Plitvice Lakes from Split at a glance
The bus from Split to Plitvička Jezera takes at least 3 hours 30 minutes each way over about 266 km, with fares from €20.98. A day trip is possible, but it means at least 7 hours on the bus before you count a single minute at the lakes. Many guided trips make this easier by handling the transport, but the day stays long.
If you are staying on the coast for several days, a day trip from Split works as one big excursion. If you can spare a night near the park, you will have a calmer visit and more time on the paths.
Our picks: Plitvice from Split
Our take: the Split or Trogir tour includes entry; the self-guided trip has bus, boat and train without a guide; the fully guided day keeps a guide with you, with entry extra.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in euros (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Plitvice tour from Split or Trogir with entry
- Park entry ticket
- Guide
- Minibus or coach
A guide, transport by minibus or coach and park entry, with the Big Waterfall on the walk.
Check availability →
Plitvice fully guided day tour from Split
- Live guide
- Transport
- Boat ride
A live guide all day, transport and the boat ride. Park entry is extra.
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Self-guided Plitvice day trip from Split
- Bus from Split
- Panoramic boat
- Electric train
The bus from Split, the panoramic boat and the electric train, then you walk on your own. There is no guide, and park entry is extra.
Check availability →Plitvice Lakes day trips from Split
Guided day trips and transfers from Split, with live prices and availability. Compare the pickup point, the time at the lakes and what is included.
Split or Zadar: bus times and fares compared
Minimum travel times and starting fares (2026). Real times depend on the date and the departure.
| Route | Travel time | Distance | Fare from | Departs from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Split to Plitvička Jezera | 3 h 30 min or more | 266 km | €20.98 | Bus station, Obala kneza Domagoja 12 |
| Zadar to Plitvička Jezera | 1 h 30 min or more | 131 km | €13.98 | Bus station, Ante Starčevića 1 |
For most visitors, Zadar is the better base for the lakes: the ride is much shorter and the fare lower. From Split, a night near the park is worth the extra cost if you want more than a rushed half day. The fares are starting prices and the price for your date can be higher.
Planning a day trip from Split
Build the day backwards from the last bus.
Fix the return first
Look up the last bus back to Split before you choose a walking program. Then count back from that time to see how long you really have in the park.
Choose a short program
Program A (3.5 km, 2 to 3 hours) or B (4.0 km, 3 to 4 hours) from Entrance 1 fit a short window. Both cover the Lower Lakes and the Big Waterfall. B adds an electric boat across Kozjak and a panoramic vehicle.
All hiking routes →Know where the bus stops
The stop is named Plitvička Jezera, with the address D1 23 at the bus station. Do not assume it is one specific park entrance. The address printed on your ticket is the one that counts.
Entrance 1 or 2 →Buy the park ticket for a time slot
Adult day tickets in 2026 cost €10 in the low season, €23 in April, May and October, and €40 from June to September. Entry is tied to the booked slot, and you can arrive up to 1 hour late.
Plitvice Lakes tickets →Staying overnight instead of a day trip
Why one night can change the whole visit.
More time on the paths
With a night near the park you can start at the first time slot instead of arriving after a 3 hour 30 minute ride. That leaves room for a longer program such as H (8.9 km, 4 to 6 hours) or the K routes.
A two-day ticket
The two-day ticket is valid on two consecutive days and needs the name of the visitor. In 2026 it costs €15 in the low season, €39 in April, May and October and €60 from June to September for adults.
Ticket prices →Where to sleep
Hotel Jezero sits near Entrance 2 above Lake Kozjak and is the park hotel that stays on offer in the cold season too. Villages around the park are the other option.
Where to stay →
Plitvice Lakes from Split: frequently asked questions
How long is the bus from Split to Plitvice Lakes?
At least 3 hours 30 minutes each way over about 266 km. Plan for more on busy days and check the exact departure you book.
Can I do Plitvice Lakes as a day trip from Split?
Yes, but the transport alone takes at least 7 hours return. A short walking program such as A or B fits. If you want the Upper Lakes or a longer route, stay overnight.
Is Zadar closer to Plitvice Lakes than Split?
Yes. The bus from Zadar takes at least 1 hour 30 minutes over about 131 km, with fares from €13.98. Zadar has its own bus station at Ante Starčevića 1.
How much is the bus from Split?
Fares start at €20.98 one way. The price for a specific date can differ.
Where does the Split bus stop at the park?
The stop is called Plitvička Jezera and sits on the main road. It is not tied to one entrance, so use the address printed on your ticket and check the walk to the entrance you want.
Is it better to stay overnight than to do a day trip from Split?
For most visitors, yes. A night near the park removes seven or more hours of bus travel from one day and lets you use the first time slot. A day trip works if you only want a short program.