ZAGREB, 21 Aug (Hina) – Croatia has welcomed 15.5 million tourists and 79.2 million overnight stays so far this year, both up 1% on 2024, with fiscal data showing a strong increase in spending, said  Minister Tonči Glavina on Thursday.

He added that this combination of record arrivals, overnight stays, and revenues represented an “almost ideal situation” for the sector.

According to official data, the value of fiscalised receipts is 10.4% higher than last year, with more receipts issued across accommodation, hospitality and travel services.

The Croatian National Bank (HNB) expects foreign tourist revenues to rise by 3.6% this year, reaching €15.5 billion.

Glavina stressed that growth is evident not only in the main summer months but also in the pre- and post-season, supporting the goal of developing Croatia as a sustainable, year-round destination.

The minister strongly condemned a recent case of a Zagreb taxi driver charging a foreign tourist an exorbitant fare, saying such behaviour has no place in Croatian tourism and calling on industry associations to act. He added that the Croatian National Tourist Board and Zagreb Tourist Board would contact the visitor to ensure suitable redress.

Glavina announced that in early September, the ministry will present a detailed analysis of the summer season, including accommodation occupancy rates, noting that while hotels are seeing growth, private rentals may face challenges in the years ahead.