A popular Croatian resort has become the first city in the country to ban the sale of alcohol in stores during nighttime hours, aiming to reduce public drunkenness and conflicts between tourists and residents.
The measure, introduced on Tuesday, restricts retail alcohol availability after dark in an effort to maintain order in areas heavily frequented by visitors.
5 million overnight stays in the first half of 2026, according to data from the eVisitor system.
The decision comes as Croatia continues to grapple with the social impact of its booming tourism sector.
While the industry remains a cornerstone of the national economy, local authorities in key destinations are increasingly implementing stricter regulations to manage overtourism and preserve community standards.
This ban represents a significant escalation in local efforts to balance economic benefits with quality-of-life concerns for residents.
Croatia recorded 7.6 million tourist arrivals and 29.5 million overnight stays in the first half of 2026, according to data from the eVisitor system.