There is no doubt that the Adriatic Sea along Croatia’s coastline is a stunning stretch of water. The crystal clear water ranges in color from cobalt blue to turquoise, varying in intensity depending on sunlight and depth.
However, Croatia’s appealing aqueous beauty isn’t exclusive to the shore. Flowing rivers and teal lakes off the coast of Croatia have a series of tumbling falls that rival the splendor of the sea. These grandiose spectacles are exactly what lured us to visit Krka National Park Waterfalls on a day trip.
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About Krka National Park, Croatia
The Krka Waterfalls, created by the phenomenon of naturally-made travertine barriers, are a mesmerizing sight. A day trip to Krka National Park, however, often takes a backseat to the famous Plitvice Lakes.
We had visited Plitvice in Winter on our way from Split to Zagreb – and again on a subsequent trip to Croatia in Autumn. Therefore, visiting Krka National Park for the day was a priority while we were staying in Zadar.
That said, the park is easy to get to from several Top Croatian Cities and we have since returned to Krka Waterfalls on a day trip from Split!
As one of the best national parks in Croatia – it encompasses 42 square miles around the Krka River. In addition to the waterfalls at Krka, the park features archaeological ruins, churches, islands and caves.
Visiting Krka Waterfalls, Croatia on a Day Trip
From Zadar, we opted to explore on our own self-guided Krka National Park tour. Our discovery began the moment we stepped through the entrance.
The main attraction is the largest waterfall at Krka, Skradinski buk. We could hear the rush of water even before we came face-to-face with it.
Thanks to the previous days’ rain, thundering water was pouring over these magnificent, multi-leveled Croatian waterfalls.
Under a cloudless, blue Dalmatian sky, the rays of light magnified the mist that dampened our cheeks.
Krka National Park Waterfalls Walking Path
A multi-surface path loops around and over the clear waters, allowing us to see the river from nearly every angle. We started our tour of Krka NP by crossing the bridge on the right of Skradinski buk.
After climbing a short series of steps, we reached a viewing platform that provided a new perspective. The quick moving water created rapids of white and a rainbow appeared in the billowing mist.
Krka NP Historical Sights
Before we continued on the wooden footpath, we did a quick tour of the area. A small church remains from long before the site was designated a national park of Croatia.
A museum highlight the culture of the civilizations that once occupied the land, including displays of traditional clothing and tools.
There’s also a restaurant with a prime riverside location, but we passed by and began our walk over the top of Krka Falls.
Crossing the Top of Krka Waterfalls
The water at Krka swiftly moves under the elevated boardwalks that have no railing. We meandered through trees and past small patches land, completely enveloped in lush vegetation.
The water clarity was impeccable. We could see rocks and roots in shallow pools, long reeds being pulled by the current and playful fish shimmering about. The constant movement of water was our soundtrack as it poured down the falls.
We could see flowing water in every direction and felt as if we’ve entered a magical water world. At this point, the crowds had arrived and people pushed past us, but we kept our slow, steady pace, soaking it all in.
Through breaks in the trees, we could see across the Krka Valley. The scene looked like a painter’s masterpiece, but only blue, green and yellow were on the artist’s palette.
When we completed the last section of the trail back to the bottom of Skradinski buk, we entered what felt like an enchanted forest.
Water cascaded over rocks and momentarily collected into pools before spilling over into yet another waterfall.
The scene when we visited Krka Waterfalls was completely surreal; we almost expected to see glowing fairies zip through the air!
Swimming at Krka National Park
We completed the rest of the trail, but weren’t quite ready to leave. Instead, we found a rock in the sun at the edge of the thundering Krka Waterfalls.
At one time, entering the water was allowed along the base of Skradinski buk, but swimming at Krka is no longer permitted!
How To Visit Krka National Park
Visiting Krka National Park Waterfalls can be organized with a tour group, private guide or on your own. Krka NP has four separate entrances, two of which put Skradinski buk in easy reach: Skradin and Lozovac.
If accessing Krka via Skradin (where there is a bus stop and parking lot), you will need to take the ferry to the main entrance.
There is an official Krka National Park ticket office next to the ferry in Skradin. The Krka ferry departs hourly and is included with the price of admission.
Read about Things To Do in Skradin before (or after) you visit Krka Waterfalls!
Krka National Park Entrance Fee
The Krka Waterfalls price depends on season, time of day (summer only) and guest’s age. If you book a tour or private guide, entrance may be included.
However, be sure to confirm all the details before booking your day trip to Krka tour. You can also check the current Krka National Park Ticket Prices ahead of your trip to Croatia.
How To Get to Krka Waterfalls
Krka National Park can be accessed by tour group, private guide, personal car and public bus. If you are arriving by bus or car, we recommend entering Krka from Skradin.
That way you can take the (included) boat ride to the main Krka entrance and enjoy the beautiful town of Skradin as well!
Driving To Krka National Park
Self-driving allows for the most freedom for your day trip to Krka Waterfalls. If you need to rent a car in Croatia, read our tips for cheap rentals and then begin searching for deals!
Public Transportation or Krka Tours
You can also travel to Krka Park on a day trip on your own. Public transport is available from many nearby cities, making for an easy Day Trip from Zadar, Sibenik and Split.
There are also numerous Organized Krka Tours that include a knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
Below we detail information for DIY Krka trips with public transport and options for top-rated tours to Krka NP Waterfalls.
Zadar to Krka National Park
When we decided to travel from Zadar to Krka Waterfalls, we debated between taking the bus or joining a tour. While a Krka tour from Zadar would have been the easiest option, it didn’t fit into our budget at the time.
To get from Zadar to Krka, we took a bus directly to Skradin. Check Zadar-Krka bus timetables on BusCroatia, but also confirm routes and times at either end. Alternatively, highly-rated tour can also be booked in advance.
Explore Zadar on our Self-Guided Walking Tour
Pro Tip: If you’d like to visit more nature parks in Croatia, the Kornati Islands are another sensational spot near Zadar.
Split to Krka National Park
When we returned to Croatia and wanted to visit Krka Waterfalls from Split, we decided to go with this tour. And it was an amazing day!
To plan your own Split to Krka day trip via public transportation, check Split-Krka bus timetables, and again, we recommend confirming times at the bus station.
Read our Split Sightseeing Guide and 3-Day Split Itinerary
Dubrovnik to Krka National Park
There is no direct public transportation option between Dubrovnik and Krka Waterfalls (and it really is too far for a Krka Day Trip).
It is best to book a private guide if that’s your only option to see the waterfalls. The drive will take about 3.5 hours each way. Communicate in advance with the tour guide so that you can set expectations for your Dubrovnik Day Trip.
See our complete guide to Top Dubrovnik Sights
Sibenik to Krka National Park
Sibenik is the closest city to Krka Waterfalls, so it’s actually quite simple to plan a visit. Take the Sibenik-Krka bus on a 30 minute ride to the Skradin entrance. There are private Krka tours, too – like this one!
Read our guide of Things To Do in Sibenik
Before You Go on a Krka Waterfalls Day Trip
- Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for your trip. I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by Columbia and Reef. Kris prefers wearing Merrell and Sanuk.
- We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Croatia Trip. Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual travel camera for quality photos. We shoot with a Canon Rebel and a 18/135mm lens.
- Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you will also want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your everyday travel items!
- Get (and stay) organized for your Croatia vacation by using our Trip Planning Printables.
- If you haven’t already obtained trip insurance for your Vacation to Europe, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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