the 2026 season in numbers: hotels are growing, private accommodation is standing still
Overall, the season was on a par with last year, but eVisitor data shows hotels growing faster while private accommodation stands still.
The season is over, and the data from the eVisitor system confirms what many hosts already felt back in July: the total is roughly the same as last year, but the growth is mostly in the hotel part of the market.
the overall numbers
According to Croatian National Tourist Board (HTZ) data from the eVisitor system, from January to the end of August 2026, Croatia had:
- 17.4 million arrivals (+1.4%)
- 90.5 million overnight stays (+0.5%)
August alone brought 31.3 million overnight stays, 0.5% more than last year.
private accommodation and hotels
| First 8 months of 2026 | Arrivals | Overnight stays |
|---|---|---|
| Private accommodation (household facilities) | 6.1 million (+0.7%) | almost 34 million (about the same as last year) |
| Hotels | 5.8 million (+2%) | 20 million (+2.7%) |
Private accommodation is still the biggest segment by overnight stays. But hotels are growing faster in both arrivals and overnight stays, while private accommodation is practically standing still.
how we read it
This is our own estimate, not an official HTZ conclusion. When overall demand stagnates and one segment grows, the growth comes at the expense of others. Hotels offer the guest a package (breakfast, pool, reception, flexible arrival) that more easily justifies the price. Private accommodation without a clearly expressed advantage finds it harder to stand out among the ever-growing supply on platforms.
what to take from it for 2027
- Don't look only at August. Look at how many nights you had outside the peak and at what price.
- Be clear about what you offer. Photos, description and reviews should show the guest right away why they should choose you.
- Build a list of returning guests. A guest who comes back compares you less with the rest of the offer, and if they book direct, you don't pay a commission to a platform.
- Factor in possible new costs. The Government has sent Parliament a proposal for a higher flat rate per bed for the most developed places, and a registration number for accommodation units is being introduced.