Croatia is stepping up its fight against drunk tourists by introducing new restrictions in popular resort towns. Split has become the first city in the country to implement strict rules on alcohol sales this summer. Learn more about the new bans, hefty fines for tourists, and changes to Croatia's tourism strategy

This summer, the Croatian city of Split is introducing a measure unprecedented for the country — a complete ban on the sale of alcohol in stores after 8 p.m. This was reported by Express. The decision was made in response to systematic problems with the behavior of intoxicated visitors, which, according to the mayor, is “unacceptable.”

What exactly will change for tourists in Split, what fines are in effect in Croatian cities, and why the country is revising its approach to tourism — we'll tell you more in this article.

Planning a vacation in Croatia or another European country?

Travel insurance from the Visit World portal will help protect you from unexpected medical expenses, lost luggage, and other travel mishaps.

What alcohol restrictions are being introduced in Split?

Split is becoming the first city in Croatia where shops (grocery and alcohol) will no longer be able to sell alcoholic beverages after 8 p.m. The restrictions will primarily apply to the historic city center, which local authorities have identified as the most problematic area. This is where most of the clubs, bars, and shops are located, and therefore where incidents related to the violation of the safety and comfort of residents are most often recorded.

Important note! The ban applies exclusively to the retail sale of alcohol in stores. Restaurants, bars, and clubs in the city center will continue to operate as usual and serve alcoholic beverages without restrictions. The mayor of Split also did not rule out that in the future, the rule may be extended to other areas of the city, depending on the effectiveness of the new measure.

Why is Croatia changing its approach to tourism?

In recent years, Split has had a reputation as a “party town,” and in some cases, this reputation has even been promoted in tourism marketing. Darijo Šarić, CEO of a villa rental agency in Split, noted that in the past, the city may have encouraged visitors to enjoy the nightlife, but now Croatian tourism is consciously shifting to a different positioning.

The city authorities emphasize that the purpose of the new rules is not to deprive guests of entertainment. Split seeks to focus on natural beauty, cultural heritage, and creating a comfortable environment for family vacations. The ban on the sale of alcohol in stores in the evening is intended to encourage responsible alcohol consumption, not to destroy the city's nightlife as such.

---

Visit World services for tourists, migrants, and expats: Insurance | Guides | Legal advice

---

Restrictions for tourists in Croatia: fines and rules of conduct

Split is far from the only example of increased control over tourist behavior in Croatia. Last year, the island of Hvar, known as one of the country's main “party” destinations, introduced strict noise restrictions.

During the summer, it must not exceed 85 decibels, which is roughly equivalent to the noise level of a noisy restaurant, according to Euronews.

In addition to noise restrictions, tourists in Croatian cities should be aware of the hefty fines for violating the rules of conduct. In particular, wearing a swimsuit or swimming trunks outside the beach area is punishable by a fine of €600. Being shirtless in the city center will cost you €500. And drinking alcohol in public places will set you back €700. These amounts are quite substantial and demonstrate the seriousness of the Croatian authorities' intentions in combating so-called “anti-social” behavior by visitors.

When traveling to Croatia or any other European country, it is important to take care of your own safety in advance. New rules and fines are just one of the risks that tourists may encounter abroad. Unpredictable health situations, lost luggage, or flight cancellations can significantly spoil your vacation.

Taking out travel insurance on the Visit World portal is a quick and convenient way to protect yourself from financial losses while traveling.

Reminder! Back in 2025, Croatia introduced comprehensive reforms to its work visa policy aimed at attracting a variety of professionals, including skilled workers, digital nomads, and seasonal workers. For more information about work visas to Croatia, types of permits, requirements, and the application process, follow the link.

Photo: iStock

---

---