Croatia allocates 30% more funding for new air routes and improved connectivity

Croatia has taken significant steps to reinforce its global tourism position after key decisions were adopted at the third session of the Tourism Council of the Croatian National Tourist Board (HTZ).

The Council approved a series of marketing and PR collaborations spanning sport, strategic transport partners and major events for 2026, underlining Croatia’s ambition to strengthen its reputation as a competitive, year-round destination.

A key outcome of the session was the approval of cooperation agreements with the Croatian Handball Federation (HRS) for the period 2026–2028 and the Croatian Olympic Committee (HOO) for 2026–2029.

The partnerships will ensure the visibility of the Croatian tourism brand across official communication channels, sporting equipment, matches and competitions. Promotional messages from HTZ will also be integrated into sporting events.

Tourism and Sport Minister Tonči Glavina stressed the importance of these collaborations, highlighting the global exposure generated by Croatian athletes. He pointed to recent bronze medals at European handball and futsal championships as evidence of the international visibility Croatian sport delivers.

“These decisions are extremely important for promoting our country and further positioning Croatia as a year-round destination,” Glavina said. He added that major sporting and other events across the country present opportunities to strengthen Croatia’s offer beyond the peak summer season.

Record Investment in Airline Partnerships

A strong emphasis was placed on improving Croatia’s international accessibility. HTZ has allocated more than €3.3 million in 2026 for marketing cooperation with strategic partners including airlines, tour operators and transport providers.

Among the partners are easyJet, Eurowings, Ryanair, Lufthansa Group, United Airlines, KLM, LOT Polish Airlines, Jet2holidays and TUI.

Funding for airline partnerships has increased by 30% this year, resulting in five new partners and expanded route networks designed to improve year-round connectivity.

One of the most notable developments is strengthened cooperation with United Airlines. Alongside the existing New York–Dubrovnik service, a new direct New York–Split route will further enhance Croatia’s direct connectivity with the United States.

(Photo: HTZ)

Glavina described the strengthened ties with US carriers as a significant step in boosting Croatia’s transatlantic presence.

The Council also approved €535,000 in funding for marketing cooperation with 25 organisers of major “TOP events” in 2026. These include leading cultural, entertainment and sporting events held across the country.

Among the beneficiaries are Sea Star Festival, Plava Laguna IRONMAN 70.3 Poreč, Boris Hanžeković Memorial, Pannonian Challenge, DOBRO World Cup Osijek, Sinjska alka, Maraton lađa and Riječki karneval.

By supporting high-profile events across different regions, HTZ aims to encourage more balanced tourism development and stimulate travel outside the traditional summer months.

HTZ Director Kristjan Staničić said the decisions directly support Croatia’s international accessibility and visibility in key source markets.

“Our goal through these partnerships is to stimulate additional demand, open new market opportunities and further support the development of year-round tourism in an increasingly demanding global environment,” Staničić stated.

(Photo: HTZ)

Expanded Digital Reach in North America

In addition, the Council approved advertising on Expedia channels targeting the Canadian and US markets.

As one of the world’s leading online travel agencies, Expedia reaches more than 70 million users and records over one billion searches per month. The move is expected to further enhance Croatia’s exposure in North America, one of its strategically important long-haul markets.