How to Plan Your Plitvice Lakes Day Trip by Bus from Zadar

If you’re visiting Zadar, Croatia and are looking for a memorable day trip, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see destination. The park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its beautiful lakes cascading into gorgeous waterfalls and its picturesque wooden footbridges. This how-to guide will help you plan your day trip to Plitvice Lakes from Zadar, using a convenient bus service.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your day trip is to book the tour. We recommend using the GetYourGuide platform to book your Plitvice Lakes Day Trip by Bus. This tour provides you with comfortable round-trip transportation from Zadar to Plitvice Lakes National Park, and a professional English-speaking tour guide who will provide you with informative commentary during the journey.

You can book the tour by clicking on this link. Make sure to book your tour in advance to ensure you get a spot on the bus for your preferred travel date.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Trip

Once you have booked your tour, it’s time to prepare for your trip to Plitvice Lakes. Make sure to pack the following essentials:

• Comfortable walking shoes (you will be walking on uneven surfaces).
• A refillable water bottle as dehydration is common.
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for protection from the sun.
• A light raincoat or umbrella as rainfall is common in the area.

You may also want to bring snacks or grab breakfast before the tour as you will not have access to food until lunchtime.

Step 3: Departure from Zadar

On the day of your tour, the bus will depart from the Zadar Bus Terminal at 7:45 am. Make sure to arrive at the terminal a few minutes early to meet the tour guide and other travelers. Once you have boarded the bus, sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Step 4: Arrival and Exploration of the Park

After a two-hour ride, you will arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park, where you will have about six hours to explore the park’s natural beauty. The tour guide will provide you with the park’s map and give you ample time to visit its highlights, including the Upper and Lower Lakes, Big Waterfall, and several lookout points.

Step 5: Return to Zadar

At 4:00 pm, the bus will depart from the park to return to Zadar. On the return journey, sit back and relax, taking in the beautiful Croatian scenery along the way. You can expect to arrive back in Zadar at around 6:30 pm.

Conclusion

A day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zadar is a perfect way to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can efficiently plan your trip and make the most of your time at the park. Don’t forget to pack the essentials, and book your tour in advance using GetYourGuide to ensure a seamless experience.

An Insider’s Guide to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a Croatian city located on the southern coast of the country. This beautiful coastal city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient walls, stunning beaches, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning to visit this magnificent city, here’s an insider’s guide to the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Dubrovnik is known worldwide for its impressive city walls, which date back to the 8th century. However, beyond the walls, there are other incredible sites to see. One such place is the Maritime Museum, located in the beautiful Fort St. John. This museum showcases the history of Dubrovnik’s maritime heritage, featuring historical boats, maps, and documents. Another lesser-known attraction is the Rupe Museum, a former granary that now serves as a museum, exploring the agricultural history of Dubrovnik. Additionally, take a stroll through the picturesque and charming St. James’s Park, an idyllic island located off the coast.

Dining Spots

Dubrovnik is a culinary paradise, and local cuisine consists of fresh fish, seafood, and vegetables. It’s essential to try the delicious Croatian dish, peka, which is a mixture of meat and vegetables cooked in a traditional pot and served with bread. Experience the local seafood specialities at Proto, a well-known restaurant located in the Old Town. For tradition-steeped dishes, try Dubravka 1836, located on the pier with a beautiful view of the sea. For something more casual, head to Bota Sare, located in the fish market, for a seafood plate with accompanying wine or champagne.

Cultural Experiences

Dubrovnik is a city filled with cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Attend the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, which takes place each year from July to August, showcasing a wide range of events in music, theatre, and dance. Additionally, check out the Dubrovnik International Film Festival, held in October, and is perfect for film fanatics. Eager interested in royal history? Visit the Rector’s Palace Museum, which has a vast collection of clothing, armour, and furniture from the Dubrovnik Republic’s noble families.

Local History

Dubrovnik has a rich history as the Republic of Ragusa, an independent city-state. The city’s population historically enjoyed many freedoms, such as religious liberty and economic prosperity. The war on Dubrovnik in the early 1990s due to the break-up of Yugoslavia left the city devastated. Nevertheless, Dubrovnik rebounded quickly, and a visit to the War Photo Limited Gallery will vividly recall the history of the city during the war.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Experience a unique perspective of Dubrovnik at sunset by taking a kayak tour of the city’s walls. You will paddle around the city at dusk, watching as the sun sets over the city and the picturesque sea horizons. Also, you can take a 30-minute ferry from Dubrovnik to Lokrum. The small, uninhabited island is a nature reserve that serves as a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Finally, tap into your inner adventurer by taking a hike to the summit of Mount Srd. Panoramic views of the city and the surrounding sea will make your breath away.

In conclusion, Dubrovnik with its rich history and vibrant culture, is a vital Croatian city to experience. By exploring more than the typical tourist hotspots, this insider’s guide offers a unique perspective on Dubrovnik, which visitors are sure to appreciate. From hidden gems, local cuisine, festivals, to the city’s history, Dubrovnik has it all, becoming a city you must visit on your next holiday.