Skradin, gateway to the cascades and waterfalls of Krka National Park, is only 100 miles (160 km) from Croatia's most popular attraction: Plitvice Lakes. The easiest and most convenient way to travel between them is by private transfer or rental car. Buses also run between Plitvice Lakes National Park and Skradin, but the trip can be significantly longer because they take a detour via Zadar.
This 8-day Croatia itinerary covers both of these national parks as well as the capital city of Zagreb, the scenic coastal cities of Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik, and the Dalmatian islands of Hvar, and Pakleni.
By Rental Car or Private Transfer
Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Traveling by rental car is a popular way to see Croatia on your own schedule. The quickest way to get from Plitvice Lakes National Park to Skradin is via the toll highway. Leaving Plitvice Lakes National Park, follow the D1 and then the D522 to Gornja Ploča, from where you can get onto the E71 towards Split. Take Exit 21 at Gračac and continue on the D56 to Skradin.
If driving on European roads is not your idea of a vacation, consider booking a private transfer. This option also allows you to set your own schedule and offers the most flexibility. If you would like more information about private transfer services, get in touch with your local travel specialist.
By Bus
Duration: 3 hours
Traveling from Plitvice Lakes National Park to Skradin by bus is an affordable travel option, but can take up to three hours. This is because buses make a stop in Zadar before continuing on to Skradin. There are up to eight direct bus services running every day during the summer tourist season.
Do book your seats online well in advance if you're traveling during the summer, as Plitvice Lakes National Park and Skradin are both very popular tourist destinations. If you have a hard time finding tickets, consider changing buses in Zadar, from where there are many more buses servicing this route.