Have you ever wondered, ‘When did Croatia become a tourist destination?’ Did you know, the first hotel was opened in 1844 in Opatija, with the first tourist guides written in 1845? The period between the two World Wars saw Croatia receive a tourism boost, with an average of one million tourists a year!
It goes to show that the country has been a hotspot for tourists for a long time, so this article will dive into what makes Croatia so special, how you can navigate it (p.s, a Croatia tour guide can really help) and why you should be adding it to your bucket list of travel destinations!
Overview of Croatia's Tourism Growth
To begin with, how many tourists visit Croatia each year? Overall, Croatia saw over 15 million international tourists in 2022, with the largest age group being 35–44 years old (2.6 million). Children under 14 make up a large chunk of visitors, suggesting families are traveling to the country. Here are some recent annual tourist numbers:
Tourists accounted for 108 million overnight stays in Croatia in 2023! In tourist accommodation establishments, Croatia saw 17.8m tourists in 2022, compared to 12.8m in 2021 and 7m in 2020. This was down from 19.6m in 2019. These figures include both residents and non-residents.
So how popular is Croatia for tourists? Tourism is huge here, especially in Dubrovnik, due to the TV series, Game of Thrones, which uses this town as a filming location. If you’re a fan, Dubrovnik must be on your bucket list.
So, let’s go over these tourist numbers and see who is traveling to Croatia.
In 2022, tourists in Croatia by country look like:
- Germany: 3,281,000
- Austria: 1,454,000
- Slovenia: 1,419,000
- Poland: 1,006,000
- Czechia: 908,000
So what is the most touristic city in Croatia? We’ve got you covered there, too! In 2022, the most popular towns for overnight stays were:
- Zagreb: 1,078,000
- Rovinj: 1,029,000
- Dubrovnik: 786,000
- Split: 700,000
- Poreč: 594,000
In terms of what else Croatia is best known for, the most popular national park for visitors in 2022 was Plitvicka jezera at 1,160,000, followed by Krka (1,071,900) and Brijuni (273,600).
Further Reading: Our Top 3 Private Nature Tours in Dubrovnik
So, now that you know all of this, how big is the tourism industry in Croatia? In terms of GDP, the Croatia tourism industry was forecasted to contribute 18.85% in 2023 and 22.35% in 2024. This is forecasted to grow to 25.87% in 2028. In 2025, the Croatia tourism economy is expecting a revenue of US$1,151.00m.
To finish, let’s go over a little bit about Croatia's statistics. Croatia’s population was 3,875,325 in 2024. This is forecast to be 3,848,160 in 2025. The median age of Croatians is 45.3 years and 61.7% of the population lives in urban areas.
Future Projections for Croatia’s Tourism Market
So, what is the tourism outlook in Croatia? In 2024, Croatia's tourism was set to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels.
Tourist arrivals will continue to rise from 2024 to 2028, mainly from Europe, due to proximity and good transportation links. To add to the boost, Croatia joined the eurozone and Schengen Area in January 2023 which is set to boost regional travel. Increased airline connections will also drive year-round growth. Croatia is, however, aiming to attract more long-distance travelers, especially from the US, through targeted marketing.
To address overcrowding, Dubrovnik is limiting the number of cruise ships and passengers entering the city. This follows similar calls to action from other European countries to address overcrowding at tourist sites.
Is Croatia cheap to visit? Since joining the European Union in 2023, prices in Croatia have increased. Expect similar prices to Spain, Italy and France.
Croatia Tourism Quick Facts
- 20.6 million - The number of tourists that flocked to Croatia in 2023.
- 18.85% - The GDP percentage that tourism in Croatia contributed to the nation.
- Germany - The country that contributed the most tourists to Croatia in 2022 with 3.2 million visitors.
- 1 million - the amount of overnight stays in Zagreb in 2022.
Exploring Croatia: Must-Visit Cities and Attractions
Croatia is a land of stunning diversity, offering a blend of rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the UNESCO-recognized Plitvice Lakes to the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, each destination has its unique appeal. Whether you're exploring the sunny beaches of Hvar, the bustling streets of Zagreb or the tranquil hills of Istria, Croatia promises unforgettable experiences.
But why is Croatia a popular tourist destination? There’s so much to see, so here are just a few of the fantastic places to visit when there:
- Plitvice Lakes: Explore the oldest national park in Croatia, a UNESCO site in the Lika region. This unique geological area features 16 interconnected lakes with striking colors due to limestone deposits. The park is divided into the Upper Lakes (12) and Lower Lakes (4).
- Dubrovnik: Often ranked among the top Mediterranean destinations, Dubrovnik is renowned for its well-preserved medieval core and stunning city walls. Highlights include concerts, museums and galleries. Don't miss the panoramic views from the Srđ Mountain funicular.
- Hvar Town & Island: Famous for its sunshine and upscale appeal, Hvar is easily accessible via ferries from Brač and Split. The island features ancient towns, lavender fields and vineyards. Hvar town boasts medieval architecture and was home to Europe’s first public theater. Be sure to visit the town of Stari Grad!
- Zagreb: Croatia's capital offers a blend of history and modernity. Explore Gornji Grad (Upper Town) with its iconic St. Mark’s Church and Lotrščak Tower. Visit the Dolac market, Zagreb Cathedral and the many parks and squares forming Lenuci's Horseshoe.
- Central Istria: Discover the heart of Istria with its green hills, vineyards, olive groves and medieval towns. Highlights include Motovun, known for its staircase and views, and Buzet, famous for truffles. Enjoy outdoor adventures like paragliding and mountain biking.
- Bol: Visit the iconic Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach on the island of Brač. The beach’s shape changes with the wind and sea. Nearby attractions include Vidova Gora peak, the highest point on Croatian islands, and the Blaca Monastery.
- Šibenik: Home to two UNESCO sites: St. James Cathedral and St. Nicholas Fortress. Enjoy heritage hotels like Armerun and Michelin-starred restaurants. Visit St. Michael's and Barone Fortresses for alfresco concerts and stunning views.
- Pag: Known for its lunar-like landscapes and summer beach parties at Zrće. Beyond the nightlife, visit Boškinac hotel and winery and Gligora Dairy for award-winning sheep’s milk cheeses. Also, explore the Pag Triangle and ancient olive groves of Lun.
Festivals and Events in Croatia
So, why is Croatia so popular with tourists? Well, one of the reasons has to be the fantastic festivals and events throughout the year.
Croatia is renowned for its vibrant festivals that blend deep-rooted traditions with contemporary artistry. From the dazzling lights of Zagreb's Festival of Lights to the ancient sword dances of Korčula, these celebrations offer a unique glimpse into the country's rich cultural tapestry. Each festival, whether it's the grand Rijeka Carnival or the intimate Spring Procession in Gorjani, brings together locals and visitors in joyous revelry, making Croatia a must-visit destination for those seeking immersive cultural experiences.
Here are a few to keep an eye out for when making your itinerary:
- Rijeka Carnival (January/February): The largest and most colorful carnival in Croatia. Begins in mid-January, featuring parades, the UNESCO-listed zvončari, and the grand International Carnival Parade on the last Sunday of February.
- Zagreb Festival of Lights (March): Transforms Zagreb into a vibrant canvas with light installations and projections. Attracts global artists and tourists, celebrating the arrival of spring with themes of awakening and growth.
- Korčula Sword Dance Festival (June): Showcases the traditional Moreska Sword Dance. Local dance groups perform in Korčula Town, celebrating historical victories over conquerors.
- Half New Year’s Eve, Korčula (June): Celebrated on June 30 with all-night parties, events and performances. Marks the midpoint of the year with festivities akin to New Year’s Eve but with summer weather.
- International Folklore Festival, Zagreb (July): Highlights the diverse Croatian heritage and ethnic minority traditions. Features performances, workshops, and concerts in Ban Jelačić Square and Gradec.
Gastronomy in Croatia: A Culinary Journey
Croatian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean, Central European and Balkan influences. Tourists in Croatia must try these dishes and beverages that reflect Croatia’s rich history and diverse culture:
Meals
- Black Risotto: A creamy, dark dish made with squid or cuttlefish ink, best enjoyed in the town of Ston on the Pelješac Peninsula.
- Peka: A traditional slow-cooked dish featuring tender meat or fish with root vegetables, cooked under a bell-like dome. Try it on the island of Vis!
- Buzara: A seafood lover’s delight, this dish includes shellfish cooked in a rich sauce of garlic, wine and tomatoes.
- Brodetto: A hearty fish stew from northwest Croatia, influenced by Venetian cuisine, originally made from leftover or less desirable fish.
- Strukli: A comforting pastry filled with cottage cheese and eggs, popular in northern Croatia, particularly Zagreb and Hrvatsko Zagorje.
- Truffles: Prized fungi from Istria, with truffle hunting and cultivation being a significant part of the region’s identity. Look for the ‘Tartufo vero’ sign in restaurants.
- Soparnik: A vegetarian dish from Dalmatia, featuring thin dough layers filled with Swiss chard, onions, garlic and olive oil.
Desserts
- Fritule: Small fried pastries, sometimes with raisins or rum, enjoyed throughout Croatia, especially in Dalmatia and Istria.
- Rožata: A Croatian version of crème caramel, flavored with rose liqueur, best found in reputable Dubrovnik restaurants.
- Burek: Flaky pastries filled with apple, available in bakeries across Croatia. They can also be filled with cheese or meat!
Drinks
- Malvazija and Teran: Istria’s signature wines; Malvazija is a white wine with apricot and apple notes, ideal with seafood. Teran is a robust red wine, perfect with meat dishes like boškarin and pršut.
Further Reading: Top 8 Most Popular Foods in Dubrovnik, Croatia
The Best Time to Visit Croatia: Seasonal Insights
Croatia’s weather varies from north to south, getting warmer towards the south. It changes from a continental climate inland to a Mediterranean climate along the Adriatic Sea, where the sea moderates the temperature, making winters milder and summers cooler.
Dalmatian Coast
The Dalmatian Coast and its offshore islands are Croatia's top tourist spots. This region has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters.
- Summer (June to September): The best time to visit, with 10–12 hours of sunshine daily, temperatures in the mid to high 20s (°C), and low humidity around 60%. Perfect for beach activities and exploring. Rain is minimal, with Dubrovnik experiencing only 3–6 rainy days per month and July being the driest.
- Winter: Less popular due to significant rainfall, with 13–15 rainy days per month and minimal sunshine (3–5 hours daily). January temperatures range from 0°C to 7°C, with subzero temperatures being rare along the coast.
Key Locations:
- Dubrovnik: Minimums of 14–16°C and maximums of 25–28°C in summer. In winter, temperatures rarely drop below freezing.
- Islands: Brac, Hvar and Korcula are must-visit spots. Brac enjoys 134 clear days yearly, with summer temperatures around 24°C, matching the Adriatic’s water temperature, ideal for swimming and water sports.
Northern and Central Croatia
- Northern Croatia: The Pannonian Plains has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Zagreb, the capital, is located here.
- Central Croatia: Dominated by the Dinara mountain range, this area has an alpine climate. Winters range from -5°C to 0°C, and summers are between 15°C to 20°C. Snow is common at higher altitudes.
- Eastern Croatia: Winters are colder with less rainfall throughout the year as you move towards the low-lying Danube valleys.
Best Time to Travel to Croatia
The best time to visit Croatia is during the summer months from June to September. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring coastal cities and islands. If you prefer fewer crowds and cooler weather, spring (April to May) and early autumn (late September to October) are also good times to visit, especially for sightseeing and outdoor activities in inland areas.
Navigating Croatia: Transportation Tips for Travelers
Croatia, with over 1,700 km of coastline and hundreds of islands, offers reliable and convenient public transportation options. Here's a quick guide for tourists:
Main Transportation Options
- Bus: The most common and affordable form of transport. Covers big towns and remote villages with regular schedules, including night routes.
- Car Rental: Roads are well-maintained, making driving easy and convenient.
- Flights: Limited domestic options with reasonable prices. Operated by Croatia Airlines between major cities like Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik.
- Trains: Comfortable and inexpensive but slow and limited in routes.
- Ferries and Boats: Essential for island visits, with options for rapid catamaran crossings and regular ferries.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Seasonality: From November to April, daily ferry and bus services decrease significantly, with some lines stopping entirely. Buses are also crowded in summer, so buy tickets in advance and arrive early. For ferries, arrive at least two hours before departure in summer as it’s on a first-come, first-serve basis.
- Traffic: Expect jams in July and August, especially in Split and popular resort towns.
- Crowds: Ferries and buses can be full in peak season. Arrive early and book tickets in advance.
- Wind: Strong winds can close motorways, particularly around tunnels and coastal roads.
Best Travel Methods
- Driving: Best for flexibility, especially for exploring less accessible areas like Istria and the islands.
- Public Transport: Good for solo and budget travelers. Buses are frequent but can be slow and less convenient in some regions.
- Private Transfers: Expensive but convenient for those who prefer not to drive.
- Carpooling: Economical and faster than buses. Taxis are expensive except in Zagreb and Rijeka, but Uber is available seasonally in major coastal towns. BlaBlaCar, however, is popular in Croatia.
Travel Tips: How to Plan Your Trip to Croatia
To make the most of your trip, it's important to know the dos and don'ts. From navigating transportation to respecting local customs, these tips will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Split, island hopping in the Adriatic, or soaking in the culture of Dubrovnik, our guide will help you travel smartly and respectfully in Croatia.
Dos:
- Drive Carefully: Rent a car for flexibility but drive with caution. Book in advance during summer, as car rentals get booked fast, and avoid using cell phones while driving.
- Call It Croatian: Always refer to the language as Croatian, not Serbo-Croatian.
- Stay Central: Base yourself in Central Dalmatia, like Split, for easy day trips to nearby islands and attractions.
- Use Free Wi-Fi: Over 200 free Wi-Fi spots are available in major cities and tourist spots! Just ask for the password.
- Be Alert: Croatia is safe but stay vigilant. Solo travelers should plan transportation and be aware of potential scams.
Don'ts:
- Rely Solely on Trains: Train service is limited, especially in the south and Istrian peninsula.
- Walk the City Walls Midday in Summer: Avoid the heat and crowds by exploring Dubrovnik's City Walls early or late in the day.
- Go Off the Beaten Path Unprepared: Beware of minefields in remote inland areas. Croatia off the beaten bath is best explored safely with a local guide.
- Refer to Croatia as Yugoslavia: The country values its independence and national pride, so stick to the modern name of Croatia and you’ll be fine.
- Expect Taxis to be Cheap: Taxis can be expensive. Use public transport or ride-sharing apps, especially in Zagreb, for better rates.
Conclusion
So, is Croatia a tourist friendly country? We’d say most definitely, yes, so it’s time to get planning your itinerary — which hopefully this guide has helped with!
If you need another helping hand, why not hire a private guide in Croatia? They can help you make your trip to the country one full of amazing memories.
