Are you in for some stunning waterfalls and a day spent in nature? This article will be all about a day trip to Krka National Park from Split. If you’re staying in this Mediterranean oasis, then Krka is relatively close to you and should be on your itinerary. Split is a perfect base for exploration of the central part of Dalmatia as well as nearby islands. Of course, we suggest you explore Split too, but this won’t take so much time, and including day trips during your vacation can make them so much better.
When it comes to day trips from Split, it’s easy to get lost in the offer since there are so many different kinds. Some of the island-hopping adventures are to the nearby islands such as Hvar , Brač, and Vis. Some other are among the best adventures in Croatia that are done in the Cetina River Canyon and in the Omiš area (a town close to Split). And some of them visit famous national parks in Croatia – Krka and Plitvice. If you’re staying in Split for 5 or more days , then it’s easy and you can do a few of these, but if you have only 2 days or so, you have to rule some out.
Let’s embark on a day trip to Krka National Park from Split.
Why Visit Krka National Park from Split? Krka National Park is a must-visit place for many travelers coming to Split. It’s one of the most famous national parks in Croatia and somewhat similar to the Plitvice Lakes, a park a bit further away from Split than Krka. These 2 parks are similar, but still different. Krka National Park was made by the Krka River through millennia and features some of the most stunning waterfalls in Croatia.
Here are just a few reasons why you should consider visiting Krka National Park from Split:
Proximity: Krka is only about 85 km (53 miles) away from Split, and it won’t take you much to reach this natural wonder of Croatia .Stunning Waterfalls: Some of the best waterfalls of Croatia are part of this park, and Skradinski Buk and Roški Slap waterfalls are among the most magnificent ones.Swimming Allowed: This is something you’ll love, especially if visiting Krka on a hot summer day. Unlike Plitvice Lakes , swimming is allowed in certain areas during the summer season.Historic Sites: Krka National Park is not only about nature; there’s a lot of history to it too. We suggest visiting Visovac Island and its 15th-century monastery, or the Krka Monastery, dating back to medieval times.
How to Get to Krka National Park from Split Now that we learned a bit more about the Krka, let’s see what the best ways of getting there are. We’re going to present you with the 3 most usual ways of getting from Split to Krka National Park. For the guided tours option, we’re going to provide you with links to the highest-rated tours you can explore further and choose the best one for you.
1. Organized Day Tours (Recommended) A guided tour from Split to Krka is one of the easiest and most convenient options of traveling between these 2 destinations, and many people eager to visit Krka choose this option. Here’s what to expect out of it:
Duration: Usually 8–10 hours .Cost: From €50 to €80 , depending on the route, tour duration, and other inclusions.Pros: Carefree, with transportation and guides part of this tour. These types of tours often include entry tickets to the park.Cons: Limited flexibility if you’re looking to explore on your own.
Guided Day Trip Suggestions:
2. Self-Drive Driving from Split to Krka National Park is yet another way of reaching this park, and it’s a great option if you want to explore Krka at your own pace. Expect this drive to last around 1.5 hours, and here’s how to do it:
Route: Follow the A1 motorway and exit at Skradin or Šibenik and follow signs for Lozovac entrance.Parking: Large parking surfaces are available near the park entrances.Pros: Flexibility of exploration at your own pace.Cons: You need to rent a car if you’re not traveling in Croatia by one.
3. Public Bus The third and final way of traveling from Split to Krka National Park is by using public transport. This is an affordable, but slightly longer option.
Duration: Around 2 hours .Cost: Cca. €10 one-way .Route: Take a bus from Split to Skradin (one of the main entrances to Krka). Then you can take a boat from Skradin that will take you to the heart of Krka National Park.Pros: Budget-friendly option.Cons: Limited schedule, longer travel time.
What to See in Krka National Park Once you’re in the Krka National Park, things are pretty straightforward, you just need to walk through the park and experience one of the most famous natural wonders of Croatia. The whole park area is beautiful, and here are a few special places we suggest you visit:
1. Skradinski Buk The most famous waterfall of Krka National Park, Skradinski Buk, consists of 17 cascading waterfalls that create a stunning visual and auditory experience.
You can swim in designated areas during the summer at Skradinski Buk.
Walk the wooden boardwalks through lush nature.
2. Roški Slap A bit less famous than Skradinski Buk, but still an equally beautiful waterfall.
Roški Slap is famous for its unique cascades known as ‘necklaces’ .
More tranquil atmosphere than Skradinski Buk. Perfect place for those seeking a quieter experience.
3. Visovac Island Visovac Island is reached by the panoramic boat ride, and it’s another great way of enjoying the Krka River landscape after you get tired from all the walking through the park. Visovac is a rather small island and it’s home to a Franciscan Monastery, which dates back to the 15th century.
Accessible by boat from the park.
Scenic and peaceful island, surrounded by the clear water of the Krka River.
4. Krka Monastery This is a bit more secluded location than the ones mentioned before. This Orthodox Monastery is located further upriver, but it’s a nice place to include in your visit.
A place that offers historical insights and has beautiful architecture.
Accessible by boat or hiking trails.
Best Time to Visit Krka National Park Any time you’re visiting Split is a great time for a day trip to Krka National Park from Split. This park is beautiful in all seasons, but in each of them, the park looks different. Here’s what to expect:
Spring (April to June): Beautiful green vegetation, pleasant weather, waterfalls full of water, and fewer crowds are the main characteristics of this period.Summer (July to August): Hot temperatures, perfect time for swimming, expect larger crowds in Krka National Park during summer.Autumn (September to October): Cooler but very pleasant weather, the most magnificent colors of nature, and fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
What to Bring A simple thing like a shoe choice can significantly affect your experience of Krka National Park. You don’t need to pack too many things for the Split to Krka national park day trip, and here are a few of the things you should consider bringing:
Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the exploration of this beautiful place. Swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim.Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you’re visiting Krka during the summer.Water and snacks. A camera or mobile phone, if you want to capture the stunning scenery.Insect repellents are recommended if you’re visiting periods with higher mosquito activity.Some cash . Most of the places within the park accept cards as a form of payment, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash with you.
Before You Venture on a Day Trip to Krka National Park from Split A day trip to Krka National Park from Split is one of the most chosen day trip options from this Dalmatian city. We hope that this article was useful in revealing a bit more about the Krka National Park and the ways of getting there from Split. Croatia has a total of 8 national parks, and we suggest including at least one of them in your travel itinerary for Croatia. If you’re staying in Split, then Krka is the closest national park to you. Use this fact, visit Krka, and enjoy one of the most famous natural places of Croatia.
Enjoy your stay in Split!
