When planning a week in Croatia near Split, we knew we wanted to explore as many national parks as possible. Croatia is blessed with some of Europe’s most remarkable natural landscapes, and each park offers its own unique beauty. From dramatic waterfalls to rugged cliffs and peaceful islands, the experience was unforgettable.
Tips for Visiting the Parks
We traveled in mid-June, which is just before the peak of summer tourism. Even then, the parks were fairly busy, especially in the mornings when busloads of visitors arrived. We quickly realized that afternoons were the best time to visit. After 4 PM, the crowds thinned out considerably, and we could enjoy the scenery in peace. Most parks stay open until 8 PM, which gives you plenty of time for exploration. The only exception was Plitvice Lakes—its size makes it impossible to cover in just a few hours, but late afternoons still felt quieter and more enjoyable.
Since our base was in Vodice, not far from Split, we rented a car for the week. Having our own wheels gave us the freedom to travel on our own schedule and see the parks in the order that suited us best.
Krka National Park
Located just 20 minutes from Šibenik and a little over an hour from Split, Krka is famous for its waterfalls. Wooden boardwalks wind through lush landscapes, leading visitors past cascades and turquoise pools. The circular route is easy to walk and takes about two to three hours, depending on how often you stop for photos.
One highlight is the designated swimming area near the largest waterfall. It’s a rare chance to cool off right in the heart of a national park, and it adds to Krka’s charm. While boat tours are available to explore the river canyons, walking the paths is the best way to experience the park’s natural beauty.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Perhaps the most iconic of Croatia’s parks, Plitvice has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It’s one of the country’s oldest and most visited national parks, known for its chain of lakes connected by waterfalls of every size.
Reaching Plitvice from Vodice took about two hours, but it was worth every minute. The park is divided into upper and lower lakes, with wooden walkways leading visitors right across the crystal-clear waters. The upper lakes, near Entrance 1, are particularly breathtaking, and if time is short, they should be your first stop.
Because of the park’s size, an overnight stay nearby is highly recommended. It allows you to explore without rushing and to enjoy the early mornings or late evenings when the crowds are smaller.
Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park
A boat trip to Kornati National Park was one of the highlights of our stay. This archipelago consists of 89 islands, known for their rounded shapes and pale, rocky surfaces. Often called a “sailor’s paradise,” the area is dotted with boats gliding between the islets.
Our excursion also included a stop at Telašćica Nature Park. There, we hiked along dramatic cliffs with sweeping sea views and took a dip in the saltwater lake. The combination of sea, islands, and rugged coastline made this day trip both relaxing and adventurous.
Paklenica National Park
North of Zadar lies Paklenica, a park celebrated for its deep canyons and towering cliffs. It’s a hotspot for rock climbers, but even for casual visitors, the landscapes are spectacular.
The Velika Paklenica Canyon is the park’s centerpiece. Stretching 14 kilometers long and framed by cliffs that rise up to 700 meters, it’s an awe-inspiring place to hike. The trailheads start at Anića Luka, the narrowest and most dramatic part of the canyon. Walking here feels like stepping into a stone cathedral carved by nature.
Final Thoughts
In just one week, we managed to visit four of Croatia’s most beautiful national parks. Each one was different, yet equally memorable—whether it was swimming beneath waterfalls, wandering through canyons, or sailing past remote islands.
For anyone staying near Split, these parks are within reach and offer a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and jaw-dropping scenery. If you love the outdoors, Croatia’s national parks will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the country’s wild beauty.
