Zadar is a fantastic base for exploring some of Croatia’s most stunning natural landscapes. Its strategic location on the Dalmatian coast means you can easily reach Kornati National Park, known for its dense cluster of islands and crystal-clear waters, or dive into the lush greenery of Krka and Plitvice Lakes. What we particularly like are the small-group tours that offer a more intimate experience—like the National Park Kornati & Telascica Nature Park for 15 people max, which lets you truly enjoy Croatia’s scenic beauty without the crowds. For a personalized adventure, the Private Speedboat tour to Kornati Islands is perfect, giving you flexibility and privacy to explore at your own pace. Whether you want a full-day ride, a private trip, or just a short cruise, Zadar’s location makes it easy to tailor your own memorable day in nature.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of tours suited to different interests and budgets. You’ll find day trips with meals included, such as the Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar, which is perfect for families or travelers wanting a guided, relaxed experience. For those seeking exclusivity, the Private Speedboat tour scores high with its customizable itinerary. Budget travelers can opt for Krka National Park and waterfalls, which offers a well-organized, affordable taste of Croatia’s waterfalls. And if you’re pressed for time or prefer a private experience, the Full-Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes offers a deep dive into one of Croatia’s most famous UNESCO sites.
1. Excursion to Kornati National Park from Zadar
This excursion to Kornati National Park provides a nearly 10-hour journey through some of Croatia’s most beautiful waters. It’s a family-friendly trip with all details handled—snorkeling gear, breakfast, a restaurant lunch, and narrated sightseeing included. The tour focuses on giving you a relaxed day to enjoy the pristine waters of the Dalmatian coast, exploring hundreds of islands and reefs. Highlights include swimming at Levrnaka Beach, hiking atop the Fortress of Tureta for panoramic views, and a delicious lunch on Kornat Island. Reviewers rave about the friendly hosts and the well-organized schedule, with a 4.5/5 rating based on 271 reviews. The price ($95.91) offers good value considering all meals, equipment, and sightseeing included.
Bottom line: Perfect for families or those wanting a comprehensive, guided day in Kornati’s natural beauty.
2. Private Speedboat tour to National Park Kornati Islands
For around $204, the Private Speedboat tour to Kornati Islands offers a highly customizable 8-hour experience. This tour is ideal if you value privacy or have specific spots you want to see. You’ll meet at Zadar Marina and explore the islands, reefs, and secluded beaches from the comfort of a fast boat. The guide will take you to highlights like Mana Island, Levrnaka, and optional visits to Telascica Bay, known for its stunning cliffs and salt lake. Snorkeling and swimming are included, with equipment provided. Tour guides like Ivan are praised for taking guests to less crowded, more tranquil locations — perfect for those seeking peace and personal attention. The tour’s unique selling point is its flexibility, allowing you to suit the day to your preferences.
Bottom line: A top choice for travelers wanting privacy, flexibility, and a more personalized experience in Kornati.
3. From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telašćica Boat Tour
This combo tour offers a well-rounded day exploring both Kornati and Telašćica Bay. Starting with a cruise through the famous Kornati Archipelago, it then moves to Salt Lake Mir, where you can swim and relax. The tour also includes a traditional breakfast and lunch, making it a good value at only $51 per person. The mix of sightseeing and swimming makes it suitable for those who want a taste of both adventure and relaxation. Reviews note the comfortable boat ride and the opportunity to enjoy the stunning karst limestone formations firsthand. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a balanced, guided day with good food and scenic stops without the need for a private or overly long trip.
Bottom line: Excellent for budget-conscious travelers who want a full, guided day in Croatia’s most celebrated island waters.
4. From Zadar: Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour
A trip to the Plitvice Lakes is a must for nature lovers. This tour takes you through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Croatia’s most famous lakes, with plenty of time to explore both the Upper and Lower Lakes. It includes a boat ride across Kozjak Lake and a visit to the spectacular Great Waterfall. The tour price ($48) covers transportation, a guide, and a full day of walking and sightseeing in a truly scenic setting. Reviewers praise the professionalism of guides and the park’s incredible turquoise lakes and waterfalls. It’s perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning. Expect a full day outdoors, with plenty of opportunity for photos and gentle hiking.
Bottom line: A fantastic choice for travelers eager to see Croatia’s most famous freshwater landscapes.
5. Full-Day Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar
For those who want a deeper experience, this full-day tour offers a more extensive exploration of Plitvice Lakes. It’s ideal for cruise passengers or travelers with limited time, but who want to see the park in depth. The tour includes pick-up from your hotel or cruise port, transportation, and a 7-8 hour itinerary. Guests rave about guide Terezija, who shares detailed insights into the park’s geology and wildlife. The cost ($155.86) includes all transport and meals, making it excellent value for a guided, stress-free day. Reviewers note the park’s vivid water colors and waterfalls, and the small-group atmosphere helps avoid large tour bus crowds.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a comprehensive, guided day in Croatia’s most iconic park.
6. Kornati & Telascica Nature Park Small-Group Tour
This small-group tour caps at 15 travelers, offering a more intimate experience. Departing from Biograd, you enjoy a snack break and snorkeling at Žut Island, then lunch and drinks at Kornat Island, followed by a relaxing swim at Pasman Island. The focus is on exploring Kornati and Telascica with minimal crowds, and the fast boat allows you to maximize your time on the water. The tour emphasizes comfort and quality, with excellent reviews praising the delicious food and friendly crew. It’s a good pick for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day with plenty of opportunities to swim and take in the scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who prefer a smaller, quieter tour that still covers the highlights of Kornati and Telascica.
7. From Zadar/Bibinje: Kornati National Park Cruise with Lunch
Offering a straightforward cruise experience, this Kornati cruise from Zadar or Bibinje is great for quick, relaxing day trips. It includes breakfast, lunch, and swimming in the clear waters of both Kornati and Telašćica. At $52, it’s an affordable way to see the islands without much fuss. Reviewers appreciate the friendly crew and the chance to enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty in a straightforward package. It’s best suited for travelers who want a simple, guided day with good meals and water activities.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-minded visitors who want a no-hassle day in the islands.
8. From Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telašćica with Ticket
This ticketed tour offers a scenic cruise through the Kornati islands and Telašćica Bay. It includes breakfast, lunch, and drinks, with a focus on the dramatic cliffs and karst formations. At $66, it’s an easy, guided way to see the highlights, especially suitable for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and swimming. Reviewers highlight the beautiful landscape and the chance to observe rare bird species. It’s well-suited for those who want a structured day but don’t need the exclusivity of a private tour.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a guided, scenic cruise with good amenities.
$66 per person
9. From Zadar: Krka National Park and Waterfalls Day Trip
For nature lovers, the Krka National Park offers lush green scenery and impressive waterfalls. The tour includes a licensed guide who shares insights into local flora and fauna, plus the chance to walk around the park’s trails and see water mills and Croatia’s first hydroelectric plant. It’s a good value at $43, especially for travelers who want to avoid the hassle of organizing transportation—they’ll handle it for you. The waterfalls and natural pools make this a visually stunning, physically accessible experience, suitable for most fitness levels.
Bottom line: An excellent, affordable option for a nature-filled day outside Zadar.
10. Full-Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar
This full-day private tour offers maximum flexibility and a personal touch. With a private guide, you can set your own pace exploring the famous lakes and waterfalls. It’s ideal for cruise passengers or travelers wanting a tailored experience. The guide is praised for sharing detailed knowledge, making it more than just a walk through beautiful scenery. The tour costs around $240 per person, but the personalized approach, private transportation, and expert guidance make it well worth considering for those who value a custom experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a private, in-depth experience and are willing to invest a bit more.
11. Zadar: National Park Kornati Tour with Eufemija boat
This Eufemija boat tour offers a full 10-hour journey with 5 hours of sailing and 5 hours of swimming and relaxing. It covers the most islands in the shortest time with the fastest boat available, making it a good choice for travelers who want to maximize their time on the water. The tour stops at three remarkable spots, including fantastic viewpoints and swimming locations. The reviews mention the speed of the boat and the beautiful scenery, which makes it stand out from more leisurely options.
Bottom line: Perfect if you’re looking for a fast-paced, energetic day of island-hopping and swimming.
12. Private Return Transfer to Krka National Park from Zadar
This stress-free private transfer makes visiting Krka simple. It’s perfect for travelers who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace without the hassle of public transport or group tours. The driver will pick you up from your hotel or cruise port and drop you off inside the park, giving you a private, comfortable experience. The cost ($342 per group) is reasonable for families or small groups, and reviews praise the professional driver and smooth logistics.
Bottom line: An excellent option for independent travelers or families wanting easy access to Krka.
How to Choose Your Perfect Croatia National Park Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time available, and interest level. If you want a comprehensive guided experience with meals included, tours like the Full-Day Plitvice or Excursion to Kornati are ideal. For a more personalized, private adventure, the private speedboat or private transfer will suit. Budget travelers might prefer the Krka waterfalls or guided day trips.
Book early, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and avoid missing out.
In summary, whether you’re after a relaxing boat cruise, a private adventure, or a full-day exploration, Zadar offers a range of excellent national park tours for every type of traveller. The variety ensures that you can choose based on your interests, budget, and the kind of experience you want—whether that’s a guided walk through Plitvice’s waterfalls or a swift boat ride through Kornati’s islands. Whichever you pick, booking early will help you secure a spot in these popular excursions, so start planning now for a Croatia getaway filled with stunning natural sights.