Croatia invests in tourism infrastructure for long-term growth

Croatian tourism is experiencing strong growth thanks to significant investments in infrastructure that enable greater accessibility and quality of tourism services, as well as increased revenues. The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Croatia has announced the continuation of investments through projects such as the expansion of airports, the development of highways, and the construction of key facilities like the Pelješac Bridge. These infrastructure projects represent only part of a comprehensive plan aimed at improving access for tourists, reducing seasonal fluctuations, and preserving the environment. Investments enable stable growth in the tourism sector in Croatia, which has already recorded record results in 2023, when revenues from foreign tourists reached 14.6 billion euros, representing an increase of 11.4% compared to the previous year. For 2024, further growth is projected, and according to analysts, investments in infrastructure will ensure further expansion and strengthening of this sector.

Strategy for sustainable tourism development

To responsibly manage tourism growth, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports has developed a plan for sustainable tourism, which includes reducing pressure during the busiest summer months and promoting year-round tourism. Expansion of accommodation capacity for guests during the winter is planned, as well as the development of specialized tourism products, such as health and wellness tourism, which are particularly attractive outside the main season. Infrastructure projects include the expansion of Zagreb Airport, which will allow for a greater number of arrivals during the winter, as well as planning additional highways to tourist attractive but less visited locations.

Advantages of diversifying the tourism offer

Alongside the usual coastal attractions, Croatia is increasingly promoting itself as a destination for continental tourism. The Lika region is becoming more popular among nature lovers, thanks to the offer that includes the Plitvice Lakes National Park, but also lesser-known natural sites, such as the Gacka River, which attracts fishing enthusiasts. Croatia is also developing eco-tourism, including new projects focused on sustainable use of natural resources and environmental preservation. The "Experience Croatia" campaign, carried out by the Croatian Tourist Board, promotes continental destinations such as Zagorje and Lika, aimed at attracting visitors from Central Europe throughout the year.

Extension of the tourist season and year-round business

To extend the season, Croatia invests in projects that enable tourists to visit the country even during the winter months. For example, the city of Zagreb attracts an increasing number of visitors every year during Advent, while some hotels on the coast have expanded their offerings to attract guests outside the summer months. Croatia is also developing infrastructure for health tourism, which includes rehabilitation centers, wellness, and medical tourism, which are attractive to visitors from Western and Central Europe throughout the year. The Minister of Tourism emphasized the importance of extending the season, noting that increasing capacity in autumn and winter is key to sustainable tourism development.

Importance of infrastructure for growth and competitiveness

In addition to coastal regions such as Istria, Split, and Dubrovnik, which are the main assets of Croatian tourism, investments in infrastructure also include continental areas that are becoming increasingly important for year-round tourism. The construction of modern roads facilitates access to inland locations, while expansions of airports enable the arrival of a growing number of visitors throughout the year. Investments in the Pelješac Bridge, as one of the key infrastructure projects, reduce the isolation of southern Dalmatia and allow faster access to key tourist destinations.

Challenges and opportunities for future development

Despite positive trends, Croatian tourism faces challenges such as rising prices and labor shortages. Many visitors find that hospitality service prices are too high, which has prompted some tourists to reduce spending, and in some cases, to prepare meals within their accommodations. At the same time, the sector faces a shortage of qualified labor, which has led to an increase in quotas for work permits for foreign workers from Asia. This trend is likely to continue, given that Croatia increasingly relies on workers from abroad.

Support from EU funds and financial instruments

EU funds have played an important role in financing tourism projects in Croatia, and the new financial perspective directs resources to projects for sustainability, energy savings, and improvement of tourism infrastructure. Through various financial instruments, Croatia can provide favorable conditions for investments that will contribute to the long-term stability of the sector. An example of such investments includes financing the construction of new hotels through financial instruments that allow for a low-interest rate, thus reducing the debt burden for investors. EU funds also support small and medium-sized enterprises in tourism, which helps develop local economies.

Plans for the future of Croatian tourism

Croatia plans to continue promoting itself as a year-round destination with a focus on cultural and eco-tourism, which attract tourists from all over the world. By increasing the quality of services and infrastructure, and providing unique experiences, Croatia strengthens its position in the tourism market. New infrastructure projects, such as luxury resorts and wellness centers, will allow Croatia to position itself as a top destination, thus attracting visitors even outside the main season. In cooperation with the private sector and through continued EU support, Croatia will continue to work on diversifying its tourism offer and adapting to global trends in tourism.