Croatia has registered a 2% increase in arrivals from the United Kingdom in 2026, exceeding 840,000 UK visitors so far this year. According to the Croatian National Tourist Board, the UK continues to rank among its top 10 source markets.
Jet2 Launches New Flights from Edinburgh and Luton in 2027
Jet2 will commence seasonal flights from Edinburgh to Pula starting May 2, 2027. It will also begin service on the Luton to Dubrovnik route from May 7, 2027. These new connections aim to enhance access between the UK and Croatia.
Alongside expanded flight options, several upscale hotels will open in 2027, including the Marriott Opatija Resort and Spa and Hilton
Lopud Beach Resort and Spa located near Dubrovnik, reflecting rising investment in hotel quality.
Croatian National Tourist Board Targets Broader Seasonal Tourism
The Croatian National Tourist Board is pursuing growth beyond summer peak months, focusing on shoulder seasons and winter tourism. Director Kristjan Staničić highlighted increasing UK interest in city breaks and gastronomy in Croatia as factors contributing to this strategy.
Staničić said, “Interest in city breaks and gastronomy in Croatia is increasing. Our strategy is focused on extending the high season to shoulder season.” The tourism board expects improvements in hotel quality, driven by both Croatian and international hotel chains.
Winter Campaigns Emphasize Christmas Markets and Snow Experiences
Marketing campaigns planned for the UK in
2027 will promote winter attractions like Christmas markets in Zagreb, Osijek, and Varaždin. The campaigns also highlight Croatia’s mountains and national parks offering snow-related experiences.
Staničić remarked, “Clients can also experience our mountains and national parks in the winter season, with the snow, which is a special experience.” This indicates an effort to diversify Croatia’s appeal outside the traditional summer season.
The Croatian National Tourist Board will organize familiarization trips for UK travel agents in 2027 to showcase the country’s offerings. Staničić stated, “We will be organising fam trips to Croatia, because we think this is the best way to
get to know what we are offering.” These initiatives are part of a wider effort to boost British tourism.
