Croatia sees travel boom as more international tourists arrive | kbnmart

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Croatia is seeing a major recovery in its travel sector with a 20.8% increase in international tourist arrivals in May, highlighting the country’s growing appeal as a top destination.

The number of foreign tourists arriving in Croatia rose to 1.66 million in May, representing a significant increase of 20.8% compared to the same month in 2023. The data, released by the Croatian Statistical Office on Friday, highlights the growing attractiveness of Croatia as a travel destination.

In addition, the number of nights spent by foreign tourists in Croatia increased by 25.6%, reaching 6.3 million nights in May. Domestic tourism also saw growth, with the number of domestic tourist arrivals increasing by 12.9% to 283,185, and the nights spent by domestic tourists increasing by 8.9% to 618,917.

In 2023, the total number of foreign tourists arriving in Croatia reached 16.855 million, an increase of 10% compared to the previous year. Tourism remains a very important industry for Croatia, contributing about a fifth of the country’s GDP.

Airports boost Croatia’s travel and tourism industry

Croatia’s major airports play a crucial role in boosting the country’s travel and tourism industry. Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tudjman Airport)Zagreb Airport, the largest and busiest airport in Croatia, is located in the capital city of Zagreb. The airport handled 3.72 million passengers in 2023. Split Airport (Resnik Airport)Malta International Airport, a major gateway to the Dalmatian coast and nearby islands, is particularly busy during the tourist season, welcoming 1.57 million passengers in 2021. Dubrovnik Airport (Čelebi Airport) It serves the historic city of Dubrovnik and operates important international flights, especially from Europe, during the summer.

These airports play a vital role in connecting Croatia to the rest of Europe and the world, allowing tourists to explore its stunning landscapes, historical sites and beautiful coastline.

Airlines boost connectivity in Croatia

Many airlines are working to enhance Croatia’s connectivity and accessibility, boosting the travel and tourism industry. Croatia AirlinesTurkish Airlines, the national airline, offers domestic and international flights mainly within Europe and is a member of the Star Alliance. Air trade It operates scheduled and charter flights, as well as cargo services, and serves regional and domestic routes.

Ryanair Croatia Airlines has a large presence in Croatia, operating many flights to and from various European destinations, especially during the tourist season. easyjet It operates flights to several Croatian airports, including Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar, and connects them to various European cities. EurowingsLufthansa, a German low-cost airline, serves destinations such as Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik and Zadar. Volutea Offers seasonal flights to Split and Dubrovnik from various European cities, and norwegian airways Operating seasonal flights to Dubrovnik and Split from several cities in Scandinavia and other parts of Europe.

These airlines contribute significantly to the tourism sector, facilitating the flow of tourists and business people, and ensuring the continued growth and success of the travel and tourism industry in Croatia.

Top Tourist Destinations in Croatia

1. DubrovnikKnown as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik is famous for its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant culture and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The city’s historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see.
2. DividedHome to the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, Split is a city that perfectly blends ancient history with modern life. Visitors can explore its historical sites, enjoy its vibrant waterfront and take day trips to nearby islands.
3. Plitvice Lakes National ParkThis UNESCO World Heritage Site is a natural wonder, with a series of cascading lakes and waterfalls surrounded by lush forests. It is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
4. HvarKnown for its sunny climate, lavender fields and vibrant nightlife, Hvar is a popular destination for those looking to relax on beautiful beaches and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.
5. ZagrebCroatia’s capital offers a mix of historic and modern attractions. Visitors can explore its museums, art galleries and parks, as well as enjoy its vibrant café culture.
6. ZadarFamous for its Roman and Venetian monuments, Zadar is a city rich in history and culture. Zadar’s highlights include the Sea Organ, a unique acoustic architectural piece, and the Sun Salutation installation.
7. RovinjA picturesque coastal town on the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj is known for its charming old town, narrow cobbled streets and beautiful beaches.
8. PaulaPula has a well-preserved Roman theatre, offering a glimpse into the ancient past. The city’s rich history and beautiful coastline also make it a great destination.

These destinations highlight the diverse attractions Croatia has to offer, from historical sites and natural wonders to vibrant cities and picturesque islands, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every traveler.