Croatia’s tourism has soared in 2023, with the country attracting a total of 20.6 million visitors. These guests contributed to **108 million overnight stays, a rise of 9% in arrivals and 3% in overnight stays compared to 2022. Remarkably, this marks a return to pre-pandemic tourism levels, comparable to the record-breaking year of 2019.

The top international markets for Croatia include Germany, Slovenia, Austria, and Poland, but domestic tourists also made a significant impact. Moreover, visitors from Czechia, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Netherlands have added to the impressive growth, propelling Croatia’s tourism to new heights.This December, towns and cities across Croatia are embracing the festive season with their iconic Advent celebrations. The most anticipated of these is Advent in Zagreb, which kicks off on November 30 and runs until January 7, 2025. It’s a must-see event, filled with enchanting lights, holiday cheer, and local traditions!

Festive Celebrations Across Croatia

If Christmas is your thing, Croatia offers a magical holiday experience this December. The streets will glow with Christmas lights, food stalls will tempt you with festive treats, and the entire country will be infused with a sense of joy and celebration. But Croatia’s appeal isn’t limited to the holiday season; it’s a destination of year-round allure. In fact, Croatia earned silver in the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards for Most Desirable Country (Europe), while the Croatian Islands snagged silver for **Most Desirable Region (Europe). And let’s not forget **Hvar, which secured 4th place in the **Most Desirable Island (Europe) category!

Visa-Free Travel to Croatia: Check Your Eligibility

As of November 2024, citizens of 93 countries are eligible to travel to Croatia without the need for a visa. Whether you’re planning a holiday, business trip, or short stay, you can explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich culture of Croatia with ease. Below is the complete list of countries whose citizens can enjoy visa-free access to Croatia. Make sure to check if your country is on the list and start planning your Croatian adventure today!

• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Spain
• Austria
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• Singapore
• Australia
• Ireland
• Belgium
• San Marino
• Poland
• Hungary
• Brunei
• Taiwan (Chinese Taipei)
• South Korea
• Japan
• Andorra
• Finland
• Sweden
• Norway
• Denmark
• Malta
• United Kingdom
• Iceland
• Greece
• Portugal
• Liechtenstein
• Monaco
• United States
• Canada
• Chile
• Czechia
• Lithuania
• Estonia
• Latvia
• Slovakia
• Slovenia
• Israel
• United Arab Emirates
• Malaysia
• Barbados
• Bahamas
• Palau Islands
• Seychelles
• Serbia
• Mauritius
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia
• Grenada
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Hong Kong (SAR China)
• Dominica
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Albania
• Georgia
• Cyprus
• Bulgaria
• Romania
• Tonga
• Argentina
• Macao (SAR China)
• Brazil
• Uruguay
• Costa Rica
• Mexico
• Vatican City
• Guatemala
• Panama
• Paraguay
• Colombia
• Peru
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• El Salvador
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Honduras
• Nicaragua
• St. Lucia
• Ukraine
• Samoa
• Venezuela
• North Macedonia
• Montenegro
• Solomon Islands
• Tuvalu
• Kiribati
• Moldova
• Timor-Leste
• Kosovo

Flight Updates for December

If you’re planning to visit Croatia in December, here’s a quick overview of direct flights from the UK and Ireland:

• British Airways from London Heathrow to Zagreb (year-round)
• Croatia Airlines from London Heathrow to Zagreb (year-round)
• Ryanair from London Stansted to Zagreb (daily year-round)
• Ryanair from Dublin to Zagreb (year-round)

Looking ahead to 2025, Easyjet will introduce a new route from Liverpool to Split, flying twice a week starting June 9!

Black Friday Travel Deals

The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a few great travel deals! If you’re thinking about a trip to Croatia, consider these Black Friday offers:

• Jet2 offers 15% off summer flights or 20% off winter flights.
• Ryanair is running Cyber Week with flights from £19.99 for travel from December to February.
• TUI has discounts of up to £300 when you spend £1000 or more on holidays from 2025 to 2026.

Advent in Zagreb: A Must-See Event

The highlight of Croatia’s Christmas celebrations is undoubtedly Advent in Zagreb. Starting November 30, visitors can enjoy a stunning range of activities:

• The lighting of the Advent candles at Mandusevac Fountain
• Festive markets, live music, and concerts, including the New Year’s Eve celebration at Ban Jelacic Square
• Delicious food at the Fuliranje event
• Santa’s sleigh rides in Zrinjevac Park

There’s so much to see and do—it’s a magical experience for all ages!

Remote Work in Dubrovnik

If you’ll be working over the holidays, why not do it from Dubrovnik? Recently named the best city for remote working at Christmas, Dubrovnik offers a beautiful setting for productivity and relaxation. Find out why this historic city is the ideal place to work and enjoy the festive season.

Christmas Events Across Croatia

Here’s a roundup of some of the best Christmas events happening around the country this December:

• Zadar: Advent & Christmas Market (Nov 24 – Jan 2)
• Opatija: Advent & Christmas Market (Nov 29 – Jan 6)
• Varazdin: Advent with Santa’s own city and a panoramic Ferris wheel (Nov 29 – Jan 6)
• Split: Advent with live concerts, kids’ activities, and festive decorations (Nov 30 – Jan 6)
• Rijeka: Advent on the Korzo with food, music, and **Advent on Gradina at Trsat Castle (Nov 30 – Jan 7)
• Dubrovnik: Winter Festival with Santa, retro fair, and New Year’s Eve celebrations (Nov 30 – Jan 6)
• Pula: Christmas magic at the Arena with snow and an ice rink (Dec 1 – Jan 6)
• Porec: Concerts, ice skating, and Santa photos (Dec 6 – Jan 6)
• Sibenik: Adventura with live music, food, and eco-friendly celebrations (Dec 6 – Jan 4)

Top Hotels in Croatia

1. Hotel Esplanade Zagreb (Zagreb) : A luxury hotel known for its Art Deco elegance and top-tier service, located in the heart of Zagreb.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik) : A five-star beachfront hotel with stunning views of the Adriatic and exceptional dining options.
3. Hotel Lone (Rovinj) : A contemporary design hotel located near the sea, offering luxurious amenities and wellness services.
4. Valamar Argosy Hotel (Dubrovnik) : A beautiful resort with a tranquil setting, perfect for both relaxation and exploring Dubrovnik.
5. Park Plaza Arena Pula (Pula) : Situated by the coast, this modern hotel offers panoramic views and a great base for exploring Pula’s ancient ruins.

Must-Try Croatian Cuisine

1. Pasticada : A slow-cooked beef stew marinated in wine and spices, often served with gnocchi or mashed potatoes.
2. Peka : A traditional Croatian dish made of meat (usually lamb, veal, or octopus) and vegetables, cooked under a bell-shaped lid covered in embers.
3. Burek : A savory pastry filled with minced meat, cheese, or vegetables, commonly enjoyed as a snack or quick meal.
4. Black Risotto (Crni Rižot) : A flavorful seafood risotto made with cuttlefish or squid, and colored black with their ink.
5. Fritule : Small Croatian doughnuts, typically served during the Christmas season, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with honey.

Plan Your Visit

Croatia is truly a holiday destination like no other, filled with festive cheer and beautiful settings to explore. Make sure to book your flights and accommodation soon to take advantage of Black Friday deals!