Croatia · NATIONAL PARKS

Croatian National Parks: The 15 Best Guided Days

28 tours  ·  from $16 a head

Eight national parks, and four of them take a full day to reach and walk. The 15 below sort Plitvice, Krka, Kornati and Brijuni by drive time, entry cost and how much of each park a guided day really covers.

From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour - Starting at Marulićeva ul. 4 in Split
Guided, National Parks, Plitvice Lakes Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Split

From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour

1.Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 3,002 reviews · 11 hours (approx.) · from $78Our pick

Travel from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park by air-conditioned bus or van, then walk the Upper and Lower Lakes with an English-speaking guide. The €40 park ticket costs extra, while a panoramic boat ride and electric train are included. Guides such as Sanja, Lovro, Ivana, and Luka are often praised for clear explanations and good group management.

“Sanya provided lots of information about croatia and the lakes which was insightful. She was very clear with her explanations and ensured everyone understood them.”

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From Split: Krka National Park Tour - The 75-minute ride from Split
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From Split: Krka National Park Tour

2.Krka National Park Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 2,359 reviews · 9 hours · from $31

Spend nine hours visiting Krka National Park from Split by air-conditioned coach. Your English-speaking guide, often guides such as Dario, Mate, or Rosanna, leads a short park walk, then gives you free time for photos and exploring. Add wine tasting in Skradin, or swim and eat by the water. Park entry costs extra in cash.

“Dario, our tour guide was amazing! He took the time to get to know the whole group which helped us make new friends while discovering an amazing park! We also chose the wine tasting option and the wines were yummy! Very recommended!”

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From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour - Starting at Marulićeva ul. 4 in Split
Guided, National Parks, Plitvice Lakes Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Split

From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour

3.Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,355 reviews · 12 hours (approx.) · from $78

Travel by air-conditioned bus from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park for about four hours of walking among waterfalls, lakes, and forest. Guides such as Mia, Ivanka, Elena, and Barry lead the park visit in English. A boat crossing is included, while the advertised electric train may depend on conditions and season. Entry fees are extra and paid in cash.

“Andrej was the most amazing guide. He is very passionate about what he does. He provided us with so many information about the country. I was traveling with my 2 year old and he was very patient and helpful. Recommended many places which have been worth visiting. Definitely doing this trip again when I come back.”

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Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split - Entering Plitvice Lakes after the long drive
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Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split

4.Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,948 reviews · 12 hours (approx.) · from $78

Travel from Split to UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes with an English-speaking guide such as Mia, Ivanka, Mate, or Bariša. Walk among 16 lakes, waterfalls, travertine barriers, and canyons, then return by comfortable coach. The day lasts about 12 hours, with park admission and lunch paid separately.

“Barry and Mickey were great. Barry, our guide was full of energy and fun. He shared lots of historical facts and information along the way and was great in taking care of all of us. Bus was comfortable and lunch options included good vegetarian fare.”

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Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir - Walking beneath the cascades at Skradinski Buk
Food & Drink, Guided, Krka Waterfalls Tours, National Parks, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Split, Wine Tours, Wine Tours in Split

Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir

5.Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,625 reviews · 9 hours (approx.) · from $50

Spend about nine hours exploring Skradinski Buk in Krka National Park, cruising the Krka River, and visiting Skradin for local wine tasting. Gray Line guides such as Dario, Mate, and Rozana are known for lively commentary, practical tips, and keeping the day on schedule. Entrance fees and lunch cost extra.

“Fantastic experience, highly recommend! Very well organised trip both at Krka Falls and to the wine tasting experience.”

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Split: Krka National Park Day Trip with Boat Ride & Swimming - Four hours among waterfalls, mills, and travertine
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Split: Krka National Park Day Trip with Boat Ride & Swimming

6.Krka National Park Day Trip with Boat Ride & Swimming

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 1,321 reviews · 8h 30m · from $31

Travel from Split by air-conditioned coach to Krka National Park, where you’ll follow wooden trails past waterfalls, watermills, and an Ethno village. After free time in the park, take a 30-minute river boat to Skradin for a walk and swim. Guides such as Tin, Lorena, and Marija help with tickets, timing, and local tips.

“what an amazing experience. the National Park is breathtaking, and our guide Leo was so helpful and funny. definitely recommended!”

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Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting - Leaving Split or Trogir by coach
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Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting

7.Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 925 reviews · 8 hours - 510 minutes · from $49

This 8-hour tour links Krka National Park, a boat ride through the river canyon, and free time in Skradin with a local wine tasting. English-speaking guides such as Ernest, Dario, and Rozana are known for lively stories and clear timing. Bring swimwear, a towel, comfortable shoes, and cash for the park fee.

“It was amazing,funny and informative guide. The roundaway trip was amazing,safe and stunning panorama views. Krka National Park is a great experience for a nature lover. The difficulty of the trip is a Grade Easy,double for all ages.”

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Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket - Choosing Entrance 1 or Entrance 2
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Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket

8.Plitvice Lakes National Park Admission Ticket

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 832 reviews · 1 to 5 hours (approx.) · from $15Best value

Visit Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park on your own schedule with access to trails, boardwalks, shuttle buses, and the electric boat on Kozjak Lake. Choose Entrance 1 or 2, arrive within 55 minutes of your booked time, and plan for hills, crowds, and several hours outdoors. No guide or food is included.

“This was absolutely worth it. Give yourself time to get there as it is far from most other locations. Also bring a jacket or some layers as it was very cold and we were there in June. Crowds are unreasonable so go early. There are only bathrooms at the beginning, middle and end. About 2/3 hours apart. There is food but I would bring a picnic lunch as it can be very crowded.”

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Pula: National Park Brijuni Island Visit & Dolphin Cruise - The ride to St. Jerolim and the first taste of island life
Boat Trips in Pula, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin Watching, Dolphin Watching Trips in Pula, National Parks, Tour Reviews, Tours in Pula, Truffle Hunting & Istria Tours

Pula: National Park Brijuni Island Visit & Dolphin Cruise

9.National Park Brijuni Island Visit & Dolphin Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 788 reviews · 5h 30m · from $76

Join Korkyra Tour for a 330-minute cruise from Pula around Brijuni National Park. Guides including Mario and Larissa share island stories in several languages. You get about 2.5 hours on St. Jerolim for swimming and walking, then enjoy drinks, a meal option, sunset views, and a dolphin search before returning past Pula Arena.

“We had such a wonderful time at the boattrip to Brijuni Island and the dolphin watching! Our tourguide was very knowledgeable and she easily switched between languages. She kindly made sure everyone on the boat was comfortable. The food options were communicated clearly beforehand as well as the chance of seeing dolphins that day! We were delighted to actually see them which made this tour complete for us.. The island you visit is also quite beautiful with lots of flowers, birds and butterflies. And of course the peacocks! It is wise to wear a warm sweater or something on board as the wind might make it a bit chilly. But…”

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From Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telascica Boat Trip - Leaving Zadar and settling into the boat
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From Zadar: Kornati National Park and Telascica Boat Trip

10.Kornati National Park and Telascica Boat Trip

★★★★★★★★★★3.8 · 788 reviews · from $64

Spend nine hours cruising from Zadar through Kornati National Park’s 89 islands, with breakfast, lunch, wine, and unlimited water included. You’ll stop for swimming and free time, then visit Telašćica Nature Park, where you can walk to cliff viewpoints or swim in the salt lake. English commentary is provided, though it may be hard to hear on a busy boat.

“The boat was comfortable, spacious; staff helpful. The tour to the islands was magnificent - certainly a highlight of our holiday in Croatia. We were in heaven on the boat ride, wonderful sights and we soaked in the feeling of being immersed in this beautiful place. We had plenty of time on Dugi Otok for a swim in turquoise waters and visit to the cliffs. We had lunch on the island and I'm afraid I could not praise the lunch - however, that was not what we went on the trip for! Despite the lunch, I'd highly recommend this tour and this tour company.Read more”

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Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip & Boat to Skradin - Walking to Skradinski Buk
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Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip & Boat to Skradin

11.Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip & Boat to Skradin

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 763 reviews · 8 hours - 510 minutes · from $31

Travel from Split or Trogir to Krka National Park with an English-speaking guide, four hours of free time, a 30-minute boat ride, and time in Skradin for lunch or swimming. Guides such as Dario, Darijo, Mate, and Rozana are known for useful local tips, clear directions, and good humor.

“we had a glorious time on our trip from Trogir to Krka yesterday. The trip was well organised by Gray Tours, we arrived at the office in the morning and then boarded the bus. It took around 50 minutes from Trogir to Krka as there was no traffic. The guide was very informative and set up a WhatsApp group with info/pictures of the meeting points and general info about the park. The coach ride itself was pleasant, and he kept us entertained throughout. I would definitely book this excursion again on a return trip to Croatia, and would be interested in other trips they do. Everyone was very friendly and…”

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From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour - Starting at Marulićeva ul. 4 in Split
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From Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour

12.Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 672 reviews · 12 hours · from $76

Travel from Split to Croatia’s first national park for a guided walk among 16 blue-green lakes, waterfalls, caves, and travertine barriers. Guides such as Sanja, Luka, Ivana, and Richard are known for clear explanations and good group care. The 12-hour day includes air-conditioned transport, a boat or train ride, and about 9 km of uneven walking.

“Our guide Sanja was amazing and so was the driver Marko. Sanja was super knowledgeable not just about the parks but about Croatia. It was a super amazing way to see Plitvice Lakes coming from Split. It was a very great day and I recommend to anyone wanting to squeeze in a visit to the lakes while in Split!”

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Pula: Brijuni National Park Sunset, Dolphins & Dinner Cruise - The Brijuni Islands set the evening’s rhythm
Boat Trips in Pula, Cruises & Boat Tours, Dining Experiences, Dinner Experiences, Dolphin Watching, Dolphin Watching Trips in Pula, National Parks, Sunset Cruises, Sunset Cruises in Pula, Tour Reviews, Tours in Pula, Truffle Hunting & Istria Tours

Pula: Brijuni National Park Sunset, Dolphins & Dinner Cruise

13.Brijuni National Park Sunset, Dolphins & Dinner Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 607 reviews · 3 hours · from $64

Spend three hours on a traditional wooden boat from Pula, cruising past the harbor and Brijuni Islands National Park. The crew serves mackerel, chicken, or a vegetarian dinner, with unlimited water, orange juice, and white wine. Dolphin sightings are likely but never certain. Bring a jacket for the open sea.

“It was awesome! Sea and dinner was great, dolphins too. Staff was very nice and pleasant. Totally recommend”

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Pula: Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit - Leaving Pula and following the Istrian coast
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Pula: Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit

14.Brijuni National Park Tour with Island Visit

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 599 reviews · 5 hours · from $67

Cruise from Pula along Fažana and around every Brijuni island with a live guide in Croatian, English, German, or Italian. Stop at St. Jerolim for swimming and free time, watch for dolphins and exotic animals, and enjoy unlimited wine, water, and soft drinks. Food is ordered separately, and the island charges a cash entrance fee.

“It was amazing. The Island was beautiful, the boat manager was very kind and he did extra stop to see the dolphins as an bonus.”

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From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telašćica Boat Tour - Two and a half hours of open sea
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From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telašćica Boat Tour

15.Kornati National Park & Telašćica Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.2 · 582 reviews · 9 hours · from $57

Leave Zadar at 8:30 AM for a nine-hour boat day through Telašćica Nature Park and Kornati National Park. You’ll swim in Salt Lake Mir, explore rocky bays, snorkel with borrowed gear, and eat breakfast and a simple fish-and-chicken lunch with wine. English and Croatian guides lead the trip, with crew members such as Yelena noted for especially warm, careful service.

“Incredible tour! Stunning views and a very friendly crew, highly recommended! Thank you!”

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New in National Parks

★ 4.0Brijuni National Park Boat Excursion from Pula. With a visit to the islandFrom $66179 reviews
★ 4.5Dolphins Watching in the National Park Brijuni from PulaFrom $56233 reviews
★ 4.1Brijuni National Park Cruise, Lunch and Fažana BeachFrom $62229 reviews
★ 4.6Krka Waterfalls National Park Boat TourFrom $93250 reviews
★ 4.3Krka National Park and Waterfalls Day TripFrom $48255 reviews
★ 4.5Excursion to Kornati National Park from ZadarFrom $96273 reviews
★ 4.4Plitvice Lakes National Park TourFrom $53282 reviews

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Plitvice Lakes Tours42Krka Waterfalls Tours28Kornati Islands Tours13Cetina River Rafting & Canyoning36
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