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Wanderlog staff Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Bansko to Venice?
The direct drive from Bansko to Venice is 807 mi (1,298 km), and should have a drive time of 11 hrs 26 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Bansko to Venice, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Belgrade, Trieste, Ljubljana, Zagreb, Sofia, Bled, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Pula, Porec, and Jesolo, as well as top places to visit like Belgrade and Plitvice Lakes National Park, or the ever-popular Sofia.
Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria situated in the western region below Vitosha Mountain, boasts a rich history spanning over 2,000 years. The city's architectural marvels are a testament to its diverse past under Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Soviet occupation. One such example is the medieval Boyana Church featuring stunning frescoes from the 13th century. Another noteworthy monument is St.
89% as popular as Belgrade
12 minutes off the main route, 15% of way to Venice
Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a historically significant city located at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. Its most striking feature is the Beogradska Tvrđava fortress which has been used by various empires throughout history such as Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Serbian and Austrian. Today it serves as a museum and park known as Kalemegdan.
Most popular city on this route
2 minutes off the main route, 44% of way to Venice
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For hikers, Plitvice Lakes National Park offers a variety of trails that wind through alpine forests and meadows, past sparkling lakes and waterfalls. The park also contains 16 freshwater lakes that are popular for rafting and kayaking. The park was the site of armed confrontation during Croatia's war of independence in the early 1990s, but has since been renovated as a source of economic wealth for the region. Today, visitors can explore hiking trails and enjoy beautiful natural scenery.
One of the most majestic places I have visited in my life, the winter landscape is beautiful, as well as the paths to walk for hours with a different landscape every 3 meters.
The waterfalls are incredible and it is a super good space to go with pets and be there for at least 3 or 4 hours touring the place.
The staff was very friendly
Verenise Flores P?rez — Google review
This is without a doubt the best place I have ever been. Nature is wonderful, here you can see its pure beauty. The place is fantastic, the staff is helpful, there are small restaurants, gift shops, restrooms in the park. The boat fee is included in the entrance fee. I recommend route C, which is not challenging, the total distance is eight kilometers, with a negligible elevation gain. Cool buses will take you back to the main entrance at the end of the visit. 5*
Bal?zs Gr?f — Google review
The lakes were simply fantastic, the price is worth the visit, but I recommend mixing up the paths. We were there when the park opened, after the tour and going back to the entrance area we were very glad we went at 7 am.. the place was crowded.. a lot of tourists really. I recommend going as early as you can, if you want to visit calmly and are not too fond of crowds.
Marina Perin — Google review
Absolutely Stunning creation of Nature!! The hike is beautiful and offers wonderful views. The park has 2 entrances and both entrances have 4 routes to choose from. We entered from entrance 2 and did route H which is quite similar to route C from entrance 1, it is almost 9kms and requires 4 - 6 hours. In the peak season, a ticket costs 40 Euro for an adult and it’s better to buy tickets in advance. Ticket price includes the bus and boat ride.
Trail is well maintained and has clear directions as per routes. It was a bit crowded due to summer vacation, so try going as early as possible in the morning.
Wear comfortable shoes, hiking shoes are recommended though. Carry enough water and some snacks, though you can also buy inside the park.
Definitely worth a visit!!
Pooja Kukreja — Google review
A very very beautiful national park. Worth visiting.
Better to go early in the morning or afternoon to see the water color as aqua blue/green. By evening since the sun starts setting in the west, it won't reflect on water and may miss the beauty of this magical place.
Trek route C or H is best as it covers both lower and upper lakes. There are beautiful waterfalls in the upper lakes. It will take a minimum of 6 hrs to cover this route.
Ak — Google review
It had poured down rain all night and morning, so I delayed entering the park until late morning. The guide suggested which trails to take for a good half-day excursion. I really don't think you can go wrong. So beautiful!
S Zollman — Google review
From the desk where you buy tickets through the park and back to the souvenir shop - great experience. Kind staff, positive energy.
All accommodation that is in the park is exquisite and great for welcoming guests for years to come.
Nature is splendid and breathtaking. We have treasure that we must preserve.
I'm always happy to come back here.
Andrea Ticic — Google review
I can imagine it gets crowded in the summer but on a rainy day in April is was empty, calm, misty and incredibly beautiful. The park itself is intelligently set up, with well-maintained paths and platforms that swirl in-between and right up to the waterfalls without clashing with the landscape. In fact, the park seems to be a model of how to organize such a site in ways which make it ecologically responsible, easily accessible for a lot of people, with well thought out branching paths, sufficient rest stops that are discreetly integrated in the setting and plenty of (silent) boats/shuttles.
A — Google review
It is a beautiful natural park. The views are just amazing! It has very colourful landscapes and lakes. It is definitely worth the visit and to spare a lot of time. Unfortunately I did not had the opportunity to camp for a longer time but now have seeing what I have there, I’d definitely think about staying more time in a next opportunity. I went as couple and during summer which is allegedly the best time to see the crystals on the water reflected by the sunlight.
Emerson Franco — Google review
Beautiful national park. There is a bus that goes directly from Zagreb to the park, it takes approximate 2hrs and 15 minutes . I strongly recommend to purchase the tickets online in advance. It is good to spend at least 6 hours walking around.
Vilma Vega — Google review
Wonderful park. We were lucky to find an amazing sunny weather after the heavy rain of the days before. I suggest to follow the H path from entrance 2. Come early in the morning (we enter at 9am) to fully enjoy the experience without annoying crowd.
Samuele De Gaetano — Google review
Spectacular! The park and the lakes are the Moseley amazing lakes I've ever seen. The color is unreal, the waterfall are stunning. The park is crowded, even early in the morning but very organized. Attention that you also need to pay for parking separately.
Yuval Mohl — Google review
Beautiful. There are several hike options but it can get very busy during the holiday season, even in early September. The trails are quite narrow and you could get held up if one person stops to take pictures.
The cafeterias within the National Park do not offer much choice, especially if you are a vegetarian.
Gopika Avanoor — Google review
I’d like to give this place 5 stars just based off its incredible beauty. But, the park has a bit of a bad design for being able to see it without being overcrowded, which the design and setup of the park causes. There’s basically one narrow boardwalk through the various levels of the lakes, which have no railing. So you really can’t stop anywhere and just take in the view or get pictures that aren’t horribly rushed. They also have a ferry system that appears to be badly overwhelmed with extremely long lines (we didn’t take it because of those lines). Other than that, this park is absolutely gorgeous. Crystal clear blue/green/turquoise waters everywhere. Many waterfalls and overflows and lush green trees. Just absolutely picturesque. But other than that boardwalk, there’s not really much else to see or do, no other trails or anything. There is also timed entry, so either purchase tickets beforehand, or be prepared to wait until the next time available. All in all, if you’re in Croatia, you should definitely go check out this park. Crowds notwithstanding, it’s still a pretty cool place and extremely beautiful.
Ashley Fountain — Google review
This is one of the most beautiful places we have ever been. We went here at winter time and the price for the entry was only 10 euro per person, kinds were free since they were 5 and 6. The beauty of the lake and waterfalls can not be described with words. We are looking forward to see it in all season.
Maja Goričanec Ordanić — Google review
The best, must-visit spot of Croatia. The landscapes this park offers are breathtaking. I recommend trail C, and if you have plenty of time, K seems like a great choice too.
Gyuvin K. — Google review
One of the most beautiful places on the earth!! Definitely recommended to take the maximum possible route. We took route C and 20k steps were worth it. Check the weather forecast before planning the visit. But it surely will be beautiful in all the seasons.
Amarendra Ukidwe — Google review
Great experience, absolutely wonderful and outstanding place. Set of lakes and waterfalls is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Must have to visit any season of the year.
Alex Oleksenko — Google review
Wonderful place for hikes and be in oneness with mother earth. Unbelievably serene and mind-blowing.
Upper lakes are less crowded and quiet while the lower ones are thriving with tourists. Plan your day and start early to enjoy the serenity of the park.
Raghunath N — Google review
I split the trip into two days - one day for the upper and one for the lower lakes. I highly recommend splitting it up. I also did the end of day and early day to avoid the crowds which was perfect. This is truly a magical place with just breathtaking scenery.
H. Rai — Google review
The most beautiful part is the first lake plus the overview of the waterfalls. The rest of the park is nice but for what it is, it's overpriced and overcrowded.
A lot of people are happy with just seeing the waterfalls so they could separate hikers from sightseers to fix some of the overcrowding.
David Oskarsson — Google review
This is one of those place that you must visit in Europe. The colour of lakes is just magical. You can choose 5 trails on different difficulty level and distance. You can go there with kids but I think that it could be dificult with stroller. On trails you can use a boat or buses (on some stages). There are a lot of stops with toilets and even fast food. On the stop next to the boats there is tap with a water that you can pour to bottle. From the cons: huge crowd. The amount of people is crazy there. The price - 40EUR per person - very expensive. Moreover you must pay for parking, too. It is not included in the ticket price to lakes. You must buy ticket in advance, tickets are sold for particular hours.
Agaatje Toffi — Google review
A must go if you're in Croatia. Pick the longest route, it's not a difficult stroll. There is a boat ride in the middle, but it is very smooth and relaxing. Experiencing the layers of this beautiful green-blue park is definitely and experience you won't forget. The longest route could take up to 6 hours, but if you're not taking your time you can easily complete it in 4 hours.
K L — Google review
This place is absolutely breathtaking! You need good shoes if you want to enjoy the longest route (K). I really recommend to start early in the morning because the park is extra full after 11!
You at least need to see this place once because it is ….spectacular!!!!!
Roxana Jangaene — Google review
The best natural park ever, the water color is absolutely amazing. Very very very nice. we did everything in one day but i wish we had the time to spend two days at least.
Vincent ROGER — Google review
Amazing landscape. A few hours drive out of Zagreb and worth the effort. To truly appreciate this national park, you should spend one or 2 nights to complete the longer hikes. Hiking routes are well sign posted. Park entry is €10 per person.
Highly recommended
Raph — Google review
We bought tickets online and all went perfectly even if it was crowded but still I really like walking and enjoying nature and taking pictures.
Everyone should visit Plitivice at least once in life. It's one of the most beautiful National Parks I have ever seen.
I will visit again.
Vedrana Šuković — Google review
Loved my visit to this national park with its lakes, waterfalls and woodland hills.
Free parking at this time of the year (early march) for my motorhome. The facilities are great for coffee and food. There is a boat ride or you can walk, I took the boat but walked back. The sun was out so made the scenery extra special. The lakes and various waterfalls are impressive. There are nice pathways and clear signs. Everything was brilliant, highly recommend. I will be back.
Richard Attoe — Google review
A must visit paradise in Croatia and one could easily get lost for half a day to a couple of days depending on the interest. At least half a day in a rush to get a taste of paradise is a must.
There are 2 entrances with a good number of parking places which seemed not crowded during October maybe in season it could be packed. Entrance tickets and parking was way below what I expected for this gem of nature. During the season it is a different price but worth paying. I do not understand why some reviewers complain about the price when it is so much of a treasure.
Overall the park is well maintained with good hiking trails, clean restrooms and good cafes and restaurants.
The park can get crowded but as a sensible tourist one has to plan and not blame the crowds on the park. The boardwalks can be packed with tourists hanging to take pics and not respecting others, just be mindful of this crowd
We parked at the first entrance and did the long trail - K which includes the boat ride and option to take the shuttle back to the parking lot. The trail starts off at the lower lakes with views of the amazing waterfalls before heading through the various trails, boardwalks and then the upper lakes.
If time permits I would recommend adding another trail to enjoy more of the views.
Near entrance 1 there is a really good restaurant for an amazing lunch or dinner. The day we visited it was not crowded and we were able to enjoy a peaceful lunch.
Overall a must visit park for all seasons.
Pradeep Ponnuswamy — Google review
Most beautiful waterfalls I have seen anywhere. Absolutely stunning. We did the full loop over the lower and upper lakes and it was about 12 miles. It took us 5 or so hours total with a stop for lunch.
We did this in March so the crowds were easy to handle. Particularly away from the two different entrances.
Diego Salas — Google review
Magical place. Makes you stop in owe and wonder.
The trick is to visit in low season (we went in April) and arrive early (we took the first boat from entrance 2 @8.30 and were the only people on it!). Then as we walked there was almost no one there and so it felt as if we had the whole park to ourselves.
Marta Walters — Google review
The park is amazing. Well worth the trip even in the off season. We visited in late March and there was hardly anyone here. The park was really beautiful, even though the trees had not leafed out yet. We spent two days in the park and we were glad we had the second day.
Corey Reimer — Google review
Definitively over crowded (also in March) but a must-see when in Croatia! The upper lakes are more beautiful than the lower ones, so pay attention when they are accessible as they are closed in winter. Alltogether something for your bucket list like the Grand Canyon or the Eiffel Tower.
Zagreb, the capital of Croatia located in the north west, stands out for its architecture from the Austro-Hungarian era in the 18th and 19th century. The city's center is Upper Town where one can find Zagreb Cathedral with its Gothic twin spires as well as St. Mark's Church which dates back to the 13th century and boasts a roof adorned with colorful tiles.
94% as popular as Belgrade
9 minutes off the main route, 71% of way to Venice
Pula, a coastal city in Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, boasts a picturesque harbor, beautiful beaches, and ancient Roman remnants. Throughout its history, Pula has been inhabited by various civilizations and was heavily impacted during World War II. The city is renowned for its cultural and historical landmarks dating back to ancient Rome, including the impressive Roman amphitheater with over 22,000 seats.
35% as popular as Belgrade
1 hour off the main route, 78% of way to Venice
I'll never travel to Venice without this trip planner again
Bled is a town located in Slovenia's Julian Alps, known for its stunning views of Lake Bled. The lake was formed by glaciers and is home to the 11th-century Bled Castle. Visitors can explore the castle's many attractions, including a museum and chapel. Another popular destination within the lake is the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Maria, situated on an island in its center.
75% as popular as Belgrade
30 minutes off the main route, 79% of way to Venice
Poreč, located on the Istrian Peninsula in Croatia, is a renowned summer destination with a rich history dating back over 2,000 years. The town's historic old quarter boasts the impressive Euphrasian Basilica complex, featuring stunning Byzantine mosaics from the 6th century. Visitors are drawn to the coastline for its camping areas, marinas, and beaches offering water sports.
Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is renowned for its university population and green spaces such as Tivoli Park. The city is divided by the Ljubljanica River, lined with outdoor cafes in the old town and commercial hub. Museums abound including the National Museum of Slovenia displaying historical exhibits, and the Museum of Modern Art featuring 20th-century Slovene paintings and sculptures.
96% as popular as Belgrade
5 minutes off the main route, 81% of way to Venice
Trieste, the capital city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in northeast Italy, is a charming port city with a blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slovenian influences. The city's layout encompasses a medieval old town and a neoclassical Austrian quarter.
97% as popular as Belgrade
11 minutes off the main route, 86% of way to Venice
Jesolo, located in the Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy, is a popular seaside resort town with a population of over 26,000 people. It attracts approximately six million visitors annually, making it one of the largest beach resorts in Italy and the fourth most popular Italian seaside destination. Additionally, tourists can enjoy tours to nearby attractions such as Burano, Murano, and Venice from Punta Sabbioni or take daily excursions to Venice and its islands from Jesolo Lido.
22% as popular as Belgrade
24 minutes off the main route, 93% of way to Venice