Experiencing Croatia’s national parks from Zadar is wonderfully efficient and rewarding. The region’s top natural wonders are all accessible through well-organized day trips.
Krka National Park’s tours combine scenic boat rides with stunning waterfalls, while Kornati’s archipelago adventures offer pristine island-hopping and excellent snorkeling spots. The Kornati speedboat option is especially appealing for travelers short on time but eager for maximum impact.
I’m particularly fond of the half-day Kornati tours – they pack the essential highlights into a compact timeframe and leave you with memorable swims in hidden coves.
The Plitvice Lakes excursions, though longer, showcase Croatia’s most famous water-wonderland, making the journey time worthwhile.
For flexibility and intimacy with nature, private Krka tours stand out as the smart choice, letting you set the pace and avoid the crowds.
Check out our tested and recommended national park tours below:
Key Points
- Krka National Park offers a 9-hour small-group day trip from Zadar, featuring transportation, park exploration, and breathtaking waterfall views.
- Kornati National Park can be visited on a 10-hour boat tour from Uvala Dražinica, providing opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
- Speedboat trips to Kornati National Park depart from Zadar, offering a 9-hour excursion with scenic stops, snorkeling, and lunch.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park can be accessed on day trips from Zadar, with skip-the-line entry and knowledgeable guides for a maximized experience.
- Private tours and transfers from Zadar to Krka National Park are available, including a traditional village visit and local lunch.
From Zadar: Krka National Park and Waterfalls Day Trip
From Zadar, visitors can embark on a day trip to explore the stunning Krka National Park and its captivating waterfalls.
This 9-hour tour offers a small-group experience, with transportation provided from Zadar. Upon arrival, guests can wander through the park’s lush landscapes, taking in the breathtaking views of the cascading waterfalls.
The tour also includes a boat ride, allowing visitors to see the park from a unique perspective.
With a reasonable price tag of Kč1,339 per person, this Krka National Park day trip is an excellent way for travelers to enjoy the natural beauty of Croatia’s renowned protected areas.
Read our full review: From Zadar: Krka National Park and Waterfalls Day Trip Review
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Kornati National Park Islands Mana & Kornat Tour by Boat Fro
Travelers seeking to explore the captivating Kornati National Park can embark on a comprehensive 10-hour boat tour from Uvala Dražinica. Priced at $103.30 per person, the tour provides a live English-speaking guide, wheelchair accessibility, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The itinerary includes a sightseeing cruise, breakfast, Kornati National Park activities like swimming and snorkeling, and an additional sightseeing cruise. Participants will visit the islands of Mana and Kornat, part of the densest archipelago in the Mediterranean.
With a 4/5 rating based on customer reviews, this tour offers an impressive way to experience the stunning scenery of Kornati National Park.
Read our full review: Kornati National Park Islands Mana & Kornat Tour by Boat Fro Review
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Kornati National Park & Telascica Speedboat Trip
Zadar’s Kornati National Park & Telascica Speedboat Trip provides travelers with an exhilarating opportunity to explore the stunning archipelago and natural wonders of Kornati Islands and Telascica Nature Park.
Lasting 9 hours, this tour departs from Zadar and costs €52.99 per person. With a rating of 4.1 from 164 reviews, the speedboat trip offers a chance to discover the rugged beauty of Croatia’s islands, including scenic stops and snorkeling.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, learn about the local ecology, and savor a provided lunch during the comprehensive journey through the Adriatic’s protected national park.
Read our full review: Kornati National Park & Telascica Speedboat Trip Review
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From Zadar: Half-Day Kornati National Park Beach Escape
Departing from Zadar, this half-day tour whisks travelers to the stunning Kornati National Park, where they’ll have the opportunity to bask on the park’s beautiful beaches.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, as well as a speedboat ride through the archipelago’s coves and inlets.
Once at the national park, visitors can swim, sunbathe, and explore the pristine natural landscapes.
With a duration of 9 hours and a customer rating of 4.1 out of 5 from 164 reviews, this tour offers an affordable way to experience the beauty of Kornati National Park, priced at $55.85 per person.
Read our full review: From Zadar: Half-Day Kornati National Park Beach Escape Review
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From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telašćica Boat Tour
This boat tour offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park, departing from Zadar.
Priced from $62.19 per person, the 9-hour excursion includes a 2.5-hour sightseeing cruise, 2-hour break for swimming and photo stops in Telašćica, and a traditional Dalmatian lunch.
Guests can snorkel, enjoy unlimited water and juice, and take in scenic sunset views on the return sail to Zadar.
The tour provides an immersive experience, with knowledgeable guides and included park tickets.
Travelers should bring cash for park fees, sun protection, and be prepared for a full day of adventure in these picturesque Croatian national parks.
Read our full review: From Zadar: Kornati National Park & Telašćica Boat Tour Review
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From Zadar/Bibinje: Kornati National Park Cruise With Lunch
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Croatia’s natural wonders can embark on a comprehensive 9-hour cruise from Zadar or Bibinje to discover the stunning Kornati National Park and Telašćica Nature Park.
Priced from $55.85 per person, the tour includes a Zadar sightseeing cruise, breaks for sightseeing and swimming in the crystal blue waters, and a lunch of grilled fish, chicken, and salad with free drinks.
Travelers can enjoy the included breakfast, welcome drink, guide services, snorkeling equipment, and park entrance fees.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour offers a convenient and value-packed way to experience Croatia’s natural beauty.
Read our full review: From Zadar/Bibinje: Kornati National Park Cruise With Lunch Review
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From Zadar – National Park Plitvice Lakes Transport and Skip the Line
Seamless transportation to the enchanting Plitvice Lakes National Park awaits travelers embarking on this day trip from Zadar. Costing €23-€40 for entry, depending on the season, the tour provides skip-the-line access and a maximum of 26 participants.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the experience caters to families, with discounts for children and infant seats available.
While past travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and efficient organization, some note timing and communication issues.
The tour’s convenience of starting at one park entrance and ending at another allows for maximizing exploration of the well-visited but manageable national park, though more multilingual resources could enhance the experience.
Read our full review: From Zadar – National Park Plitvice Lakes Transport and Skip the Line Review
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Boat Trip From Zadar to Kornati National Park
Embarking on a boat trip from Zadar to the captivating Kornati National Park, travelers are immersed in a day of natural splendor.
Operated by Tade tours, this 4-hour excursion offers an opportunity to explore the park’s stunning archipelago. The tour includes a breakfast of sandwiches and fresh fruit, followed by a grilled fish or chicken lunch with vegetarian/vegan options available.
Soda, juice, and free wine during lunch are provided, with beer available for purchase. Snorkeling gear is included, and guests can expect to see dolphins during the journey.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s a great choice for those seeking a relaxing day on the water amidst the breathtaking Kornati scenery.
Read our full review: Boat Trip From Zadar to Kornati National Park Review
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Full-Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park From Zadar
After exploring the stunning Kornati National Park by boat, visitors can now enjoy the captivating natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park on a full-day private tour from Zadar.
Operated by Romeo&Juliet Excursions Zadar, this tour offers an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide, a lunch package, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
While the entrance ticket isn’t included, the 100% recommended tour has received excellent reviews for its efficient itineraries, stunning scenery, and personalized experiences.
Travelers can expect to witness the vibrant colors of the park’s renowned waterfalls and lakes, with guides known for their warmth, punctuality, and detailed knowledge of the area.
This tour is a must-see when visiting Croatia’s remarkable national parks.
Read our full review: Full-Day Private Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park From Zadar Review
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Private Transfer From Zadar to Split With Krka National Park
Travelers looking to seamlessly transfer from Zadar to Split can opt for a private tour that includes a stop at the stunning Krka National Park.
The tour combines a comfortable, air-conditioned private transfer with an opportunity to explore the park’s renowned waterfalls and swimming pools independently.
Along the way, the tour also visits the traditional village of Konjevrate for a local lunch, though this is at an additional cost.
The tour includes entrance fees to Krka National Park, an English-speaking driver, and hotel pickup and drop-off, making for a hassle-free experience.
While gratuities aren’t included, the tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from previous travelers.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Zadar to Split With Krka National Park Review
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The Sum Up
Zadar offers a variety of national park tours that cater to different interests. Visitors can explore the stunning Krka and Plitvice Lakes national parks, or discover the serene islands of Kornati National Park. These tours provide a convenient way to experience Croatia’s natural beauty, with options for day trips, boat excursions, and private transfers. Whether you’re looking for waterfalls, beaches, or tranquil landscapes, Zadar has the perfect national park tour to suit your preferences.