The Croatian tourist scene is once again at the center of global attention, and this time the spotlights are aimed directly at the heart of the Adriatic. The Istrian peninsula, with its unique combination of an emerald interior and an azure coast, has earned a prestigious nomination as part of the Wanderlust Travel Awards for 2025. This exceptional recognition puts Istria on the map of the most desirable European regions, confirming its status as a destination that offers much more than sun and sea. Alongside the region, the pearl of the Istrian coast, the city of Rovinj, has also found itself in elite company, nominated in the category of the most desirable cities in Europe. These nominations are not only a recognition of natural beauty, but also of a development strategy that increasingly relies on sustainability, authenticity, and rich cultural heritage, which is recognized even by the most demanding world travelers.

Wanderlust – A Global Authority on Sustainable Travel

To fully understand the weight of this recognition, it is crucial to understand who is behind it. Wanderlust is not just another travel magazine; it is an institution in the British and global market. With a tradition spanning more than three decades, this magazine has established itself as the leading voice for intelligent, sustainable, and conscious travel. Their content, which includes authentic reports, top-quality photographs, and expert advice, constantly inspires readers to explore lesser-known corners of the world and to travel with respect for local culture and the environment. Wanderlust advocates for travel that leaves a positive mark, supporting destinations that actively strive to preserve their heritage and nature for future generations. That is why being recognized by Wanderlust and its loyal community of readers represents a kind of "Oscar" in the world of sustainable tourism.

A Double Honor for the Istrian Peninsula

In the 24th edition of these esteemed awards, Istria is competing in category number 6, for the title of "Most Desirable Region - Europe". This nomination places it alongside some of the most famous European regions, confirming that its mosaic of experiences – from truffles in the Motovun Forest, through the ancient amphitheater in Pula, to the secluded beaches in the south – is recognized at an international level. At the same time, the city of Rovinj, with its web of romantic streets, colorful facades huddled by the sea, and the dominant church of St. Euphemia, is competing in category number 4, for "Most Desirable City - Europe". This double nomination is an exceptional success and proof that the entire destination, both the region and its cities, offers top quality. Travelers looking for accommodation in Rovinj do not come just for a photograph, but for the experience that this city provides at every step.

Sustainability as the Key to Success

What gives special importance to these nominations is Wanderlust's emphasis on sustainable and socially responsible tourism. Nowadays, when there is increasing talk about the negative consequences of mass tourism, Wanderlust rewards those who promote a different approach. In recent years, Istria has strongly positioned itself as a region that nurtures ecological awareness, supports local producers, and preserves its cultural heritage. Projects such as the development of cycling paths, the restoration of old stone houses, the promotion of indigenous gastronomic products, and the protection of natural areas fit perfectly into the vision of travel promoted by this magazine. Travelers who choose Istria increasingly appreciate the opportunity to taste olive oil directly from the producer, participate in the grape harvest, or find peace in agritourisms in the interior. It is precisely such authentic experiences, far from the crowds, that become the most valuable part of the journey, and finding the ideal accommodation in Istria becomes the beginning of that adventure.

Audience Votes Decide the Winners

The specialty of the Wanderlust awards lies in the fact that the winners are not decided by a narrow circle of experts, but exclusively by the votes of readers and members of the Wanderlust community. These are hundreds of thousands of experienced travelers from all over the world who confirm with their votes which destinations have impressed them the most. This gives additional weight and credibility to the selection itself. All lovers of the beauties of Istria and Rovinj are invited to cast their vote and support the Croatian candidates in this prestigious competition. Voting is open to everyone and can be done via the official awards website, and the voting link is available here. Every vote is important and contributes to the international promotion of not only Rovinj and Istria, but also the whole of Croatia as a desirable and responsible tourist destination. Many of these voters have already experienced the charms of the Adriatic, staying in one of the fantastic apartments and hotels in Rovinj.

The official award ceremony will take place on November 5th in one of the most impressive venues in London – the National Gallery. This glamorous event will bring together the cream of the world's tourism industry, and the hope is that the names of Istria and Rovinj will be at the very top. Being nominated is in itself a great victory and a confirmation of the excellent work of tourism professionals, as well as the immense natural and cultural value that this part of Croatia possesses. This nomination is not just a momentary flash, but the result of years of effort and a vision to develop tourism in a way that enriches both visitors and the local community, ensuring that the beauties of Istria are preserved for generations to come, and that quality accommodation in Istria remains a synonym for hospitality.

Source: Croatian National Tourist Board