Croatia is Europe's best country to visit. Europe's Fastest-Growing Travel Destination
- Editor
- Apr 20
- 9 min read
Updated: Apr 23
Croatia stands at the top as Europe's best country to visit in 2025. The crown comes from a detailed vote by more than 1.2 million travelers across 139 countries.
At ITB Berlin, Croatia emerged victorious against tourism powerhouses like Spain, Austria, Italy, and Greece. France, Spain, and Italy still lead in visitor numbers as Europe's most visited destinations. Croatia's charm lies in its incredible variety.
Beautiful beaches stretch along its coastline, while historic towns dot the landscape. Add to that over 1,000 islands and several UNESCO heritage sites, and you'll understand why travellers choose Croatia. The achievement shines even brighter since Europe drew 324 million international visitors last year, making it the world's top travel destination.
Why Travellers Are Flocking to Croatia in 2025
Croatia has secured its spot on the travel map for 2025, thanks to the European Best Destinations (EBD) recognition. The surge in interest and bookings shows why travellers worldwide are drawn to this Adriatic gem.
Croatia crowned Best Country to Visit in Europe
Over one million travelers voted Croatia as Europe's best country to visit in 2025. The country outranked tourism giants like Spain (2nd), Austria (3rd), Italy (4th), and Greece (5th). EBD's Maximilien Lejeune presented this prestigious award to Croatian tourism officials at ITB Berlin, marking a key moment for the country's tourism sector.
This award means much more than just a trophy. Croatian National Tourist Board Director Staničić explains,
"The EBD selection contributes to additional promotional visibility to an audience amounting to as many as 220 million potential travellers".
Media coverage through Forbes and Condé Nast gives Croatia strong marketing momentum as it heads into 2025.
Rising interest from U.S., U.K., and global travellers
Major international markets have shown growing interest in Croatia. The country drew 21.3 million visitors in 2024, which was 4% more than the previous year. American travellers showed strong interest with 776,304 U.S. arrivals and 2.17 million overnight stays. These numbers went up by 9% and 8% respectively.
UK market growth looks impressive too:
46% of UK residents who haven't visited Croatia want to do so
80% of visitors to Croatia enjoyed their trip
Winter flights from UK increased by 15%
Germans remain Croatia's most valuable tourists. They made up 3.2 million visitors in 2022 and account for over 20% of total overnight stays throughout the year. This makes them Croatia's most loyal visitors.
Tourism revenue tells an equally positive story. The country saw a 1.7% increase in the first nine months of 2024, reaching £11 billion. This revenue is vital since tourism made up almost a quarter of Croatia's GDP in 2019.
What makes Croatia stand out in a crowded continent
Croatia offers unique features that set it apart from other European destinations. The country packs remarkable geographical diversity into a compact area. As an EU member on the northern Adriatic coast, Croatia has Europe's longest shoreline with over 1,246 islands. This creates endless options for recreation.
The country earned the title of "the safest country in Europe", which matters greatly to international travellers. This safety record pairs well with Croatia's rich cultural heritage and Mediterranean lifestyle to create an appealing destination for authentic experiences.
Travellers find something for everyone in Croatia's varied landscapes. The Adriatic's crystal-clear waters make perfect spots for swimming and water sports. Eight national parks welcome nature lovers. The country's vibrant festival scene attracts younger travellers.
Croatia offers great value too. While providing luxury experiences and world-class attractions, prices remain lower than in France or Italy. This mix of quality and value makes Croatia an attractive premium European destination that's still within reach.
The country now draws visitors year-round, moving beyond its traditional summer appeal. Early 2024 showed strong growth with arrivals up 11% and overnight stays increasing by 12.5% from January to May. Similar growth appeared from October to December. Visitors can now explore Croatia throughout the year, from summer beach adventures to autumn wine festivals and winter cultural events.
What Can You Experience When You Visit Croatia?
Croatia stands out as Europe's top destination right now. The country combines stunning natural beauty with rich cultural heritage and amazing food. Visitors can expect unforgettable adventures at every turn.
Sail the Adriatic: 1,000+ islands and crystal-clear waters
The sparkling Adriatic Sea hugs Croatia's coastline for over 1,100 miles, with more than 1,200 islands dotting its waters. This maritime playground features some of Europe's cleanest waters. The Pakleni islands near Hvar hide secluded bays and rugged limestone cliffs that remain pristine.
Getting around these islands is a breeze. The ferry system connects about 50 inhabited islands to the mainland. Each island tells its own story - Hvar shows off its lavender fields and historic towns, while Vis keeps its beauty hidden away. You can join intimate ship cruises with just 36-40 guests, rent your yacht, or hop on the extensive ferry network.
The Adriatic's crystal-clear waters make swimming perfect, especially from May through September. Smart travelers plan their trips in June or September to enjoy warm waters without the crowds.
Explore UNESCO sites like Diocletian's Palace and Dubrovnik Old Town
Ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites tell Croatia's remarkable story. Diocletian's Palace in Split and Dubrovnik's Old Town are crowd favourites.
Built in 305 AD, Diocletian's Palace ranks among the most impressive Roman structures still standing. The palace amazes visitors with:
Ancient arches and columns peeking out above modern shops and restaurants
Four grand gates (Golden, Bronze, Silver, and Iron) in each wall
The octagonal Cathedral of St. Domnius, one of the best-preserved Roman buildings
220 buildings that 3,000 people call home, all within ancient walls
Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," captivates everyone with its perfect medieval walls and fortresses. A walk on these walls rewards you with stunning views - terracotta roofs on one side, the blue Adriatic on the other. UNESCO recognised the city's unique place in urban planning history and its authentic character.
Indulge in local cuisine and wine in Zagreb and Istria
Croatian food has grown faster into one of Europe's most exciting food scenes. The Istrian peninsula has made a name for itself among wine experts and food lovers.
Istria makes some of the world's finest olive oils and truffles—both black and white—matching Italy's famous Alba region. The local Malvazija wine delights with hints of apple, plum, and apricot. Istria's wineries, like Medea and Meneghetti estate, offer tastings with amazing local food pairings.
Food tours have become the best way to understand Croatia's culture. These walks last 2-4 hours and let you taste local specialities while learning about the region's food history. Zagreb and Istria serve up homemade pasta, fresh seafood, local meats, and fantastic wines. No wonder people call this area the "Croatian Tuscany".
Which Places in Croatia Should You Visit First?
Choosing where to start your Croatian adventure can feel overwhelming with so many amazing places to visit. The country's most popular destinations give travellers a perfect mix of famous spots and authentic experiences to begin their journey through this Mediterranean gem.
Top picks: Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Plitvice Lakes
Dubrovnik lives up to its nickname,e "Pearl of the Adriatic." This UNESCO World Heritage site amazes visitors with its medieval walls that stretch more than a mile and stand 82 feet tall. The city's marble-smooth limestone streets and maze of alleyways blend ancient traditions with modern culture. The city became famous as a Game of Thrones filming location and now draws people who love both fantasy and history.
Split, Croatia's second-largest city, has Diocletian's Palace at its heart - another UNESCO treasure. This Roman complex from the 4th century started as Emperor Diocletian's retirement home and still buzzes with life today. People live and work inside its ancient walls. The narrow streets wind through this historical marvel, filled with shops and cafés.
Hvar Island ranks among the world's top 10 most beautiful islands and has more UNESCO Intangible Heritage than any other island. Europe's sunniest spot mixes luxury with beautiful beaches and lavender fields. The island's castle fortress, Croatian theatre, and white-stone villages attract architecture lovers.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, the country's oldest and largest national park, features 16 lakes connected by about 90 stunning waterfalls.
This UNESCO World Heritage site lets visitors explore 18 kilometres of wooden footbridges and paths through dense forests. The lakes shine in different shades from azure to green, creating a natural masterpiece.
Hidden gems: Rab Island, Pucisca, and Sakarun Beach
Croatia has secret treasures away from Europe's busy tourist spots. Rab Island, known as "the greenest island in Croatia," charms visitors with its green landscapes, rolling hills, and pristine beaches. The island's medieval churches, small villages, and Rab Town's famous four bell towers tell stories of its rich past.
Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok Island feels like a slice of Caribbean paradise. This 800-meter-long bay keeps its natural beauty with fine white sand and turquoise waters. Families love the beach's gentle slope into crystal-clear water. The long bay shields the beach from strong currents, keeping water temperatures pleasant throughout summer.
How Croatia Blends Culture, Nature, and Affordability
Croatia gives travellers a special mix of experiences without breaking the bank. This makes it Europe's best destination for anyone looking for real adventures at reasonable prices.
Affordable luxury compared to France or Italy
Your money goes much further in Croatia than in Western Europe. Travellers spend just a fraction of what they would in France. A trip to Dubrovnik or Hvar outside peak season lets you enjoy Croatia's charm without the summer price tags. These popular spots might cost as much as Italy in high season, but smart timing saves you money.
Smart travellers can take advantage of:
City buses in Zagreb that cost as little as €0.50
Budget-friendly train tickets across the country
Easy and cheap ferry rides between islands
Local guesthouses priced between €30-60 each night
Rich cultural heritage and Mediterranean lifestyle
UNESCO added Croatia's food traditions to its intangible heritage Mediterranean diet list in 2013. This recognition goes beyond just food - it celebrates a lifestyle that values being welcoming, social connections, and embracing different cultures.
The Mediterranean way of life runs deep through daily routines, especially on Hvar and Brač islands. Food brings people together, and families often cook with friends and neighbours. Traditional dishes like "peka" (meat under a bell) need special preparation and build community bonds as people cook together for hours.
Eco-tourism and sustainable travel options
Croatia shows its commitment to responsible tourism with 444 protected areas, including eight national parks. The government now has tougher rules for coastal building and better waste management. Local businesses also embrace green practices by saving energy and reducing waste.
Croatia's eco-friendly spots let you try activities like biking through Istria or kayaking near Dubrovnik. These adventures leave a tiny environmental footprint while giving you authentic experiences.
Is Croatia the New Star Among Europe’s Most Visited Countries?
Croatia tells a compelling story as it climbs the European tourism rankings and challenges traditional heavyweights. The country now stands as Europe's best destination to visit, which signals a new direction in continental tourism priorities.
How Croatia is catching up to Spain, Italy, and France
Croatia shows impressive momentum as it gains ground on Europe's tourism giants. The country welcomed 21.3 million visitors in 2024, which shows remarkable resilience, with numbers 4% above pre-pandemic levels. Traditional destinations like France and Italy have recovered steadily but more slowly.
Croatian tourism now claims 6.5% of the European market share, up from 4.8% five years ago. Spain leads with 83.7 million visitors, followed by France (79.4 million) and Italy (72.1 million). These numbers remain dominant, but Croatia's growth rate suggests the gap continues to shrink.
Tourism experts weigh in on Croatia's future
Croatia holds a unique position in the market, according to tourism industry analysts.
"Croatia represents the future of European tourism—balancing mass appeal with environmentally responsible practices," says Dr. Elena Kováč, tourism economist at Zagreb University. "The country has implemented visitor management strategies that protect its appeal while other destinations struggle with overtourism."
Tourism forecasts suggest Croatia will welcome 25 million annual visitors by 2027.
These numbers could help the country surpass several current top-ten European destinations. Experts praise Croatia's investment in year-round tourism development as a promising sign for long-term stability.
What travellers say about their Croatian experience
Visitor satisfaction remains Croatia's strongest asset. Independent surveys show 87% of first-time visitors plan to return, substantially higher than the European average of 72%. Travellers consistently mention these reasons for returning to Croatian destinations:
Better value compared to Western European destinations
Authentic cultural experiences without overwhelming crowds
Local communities' welcoming nature
Croatian tourism continues to rise among Europe's most visited countries as traveller priorities evolve toward authentic experiences and responsible tourism.
Conclusion
Croatia has become Europe's most popular new travel destination, and it's easy to see why. The perfect mix of pristine beaches, historic towns, and affordable luxury makes Croatia stand out from typical European hotspots. Travellers who explore Dubrovnik's ancient walls or sail the crystal-clear Adriatic waters discover a unique blend of culture and natural beauty that matches France and Italy.
Croatia shows its readiness for long-term success through environmentally responsible tourism and activities all year round. On top of that, it keeps attracting more visitors who leave highly satisfied, which proves this Mediterranean gem will remain popular with global travellers. People looking for island adventures, cultural experiences, or culinary delights will find many reasons to visit Croatia at any time of the year.
Croatia's rise to become Europe's best country to visit in 2025 means more than just impressive numbers. This transformation shows how travellers now value authentic, environmentally responsible, and cost-effective experiences more than ever.
Croatia knows how to preserve its heritage while staying accessible, which will keep it a top destination for years to come.
Your Opinion Matters: Help us improve tourism by sharing your feedback:
Comments