Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir

Traveling through Croatia, you’ll quickly learn that its natural landscapes are the real stars. Among them, Krka National Park shines brightly with its cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and tranquil river scenes. This particular tour, offered by Gray Line Croatia, promises a full day of exploring two prime spots within the park, combined with a boat cruise, swimming opportunities, and authentic Croatian wine tasting. We haven’t personally joined this trip, but based on consistent glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear this is a thoughtfully curated experience.

What draws us to this tour? Its balance of natural beauty and relaxed pace, the insider knowledge from friendly guides, and the chance to enjoy local wines in a rustic setting. Plus, the boat ride and swimming options make it feel more like an adventure than just a sightseeing trip. One thing to consider is that the entrance fee isn’t included in the base price, so travelers should be prepared for that cash payment upon arrival. This tour is perfect for those who love nature, enjoy a leisurely walk, and want to savor some Croatian wine amidst scenic surroundings.

Who would love this? If you’re visiting Split or Trogir and want a mix of stunning landscapes, authentic tasting experiences, and a manageable day trip, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s suitable for families, solo travelers, or groups looking for an active yet relaxing outdoor escape.

Good To Know

• Natural beauty at Skradinski Buk with impressive waterfalls and cascades
• Boat cruise down the Krka River offering unique views
• Swimming in the Krka River for a refreshing break
• Insightful guides sharing Croatian history and local tips
• Wine tasting in a cozy village setting, paired with local specialties
• Flexible pace with plenty of time for photos and relaxation

An In-Depth Look at the Krka National Park Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from Split or Trogir, with pickup points conveniently located near public transportation. The journey to the park takes approximately 1.5 hours by air-conditioned vehicle, a good chance to start soaking in the scenery. The buses are described as comfortable, with WIFI onboard, making the ride more enjoyable and less of a chore. The group size is capped at 53 travelers, ensuring a friendly, intimate atmosphere that allows guides to give more personalized attention.

The First Stop: Skradinski Buk

Once we arrive at Entrance Lozovac, the real magic begins. From there, visitors embark on a 2 km walk around Skradinski Buk, one of Croatia’s most famous waterfalls. The walk is described as relaxing and downhill, which means it’s accessible for most fitness levels and perfect for taking in the views at a leisurely pace. The cascades here are extraordinary — reviewers mention that the waterfalls look breathtaking, with some even calling them “spectacular” and “gorgeous.”

During the 2.5 hours allocated to this area, you’ll have ample time to explore the cascades, take photos, and really appreciate the natural power of the water. Several reviews praised the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor, with one reviewer saying, “Dario was helpful, funny, and shared lots of Croatian history along the way.” This suggests guides go beyond basic commentary, enriching the experience with local stories and tips.

The Boat Ride: A Scenic Downriver Cruise

One of the highlights is the boat cruise down the Krka River canyon. This ride offers a different perspective on the park’s beauty, presenting views of the waterfalls and lush greenery from the water. Travelers have described the ride as pleasant and scenic, with some noting it’s a perfect way to relax and take in the surroundings without the exertion of walking. The boat ride also serves as a transition point to the second main stop.

Skradin and the River Swim

After the cruise, the group disembarks at the charming town of Skradin, where you’ll have free time for about an hour. Here, travelers often choose to cool off with a swim in the Krka River — an activity that reviewers raved about, calling it “refreshing” and “a wonderful way to beat the heat.”

Skradin’s small, picturesque streets make it a great spot for a quick snack or to wander and soak in local life. It’s a good opportunity to relax before heading to the next highlight: the wine tasting.

The Vineyard and Wine Tasting Experience

Only about 10 minutes’ drive from Skradin, in the village of Plastovo, you’ll find a family-owned tavern where the tour continues with a wine tasting session. Reviewers describe this part of the trip as “cutesy,” “authentic,” and “delicious,” emphasizing how the wines are paired with local cheeses and oils. Guests learn about Croatian wine production, making this a culturally enriching part of the day.

Many reviews mention that the wines are “light and refreshing,” perfect after a day exploring waterfalls and swimming. The setting is rustic and cozy, adding to the charm of tasting wines in a small village atmosphere. The trip’s inclusion of this tasting, along with a chance to learn about local food, makes this experience stand out from typical park visits.

Optional Lunch and Additional Costs

The tour includes a food and wine tasting but not a full lunch. For an extra €15, you can opt for a cold platter of prosciutto, olives, and cheese — a good option for those wanting a small meal without leaving the experience. Many reviewers suggest the tasting complements the day perfectly, and some recommend the nearby restaurants like Visovac for a full meal post-tour.

Total Duration and Experience

All in, you’ll spend about 5 hours inside the park, with the entire tour lasting roughly 9 hours. The balance of walking, boat cruising, swimming, and tasting makes for a well-paced day that feels neither rushed nor overly packed. Travelers consistently mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and safe, smooth transportation as key parts of their positive experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic guide experience: Multiple reviews praise guides like Dario and Rozana for their humor, knowledge, and helpfulness. They go beyond just pointing out sights, sharing interesting stories and tips, which enriches the visit.

Stunning scenery: The waterfalls are repeatedly described as “spectacular” and “breathtaking,” making this a visual highlight for nature lovers.

The boat ride and swimming: These features offer a relaxed, fun way to see the park and cool down, especially during warmer months. The swimming in Krka River is notably popular, allowing travelers to break from walking and enjoy nature directly.

Wine tasting: A unique addition, the tasting offers a taste of local culture and flavors, with reviewers mentioning the wines are delicious and the setting charming.

Value for money: At around $48.66 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day with transportation, guide, boat ride, swimming, and wine tasting. Considering how much is packed into the day, many reviewers feel they receive excellent value.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

• The entrance fee to Krka National Park is payable cash at the park, so prepare for that expense.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and sports clothes, as the walk around Skradinski Buk involves some downhill paths.
• Check-in begins 30 minutes before departure, so arrive prepared with your voucher and cash.
• The group is limited to 53 travelers, offering a good balance of social atmosphere and personal attention.
• The tour runs from March to November, with pricing varies slightly depending on the month, reflecting seasonal visitor trends.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a relaxing yet adventure-filled day exploring Croatia’s natural beauty, this tour offers a wonderful mix of sights, activities, and cultural experiences. It’s particularly suited for travelers who love photography, outdoor activities, and tasting local wines. The experienced guides and smooth logistics make it a hassle-free way to see Krka without the stress of planning every detail.

However, those who want a more in-depth, museum-style historical experience might find this more focused on nature and local flavors. It’s also a good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a taste of Croatian hospitality.

FAQ

Is the entrance fee to Krka National Park included?
No, the entrance fee is paid cash upon arrival at the park. The tour price covers transportation, guide, and activities, but not the park entry.

How long is the drive from Split or Trogir?
The trip takes about 1.5 hours each way, giving you a relaxed start and end to your day.

Can I swim at Krka National Park?
Yes, many travelers take time to swim in the Krka River at Skradin, which is a highlight for hot days.

What’s the walking like at Skradinski Buk?
The walk is about 2 km downhill around the waterfalls. It’s relaxing, with plenty of chances to stop for photos, but keep comfortable shoes handy.

How much time is spent inside the park?
Approximately 5 hours of sightseeing, walking, boat cruising, and swimming.

Is the wine tasting included?
Yes, the wine tasting in Plastovo is part of the tour and features local wines along with cheese and oils.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for the park’s entrance fee, comfortable footwear, a hat, sunscreen, and a swimsuit if you want to swim.

Are meals included?
No, lunch isn’t included but can be purchased optionally or at nearby restaurants after the tour.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 53 travelers, ensuring a friendly atmosphere.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the walk, swimming, and scenery, but parents should supervise swimming activity.

In essence, this Krka National Park tour offers a fantastic day out for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wine enthusiasts alike. It combines the stunning natural spectacle of waterfalls with relaxed boat rides, swimming, and local flavors. If you want an experience that balances sightseeing with cultural indulgence, this is a highly recommended option for your Croatian itinerary.