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Just 130 km south of Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia's most visited attraction — 16 terraced lakes, 92 waterfalls, and crystal-clear turquoise water. A rental car is the best way to get there and back on your own schedule.
Two ways to reach the park — fast motorway or scenic old road.
Take the D1 old road through Karlovac and Slunj. Stop at Rastoke — a village where the Slunjčica river cascades over travertine rocks into the Korana gorge. A miniature preview of what awaits at Plitvice. Allow extra time, but the stops are worth it.
Pick up your rental car in Zagreb and return it after your Plitvice visit — same day or the next morning. Heading further south? Add a one-way drop to Split or Zadar.
Rent for 3+ days and get a free cross-border permit — continue to Montenegro or Bosnia at no extra cost.
From mountain passes to cascading waterfalls — make the most of every kilometre.
A charming fortress town at the confluence of four rivers. Stop for a coffee on the riverside promenade — a perfect breakfast break before heading into the mountains.
The A1 motorway threads through the Mala Kapela tunnel (5.8 km), emerging into the high karst plateau. The scenery shifts dramatically from lowland Croatia to wild mountain landscapes.
The upper lakes are larger and less crowded than the lower section. Walk the wooden boardwalks above Kozjak lake for sweeping views of the entire park system.
At 78 metres, Veliki Slap is the tallest waterfall in Croatia and one of the most photographed spots in the entire country. Best viewed from the lower lake trail.
Cross the largest lake (Kozjak) by electric boat — included in your park ticket. A quiet, scenic crossing that connects the upper and lower lake sections.
Three car parks serve the national park — each with a different entrance and trail access.
Closest to Veliki Slap waterfall and the lower lakes. Most popular — fills up early in summer. Arrive before 8 am in July/August.
Best access to the upper lakes and Lake Kozjak ferry. Less crowded than P1. Good choice for late arrivals or if P1 is full.
Overflow lot near Entrance 2. Used when P1 and P2 are full. Free shuttle bus connects to park entrances.
A rental car gives you full flexibility — here's how the options compare.
| Rental Car | Bus | Guided Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel time | 1.5–2 h | 2.5–3 h | 2.5–3 h |
| Scenic stops | |||
| Your own schedule | |||
| Continue south after | |||
| Approx. cost | From €35/day | €15–20 pp | €50–80 pp |
With your own car you can stop at Rastoke, stay as long as you want inside the park, and continue south toward Split or Zadar afterwards — no fixed schedule, no group waiting.
Everything you need for a stress-free Zagreb to Plitvice drive.
All our rentals include comprehensive insurance. Drive the mountain roads to Plitvice with complete peace of mind.
Return to Zagreb after your day trip, or continue south toward Split or Zadar. We offer one-way drops too.
Pick up your car at Zagreb Airport (ZAG) on arrival and head straight to Plitvice — no wasted time in the city.
Our cars are equipped with GPS and air conditioning — making the mountain drive comfortable even in summer heat.
Pick up your car at Zagreb Airport (ZAG) or Zagreb Downtown. Return to Zagreb after your visit, or drop off the car in Split or Zadar if you're continuing south.
Our recommendation based on the route terrain, distance, and what our customers love most.
Economy
Easy 130 km drive from Zagreb — a compact car is perfect for the park entrance
SUV
Explore the park and surrounding area with extra comfort and ground clearance
Comfort
Arrive relaxed and ready to walk the famous Plitvice trails
Check availability and lock in your one-way rate. Free cancellation included.