Croatia Showcases Record Tourism Achievements at MATKA Travel Fair 2026
Croatia is proud to participate in the MATKA Nordic Travel Fair 2026 in Helsinki, presenting its diverse and award-winning tourism offer. This year, Croatia’s stand spans 49 square meters and features five co-exhibitors, representing some of the country’s most attractive destinations, experiences, and tourism brands.
According to data from the eVisitor system, which tracks both commercial and non-commercial accommodation, as well as nautical charters, Croatia recorded 21.8 million arrivals and 110.1 million overnight stays in 2025 — an increase of 2% in arrivals and 1% in overnight stays compared to 2024. This marks the first time Croatia has surpassed 110 million overnight stays in its history.
“We are proud of our results, which reflect growth in all segments, including record-breaking pre-season and post-season figures. December alone brought more than one million overnight stays. In addition to these historic achievements, we have successfully implemented demanding tourism reforms aimed at increasing accommodation quality. As we step into 2026, we are ready to face global market challenges with strong international promotion, said Tonči Glavina, Minister of Tourism and Sport.
Among Croatia’s regions, Istria led with 30.3 million overnight stays in 2025, followed by Split-Dalmatia County (20.9 million), Kvarner (18.5 million), Zadar County (15.5 million), Dubrovnik–Neretva County (9.3 million), Šibenik–Knin County (6.6 million), and Lika–Senj County (3.5 million). The most-visited destinations were Dubrovnik, Rovinj, Split, Poreč, and Umag.
“These outstanding results motivate us to further position Croatia as a year-round premium and sustainable tourism destination. Our focus in 2026 will be to enhance cooperation with airlines, tour operators, and digital travel platforms, boosting early bookings and brand recognition. We are committed to delivering quality and value for money to all our guests,”
said Kristjan Staničić, Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board.
Croatia also recorded strong growth from its key markets in 2025. Germany tops the list with 22.3 million overnight stays, followed by domestic tourists (13.8 million), Slovenia (11.1 million), Austria (8.2 million), Poland (7.3 million), the Czech Republic (4.9 million), and the United Kingdom (4.1 million).
About Croatia at MATKA 2026
At MATKA, visitors can explore Croatia’s rich offer — from sun-kissed Adriatic beaches and UNESCO-listed heritage sites to adventure tourism, gastronomy, and sustainable travel opportunities.
Croatian National Tourist Board, Stand nr. 6b70
Stand size: 49 sqm
Participants: 5 co-exhibitors showcasing selected destinations and tourism services:
Lika-Senj Tourist Board, Zadar Tourist Board, Sibenik-Knin Tourist Board, Split-Dalmatia Tourist Board & Dubrovnik-Neretva Tourist Board.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Vedran Susic, Head of Croatia’s Representative Office for the Nordics and Baltics, who will be present for all four days of the fair.
“Finnish travelers have a strong and lasting connection to Croatia,” said Susic. “We see great potential in this market — Finnish guests value our hospitality, authentic experiences, and the balance between relaxation and adventure that Croatia offers. MATKA is the ideal place to deepen that relationship.”
Croatia continues to be one of Europe’s top holiday destinations, combining pristine nature, outstanding gastronomy, and a growing focus on sustainable and premium tourism.
Photo: Plitvice National Park
Author: Stipe Surac
