Croatia is a place in Europe you shouldn’t miss visiting, not only because of it’s history and stunning coastline but certainly also because of it’s amazing national parks.
Krka National Park is one of Croatia’s most famous attractions, featuring a breathtaking series of 17 waterfalls, over 200 bird species as well as freshwater fish.
In this guide to Krka National Park I’ll tell you all about my own visit along with essential tips, must-see spots, and how to make the most of your visit.
Krka National Park Croatia Map
Krka National Park in Croatia, is a paradise for nature lovers but if you don’t plan right – it will be overwhelming! When you’re planning to explore Krka National Park in Croatia, a map is your best friend. It’ll help you find the waterfalls, hiking trails, and swimming spots. Trust me, with so much to see, you’ll want to know where you’re headed!
Map from Krka National Park website (www.npkrka.hr)
Overview of Krka National Park Waterfalls and viewpoints
Krka National Park is famous for its jaw-dropping waterfalls, and they do not disappoint! The stars of the show are Skradinski Buk and Roški Slap. Skradinski Buk is a massive series of 17 waterfalls, and it’s absolutely magical to see and hear the water cascading down. Roški Slap, on the other hand, is quieter and a perfect spot to soak in the beauty without the crowds.
Fun fact: these waterfalls are made of limestone that grows about a centimeter a year.
Getting Around
Krka National Park Entrance Fee
Entrance fees vary by season: from €7 in winter to €40 in summer.
*** In June, July, August and September entrance ticket price after 15.00 h is reduced by 25%: „Individual adults“ 30.00 €, „Individual children“ 11.25 €, „Individual students“ 11.25 €
Driving with a car
Driving is the best option and most flexible way to get around in the park. Skradin, the starting point for the ferry going to Skradinski buk, has private parking for a fee.
I recommend parking at Skradin and taking the ferry to and from Skradinski buk (the ferry is included in the entrance ticket price).
BE AWARE: the first ferry runs at 9am from Skradin. If you want to avoid the crowds by going when the park opens at 8am (during summer), start in Burnum, where you can park and walk to Manojlovački waterfall (Manojlovački slapovi) and Rosnjak Waterfall. Then drive to the Roski slap entrance and park. End your visit in Skradin (before the last ferry going to Skradinski buk).
Without a car
Seeing Krka National Park is not ideal without a car but also not impossible. I did it, but it wasn’t the best experience.
I stayed in Sibenik and wanted to go as early as possible to avoid the crowds, but the buses didn’t run until 11am, so I ended up taking a taxi, costing me €45… believe it or not I missed the last bus going back in the afternoon, but luckily I had the number for my taxi driver from earlier who gave me a big discount. So make sure to nail the bus schedule as buses don’t run that frequently. Otherwise I recommend joining a tour with transportation included.
You can stay updated on the bus schedules here
Secondly, going early didn’t help me at all, as the only way to get from Skradin Entrance to Skradinski buk without a car is by ferry (the ferry is included in the entrance ticket price) BUT the first ferry goes at 9am…
If you opt out of visiting with a tour – be prepared to only see Skradinski buk and the southern part of the park. I tried to get a boat to Visovac but couldn’t because they were sold out. This obviously also depends on what time of year you visit.
Which Is Better: Plitvice or Krka National Park?
The age-old debate for Croatia travelers! Krka is nice if you want to swim around waterfalls, while Plitvice is more about untouched nature. Both are obviously breathtaking in their own way, but if I had to choose, I’d go for Plitvice Lakes. Plitvice is easier to navigate and has more waterfalls + you can swim and rent a rowing boat!
I might be a bit biased as I didn’t have the best time in Krka, so if you have time I highly recommend visiting both nature parks and see for yourself!
Krka National Park (Skradinski Buk) Plitvice Lakes National Park (Entrance 1)
Krka National Park Tours
Guided tours are popular for their convenience, and many include round-trip transportation, entrance tickets, and even a boat ride. It’s an easy way to see everything without worrying about logistics or parking.
Getting Here
Split to Krka National Park
The park is 85 km from Split, accessible by car, bus, or guided tour. The drive takes about an hour.
If you’re driving from Split, the Lozovac entrance is also about an hour away and has free parking (Skradin entrance has paid parking).
Krka National Park Day Trip From Split
A day trip is convenient and includes park highlights like waterfalls, trails, and swimming spots. Many tours provide transportation, tickets, and guided exploration.
Split: Krka Waterfalls Trip with Boat Cruise and Swimming
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Duration: 9 hours
Skip the ticket line
Live english tour guide
INCLUDES: Free time in Primošten!
Zadar to Krka National Park
From Zadar, the park is a 1.5-hour drive or bus ride. Both options provide easy access to Skradin, the ferry point to the park.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Duration: 8 hours
Skip the ticket line
Option for Luggage storage
Dubrovnik to Krka National Park
Dubrovnik is farther, and about a 3.5-hour drive. A day-trip is definitely doable but consider an overnight stay near the park if you have time.
Otherwise a guided tour is another really good option.
Duration: 12 hours
Skip the ticket line
Live english tour guide
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Where to Stay to Go to Krka National Park?
While there’s only a few accommodation spots inside the park, nearby towns like Skradin and Šibenik are great options to stay in during your visit.
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Šibenik
If you want to combine your Krka visit with a little culture, Šibenik is a great choice. It’s about 30 minutes from the park and has historic charm combined with the sea.
FAQ
Best Time to Visit Krka National Park Croatia
The park is open year-round, but the best months to visit are May and September. The weather is pleasant, and you’ll skip the intense summer crowds (and the insane summer prices…). If you are going in summer, brace yourself for heat and more tourists – bring lots of water and plan ahead.
Can You Swim in Krka National Park Croatia?
Yes, swimming is allowed from June 1 to September 30 in designated areas like Roški Slap. Always follow safety rules and take care of your belongings—it can get busy! (I recommend to bring a waterproof bag with you in the water with your valuables, if no one is staying behind to watch your bag).
Are drones allowed?
Operating a drone is NOT allowed in Krka National Park. Read all of the parks rules here
What to Bring?
In continuation of being prepared, packing well is a good idea.
Bring essentials like:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Water shoes, a swimsuit, waterproof bag and a quick-drying towel if you plan on swimming.
- Good hiking shoes.
- Bug spray in summer
- Food! Yes you can bring your own snacks into the park! And make sure to bring loads as prices inside the park are insane.
- Water! Especially if you plan on visiting in summer – water is a must.
How Much Time Do You Need at Krka National Park Croatia?
Plan for at least 4-6 hours to explore waterfalls, swim, and hike.
Is It Worth Going to Krka National Park?
Yes and no…
If you also plan to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, and you have limited time, I wouldn’t also go to Krka. With that said the park is a highlight of many’s Croatian adventure and has stunning scenery worth seeing if you enjoy nature.
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