Split ends summer alcohol sales ban as night-time restrictions lift

Split

SPLIT, 16 September 2026 – Shops in Split will once again be able to sell alcohol after 9pm from today as the city’s seasonal restriction on late-night alcohol sales comes to an end.

The restriction remained in force until midnight on Tuesday, 15 September. From 16 September, the normal rules return.

Split introduced the measure as part of efforts to address the impact of late-night alcohol consumption on public order, public health, the environment and the city’s historic centre.

Under the local decision, alcohol sales in shops, petrol stations, kiosks and specialist alcohol retailers were restricted to between 6am and 9pm during the designated summer period.

The measure was introduced later than originally planned this year, beginning on 18 August following changes to the relevant national legislation and the completion of the required local procedures.

It therefore remained in effect for less than one month in 2026.

The end of the restriction means residents and visitors will again be able to purchase alcohol from shops after 9pm during the remainder of the year, subject to national regulations.

The city has defended the seasonal measure as one element of its broader approach to managing the pressures created by large numbers of visitors during the summer season.

Split has experienced significant growth in tourism and nightlife activity in recent years, particularly around the historic centre and waterfront.

The restriction attracted attention because it targeted retail sales rather than alcohol consumption in hospitality venues such as restaurants and bars.

Businesses that failed to comply with the local rules faced significant fines. Penalties ranged from several thousand euros for companies and tradespeople to higher amounts in certain circumstances.

The local decision also provides for the possibility of reviewing or ending the measure if its effects do not justify continuing it.

For visitors arriving in Split after the summer season, the change means that the temporary 9pm retail restriction will no longer apply.

The measure illustrates how Croatian coastal cities are increasingly experimenting with seasonal rules designed to balance tourism, nightlife, residents’ quality of life and public order.

With the restriction now ending, attention will turn to whether Split decides to introduce the same or a modified measure during the next summer season.