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Croatia’s Travel & Tourism Sector Set to Generate €26.4 Billion by 2035

Croatia’s Travel & Tourism Sector Set to Generate €26.4 Billion by 2035

James Miller, LocalsRide.com
by 
James Miller, LocalsRide.com
3 minutes read
News
May 22, 2025

Croatia’s Tourism Growth Forecast

The future of Croatia’s travel and tourism industry looks exceedingly bright, as indicated by recent research from a prominent global organization. By 2025, it is anticipated that this sector will contribute an impressive €21.3 billion to the national economy—surpassing levels seen before recent global upheavals and solidifying its position as a backbone of economic development.

International Tourism Trends

Driving this remarkable growth is a significant influx of international visitors, who are responsible for about 85.4% of total tourism expenditure. Notably, leisure travel constitutes an overwhelming 94.3% of all trips to Croatia. As the appetite for adventure and relaxation in this beautiful destination escalates, it is projected that the tourism sector will support around 488,000 jobs by 2025, eventually rising to 564,000 by 2035.

Economic Contributions and Job Creation

The forecast ahead suggests a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.0% for GDP contribution and 2.1% for job creation over the next decade. By the year 2035, the travel and tourism industry could generate an annual revenue estimated at €26.4 billion—an increase of nearly one-third compared to the present figures.

Beyond Economics: Social Impact

The ramifications of tourism in Croatia extend far beyond mere numbers. This sector contributes to about 25% of the government’s revenues, with approximately 51% of the direct workforce being women—indicating positive social implications. Additionally, youth employment (individuals aged 15–24) accounts for 12.6% of the workforce, with close to 18% holding lucrative positions.

Popular Source Markets

Key markets from which tourists flock to Croatia include Germany (18%), Slovenia and Austria (9% each), Poland (6%), and Italy (5%). Conversely, many Croatians also venture abroad, particularly to Italy (21%), Slovenia (13%), and Bosnia-Herzegovina (7%).

Environmental Considerations

While the tourism sector is making strides towards sustainability, it still heavily relies on fossil fuels, with only 9% of energy sourced from low-carbon and renewable methods. The sector is increasingly aware of the need for sustainable practices as eco-conscious travel rises in popularity.

Future Challenges and Prospects

As the focus on sustainability, job creation, and economic resilience heightens, Croatia’s tourism landscape is not merely bouncing back—it’s transforming to ensure long-term viability. The road ahead undoubtedly comes with challenges, particularly regarding infrastructure accessibility and aligning with the global shift towards eco-friendly travel. However, these hurdles present opportunities for romantic getaways and family vacations alike.

Summarizing Croatia’s Tourism Outlook

In conclusion, Croatia’s travel and tourism sector illustrates remarkable potential with a promising outlook for the upcoming decade. The expected growth not only signifies economic prosperity, but also empowers communities and harnesses the nation’s natural beauty for future tourism opportunities.

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