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Croatia’s Tourism Model Questioned as Ex‑Minister Says It’s ‘Destroyed’ and Officials Tout a Quality Pivot

Rising prices and softening German demand have intensified pressure to rebalance toward higher‑value, longer seasons.

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Overview

  • Ljubo Jurčić told N1 that “we have destroyed Croatian tourism,” blaming three decades of policy for pushing a shift from hotels to private rentals and for leaving prices high without commensurate wages.
  • Croatia’s statistics office reported July consumer prices up 4.1% year over year, and separate figures cited by local media indicate about a 70% rise since 2015, with peak‑season stays averaging roughly €100 a night for two.
  • Jurčić warned that German visitors—crucial to Croatia—are likely to spend less as consumption weakens in Germany, raising concerns about arrivals and revenue.
  • The Croatian Tourism Board noted a record 3.5 million German arrivals in 2022 and says it expects a strong autumn and shoulder season in 2025 as it promotes off‑peak development.
  • Tourism chief Romeo Draghicchio said prices have risen alongside efforts to lift standards, emphasizing state‑led strategies that prioritize quality over volume.