Plitvice Lakes, Croatia is both a small city and a network of beautiful lakes nearby. The lakes are nestled in the mountains and consist of sixteen lakes that flow into each other and are separated by travertine dams. Each lake has a distinct color that adds to the unique charm. Gray, blue, and green, the colors change from lake to lake and even from day to day according to the sunlight and other factors.

History

Plitvice Lakes is not only significant for its unique natural beauty; it is also historically significant as the place where the Croatian War of Independence and Freedom began in 1991. The area is influenced by a wide range of cultures, most notably the Celts, Romans, Slavs, and Turks. In modern times, Plitvice Lakes has been ruled by Ottomans, Austrians, Yugoslavia, and Serbia. The town and the nearby lakes have been a tourist attraction for more than one hundred years, and have earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Art & Museums

Plitvice Lakes is primarily dedicated to the natural beauty of the area, and there are no museums in the town. However, there are several quaint museums in nearby towns within a short drive. Architecture lovers will appreciate the range of building styles in the city, while history buffs will want to see the many sites important to twentieth century history.

Nightlife

There is no traditional nightlife in Plitvice Lakes, although a few of the hotels offer traditional live music during dinner hours on season. Several cafes and restaurants offer an authentic local meal with a glass of Croatian wine to finish a long day hiking or sightseeing.

How to get there

Plitvice Lakes is easy to reach either by car or bus. It is on the main road about halfway between Zagreb and Zadar. It should take two to three hours to reach Plitvice Lakes from either direction. There are no car rentals in Plitvice Lakes, although cars can be rented from larger cities nearby and driven to the destination.