, round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus from Split is included in the tour price.

How much does the entrance to Krka National Park cost? You pay the entrance fee in cash on the day, and it’s not included in the tour price.

Can I swim at Krka Waterfalls? No, swimming isn’t permitted at the waterfalls themselves. However, there are beaches nearby where you can swim during your free time.

What is the duration of the tour? The full experience lasts approximately 11.5 hours, from departure in Split to return.

Are there free tastings of food? The wine, cheese, and olive oil tastings are included, but additional food, like lunch, is at your own expense.

Is it suitable for all weather conditions? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How big are the groups? The maximum group size is about 100 travelers, which allows for a lively but manageable atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and a full day out.

What makes this tour stand out? The combination of natural beauty, authentic local tasting, and guided commentary makes it a highly valued experience in Croatia.

Final Thoughts

This Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour from Split offers a well-rounded taste of Croatia’s scenic and cultural treasures. The well-organized logistics mean you can relax and enjoy the day, knowing guides are there to provide insights, manage the group, and keep things running smoothly.

You’ll leave with fantastic photos, a deeper understanding of Croatian traditions, and a satisfied palate from the wine and food tastings. It’s a wonderful way to spend a day, especially if you’re eager to experience Croatia beyond its historic towns—sampling its natural beauty and authentic flavors.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or just someone eager for a reliable and enjoyable day trip, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for those who value good guides, stunning views, and genuine local experiences—all at a fair price.