Swimmers heading to Croatia this summer can dive in with confidence: the country has been ranked fifth in Europe for the quality of its bathing waters, according to the latest report by the European Environment Agency (EEA).
The extensive study assessed over 22,000 bathing locations across Europe—spanning coastal areas, lakes, and rivers—and found that 85% of all sites met the highest standard for water cleanliness, particularly in terms of chemical pollution.
Croatia stood out with a strong showing, following just behind Cyprus, Bulgaria, Greece, and Austria. Its clear, turquoise waters—stretching along more than 1,700 km of rugged Adriatic coastline—earned it a place among the continent’s top five destinations for safe, high-quality swimming.
While Cyprus retained its crown with more than 99% of its bathing spots rated as excellent, and Bulgaria made impressive gains to land in second place, Croatia’s consistent performance underscores the country’s environmental stewardship and natural appeal.
From the pebbled coves of Brela to the pristine bays of Mljet and the family-friendly shores of Pelješac and Istria, Croatia offers countless options for swimmers seeking both beauty and peace of mind.
As the summer heats up, Croatia remains not just a cultural and culinary delight, but also a top-tier destination for beach lovers and sea swimmers alike.