Croatia tourism steadies in first half of 2026 despite June dip

In the first six months of 2026 Croatia recorded 7.6 million tourist arrivals and 29.5 million overnight stays, virtually matching the figures from the same period a year earlier. Domestic visitors grew by about 7 % while foreign arrivals fell slightly, resulting in an overall increase of only 0.5 % in total arrivals. June saw a modest decline, with 89,617 arrivals and 324,885 overnight stays, down 4.6 % and 0.6 % respectively compared with June 2025.

Regional data show a mixed picture. Zadar reported a 3 % rise in overnight stays year‑on‑year, while the island of Krk experienced an 8 % drop in arrivals but a modest overall half‑year gain of 1 %. Continental counties collectively posted a 3 % increase in arrivals and a 2.4 % rise in overnight stays, with Zagreb remaining stable. The tourism board chief Kristjan Staničić stressed that “there is no reason for concern” and warned of a “battle for every guest” as price sensitivity and last‑minute bookings grow.

The sector’s performance suggests stability ahead of the peak summer months, with expectations of stronger July figures.