Croatia and Slovenia are basking in the glow of record-breaking tourism growth as they enter 2025, solidifying their positions as sought-after travel destinations. Croatia, with its stunning coastal regions and thriving cultural scenes, has recently been recognized as one of the top 10 most Googled travel destinations globally, according to data from Google, Booking.com, and Wanderlust.
The appeal of Croatia spans both its inland and coastal landscapes, enticing visitors eager to experience the diverse attractions it offers. Cities like Osijek-Baranja County have gained accolades for their warm hospitality and authentic Croatian experiences, making them must-visit spots for adventurous travelers.
Dubrovnik continues to shine, having earned its place on Wanderlust’s prestigious "Good to Go" list for 2025, confirming its status as a historical and cultural gem. The tourism dynamics in Croatia show promising growth, especially with visitor numbers from the UK forecasted to exceed last year's already impressive 9% increase.
The expansion of airline routes and revived ferry services have contributed significantly to this growth. Notably, UK airports have ramped up their services to Croatia, with more flights available to major cities like Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Split, and even the lesser-known Osijek. This increased accessibility is expected to bring even more traffic as travelers flock to explore the country's breathtaking landscapes.
Pula is gearing up for significant growth as Jet2.com announces new direct flights from Birmingham, London Stansted, and Manchester starting May 1, extending through October. This new connectivity not only simplifies access to Pula but also opens up exciting opportunities for visiting Istria, one of Croatia’s picturesque regions.
Further enhancing travel options, EasyJet plans to introduce a new twice-weekly route from Liverpool to Split, ensuring smoother travel to the stunning Dalmatian coast. This uptick in direct flights coincides with the reopening of ferry services between Trieste, Italy, and the Croatian gems of Poreč, Rovinj, and Mali Lošinj, which had been inactive for over three decades. This valuable connection will undoubtedly facilitate exploration and brings affordability to travelers wanting to discover Istria and the Kvarner region.
The luxury tourism sector within Croatia is also set to thrive with the opening of several high-end hotels. Noteworthy properties include the Heritage Hotel & Resort Monumenti located in Pula, melding historical architecture with contemporary luxury, and the first Marriott establishment, Hotel Isolano, on Cres Island. The Hyatt Regency Zadar and Hilton Hotel Preko on Ugljan Island are also highlights, both promising breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and luxurious relaxation options for visitors.
Meanwhile, Slovenia is not far behind, as its oldest city, Ptuj, recorded record-breaking tourism numbers in 2024. Welcoming over 154,000 overnight stays, the city indicated a 2.8% growth from 2023, primarily driven by 55.1% foreign visitors. The diversity of international guests, including those from Germany, Austria, and the Czech Republic, helped bolster the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Israeli tourists, drawn particularly to Ptuj Castle, significantly contributed to the increase, as more travelers explored beyond focal points, engaging with wine cellars and Roman archaeological sites. The city’s partnership with the Slovenian Tourist Board allowed for effective promotion at major travel fairs, including events held in Vienna and Budapest, broadening Ptuj’s outreach and recognition.
Notably, Visit Ptuj organized 197 events throughout the year, enhancing its cultural reputation and attracting visitors to experience festivals like Kurentovanje. The Kurent House emerged as a popular attraction, emphasizing the city's cultural richness and historical depth.
Efforts to focus on sustainability and digital advancements are also helping Ptuj regain its pre-pandemic tourism levels by engaging tourists and creating memorable experiences. A significant representation of journalists, influencers, and travel agents visiting Ptuj has provided increased coverage and enhanced visibility, indicating great potential for continued growth.
With Croatia and Slovenia both undertaking strategic initiatives and developments to maintain momentum, it is clear 2025 is set to be another remarkable year for tourism across Europe. With such dynamic offerings—from dramatic coastal landscapes and historical depth to vibrant cultural events—these countries are well-equipped to cater to travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Whether one visits the captivating streets of Dubrovnik and Zagreb or the enchanting atmosphere of Ptuj, these destinations are poised to deliver extraordinary experiences for visitors worldwide, ensuring returning travelers will discover something fresh and exciting each time they visit.