Parks Manager

Getting to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park sits in Lika-Senj, Croatia, with Vrhovine the nearest town of any size — about 12.9 km (8 mi) out, or roughly 22 min of driving.

Towns to base yourself in

Towns nearest Plitvice Lakes National Park
TownDistanceEstimated drive
Vrhovine12.9 km (8 mi)22 min
Korenica16.9 km (10.5 mi)28 min
Otočac27.2 km (16.9 mi)41 min
Perušić28.7 km (17.8 mi)43 min
Lički Osik31.6 km (19.6 mi)46 min
Brinje38.4 km (23.9 mi)53 min
Gospić39.1 km (24.3 mi)54 min
Udbina40 km (24.8 mi)55 min

How to read these numbers

Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.

Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.

Region pages

Common questions

What is the closest town to Plitvice Lakes National Park?

Vrhovine, about 12.9 km (8 mi) away — roughly 22 min of driving.

Where should I stay when visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park?

The practical bases are Vrhovine, Korenica, and Otočac — all within a reasonable drive of the park.