Saturday, May 17, 2025

Croatia’s travel and tourism industry is soaring to new heights, according to the latest research from the . In 2025, the sector is projected to contribute a remarkable to Croatia’s national economy—surpassing pre-pandemic levels and reinforcing its position as a vital pillar of economic growth.

Driving this expansion is a surge in , which accounts for over . Leisure travel dominates the landscape, making up more than to Croatia, highlighting the country’s appeal as a preferred vacation destination. This robust demand is also powering employment, with the tourism sector expected to support , a figure that is forecasted to rise to .

The WTTC’s report projects a steady and over the next decade, setting the stage for a potential —nearly one-third higher than today’s figures.

The sector’s significance extends well beyond the economy. Travel and tourism already contribute to , making it an essential source of public funding. The sector is also a leader in , with nearly . Youth employment, for ages 15 to 24, represents of the workforce, and nearly , reflecting the sector’s role in promoting equitable economic opportunities.

Germany leads as Croatia’s largest source market, contributing of all international visitor spending. Neighbors like , followed by Poland at 6%, and Italy at 5%. This regional focus underscores Croatia’s strong ties within Europe and its appeal to tourists seeking coastal beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures.

Interestingly, travel flows are reciprocal, with many Croatians visiting nearby countries such as Italy (21%), Slovenia (13%), and Bosnia-Herzegovina (7%), highlighting the interconnected nature of tourism in the region.

While Croatia’s tourism sector is thriving, environmental sustainability remains a critical challenge. According to the WTTC report, the industry still relies heavily on , which make up . Low-carbon and renewable sources contribute only about 9%, signaling significant room for improvement.

The government and industry stakeholders are increasingly prioritizing sustainability initiatives to reduce carbon footprints, improve energy efficiency, and preserve Croatia’s pristine natural landscapes—which are a key draw for tourists. This balancing act between growth and environmental stewardship is central to Croatia’s vision for a resilient tourism future.

Croatia’s tourism recovery post-pandemic is not merely about returning to old norms—it’s about . Focused on innovation, sustainability, and social inclusivity, the industry is positioning itself for long-term success.

Investments in infrastructure, digital technology, and diverse tourism offerings—from historic city tours to nature-based adventures—are helping Croatia attract a broader range of visitors. At the same time, programs to enhance workforce skills and promote gender equality contribute to a more sustainable economic foundation.

The WTTC’s forecast paints an optimistic picture of Croatia’s travel and tourism sector as a cornerstone of economic vitality and social progress. With visitor spending set to rise, employment opportunities growing, and efforts underway to enhance sustainability, Croatia is well-positioned to thrive in the coming decade.

For travelers, this means even more reasons to explore Croatia’s stunning coastline, vibrant cities, and natural wonders—while supporting a tourism industry that cares about its people and the planet.

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Meta Description: Croatia’s tourism sector is booming, set to contribute €26.4B by 2035 with rising visitor numbers, job growth, and a focus on sustainability and economic resilience.