From Split: Overnight stay in NP Plitvice & Zadar

A detailed look at a 2-day overnight tour from Split that combines Croatia’s natural beauty with its historic charm. This experience takes you to the iconic Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its terraced lakes and waterfalls, followed by a visit to Zadar, a city rich with medieval and Renaissance monuments. With expert guides, comfortable transport, and authentic local meals included, it aims to deliver a balanced mix of nature and history.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its ability to condense such vibrant experiences into just two days, making it perfect for travelers with limited time but a desire for memorable adventures. The highlight? The chance to walk along the wooden paths of Plitvice Lakes and see the world’s first sea organ in Zadar. However, one possible consideration is the itinerary’s packed schedule—expect a lot of moving parts, which might be tiring if you prefer leisurely exploration.

This tour suits those eager to explore Croatia’s scenic landscapes and historic towns efficiently, especially if you’re based in Split or Trogir and want a guided experience that covers a lot of ground without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 2-day itinerary combining nature and history.
• Small, private group for a more intimate experience.
• All logistics handled with air-conditioned transport and a professional guide.
• Includes park tickets, overnight hotel stay, meals, and taxes, delivering good value.
• Stunning scenery at Plitvice Lakes with wooden pathways and lakeside views.
• Authentic Croatian cuisine during your Lika region lunch and dinner.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

You’ll be picked up from either Trogir or Split, which is convenient if you’re already exploring these beautiful coastal towns. The journey to Plitvice Lakes takes roughly 2 hours in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, and it’s a good chance to relax and get your first glimpses of Croatia’s scenic countryside.

The vehicle is described as air-conditioned and driven by a professional, English-speaking driver—crucial for a smooth, stress-free trip. Plus, the small group size ensures a more personalized service, often resulting in a more relaxed atmosphere, compared to larger bus tours.

Exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park

Once at Plitvice, the highlight is undoubtedly the series of terraced lakes and waterfalls. The guided tour covers both the lower and upper lakes, offering insight into the park’s geology and ecology—though what truly captures attention are the stunning views and the lush forest setting.

Guests have noted how the wooden paths allow you to stroll across the lakes without damaging the environment, providing excellent vantage points for photos and viewing. One reviewer mentioned, “The views were unreal. Walking on the wooden paths felt like I was floating over the lakes.”

The park’s vibrant vegetation and crystal-clear waters create a visual feast, especially as the sunlight hits the cascades. You’ll have ample free time to take photos, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the peaceful sounds of rushing water and birdsong.

Lunch and Free Time at Plitvice

Following the morning’s exploration, a traditional Lika lunch is included. It’s a great way to experience authentic Croatian flavors—possibly local specialties like smoked meats, fresh bread, and regional cheeses. Several reviews mention the quality of the food and the friendly service, which adds to the overall value.

After lunch, you’re free to revisit favorite spots within the park or simply relax and enjoy the scenery. The tour’s flexibility during this period lets you tailor your experience—whether that’s more photography, a leisurely walk, or just soaking in the natural beauty.

The Journey to Zadar

On your way back from Plitvice, the journey continues south to Zadar. The drive takes about 1.5 hours and offers scenic views of Croatia’s countryside. Upon arrival, a guided tour introduces you to the city’s most notable sights, including medieval and Renaissance monuments.

What makes Zadar particularly engaging is its combination of ancient history and modern innovation. You’ll see historic churches, Roman ruins, and the famous sea organ—an acoustic sculpture that plays music when the tide interacts with its pipes. One reviewer shared that seeing the sea organ “was a surreal experience, hearing the natural sounds turn into music.”

Free Time in Zadar

After the guided tour, you’ll have some free time to explore further—whether that’s shopping, grabbing a quick snack, or simply wandering through the charming streets. Many find Zadar’s atmospheric vibe a perfect contrast to the lush wilderness of Plitvice, offering a well-rounded cultural experience.

Return to Split or Trogir

Finally, the group boards the van for the 2-hour return trip. The experience includes all taxes, fees, and a final opportunity to reflect on your Croatian adventure. The entire journey feels well-organized, with clear timings and a focus on comfort.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Pricing at $1,418 per person for this two-day experience may seem significant, but when you consider what’s included—transport, guided tours, park tickets, overnight accommodation, and meals—it offers good value. The convenience of having everything organized means you avoid the hassle of booking tickets, arranging transport, or navigating language barriers.

Many reviewers highlight the quality of the guides and the well-paced schedule as major benefits. The tour is described as suitable for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable taste of Croatia’s highlights, especially first-timers or travelers with limited time.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers eager to see Plitvice Lakes’ world-famous waterfalls and lakes, as well as history enthusiasts wanting to explore Zadar’s ancient monuments. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a guided, hassle-free trip, as all logistics are handled for you.

If you’re on a short trip from Split or Trogir and want an efficient way to see some of Croatia’s best sights, this tour ticks all the boxes. It also suits those who appreciate authentic meals and comfortable transport, rather than roughing it on a budget.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced blend of Croatia’s natural beauty and historic charm. The highlight remains the visit to Plitvice Lakes, where the scenic lakes and waterfalls deliver stunning views that stay with you long after the day ends. The addition of Zadar’s historic sites and the sea organ means you walk away with a well-rounded cultural experience.

The inclusion of meals, park entry, accommodation, and private transport means you get a lot of value for your money. The tour’s structure and guides are praised for professionalism and friendliness, making the experience smooth and enjoyable—even for first-time visitors.

While the itinerary is full and moves at a brisk pace, travelers who love seeing diverse sights in a short period will find it rewarding. Those seeking a deeper, more leisurely exploration may prefer to extend their stay or choose separate excursions.

In essence, this tour is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to maximize their time and see Croatia’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. It’s well-suited for curious explorers eager to take in some of Europe’s most beautiful lakes and historical towns, all in one memorable trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the experience includes air-conditioned vehicle transport with a professional English-speaking driver, ensuring a comfortable ride between locations.

What’s the duration of each stop?
You’ll spend about 4 hours exploring Zadar, including guided sightseeing and free time, and approximately 4 hours at Plitvice Lakes, with a mix of guided tours and free time.

Are meals provided?
Yes, breakfast at the hotel, a traditional Lika region lunch, and dinner are included, giving you a taste of local Croatian cuisine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if needed.

Is this a private group?
Yes, the tour is conducted with a private group, providing a more personalized experience.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
The overnight stay at Plitvice is included in the price, though specific hotel details may vary based on availability.

Are tickets to Plitvice Lakes included?
Yes, your entrance ticket to the park is covered, allowing you to skip the line and maximize your sightseeing time.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers keen to see Croatia’s natural wonders and historic sites in a short timeframe, especially those who prefer guided, organized trips with all logistics handled.

This overnight adventure from Split offers a fantastic way to experience Croatia’s most photographed lakes and vibrant coastal city in just two days. For those eager for a practical, well-organized trip with authentic touches, it’s a worthwhile choice.