Zadar to Krka National Park in 2024.
As we came towards the end of our 5km hike alongside the beautiful Krka River, it came into view…
The famous Skradisnki Buk waterfall.. and it was picture perfect!
Travelling from Zadar to Krka National Park couldn’t be easier and the reward is one of Croatia’s most beautiful natural wonders.
Krka River National Park is a true highlight of the Balkans region, located very close to the town of Skradin in Croatia - which is approximately a 1 hour drive from Zadar and Split in opposite directions. A trip to the iconic waterfalls is a must on any visitor’s Zadar itinerary.
This blog will show you that getting to Krka National Park from Zadar is simple enough and budget friendly for any type of traveller.
My visit to Krka waterfalls in Croatia.
Getting to Krka National Park from Zadar by bus.
If bus is your preferred method of travel, then you are in luck as the bus connections between Zadar and Krka National Park are well established and run frequently.
There are direct buses which run regularly between Zadar and Krka National Park on a daily basis.
The exact schedule of departures can change depending on the season, so make sure you check prior to planning your day trip to Krka waterfalls.
The official timetable will give you up to date information.
Admiring the Croatian wonder.
Here are some key points to ensure your Zadar to Krka journey goes smoothly:
The departure point in Zadar is from the main bus station, with the destination point being Skradin - located only a short distance from Krka National Park ticket office and information centre.
The cost of a one-adult ticket is around €10 (74 HRK), depending on how far in advance you book your tickets.
Travel time takes around one hour but this can differ depending on the exact service and traffic etc.
Bus travel is very popular throughout the Balkans, however, from my experiences, the services are not always punctual so it is advisable to arrive early, but be prepared to expect a slight delay.
The beautiful Krka River.
Zadar to Krka National Park by car.
I found travelling to Skradin from Zadar by car is fairly straight forward.
Take the D424 road out of Zadar, before joining the A1 east towards Gracac at the highway toll Zadar-east. Then continue following A1 / E65 / E71 road for about 47 km.
Exit the highway at 21-Skradin and continue via D56 for less than 10 minutes to Skradin entrance.
Please note - there is a toll fee of around 23 HRK for regular cars. (other vehicles may cost more).
The map below shows an overview on how to get from Zadar to Skradin.
Map showing directions from Zadar to Skradin by car.
If you want to spend the day in luxury, then there are options of a private tour, which includes a driver who will drive you straight to the national park and wait for you while you explore the natural wonder.
The hiking walkway to Skradinski Buk from Skradin.
The famous Skradinski Buk waterfall.
Where can I park my car at Krka National Park?
There are several car parks in and around the little town of Skradin. The closest car park to the information centre cost us approx 10 HRK (£1) per hour.
Car Parking near Krka National Park.
Can you visit Krka from Zadar by train?
There are no train options between Zadar and Krka National park currently, as the Balkans region is poorly connection by rail.
natural beauty is abundant at Krka National Park.
When to visit Krka waterfalls.
Krka National Park is open to visitors every day except December 25th and 26th, and offers plenty of flexibility.
The opening times vary depending on the time of year. For more detailed information, please visit the official website here.
Contact information:
Phone: +385 (0)22 201-777
E-mail: info@npk.hr
Website: http://www.np-krka.hr/en/
During peak summer months, Krka waterfalls can get very crowded and hot so it is highly recommended to go early in the morning.
Close up shot of Skradinski Buk.
Need to know during your visit to Krka waterfalls.
Entrance fee to the Krka waterfalls is 200 HRK.
You have to pay to use the restrooms, so don’t forget to bring some change.
There are a maximum of 10,000 visitors allowed to visit Skradinski Buk, following a rule change in 2017. Secure your spot in advance here.
Skradinski Buk waterfalls consists of 17 cascading waterfalls which drop 45 metres in total. You will find a shaded walking trail loop which covers 2 km and you will get a good view of each individual waterfall.
You will find souvenir shops dotted around as you explore the beautiful nature - so don’t forget to grab your mementos!
An information board at Krka National park in Croatia.
How to get to Krka waterfalls from Split?
Similar to Zadar, Split is only around an hour away from Krka National Park, so makes for a very good option to fill one of your days in your Split itinerary.
Split is a Croatian town full of natural beauty, so a great base for your trip. Learn more about the ancient Adriatic gem here.
Split to Krka waterfalls by bus.
You can catch the bus to Skradin from the main bus station in Split (Autobusni Kolodvor Split). The price is around €10 (74 HRK) one way, and there are regular daily departures, starting early morning and continuing into the evening. Tickets can be purchased at the bus station, or off the driver, however, in peak summer months some services can be full, so it is advisable to book your tickets in advance.
Split to Krka waterfalls by car.
The fastest way when travelling from Split to Krka National Park is via the motorway, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour 15 mins.
Take the A1/E65/E71 in Koprivno and stay on the road until exit 21 for Skradin.
Follow the D56 until you arrive at Skradin.
Map showing directions from Split to Skradin.
How to get to Krka waterfalls from Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik to Krka waterfalls is a lot further than Zadar and Split, so it isn’t a suitable choice for a day trip. If you are touring Croatia and have a multi-city holiday, the travel options are as follows:
Dubrovnik to Krka waterfalls by bus.
The bus journey from Dubrovnik to Skradin takes just over 6 hours at a cost of between €22 (167 HRK) - €26 (195 HRK) one way. The schedule is less frequent than Zadar and Split but there are still daily journeys. There is also a night bus option which departs at 23:30 pm, and arrives at 05:40 am.
Dubrovnik to Krka waterfalls by car.
It is approximately 290 km and around 3 - 3.1/2 hours drive from Dubrovnik to Krka waterfalls. Renting a car is a suitable option with various pick up and drop off points available throughout Croatia.
The beautiful nature spot makes a great addition to any Dubrovnik itinerary.
Map showing directions from Dubrovnik to Skradin.
The beautiful nature on the way to Krka waterfalls.
Skradinski Buk waterfall in Croatia.
Rules on whether you can swim in Krka waterfalls?
The number one question that visitors ask when visiting Krka River National Park is - can you swim in Krka waterfalls?
Unfortunately this is not allowed, following a rule change in 2021.
Following other national parks across Croatia, Krka National Park decided to put a ban on entering the water at the famous Croatian waterfalls due to ecological concerns.
All is not lost though - there is a great alternative to take a refreshing dip.
Skradin has its own little beach, which overlooks the Krka river. Locals and visitors alike relax on the tranquil pebble beach, a perfect spot to take in the wonderful scenery with a nice cocktail from one of the beach bar kiosks. Along with food and beverage options, the quirky beach is also home to a volleyball court and children’s playground.
The beach is only around a 600 metre walk from the town and is easily accessible. It is a suitable option for all types of travellers wanting some sun and a swim!
Beach close to Skradin in Croatia.
How do you want to spend your day at Krka National Park?
Skradin is the most popular starting point for visitors of Skradinski Buk waterfall. There are three main ways of reaching the awesome waterfalls:
Ferry
While exploring Krka River National Park on foot is a must, taking a ferry tour is a great way to see the park from a different perspective, also, a sensible choice for less active/disabled visitors or during peak summer months, when the temperatures are high.
However, you should expect long waiting times, as you are visiting one of Croatia’s most popular day trips!
Boat tours are available from several locations within the park, including Skradin and Roški Slap. During the tour, you'll be able to see the krka national park and waterfalls, flora, and fauna from a unique vantage point. Some tours even include stops at remote areas of the park that are only accessible by boat.
Krka NP Boats transport visitors down the Krka river to the waterfalls between the months of April & October. The ferry journey takes around 25 minutes each way with regular hourly services.
The cost of the return ferry is 200 Kuna in peak summer months.
Skradin - Skradinski Buk.
8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00.
Skradinski Buk - Skradin.
9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30; 15:30, 16:30, 17:30, 18:30, 19:30.
Please note - There is a slight reduction in services during the months of April, May, September & October.
For more information, or to buy tickets in advance visit the official website here.
Hiking
There is no doubt about it, the Balkans has some of the best hiking spots in Europe. Krka National Park is no exception - you are guaranteed some great views as you make your way down towards Skradinski Buk alongside the beautiful Krka river. It is around a 5km walk from the Skradin visitor centre to Skradinski Buk waterfall. There is a clear route, which is signposted the whole way.
This is a great option for active visitors who want to enjoy some light exercise in the sunshine.
There are multiple hiking trails throughout Krka National Park, which lead to viewpoints, waterfalls, canyons, and past fortresses - very typical of the Balkans.
The river walk on route to Krka wateralls from Skradin.
Cycling
If exercise is on your agenda during your day at Krka waterfalls then another option is cycling along the trail. You can rent a bike at the reception at Skradin Bridge. The cost of hiring is around 100HRK.
There are areas to lock your bike when you arrive at the waterfalls.
Pick your choice and enjoy an epic day at Skradinski Buk waterfalls.
Map showing walk from Skradin to Krka waterfalls.
Traditional Croatian family restaurant in Skradin, Croatia.
Where to eat during your day at Krka waterfalls?
Skradin is home to many family owned traditional Croatian restaurants.
Some of the best-rated options are:
My best recommendation = Restoran Skala
4.5/5 (tripadvisor)
Restoran Skala offers Mediterranean and traditional Croatian cuisine. The restaurant is open from 12pm - 10:30pm daily and covers breakfast - lunch - dinner - brunch.
The daily special board includes a main/dessert & glass of red wine for 175 HRK.
A great option for budget travellers.
My choice was grilled octopus which was out of this world!
Grilled octopus in a family owned restaurant in Skradin.
Where to stay for Krka waterfalls?
Skradin is a great town to locate yourself, if you want to stay near Krka National Park. Symbolised by a traditional Croatian bell tower & picturesque harbour, the quirky little town has everything you need to set you up for a memorable trip to Krka waterfalls.
There are many hotel options to suit different needs within Skradin - a great starting point for your day at Krka National Park.
Some recommended Skradin hotels are detailed here:
Apartment Rustika *** - 10/10
Holiday Home Anna *** - 9.8/10
Mediterranean Terrace Apartments with Bikes & SUP *** - 9.8/10
Apartments Kantunal **** - 9.7/10
Apartments & Rooms Formenti *** - 9.3/10
Viola *** - 9.2/10
Guest Accommodation Zura *** - 8.8/10
Wine Garden Rooms **** - 8.5/10
Harbour in Skradin, Croatia.
Zadar to Krka River National Park was definitely worth it!
I made the trip from Zadar to Krka National Park in September which was manageable for both temperature and crowds, however, it is advisable to come earlier during peak months.
Without doubt, Skradinski Buk waterfalls are a must visit in Croatia.
It really was a great day trip from Zadar!
Love Croatia, have you considered Dubrovnik?
Dubrovnik is another charming city in the Balkans, so it should be on your radar when booking your summer getaway.
Its walled Old Town offers a mediaeval feeling throughout the city, which is a feature of many Balkan cities.
Its uniqueness shines through if you travel up the city’s famous cable car to enjoy the best sunset spots of the Adriatic Coast and Old Town.
I preferred Dubrovnik to Zadar, and one of my favourite things I did was to enjoy a mojito in the secret cliff bar!
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