Croatia's tourism surge fuels record season while locals struggle with rising costs

Croatia has become one of Europe's ten most‑visited countries, with record numbers of overnight stays and arrivals driving a "fantastic" tourism season. The influx has boosted the national economy, but housing along the coast is increasingly dominated by short‑term rentals on platforms such as Booking, pushing long‑term residents out of the market. Prices for accommodation, food and even seaside leisure have risen sharply, leaving many Croatians unable to afford a holiday at their own beaches. The situation highlights a tension between the political celebration of tourism growth and the everyday financial pressures faced by local citizens.

Analysts note that while foreign visitors, including many from Germany, can comfortably spend on the Adriatic, many Croatians would need to take out loans for basic vacation expenses, underscoring growing social inequality linked to the sector's expansion.