Poreč’s new luxury hotel a €200m boost for year-round tourism

by croatiaweek
March 25, 2025
in Business

(Photo: Valamar/Press)

Poreč, on the coast of the Istrian Peninsula, is set to welcome a brand-new luxury hotel as part of a €200 million investment by Valamar.

The project, located in the Pical zone, is currently the largest single investment in Croatian tourism.

The new five-star hotel will offer year-round tourism, positioning Poreč as a key destination for both leisure and business travellers.

One of the key benefits of the project is its economic impact on the local community.

According to Valamar’s CEO, Željko Kukurin, the hotel will contribute an additional €3 million to the city’s budget each year. On top of that, guests staying at the hotel are expected to spend around €15 million annually in local businesses outside the hotel.

Crucially, the development will also enhance public spaces. Beaches, promenades, and recreational areas within the complex will be freely available to local residents, ensuring that the project benefits both tourists and the community, HRT reports.

(Photo: Valamar/Press)

New Facilities for Residents

In addition to luxury accommodation, the complex will include two swimming pools that will be accessible to local swimming clubs and the people of Poreč.

Mayor Loris Peršurić highlighted a previous agreement ensuring public use of both an indoor and outdoor pool, further integrating the hotel into the community.

(Photo: Valamar/Press)

A New Business Hub for Istria

The hotel will feature 514 rooms and the largest conference centre in Istria, capable of hosting up to 1,200 participants. This move aims to attract business tourism, positioning Poreč as a key player in the meetings and events industry.

With construction in full swing, around 500 workers are currently on-site, using 50,000 cubic metres of concrete and 5,000 tonnes of steel.

Year-Round Operation and Job Creation

Unlike many seasonal hotels along the Croatian coast, this hotel will be open all year round. This raises the question—who will work there?

The complex is expected to require more than 700 employees. However, Valamar reassures that 80% of its workforce comes from Croatia, and they do not anticipate major issues in recruitment.