Tourists at Zagreb Airport greeted with traditional Turopolje t-shirt

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

To mark Zagreb County Day, a special gesture greeted one hundred passengers arriving at Franjo Tuđman Airport.

Organised by the Zagreb County Tourist Board in cooperation with Zagreb International Airport, the welcome included the distribution of one hundred promotional T-shirts.

These shirts featured a modern interpretation of traditional Turopolje costumes, serving both as a thoughtful souvenir and an invitation to discover the richness of inland Croatia.

This symbolic act further reinforces Zagreb County’s growing position on the Croatian tourism map as a destination that offers authentic experiences, local stories and a distinctive identity.

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

It also highlights the Tourist Board’s strategic aim to leave a lasting first impression at key entry points into the country, starting at the airport, the gateway to Croatia.

A particularly memorable touch came from the members of the cultural association KUD Gradići, who handed out the T-shirts while dressed in traditional Turopolje costumes.

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

Their presence emphasised the value of living heritage and the warmth of a personal welcome.

Smiles from arriving passengers and their enthusiastic reactions confirmed that even small gestures, when heartfelt and meaningful, convey powerful messages of identity and hospitality.

Tourism Figures on the Rise

The first half of 2025 has seen a 3 percent increase in tourist arrivals in Zagreb County. Overnight stays remain at the strong levels recorded last year, when there was a 20 percent rise compared to 2023.

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

Meanwhile, Zagreb International Airport continues its growth, reporting an 8 percent increase in passenger traffic in June 2025 compared to the same month last year.

“We believe first impressions matter. Our aim is for passengers to immediately feel the warmth and authenticity of our region,” said Ivana Alilović, Director of the Zagreb County Tourist Board.

“This airport activation is a symbolic but powerful way of sharing our values of togetherness, hospitality and the rich cultural heritage we are proud to preserve. Zagreb County is developing as a region that plans for the long term, through sustainable tourism, support for local family farms and the creation of innovative tourism products that reflect the real needs of modern travellers.”

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

David Gabelica, Board Member of Zagreb International Airport, added: “Franjo Tuđman Airport is a strong platform that supports the growth of inland tourism, which is becoming an increasingly important part of Croatia’s overall offer. Our excellent air connections with many European and global destinations make it easier for visitors to reach the culturally rich, gastronomically vibrant and naturally unique locations of Zagreb County. We are especially pleased with our successful partnership with the Zagreb County Tourist Board, which continues to promote inland tourism and enhance the overall airport experience.”

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

This heartfelt welcome at the airport reflects the wider vision of the Zagreb County Tourist Board, to create a region that offers sincere hospitality, living tradition and modern experiences at every step, from first arrival to rural stay.

(Photo: TZZŽ/MZLZ)

Visitors are invited to explore the diverse beauty of a region that charms not only with its landscapes and heritage, but also through the genuine smiles of its hosts, the warmth of tradition and the unforgettable local flavours.