National Parks

Most likely the best known national park in Croatia due to its UNESCO-protected heritage status, Plitvice Lakes National Park is made up of 16 interconnected lakes, with waterfalls flowing through them.

Picture emerald green forests, gushing waterfalls, and colorful foliage. The lakes are known for their distinctive colors, ranging from azure to greens and grays. Plitvice Lakes is a year round destination, where you can experience dense green vegetation in the summer and a white wonderland in the winter months.

Krka National Park can be found in southern Croatia, approximately an hour's drive away from Split. Similar to Plitvice Lakes National Park, the park is famed for its interwoven network of beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and lush greenery.

Guided tours of Krka National park will take you through the highlights of the park, including the majestic waterfalls Skradinski Buk and Roški Slap. During the summer months, you can even swim in designated areas, cooling off amidst the park's lush foliage.

Mljet National Park is located on the western half of Mljet Island. This remote and enchanting island is located in the Adriatic Sea, and can be reached by boat from either Split or Dubrovnik.

Mljet National Park is filled with lush forests and scenic coastlines, making for the perfect destination to relax and unwind. Mljet is home to two saltwater lakes, Veliko and Malo Jezero (Large and Small Lake). At the center of Veliko Jezero, you’ll find St. Mary’s Island, where a 12th-century Benedictine monastery and church stand.

In the mountainous region of Gorski Kotar, near the Slovenian border, is where you’ll find Risnjak National Park. Varying ecosystems exist within the park, including dense beech and fir forests, alpine meadows, and rocky landscapes.

Risnjak National Park is a true hidden gem for those who love the outdoors, with miles of untouched wilderness waiting to be explored on foot. The tranquil environment offers a peaceful retreat, surrounded by numerous plant and animal species.

Kornati National Park is made up of around 89 islands, islets, and crags which sit in the central Adriatic Sea. The islands are mostly inhabited, and are characterized by steep limestone cliffs, rugged coastlines, and gorgeous turquoise waters.

This national park archipelago is a haven for marine enthusiasts, with a rich underwater world of colorful reefs and underwater caves perfect for snorkeling or diving. Summer day trips to Kornati National Park allow visitors to explore secluded caves, relax on quiet beaches, or discover ancient Roman and Illyrian ruins.

Off the southwestern coast of Istria you’ll find Brijuni National Park. This national park archipelago consists of 14 islands and islets and is known for its diverse landscapes and cultural significance.

The largest island, Veliki Brijun, was once a retreat for Yugoslav President Josip Broz Tito. Today, it hosts a safari park home to exotic Asian, African, and South American animals.

Paklenica National Park is located in the Velebit Mountain range, just 30 miles northeast of Zadar. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes and fantastic hiking opportunities.

The park is a haven for biodiversity where steep cliffs, deep gorges, and lush forests are home to a wide array of flora and fauna. Its two main canyons, Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica, were carved by the river that flows through the area, offering incredible hiking, cycling, and climbing experiences.

Sjeverni Velebit National Park is Croatia’s youngest national park, found in the northern part of the Velebit mountain range. The park's highlights include its dramatic karst formations—limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and a multitude of caves.

Sjeverni Velebit is perfect for hiking, climbing, and observing nature. Its well-maintained trails offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands.