Croatia named best county in Europe to visit in 2025

by croatiaweek
March 4, 2025
in Travel

Croatia has been named the best county in Europe to visit in 2025 by European Best Destinations (EBD).

After votes from over 1 million travellers, Croatia was declared the number one destination to visit in Europe this year.

In second place was Spain, followed by Austria, Italy and Greece.

Croatian tourism officials were presented the award today at the ITB Berlin by EBD’s Maximilien Lejeune.

“The interest in Croatia at ITB and our EBD award confirm our status as a premium tourism destination. More than a million travellers voted for Croatia, which reflects our strong global appeal.

Our visibility among 220 million potential tourists through media partners like Forbes and Condé Nast is a great promotional boost.

We expect steady demand from the German market, a rise in off-season travel, and more focus on Croatia’s inland destinations, with value-for-money remaining a priority for travelers,” said CNTB Director Staničić.

Croatian tourism officials presented the award (Photo: HTZ)

Croatia Showcased at ITB Berlin as Top European Destination

The Croatian National Tourist Board (CNTB) is making a strong return to ITB Berlin, one of the world’s leading tourism fairs, taking place from 4 to 6 March. The goal is to highlight Croatia’s diverse tourism offerings and strengthen partnerships in its key market—Germany.

Leading the Croatian delegation are Tourism Minister Tonči Glavina, CNTB Director Kristjan Staničić, and CNTB representatives from Frankfurt and Munich, Romeo Draghicchio and Nera Miličić.

“Germany is our most important market, and ITB Berlin is the perfect platform to show that Croatia offers great value, quality, and diverse experiences throughout the year.

With Germans expected to travel more in 2024 than before the pandemic, we see great potential for growth, especially in pre- and post-season periods. Being named the top European destination for 2025 is further proof of Croatia’s rising global reputation,” said Minister Glavina.

The Croatian delegation is holding key meetings with major partners, including the German Association of Travel Agencies (DRV), ADAC, Eurowings, TUI, and Jet2, to discuss business expectations, bookings, and tourism forecasts. Croatian Ambassador to Germany, Gordan Bakota, also visited the stand to support the initiative.

ITB (Photo: HTZ)

Despite economic and political uncertainties in Germany, travel trends remain positive. “ITB Berlin allows us to connect with partners and tourism bodies from Germany and beyond. Croatia’s tourism competitiveness is growing, and we are on track for another strong season,” added Romeo Draghicchio.

Germany remains Croatia’s top tourist market, accounting for over 20% of total overnight stays. In 2023, Germans recorded over 22 million overnights, with Istria leading the way (10 million+), followed by Kvarner (4.5 million+), and Split-Dalmatia and Zadar counties (2.4 million+ each). Rovinj, Poreč, and Medulin were among the most visited destinations.

Alongside CNTB, 25 co-exhibitors, including tourist boards from Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, and other key regions, are showcasing their offers. The Croatian stand is also featuring wine and cheese tastings in collaboration with the Croatian Chamber of Commerce, further promoting the country’s rich gastronomy.