If you’re planning a visit to Krka National Park, choosing the right entrance can completely shape your experience. It’s not just about where you start—it’s about what you see, how much time you’ll need, and how relaxed your day feels. So, which entrance is best for Krka? That’s the question every traveler should ask before heading there.
Krka National Park stretches over 100 square kilometers of waterfalls, walking trails, boat rides, and viewpoints. There’s no single path through it, and each entrance offers something different. Whether you want a slow, scenic start or prefer to hit the trails right away, your choice of entry point matters.
If you’re wondering which entrance is best for Krka, you’ll probably choose between Skradin, Lozovac, Roški Slap, or Burnum. Each suits a different kind of traveler. If you’re arriving without a car, prefer a ferry ride, or enjoy a relaxed pace, you’ll probably want Skradin. But if you’re driving, traveling with kids, or want to save time, Lozovac could be a smarter option.
Let’s break down each one.
The Skradin Entrance: A Scenic Ferry Ride to Start Your Day
If your idea of a perfect day starts with a calm boat ride surrounded by nature, Skradin will be your ideal entry point. It’s the only entrance where you access the park by ferry, which makes the trip feel more special. The boat ride is slow and peaceful and takes around 25 minutes to reach Skradinski Buk, one of Krka’s most famous waterfalls.
This entrance is excellent for visitors who prefer a more scenic and relaxed experience. If you’re visiting in spring or early summer, the ride is even better, with wildflowers and bright green riverbanks. But if you plan to visit in July or August, arrive early. The queue for the ferry builds up fast.
So, which entrance is best for Krka during peak season? If you don’t like crowds, it’s probably not Skradin. While beautiful, it can get congested during midday. If you want to avoid waiting and want more flexibility with timing, you may want to consider another entry point.
📍 Skradin entrance is located in the town of Skradin. The address is Ul. fra Luje Maruna 2, 22222 Skradin. Ferries operate daily from April to October, roughly 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. In early spring, bring water, sunscreen, and a light jacket.
Lozovac Entrance: Quick, Easy Access with Room to Move
If you’re driving and want the most straightforward entrance, head to Lozovac. This is Krka’s main vehicle access point and ideal if you arrive by car. There’s free parking, and during high season, a shuttle bus takes you to the beginning of the Skradinski Buk trail. Outside the summer months, you can drive straight to the trailhead.
Which entrance is best for Krka if you only have a few hours? Lozovac is likely your best choice. You’ll save time by skipping the ferry and avoiding standing in line. You’ll be on the trail in 10 to 15 minutes.
This entrance is practical, fast, and more efficient for those with tight schedules. If you’re visiting Krka as a stop between other Croatian cities, Lozovac lets you make the most of a short visit.
📍 You’ll find this entrance at Lozovac 22000, near Šibenik. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM in summer. Parking is free. Wear sneakers or closed shoes, especially if it rained the day before.
Roški Slap Entrance: For Slower Days and Hidden Corners
Roški Slap feels like another world. It’s far from the main crowds and works well for a peaceful day among trees and river views. Here, the trails are longer, the crowds thinner, and you’ll discover natural details you’d likely miss near Skradin or Lozovac.
This entrance leads to a part of Krka that’s often overlooked but well worth your time. Wooden bridges guide you along the smaller waterfalls known as the “necklace.” There’s a quiet viewpoint above the cliffs, and boat trips often leave from here to places like Visovac Island.
If you ask which entrance is best for Krka when you want fewer people around, Roški Slap should be on your list. It’s perfect for returning visitors or those already seeing the main trails.
📍 Roški Slap is about 40 km from Šibenik. Plan to visit from April to October for full access to boat rides. The local restaurant near the falls serves regional dishes, and there’s a restroom and shaded picnic area nearby.
Burnum Entrance: A Step Into the Past
Not everyone knows this, but Krka has more than waterfalls. If you enjoy history, the Burnum entrance gives you a completely different side of the park. It’s where you’ll find the ruins of a Roman military camp, including an amphitheater and stone arches.
This entrance is for people who like quiet and culture. It’s best suited to travelers on a road trip through the inland Dalmatian region or anyone interested in Roman history. It won’t lead you directly to waterfalls but will give you a deeper connection to the land’s history.
If you’re wondering which entrance is best for Krka in autumn or spring, when waterfalls can be chilly and misty, Burnum is an excellent alternative.
The Burnum site is near Puljane, near the village of Kistanje. The archaeological museum opens seasonally, usually between May and October. You’ll need a car to reach it. Wear comfortable shoes—some paths are uneven.
How to Plan Your Visit Based on the Entrance You Choose
Once you know which entrance is best for you in Krka, you’ll want to determine how that decision affects your day. Each access point leads to a different rhythm, pace, and route. Some add travel time, others let you walk straight into the park.
If you’re starting from Skradin, keep the ferry time in mind. The boat takes about 25 minutes each way, and boarding delays are common in high season. You’ll need at least four hours to enter this entrance, even if you only stay near Skradinski Buk.
From Lozovac, things move quicker. This is the fastest way to get on the trail, especially outside of summer when cars can drive straight down. You might cover the same walking routes in two to three hours, but you’ll probably stay longer to relax or take photos.
Roški Slap asks for more time, especially if you enjoy nature walks. Trails here stretch farther, and the views are less crowded. If you enter from this side, plan on spending five or more hours in the area, especially if you’re taking the boat trip to Visovac Island.
The Burnum entrance is different. It won’t take you to waterfalls, but to Roman ruins and a small museum. You’ll spend about two hours there. If you combine it with a drive to Roški Slap, give yourself a whole day. The roads are slow but scenic.
So, how long do you need to see Krka National Park? It depends entirely on your entrance and what you plan to explore. If you want to visit two areas in one day, that’s possible—make sure to start early and have your transportation. Lozovac plus Roški Slap is a great combo. Burnum plus Roški Slap also works if you’re looking for history and hidden paths.
When to Go and What to Expect Each Season
Timing can make or break your experience. When you go, it significantly influences which entrance is best for Krka. Every season changes the mood of the park, and not all entrances work the same way year-round.
Spring is ideal. In April and May, the waterfalls are strong and the trails are quiet. This is the best time to use the Skradin entrance. The boat ride is calm, and the weather is perfect for walking. You’ll find flowers blooming along the riverbanks, and you’ll likely avoid the long ferry lines that build up later in summer.
Summer is the busiest season. If you’re visiting in July or August, Lozovac is a more intelligent choice. You’ll skip the ferry wait and get on the trail faster. Make sure to arrive early—before 9:00 AM is best—or wait until late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Skradin still works if you’re patient and don’t mind sharing the path with many others.
Autumn is peaceful. The weather stays warm well into October, and most visitors are gone. This is the perfect time to explore Roški Slap or the Burnum ruins. Mornings can be misty, which makes for beautiful photos. If you’re asking which entrance is best for Krka in the off-season, Roški Slap offers a calm and open space.
Winter has the fewest tourists: some entrances close or limit services, especially Skradin, since the ferry stops running. If you still want to visit, Lozovac is your best bet. The waterfalls don’t dry out completely, and the views feel untouched. Check the park’s website for updates before traveling in the colder months.
Whatever the season, wear comfortable walking shoes, bring a refillable water bottle, and download a map beforehand. Some areas have poor mobile signal, and signs may be limited. If you plan a local boat tour, carry some cash—cards aren’t accepted everywhere.
In the next part, we’ll discuss frequently asked questions about Krka entrances and share quick tips not found in standard guides.
FAQ
How many entrances does Krka National Park have?
Krka National Park has several entrances. The four main ones are Skradin, Lozovac, Roški Slap, and Burnum. Each leads to a different part of the park and offers a unique experience.
Is Skradin entrance always open?
Skradin entrance is open seasonally, typically from April to October. The ferry that takes you into the park only operates during these months.
Can I visit multiple entrances in one day?
Yes, you can. If you have a car and plan your time well, you can visit two entrances in a single day. Lozovac and Roški Slap are the easiest to combine.
Which entrance is best for avoiding crowds?
Roški Slap is usually the quietest. It’s less visited than Skradin or Lozovac, even during summer.
Are all entrances suitable for families with children?
Yes, but Skradin is especially good for families. The boat ride is fun for kids, and the trails around Skradinski Buk are easy to walk.
What entrance should I use in winter?
Lozovac is the most reliable entrance in winter. Some others, like Skradin, may be closed or offer limited access due to ferry schedule changes.
Can I swim near any of the entrances?
Swimming is no longer allowed at Skradinski Buk. However, depending on current rules, you might find designated swimming spots inside the park or near Roški Slap.
Do I need to buy tickets at the entrance?
You can buy tickets at any entrance or book them online in advance. It’s better to reserve tickets early during high season to avoid waiting.
Which entrance is best for a short visit?
Lozovac is best if you’re short on time. It takes you straight to the main trail without requiring a ferry or shuttle.
Can I access Visovac Island from all entrances?
No. Boat trips to Visovac Island usually start from Skradinski Buk or Roški Slap. If visiting the island is part of your plan, choose one of those two entrances.