If a few years ago you carelessly booked your apartment for your summer vacation in Croatia in March or even April, today the rules of the game are completely different. Changes in tourist habits, the increase in demand for Croatia as one of the most popular destinations in Europe and the rise in prices have caused the battle for the best apartments to start already in December - and believe me, there is no time to delay.
Croatia it is in recent years recorded records in the number of visitors, which is also confirmed by official data. According to the Croatian Tourist Board, in 2023 more than 20.6 million tourist arrivals and 108 million overnight stays, which means that the numbers are already quite close to the record pre-pandemic years. This year, however, some numbers are even better" and o means one thing for you: if you want to have your own perfect corner on the Croatian coast, now is the time to act.
Croatia - a destination that breaks records
Why has Croatia been one of the favorite destinations for Slovenians, Germans, Austrians and many others for many years? The answer is simple: it offers almost everything. Wonderful Adriatic Sea, more than a thousand islands, rich cultural heritage and excellent cuisine. Add to that a favorable climate that makes it possible to visit from spring to late autumn, and you have a destination that most Europeans tick off their wish list.
All this means one thing: apartments in popular places such as Rovinj, Poreč, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik sell out quickly. Let's not forget about islands such as Hvar, Brač and Krk, where luxury accommodation often does not arrive even in January.
Booking.com - Holiday booking 2025...Why is early booking crucial?
Tourist providers and apartment owners are no longer surprised by the growing demand. In fact, they expect it - and take advantage of it by design. In many cases, accommodation prices begin to rise already in January, when they detect an increased number of requests. Booking in December, however, often gives you access to ti “early bird” discounts, which many owner offers for those, who hurry up.
In addition to the lower price early booking it also provides peace and choice. There is nothing worse than browsing portals at the last minute, where only apartments with a less favorable location or less attractive conditions are available.
The psychological effect of early booking
Research shows that people feel less stressed when they plan ahead. Early booking of summer holidays allows, to avoid unnecessary worry and gives you time for joyful anticipation. Psychologists call this the “pleasure of planning,” where anticipation of a positive event in itself improves mood.
In addition, booking early has another advantage: it allows you to spread your expenses over a longer period, which is especially important in these times when the cost of living is higher.
What does the data say?
The latest studies and analyzes show a clear trend: demand for Croatia is growing, while quality accommodation is not endless. According to the data Croatian tourist communities:
- 20.6 million tourists visited Croatia in 2023, which is almost 9 % more than in 2022.
- Tourists generated more than 108 million overnight stays, which is 3 % more than the previous year.
- Most tourists come from Germany, Austria, Italy and Slovenia.
In addition, they have been spotted in many popular places such as Dubrovnik during the summer oversaturation with visitors, as a result of which they had to limit the number of guests at some tourist attractions.
How to secure your place under the Croatian sun?
If you want to be among those who will enjoy one of the Croatian beaches next summer, follow these steps:
- Get started now: Don't wait until January or February. December bookings guarantee you the best prices and the biggest selection.
- Use verified portals: Websites such as Booking.com, Airbnb and official portals of individual places are excellent choices.
- Be flexible: If your favorite apartment is already occupied, consider alternatives nearby.
- Consider prepaying: Some owners offer discounts if you pay part of the amount at the time of booking.
The early bird catches the worm - and, of course, the suite
Times when you can carelessly waited until spring, are over. Today, Croatia is a tourist mecca, where competition for the best locations starts months before the start of summer. If you want to catch your perfect holiday destination, now is the time to book Croatia!
Don't wait for others to overtake you - book now and secure your place under the Croatian sun!
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