Plitvice Lakes is Croatia’s oldest and most visited national park, and for good reason. A system of 16 terraced lakes connected by over 90 waterfalls cascades through a dense forest of beech, spruce, and fir in the heart of the Dinaric Alps. The lakes owe their extraordinary colors — ranging from azure to emerald to deep grey — to the mineral content of the water and the ever-changing play of sunlight. Wooden boardwalks wind directly over the crystalline water, putting you eye-level with fish darting through impossibly clear pools.

The park offers several marked hiking routes ranging from two to eight hours, and an electric boat crosses the largest lake, Kozjak, as part of most itineraries. The Great Waterfall (Veliki Slap), plunging 78 meters, is the tallest in Croatia and an unforgettable sight, especially after spring rains. Wildlife in the park includes brown bears, wolves, and over 150 bird species, though the shy creatures are rarely spotted.

Pro tip: Arrive at Entrance 1 right at opening time and follow Route C or H for the most comprehensive experience. Avoid July and August if possible — the park limits daily visitor numbers but the boardwalks still become congested. Wear sturdy shoes, as the wooden walkways can be slippery.