Guide to visit Krka National Park

The Krka National Park It is located in southern Croatia, near Šibenik, and is one of the most visited places in the country. The most famous feature of the park are its waterfalls, especially the one Skradinski Buk, which is the largest and most photogenic. For years it was also one of the few natural parks in the country where you could swim, although that has changed and is now prohibited to protect the environment.

Read on to find out all about this park: schedules, price from the entrance and essentials. In addition, we make a comparison with the Plitvice National Park If you only want to visit one of the two, which is more worthwhile? We'll tell you everything.

How to get to Krka National Park

Krka National Park can be visited independently or on an organized tour. If you're traveling on your own, there are two main entrances: Skradin y Lozovac Both are well signposted and depend somewhat on whether you go during high or low season, and how you feel about visiting.

Getting to Krka National Park by car

If you are doing a route through Croatia, like the one we told you about in our post about 12 days in Croatia, arriving by car is the most practical way. The park is about 15 minutes from Šibenik, one hour from Split and a little more from two hours from Zadar.

The roads are in good condition and there is parking areas The park is extensive in both Skradin and Lozovac, so you won't have any problems if you bring your own vehicle. There are also other areas within the park that can be visited separately if you have a car.

Lozovac entrance

We entered through Lozovac, which is the most practical if you go by car. The Parking is free And it's well organized. As soon as you arrive, there's a bathroom that costs money, but you don't have to go through there: there's one right behind where they sell the tickets. gratuitous, so don't fall for the paid one.

Once you buy your ticket, you'll be taken on a bus that takes you down the hillside to the actual entrance of the park. bus ride lasts about 10 minutes and is included in the ticket price. From there, the main walkway tour begins.

Skradin Entrance

The other option is to enter through Skradin, from where you can catch a boat crossing the river to the park. The ride takes about 25 minutes and is quite beautiful, although the boat may not run during the off-season, so check beforehand.

If you are in Split and do not want to rent a car, a convenient option is to book one organized tour. There are many that leave in the morning and return in the afternoon, and some even combine a visit to Krka with stops in Šibenik or other nearby towns. For example, this excursion from Split with boat ride included They pick you up directly from your accommodation, which is a great advantage if you're short on time.

Buy tickets to Krka

The price of admission varies considerably depending on the season. In high season (July and August), which was when we went, we paid €40 per person y €25 with student card Valid. So if you still have your license, grab it because it could save you a lot.

Tickets can be purchased online on the park's official website or directly at the ticket office, as we did. The advantage of purchasing tickets in advance is that you can guarantee a spot if you go on busy days (especially if you want to enter through Skradin and catch the boat). The disadvantage is that it's not always easy to schedule a time if you're improvising on the fly.

Indicative prices

To give you an idea, these are the approximate prices by season (although it's best to check before you go):

• High season (June - September):
  • Adults: €40
  • Students and young people (7–18 years): €25
  • Children up to 7 years old: Free
• Mid-season (April-May / October):
  • Adults: €20–30
  • Students: €15–20
• Low season (November - March):
  • Adults: €7
  • Much cheaper, although some areas may be closed and the boats may not operate.

Park hours

The park is open year-round, but hours vary by month. In summer it is usually open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., while it closes earlier in winter. If you're going during the warmer months, we recommend going early to avoid the hottest hours and the biggest crowds.

By the way, There is no need to do the tour first thing in the morning to enjoy it quietly, but if you go after 11:00–12:00, you will notice that it gets quite crowded.

If you don't want to worry about buying tickets, arranging boat schedules, or finding transportation, you can opt for tours that already include everything. excursion from Šibenik to the park Includes admission, guide, and transportation. It's a good value and saves you from unexpected expenses.

What to see and do in Krka National Park

Although the park is larger than it looks, most people concentrate on the circular route of wooden walkways that runs through the area of Skradinski Buk, the most famous waterfalls. This part is the most accessible, and honestly, with good reason: the walk is comfortable, beautiful and in just over an hour you have seen the main thing.

Circular route through Skradinski Buk

As soon as you get off the bus (if you enter through Lozovac), you start the guided tour of the walkways. It took us approximately 1 h 30 min in making the complete tour, stopping to take photos, looking at the landscape calmly and taking it in without rushing.

It is a route that is done very well, without slopes or complications, and it passes by several small waterfalls and viewpoints If you want to go faster You can take the shortcut to the left as soon as you enter, which takes you directly to the large waterfalls. However, if it's your first time, we recommend taking the entire route.

At the end of the trail, right in the area of the big waterfalls, there is a restaurant and a large area where you can eat If you bring your own food, it's even better, because the prices inside the park are quite high and what they offer isn't anything special.

Before, in that same area, you could swim next to the waterfalls, but for a few years now bathing is prohibited for conservation reasons. Still, it's a nice place to stop and rest, with a good view.

Krka Monastery

This Orthodox monastery It is located in a more remote area of the park, near Roški Slap. To get there you need to take a car or pay for a boat which follows this route within the park (which is not included in the general admission). We didn't visit it, but if you're interested in historical and religious topics, it might be worthwhile.

Visovac Island and Monastery

Another place that draws attention is the Visovac Island, where there is a small Franciscan monastery. You can also get there by boat from the main area of the park, but you have to pay extra. Instead of taking the boat, we went by car to the island's viewpoint, which is free and has good views for a quick photo.

Roški Slap

Roški Slap is another waterfall area Less visited and much quieter. It's also further off the main route, so you'll have to travel by car or bike. There are marked trails and it's ideal if you want to escape the crowds, although the scenery isn't as impressive as that of Skradinski Buk.

Bornum and other areas of the park

There are more areas within the park that can be explored, especially if you have time and a car. There are also bike trails and longer routes, but if you're only going to spend a few hours, the main route is more than enough.

If you like the idea of combining nature with some cultural visit and you don't feel like driving, you can look at this excursion from Trogir including Krka and Šibenik, which takes you to the area's highlights without having to organize it yourself.

When to visit Krka National Park

Best time of the year

If you can choose, the ideal is to go to Krka in spring (May-June) or at the beginning of autumn (September-October) The temperatures are pleasant, there are fewer people, and the park still has a good flow of water in the waterfalls. Plus, you won't be charged peak season prices, which we already told you are quite high.

We went in peak season, in August, and although you can enjoy the park, there are times when the walkways are crowded and it's difficult to take photos in peace. If you don't like crowds, it's best to avoid July and August.

What time to go to avoid crowds

Whenever you go, the sooner you arrive, the better From 11:00 a.m. onward, the crowds start to become noticeable, especially if people are arriving from Skradin by boat. We arrived quite early and were grateful for it: less heat, fewer people, and more peace of mind to explore the route at our own pace.

Plus, if you go early, you'll have time to have a leisurely lunch at the end of the trail (in the picnic area) or even visit another part of the park afterward. If you want to see the Visovac Island from the viewpoint or approaching Roški Slap, it is a good idea to leave yourself a few extra hours.

What is more worthwhile: Krka or Plitvice?

The million dollar question if you are organizing a trip to Croatia and you can only visit a national park: Krka or Plitvice? We've been to both, and while both have their charms, the difference is quite clear.

If you are going to choose only one: Plitvice

Plitvice it seemed to us much more impressive It's bigger, wilder, and has a system of lakes and waterfalls that looks like something out of this world. There are trails for all levels, and very long walkways that cross turquoise lakes and waterfalls much higher than those of Krka. If you have time, comfortable shoes and a desire to walk, it's amazing. You can take a look at this one Plitvice Lakes excursion from Split, which is usually well organized and saves you logistical complications.

Krka, on the other hand, is more small and affordable The main route is done quickly, and although it has beautiful scenery, it doesn't reach the level of Plitvice in terms of visual impact. In its favor, though, it is much easier to visit: less physical effort, shorter routes and closer to the coast (ideal if you are in Split or Šibenik).

What if you're going with children or want something lighter?

Then, Krka may make more sense The route is very easy, with no steep slopes or complicated sections, and the entire hike takes just over an hour. It's also easier to fit into a half-day trip.

Prices and attendance

In summer, both parks are worth the same (some €40 general admission in high season), and both are packed with people So, that doesn't seem like a determining factor to us. What we did find was that, for the same price, at least you can take a longer tour in Plitvice.

We recommend you anyway visit both If you have the time and money. Each park has its own unique features, and we really enjoyed both parks. If you like nature and easy trails, these are ideal plans.

Tips for visiting Krka National Park

1. Go early if you go in summer

If you go in July or August, the best thing you can do is Arrive early, around 8:30–9:00 At that time, there aren't many people yet, so you can explore the park at your leisure, without lines or crowds. From mid-morning onward, the park starts to fill up quite a bit, especially around the viewing points and bridges.

2. Don't pay for the first bathroom you see

As soon as you arrive at the entrance to Lozovac you will see a pay toilet (yes, seriously), but if you walk a few meters behind the ticket offices, you will find another free one It's nothing special, but at least they don't charge you to get in.

3. Bring food and water

Inside the park there is a restaurant at the end of the main route, but the prices are very expensive And it's not worth it. Many people bring their own food and sit in the picnic area next to the waterfalls There is no problem in bringing sandwiches or snacks., and you will also save a lot.

We also recommend you bring enough water, especially if you go in the summer. There are some fountains in the park, but they're not very easy to find.

4. The journey is done quickly

The main circular route It is done in just over an hour, and it's very easy to follow. If you're with children, short on time, or just don't feel like walking far, it's perfect. Although there's an option to take a shortcut and go directly to the larger waterfalls, We recommend doing the entire tour, which is not difficult at all and gives you a better idea of the surroundings.

5. Bathing is not allowed

Although in many old photos people appear bathing next to the waterfalls, that it is no longer allowed. It's been banned for environmental reasons, so you'd better be clear that swimming isn't part of the plan.

6. If you want to see more areas of the park, you need a car or boat (and pay extra)

There are several parts of the park that are off the main trail, such as the Krka monastery, Roški Slap or Visovac island To see them you have two options: pay a boat inside the park, o move by road.

We opted for the car and arrived at the Visovac Island viewpoint, which has great views and doesn't cost anything. If you prefer to do it with a guide and without the hassle, there are organized tours that include several stops, like this one. excursion from Šibenik to the park.

7. Comfortable shoes and sunscreen

Although the route is short and easy, wear comfortable shoes because the walkways can be a little slippery if a few drops have fallen or if there is moisture. In summer, protecting yourself from the sun is key: Many areas are uncovered, so it's best to wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Where to stay to visit Krka

Krka can be visited in noon, so There is no need to sleep inside the park nor in its surroundings if you have a car. But if you want to be close enough to arrive early or leave with ease, there are several options depending on your travel style.

Accommodation in Skradin

Skradin It is a small town on the banks of the Krka River, and one of the most popular access points to the park. It has quite a lot of charm, especially if you like quiet places. There are waterfront restaurants, a few shops, and family-run guesthouses. It's a good option if you want to be close enough to check in early.

The bad thing is that In high season it fills up quickly And prices go up. If you go in July or August, book early or be prepared to pay more than it's really worth.

Sleeping in Šibenik

For us, Šibenik is one of the best bases to visit Krka. It's only a 15-minute drive from the park, and you have a wider choice of accommodation, restaurants, and things to do in the evening or at night. It's a good midpoint if you're touring Croatia and want to avoid staying in touristy or dull places.

Also, if you are interested, from here you can do the organized excursion to Krka, which can be useful if you don't have a car.

Accommodation in Split

If you prefer to sleep in Split and taking a day trip to Krka is also very feasible. It will take you around one hour to arrive, and there are plenty of organized tours that take you there and back on the same day. This Excursion from Split with boat ride and visit to Šibenik It is a good option if you want to forget about the car and the entrance.

Split has plenty of accommodation options for all budgets and a very lively atmosphere, so it could be ideal if you're looking for a more urban experience.

What if you're on the road?

If you are doing a roadtrip, like the one we tell in our 12-day Croatia tourYou'll probably pass through this area between Zadar, Šibenik, or Split. In that case, any night near Krka can be a good place to rest and continue your journey without detours.

What to see near Krka National Park

Although Krka is the main natural attraction of this part of Croatia, there are several nearby towns and cities that are worth a stop, even if it's short. You can see some of them in the same day, especially if you go by car or on an organized excursion.

Skradin

As we have already told you before, it is the river access point to the park, and a small but charming place. It has a couple of quiet streets, a harbor with pleasant views, and a few riverfront restaurants. If you have time after visiting the park, you can stop for a drink here or even stay overnight if you're looking for a quiet spot.

Šibenik

Šibenik We liked it much more than we expected. It has a very well-kept historic center, with cobblestone streets, stairs everywhere and the Santiago Cathedral, which is a World Heritage Site. It also has several fortresses with great views of the sea. If you spend the night in the area, it's a good place for a sunset stroll and dinner out.

From here, there are also several organized excursions to Krka like this one Guided tour of the park with transport from Šibenik.

Trogir

Although it is a little further away (an hour's drive from Krka), Trogir It's a very well-preserved and quite photogenic medieval town. It's perfect for a short stopover or even as a base if you want to be close to the coast but not right in Split. You can also book this tour from here. Combined excursion to Krka and Šibenik, which is very complete.

Primošten

Primošten It's a lovely coastal town to spend a few hours. It has a peninsula surrounded by the sea, cobblestone streets, and a pleasant promenade. If you go in summer, it's a great place to end the day with a swim at the beach or dinner by the sea.

Frequently asked questions about Krka National Park

How long does it take to visit Krka?

With half a day you are more than enough The main route is done in about 1:30 h A leisurely walk. If you want to stop for lunch or visit other areas of the park, you can spend 3 to 4 hours. If you're going to other sites like Roški Slap or the monastery, allow a little more time and a car.

Can you swim in the waterfalls?

No. Although it was possible a few years ago, now bathing is strictly prohibited at the waterfalls for conservation reasons. It's well signposted and monitored.

Is it suitable for children and people with reduced mobility?

Yes, the main route via the walkways is very easy, with no steep slopes or complicated sections. If you're using a stroller or wheelchair, there are some more awkward sections, but the route can be adapted. For a more relaxed experience, it's best to enter through Lozovac.

Which entrance is better: Skradin or Lozovac?

Depends Skradin It is more picturesque because you arrive by boat, but in high season there may be more waiting Lozovac It's faster if you're traveling by car, has free parking, and drops you off directly at the entrance after a short bus ride.

Are there restaurants or eating areas?

Yes, there is a restaurant at the end of the main route, but it is expensive and the food is average. The best thing is bring your own food and eat in the picnic area near the large waterfalls.

Do I need to book in advance?

It's not necessary. But if you want to be more certain, you can buy tickets online or book an all-inclusive tour, like this one from Split with boat trip and visit to Šibenik.

If you want to read other articles ideal for your trip that complement Guide to visit Krka National Park you can visit our posts about Croatia.