Croatia’s tourism industry celebrated a banner year in 2024, achieving record-breaking numbers with over 21.3 million arrivals and 108.7 million overnight stays (according to data from the eVisitor system, which tracks activity across commercial, non-commercial, and nautical charter sectors). Notably, U.S. travelers significantly contributed to this growth, with 776,304 arrivals and 2.17 million overnight stays, reflecting year-over-year increases of nine percent and eight percent, respectively.
As Croatia looks ahead to 2025, it aims to build on this success by focusing on year-round travel, sustainability, and promoting inland destinations.
Croatia’s growth is no longer confined to the summer months. From January to May 2024, arrivals surged by 11 percent, and overnight stays increased by 12.5 percent. Similarly, the October to December period posted double-digit growth, with arrivals up by 10.3 percent and overnight stays rising by 9.7 percent.
Each season in Croatia offers something unique. Summers bring water sports and coastal adventures along the Adriatic, while spring provides ideal conditions for hiking and visits to national parks like Plitvice Lakes and Krka. Fall ushers in wine harvest festivals, truffle hunting, and olive picking in Istria, while winter offers opportunities for cultural exploration and festive events.
While Dubrovnik, Rovinj and Split, remained Croatia’s most-visited destinations, efforts are underway to expand tourism to lesser-known inland regions. Initiatives such as the Impresia Hotels Collection are at the forefront of this shift. This newly branded group of 17 boutique properties spans Pula to Zagreb and Zadar to Dubrovnik, offering immersive cultural experiences that highlight Croatia’s rich heritage and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Visitors are also increasingly drawn to Croatia’s signature events such as Opatija’s Chocolate Festival and the vibrant Rijeka Carnival in the Kvarner region, which has been named the 2026 European Region of Gastronomy—a recognition expected to boost tourism in both the coming year and beyond.
Improved air connectivity is making Croatia more accessible than ever for North American travelers. United Airlines has recently announced the expansion of its direct flights between Newark/New York and Dubrovnik, extending its service through late October and offering increased convenience for U.S.-based visitors.
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