Plitvice Lakes Private Tour, As You Wish

Exploring Croatia’s Natural Gem: The Plitvice Lakes Private Tour, As You Wish

If you’re planning a trip to Zagreb and craving a taste of Croatia’s most iconic natural wonder, the Plitvice Lakes Private Tour offers an appealing option. This tour promises a full day of breathtaking scenery, personalized attention, and the convenience of door-to-door service. While it’s not a cheap outing, the experience of exploring one of Europe’s most stunning national parks in comfort and style might just be worth it.

What we especially like about this tour is its private, tailored approach—you’re not stuck in a large bus with strangers. Plus, the itinerary includes not just the park, but also a charming stop at Rastoke, a water-mills village that’s often overlooked but worth the visit. The only potential snag? The entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget an extra $40 per person. That said, this tour is ideal for those who want a flexible, hassle-free way to see Croatia’s crown jewel with a small group or private guide, all while enjoying stunning views at your own pace.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience tailored for your group
• Comprehensive day-trip including park exploration, a boat ride, and Rastoke village
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for maximum convenience
• Additional costs for park entrance and boat cruise (around $40)
• Cancellation policy offers full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Plitvice Lakes Private Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

This private tour is designed to fit in your schedule comfortably while giving you a thorough experience of Croatia’s most famous national park. It’s perfect for travelers who value personalized service and flexibility, rather than being part of a large, guided group. For the price of about $226 per person, you gain not just a visit to a UNESCO World Heritage site, but also the comfort of private transport, hotel pickup, and drop-off.

The duration—roughly 10 hours—means you can truly savor the scenery without feeling rushed, yet it’s not so long that it becomes exhausting. Plus, with reviews indicating that most travelers find the experience worthwhile, it offers a good balance of value and quality.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Plitvice Lakes National Park
This is the centerpiece of the tour. After being picked up from your Zagreb hotel, you’ll travel about 1.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Once there, the experience begins with a guided walking tour, which is key to understanding the park’s unique features. The guide often shares insights about the formation of the lakes and waterfalls, which adds depth to the stunning visuals.

Expect a scenic walk through the park’s wooden pathways, winding past cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and lush greenery. The park is renowned for its series of connected lakes that form a network of waterfalls—some quite dramatic—making it one of the most photogenic spots in Europe. The tour includes a short train ride—a fun way to cover some distance—and a sightseeing boat cruise across Kozjak Lake, offering a different perspective of these natural wonders from the water.

Cost Consideration: Entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes cost around $39.80 per adult, which isn’t included in the price but is a worthwhile investment given the park’s beauty. The boat cruise and train ride are included in the package, adding to the overall value.

What Travelers Say: “We loved the way the guided walk helped us appreciate the scenery more—our guide knew all the best spots,” shared one reviewer. Others appreciated the flexibility of this private tour, saying it felt less hurried and more personal.

Stop 2: Rastoke Village
A short drive from Plitvice, Rastoke is often called the “Small Watermill Village.” It’s a peaceful spot with old watermills and waterfalls, giving visitors an authentic glimpse into Croatia’s rural past. The 30-minute stop here lets you stroll through the village, take photos, and enjoy a quiet moment by the rushing water. Admission isn’t included, but most find it worthwhile for a quick visit.

Why Visit Rastoke?
It’s a charming, less commercialized alternative to the national park—perfect for those who want a break from crowds or enjoy picturesque villages.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour’s private, air-conditioned vehicle makes the long day much more comfortable. Unlike large group tours, you’ll have flexibility and a more intimate experience, which we think enhances the overall enjoyment—no noisy bus conversations or crowded stops.

Value and Practicalities

While the all-in cost adds up (including park entrance, boat rides, and transportation), most travelers agree the convenience, comfort, and personalized service justify the expense. Plus, the full-day structure allows you to see the park without the typical time constraints of a larger bus tour.

The tour starts early at 8:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the park before late afternoon. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Zagreb save the hassle of figuring out transportation on your own, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local transit options.

What’s Not Included and Why It Matters

The main extra expense is the admission fee to Plitvice Lakes, which is around $39.80 per adult. The sightseeing boat ride and train are included, but if you want to explore more or take photos independently, be prepared to pay for additional activities. Lunch isn’t included either, so packing a snack or picnic is advisable if you want to keep energy levels high.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private trip suits travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a tailored experience. Nature lovers eager to see Croatia’s most spectacular waterfalls and lakes will love the scenery, especially those who want to avoid big tour groups. The inclusion of Rastoke adds an authentic countryside flavor to the day.

It’s also a great option for families, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable, hassle-free adventure. If you’re on a tight schedule but want to maximize your time at Plitvice, this tour offers a well-organized, intimate experience that’s hard to beat.

Who Might Not Love It?

If you’re a budget traveler, the extra costs for entrance fees and optional activities could add up. Also, if you prefer independent exploration at your own pace, a self-guided visit might be more your style. The fixed schedule, although flexible in some ways, still follows a set itinerary that might not suit those wanting to linger longer.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This tour combines the beauty of Plitvice Lakes with the convenience of private transport and a guided experience, making it an excellent choice if you want a stress-free way to explore one of Croatia’s top attractions. The small-group or private format ensures you get personal attention, better photo opportunities, and more comfort throughout the day.

While the price might seem hefty at first glance, the included transportation, boat rides, and the chance to see Rastoke Village add significant value. It’s especially suitable for travelers who prefer a curated experience without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets on their own.

Overall, if you’re looking for a memorable day in nature with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and relaxed exploration, this private tour delivers—especially if you appreciate comfort and personalized service.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at selected hotels in Zagreb, making it very convenient.

How long is the drive to Plitvice Lakes?
The drive from Zagreb is approximately 1.5 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, guided walking tour at Plitvice, a sightseeing boat ride, and a train ride within the park.

Are entrance tickets to Plitvice Lakes included?
No, admission tickets costing about $39.80 per person are paid separately. The boat cruise and train rides are included.

Can I cancel the tour for a full refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, and perhaps a picnic lunch or snacks, since lunch isn’t included.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, including families, especially those who enjoy nature and guided experiences.

How much time will I spend at Plitvice Lakes?
About 5 hours exploring the park, including guided walks, boat rides, and some free time for photos and relaxation.

What if I want extra time in Rastoke?
The stop at Rastoke is about 30 minutes, enough for a quick walk and photos. You can discuss additional time with your guide if needed.

Is this tour ideal for photography?
Absolutely, the scenery is stunning, and the guided walk helps you find the best spots for photos.

Choosing the Plitvice Lakes Private Tour, As You Wish means opting for a hassle-free, personalized day immersed in one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just looking for a memorable experience, this tour offers a carefully curated way to enjoy Croatia’s most famous waterfalls and lakes.