From Zadar: Plitivce Lakes AFTERNOON Tour – TICKETS INCLUDED

Exploring the Zadar to Plitvice Lakes Tour: A Practical Look

If you’re considering a trip from Zadar to see the stunning waterfalls and terraced lakes of Plitvice, this afternoon tour might catch your eye. As a travel writer who’s seen countless excursions, I aim to give you a clear, honest take on what you can expect, so you can decide if it’s worth your time and money.

What we like about this tour is its convenience — it offers air-conditioned transport and a streamlined itinerary that takes the hassle out of planning. Plus, the inclusion of a panoramic boat and train ride across the lakes adds a fun, scenic element that many travelers appreciate. On the flip side, potentially the biggest drawback is the cost of entrance tickets that are not included in the ticket price, which can add up, especially for families.

This tour suits those who value ease and efficiency: travelers who want a guided experience without the need to organize tickets or transportation themselves. However, if you’re after a more in-depth exploration of the park or flexible timing, it might feel a bit restrictive. Still, for a quick, comfortable, and scenic day trip, it checks several boxes.

Key Points

• Convenient transportation in an air-conditioned coach from Zadar.
• Tickets for the park are reserved and must be paid in cash — plan ahead.
• Includes boat and train rides for scenic views of the lakes, adding fun to the visit.
• Limited time at the park (about three hours), so it’s a quick tour rather than a deep-dive.
• Tour only runs from June 1st to September 30th, making it a seasonal option.
• Customer review ratings are low, with only one review citing concerns about price, indicating room for improvement in value perception.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Zadar

The tour begins in the heart of Zadar, with two meeting points: one near the Old Town at Street Rafaela Levakovica 1 (next to a Caffe Bar), and another at Marka Marulia 7 in front of Tommy Market. It’s convenient that both locations are central, though the timing (12:00 pm for Old Town travelers, 12:20 pm for the bus) requires punctuality.

The Journey to Plitvice

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, we’re whisked away from Zadar’s urban energy into the lush, rolling scenery of inland Croatia. The roughly two-hour ride is straightforward, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the changing landscape.

Break at Macola Bar

A brief 15-minute stop at Macola Bar offers a chance to stretch your legs before entering the park. While the stop isn’t lengthy, it’s a practical moment to grab a quick refreshment or use the facilities. Keep in mind, this isn’t a sightseeing stop, just a practical break.

Exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park

The main event is a three-hour visit to Croatia’s most famous national park. The tour reserves your entrance ticket, so you skip the lines — a real plus during busy summer months. The park is known for its cascading lakes, waterfalls, and vibrant greenery, which you can explore at your own pace or follow a route with a guide (depending on your booking choice).

The included boat ride across Lake Kozjak is a highlight, offering a scenic perspective of the park’s interconnected lakes. Some routes also include a train ride, adding to the overall experience. You’ll have freedom to wander, but the guide’s route (route B) provides some structure, especially if you want to ensure you see the key sights.

Return to Zadar

After your park visit, the bus departs at an agreed time, returning you to Zadar for approximately two more hours in the city. This time can be used for relaxing, shopping, or just enjoying a coffee near your hotel.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transport & Comfort: The coach is described as air-conditioned, which is essential in Croatia’s summer heat. The group size is limited to about 50 travelers, which means you’re not lost in a huge crowd but still part of a sizable group.

Park Experience: Since the entrance fee isn’t included in the tour price, it’s important to bring cash to avoid disappointment. The park itself is a highlight — for many, the walk among waterfalls and lakes is breathtaking, a real highlight of any trip to Croatia. However, with only about three hours inside, you might find it challenging to see everything in detail, especially if you’re a slow walker or want to linger at certain viewpoints.

Boat & Train Rides: These add a layer of fun and convenience, allowing you to cover more ground and see the park from different angles, which is often a highlight in reviews.

Timing & Seasonal Limitations: The tour only runs from June 1st to September 30th, aligning with the best weather and park accessibility. Outside these months, you’ll need to find alternative ways to visit.

Cost & Value Analysis

At $83.54 per person, the tour price covers transportation, the guided experience (if you choose that option), and the boat and train rides. However, the park entrance is an additional cost, which has to be paid in cash — this can add significant expense, especially for families or groups.

One review points out that a family of four might spend over 100 euros just on tickets and parking, which suggests this tour might seem pricey once all costs are tallied. For some travelers, the convenience and guided approach justify the expense, but budget-conscious visitors might prefer to buy individual tickets and plan independently.

Authentic Experiences & Practical Tips

We loved the way this tour simplifies logistics — no need to worry about buying tickets or navigating public transport. The included boat and train rides are a real bonus, offering picturesque views and a bit of adventure. The comfort of the coach and the ease of meeting points make it accessible for many travelers.

However, some travelers have expressed reservations about the overall value, especially considering the additional costs. A Tripadvisor reviewer noted, “Check the price of tickets before you go: a family of 4 spends more than 100 euros (not including parking). Too bad, it should be accessible to everyone.” This highlights an important consideration: while the tour offers convenience, it might not be the most economical choice for everyone.

Also, the limited time inside the park means you’ll see the highlights but won’t have the chance for a leisurely exploration. If you’re the type who wants more depth or flexibility, this might not be the right fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a straightforward, guided day trip without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s ideal for those who value comfort and convenience — especially if they want to skip long lines and enjoy scenic boat rides without extra planning.

However, if you’re a budget traveler, prefer more flexible timing, or want to explore the park at your own pace, you might find this tour a bit restrictive or costly. Those with mobility issues should also verify if the route and timing suit their needs, as the walk inside the park can be demanding.

Final Thoughts

The Zadar to Plitvice Lakes afternoon tour offers a decent way to see Croatia’s most famous waterfalls without the stress of organizing transportation and tickets. The included boat and train rides add a memorable touch, and the convenience of a guided experience appeals to many travelers.

That said, the cost can add up once you factor in the entrance fee, and the limited time inside the park might leave some wanting more. It’s best suited for those who prioritize ease, scenic views, and a brief visit over an in-depth exploration.

If you’re visiting Zadar and want a hassle-free day out in one of Croatia’s most stunning natural sites, this tour could be worth considering — just keep an eye on the total costs and your personal pace.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you travel in an air-conditioned coach from designated meeting points in Zadar.

Do I need to buy park tickets myself?
No, the tickets are reserved for you, but you must pay for them in cash on the day of the tour. The ticket price isn’t included in the tour cost.

How long is the visit to the park?
You have about three hours inside Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is enough to see the main sights but not to explore in detail.

Are boat and train rides included?
Yes, the panoramic boat and train rides across the lakes are part of the experience.

Can I follow the guide or explore on my own?
You can choose to follow the guide’s route (route B) or explore more freely during your visit.

When does the tour operate?
The tour runs only from June 1st to September 30th.

What is the duration of the entire trip?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, including travel time, breaks, and the park visit.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It can be, but be aware of the extra costs for park tickets and the limited time inside the park.

What’s the price for this tour?
$83.54 per person, not including the park entrance fee, which is paid in cash.

Are there any reviews about this tour?
There is only one review, which mentions the high cost and suggests checking ticket prices beforehand.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical way to visit Plitvice Lakes from Zadar with minimal fuss, especially suitable for travelers who prioritize comfort and efficiency. However, be mindful of the extra costs and the time constraints inside the park, and consider your own pace and budget before booking.