The finalists of the first Croatian Sustainable Tourism Award were presented today at the University of Zagreb. The award was created by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports in cooperation with the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). The aim of the award is to recognize destinations and businesses that are leading the sustainable transformation of Croatian tourism and making the greatest strides in environmental, social and economic sustainability.
The award is given in three categories – the best sustainable tourism destination in continental Croatia. Then the best sustainable tourism destination on an island or coastal area and the best business entity in sustainable tourism. Applications were open from September 19 to October 14, 2025. Three finalists were selected from 60 applicants in each category. These are the Tourist Board of Međimurje County, Osijek-Baranja County and Lika – Destination of Authentic Experience in the category of best on the continent. Then the City of Dubrovnik, Destination City of Nin and the Tourist Board of the Island of Krk in the category of best on the island/coast. And Valamar Riviera d.d., Žito d.d. – Hotel Mattera and Maslina Resort from Stari Grad in the category of best business entities. The applicants were assessed on the basis of their measurable contribution to environmental protection, community well-being, preservation of cultural heritage, innovation and alignment with Croatia’s long-term tourism strategy.
Croatia has the knowledge, ability and vision
“The Sustainable Tourism Award is a prime example of how Croatian sustainability practices are truly implemented in reality. It shows that our tourism is growing, but not at the expense of space and community, but together with them. It is confirmation that sustainability is not an obstacle to development, but its greatest advantage. Growth can be balanced, and tourism can be high-quality, responsible and innovative at the same time. The finalists we saw today are proof that Croatia has the knowledge, ability and vision and is rightly a leader in sustainable tourism on a global scale,” said Minister of Tourism and Sports Tonči Glavina. He added that the Sustainable Tourism Award is part of a broader reform process by which Croatia is developing tourism in line with the principles of sustainability.
“With this award, also in cooperation with the World Tourism Organization, the Center for Research and Development of Sustainable Tourism has been established at the University of Zagreb. The Center will act as a scientific platform and engine of innovation for the further development of sustainable tourism in Croatia, but also in other member states of this organization,” emphasized Minister Glavina.
“The center, which is being established at the University of Zagreb at the initiative of the ministry, and in cooperation with the World Tourism Organization, has an important role in strengthening the connection between the academic community and the tourism sector. I am convinced that the knowledge that our researchers have will contribute to the development of Croatia’s recognition in sustainable tourism. But also strengthen global cooperation in areas that affect the development of tourism. Therefore, I am extremely pleased that the presentation of the finalists of the Sustainable Tourism Award is being held at the University of Zagreb. This confirms our successful mutual cooperation,” said the Rector of the University of Zagreb, Prof. Dr. Sc. Stjepan Lakušić.
The award winners will be formally announced at this year’s Croatian Tourism Days, 20. and November 21st in Dubrovnik.
