The cost of holidaying in Croatia, the most popular international destination for Czech tourists, has experienced a significant increase this year compared to the previous year. The expenses for an average family have risen by several thousand Czech korunas. Despite the higher prices, it is estimated that around one million Czech tourists are planning to visit Croatia this summer, surpassing last year’s figure of nearly 850,000.

Tour packages have seen an average price hike of approximately fifteen percent, exceeding the usual single-digit increases observed in most other destinations. While accommodation costs offered directly by providers or through booking systems have slightly risen, the strength of the Czech koruna helps offset some of the increases, according to Jan Papež, a spokesperson for the Association of Travel Agencies.

Since the introduction of the euro, food and accommodation prices have notably risen, with an increase of around twelve to fourteen percent. However, Croatia remains one of the most desired destinations for Czech travelers, with interest this year approximately twenty percent higher compared to the same period last year, as highlighted by Jan Bezděk, a spokesperson for the NEV-DAMA travel agency.

In Croatia, the prices of groceries and services have primarily increased by around twenty percent since January. Factors contributing to this rise include inflation exceeding 13 percent and the transition to the euro, which has prompted merchants to round prices upward. Coffee has experienced the most significant increase in cost, with an average price hike of 6.44 Czech korunas per cup. Other beverages and food items have also risen, albeit to a lesser extent.

Restaurant prices in Croatia have risen by approximately 20 percent, and in some places, the increase reaches up to 35 percent. Accommodation costs have also surged, with hotel prices rising by about twenty percent. The same trend applies to private family apartments, with typical rental rates increasing from around 80 euros per night to approximately 100 euros.

Traveling to Croatia by car has not seen a significant cost increase. Cars remain the most common mode of transportation, and fuel prices in transit countries such as Slovakia, Austria, and Hungary have mostly remained stable or slightly decreased compared to last year. However, experts predict that prices may rise with the start of the tourist season.

While flight tickets, in general, have seen an increase of about twenty percent compared to the previous year, the price hike for flights to Croatia is not as significant. It varies depending on the date, destination, and airline carrier. For example, flights from Prague to Split with Smartwings can still be found for just over three thousand Czech korunas. The low-cost airline Ryanair offers a popular connection to Zadar, although increasing demand has begun to impact prices.

Despite the higher costs, the allure of Croatia as a summer destination remains strong for Czech tourists, who eagerly anticipate their vacation experiences in this beautiful Mediterranean country. The combination of Croatia’s stunning coastline, rich cultural heritage, and diverse attractions continues to attract visitors from the Czech Republic, making it a sought-after destination for a memorable summer getaway.

Article by Prague Forum