The Croatian National Tourist Board continues with intensive promotional activities in key source markets, and the latest in a series of successful presentations was held in early June in Poland. In a strategic collaboration with the CNTB Representation in Poland and the esteemed Polish journalist and gastro-expert Bartko Kieżun, an exclusive event was organized in Wroclaw with the aim of presenting Croatia's comprehensive tourist offer. The event attracted a significant number of representatives from influential media houses from Wroclaw and the surrounding region, including prestigious names such as National Geographic Traveler, and popular portals Wp.pl, Naszemiasto.pl, and Dolnyslask.pl, along with Radio Wrocław and other local media, thereby confirming the great interest of the Polish public in Croatian destinations.

A strategic approach to strengthening ties with the Polish market

The event in Wroclaw, the fourth largest city in Poland and an important economic center, was carefully designed to provide the media and key market stakeholders with a detailed and multi-layered picture of Croatia as a tourist destination. The presentation was divided into two complementary parts. In the first, official part, Małgorzata Kowalska, director of the CNTB Representation in Poland, addressed the attendees and presented impressive indicators of tourist traffic. She highlighted the continuous growth in the number of arrivals and overnight stays of Polish tourists, who in previous years had confirmed their loyalty to Croatia, placing Poland among the top five most important markets. Last year, more than one million arrivals and over 6.7 million overnight stays by Polish guests were recorded, continuing the positive trend and confirming the strong connection between the two countries. Croatia's entry into the Schengen area has further facilitated travel, which Polish tourists, who traditionally arrive in large numbers by personal car, greatly appreciate.

Kvarner in focus as the European Region of Gastronomy 2026

Special emphasis during the presentation was placed on the Kvarner region, which prides itself on the prestigious title of European Region of Gastronomy for 2026. This title, awarded by the International Institute of Gastronomy, Culture, Arts and Tourism (IGCAT), is the crown of many years of work on developing the native culinary scene and sustainable practices. Kvarner was presented as a unique blend of sea and highlands, encompassing picturesque islands like Krk, Cres, Lošinj, and Rab, and elegant coastal towns such as Opatija, Crikvenica, and Rijeka. The title of region of gastronomy is based on the promotion of local, native ingredients and traditional dishes presented in a modern way. This includes delicacies such as Kvarner scampi, Cres lamb, premium olive oils, and native wine varieties, like Vrbnička Žlahtina. For all who wish to explore the charms of this region, accommodation in Kvarner is available, offering a perfect base for gastronomic and cultural adventures.

Excellent air connectivity as a key to accessibility

One of the key factors for success and growth in tourist traffic is the ever-improving transport connectivity. Małgorzata Kowalska proudly highlighted the rich network of air routes connecting Poland and Croatia. For guests from Wroclaw and the surrounding area, direct flights to the Adriatic pearls – Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik – are of particular importance. As a particularly important novelty, she also presented a new route to Rijeka, which directly connects Polish guests with the heart of Kvarner, further encouraging tourist movements towards that region. It was emphasized that during the summer months, Poland will be connected to all airports on the Croatian Adriatic, thus enabling guests from different parts of that country a quick and easy arrival at their desired destination. Whether your choice is historical Split, monumental Dubrovnik, or vibrant Zadar, find the ideal accommodation and indulge in exploration. For those landing in Kvarner, accommodation near Rijeka airport offers practicality and comfort.

Gastronomy and culture as an irresistible invitation

The second part of the event was dedicated to what makes Croatia truly special – its rich gastronomy, wines, and culture. Here, the main role was taken by Bartek Kieżun, a famous Polish journalist, photographer, and author of award-winning cookbooks, whose book "Croatia to Eat" (Chorwacja do zjedzenia), published late last year, became a real bestseller and a guide to Croatian flavors for many Poles. With his passion and deep knowledge of Croatian culinary heritage, Kieżun took the present media representatives on an inspiring journey through stories about dishes, wines, and customs. His presentation was accompanied by a tasting of specialties inspired by Croatia, with a special focus on Kvarner cuisine. Guests had the opportunity to taste top Croatian dishes and convince themselves of the quality and diversity of Croatian wines, which are increasingly conquering the international scene. This first-hand experience allowed journalists to feel the authentic spirit of Croatian hospitality and convey it to their audience, thus creating the most beautiful invitation to visit Croatia. This successful presentation in Wroclaw once again confirmed that the richness of the islands, gastronomic specialties, the historical heritage of the cities, and excellent transport connectivity are a winning combination that firmly positions Croatia as one of the most desirable destinations for Polish tourists.