Presentation of tourist results for the year 2024 in the Krapina-Zagorje County was held on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at the Jezerčica Spa. These data not only confirm the continued growth in arrivals and overnight stays but also the increasing importance of the region as a center of continental tourism in Croatia.
Tourism Impulse: Growth in arrivals and overnight stays
Statistical data for the year 2024 speak for themselves. The Krapina-Zagorje County recorded 202,619 arrivals, a growth of 6.34% compared to the previous year, while the number of overnight stays reached 429,436, with an increase of 6.77%. Looking at the past 12 years, arrivals have increased by as much as 182.18%, while the number of overnight stays has risen by 166%. These results prove that the region is becoming more and more popular among tourists, both domestic and foreign.
Foreign and domestic tourists: Geography of guests
Among foreign tourists, visitors from Slovenia, Poland, Germany, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic dominate, while an increasing number of guests are arriving from Belgium and Denmark, confirming the growing interest in this part of Croatia. Domestic tourists, on the other hand, most frequently come from Zagreb, as well as the Split-Dalmatia, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, and Istria counties. In the overall structure, foreign guests account for 51.23% of arrivals and 52.48% of overnight stays.
Accommodation capacities: Wide offer for all tastes
Hotel accommodation holds the leading position with 293,719 overnight stays, accounting for 68.40% of total tourist overnight stays in the county. Campsites recorded 27,738 overnight stays, while private accommodation, including vacation homes, achieved 107,979 overnight stays. The total accommodation capacity has increased to 4,236 beds, with a growth of 9.04% compared to the previous year. The increase in capacity follows the growth in demand, especially in the segments of luxury vacation homes and boutique hotels.
Attractions and activities: Diverse offer for every visitor
Visitors to water parks in the Krapina-Zagorje County numbered 796,736, while the Shrine of Our Lady of Bistrica was visited by 770,000 people, recording a growth of 3.55%. In addition to these attractions, special emphasis has been placed on projects such as "True Zagorje Home," which promotes the quality of family accommodation, and "Zagorje Outdoor," which includes outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Culture and heritage: Heart of Zagorje
Particular attention is deserved by cultural destinations, such as the Museum of Croatian Zagorje, which won the award for the best cultural-tourist destination in Croatia. Additionally, numerous cultural festivals and events have been organized, further enriching the tourist offer of the region.
Gastronomy and wine tourism
The Krapina-Zagorje County is known for its gastronomic offer and indigenous dishes, which are part of the "Taste of Zagorje" project. Wine tourism is also gaining importance, with a focus on wine routes and vineyards offering a unique wine-tasting experience with views of picturesque landscapes.
Investments and awards
The County Head, Željko Kolar, emphasized that the tourism successes are the result of synergy between local communities, tourism workers, and new investments. In 2024, numerous awards were presented, including the recognition for the best promotional tourist film and the "Best Host" award from the Croatian Tourist Board.
Future: Plans and challenges
The Krapina-Zagorje County continues to develop its tourist offer with an emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Planned investments include the modernization of accommodation capacities, development of new attractions, and further improvement of infrastructure, which will further position the region as a leader in continental tourism in Croatia.
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