Published on
January 9, 2026
Croatia’s Adriatic Coast has firmly established itself as one of the leading destinations for summer tourism in 2025, with over nine million booked nights. This surge in demand reflects the region’s growing appeal as a top coastal getaway in Europe, driven by the increasing reliance on digital accommodation platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. The impressive numbers highlight Croatia’s success in attracting travelers seeking the perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and modern booking convenience, solidifying its place as a major player in the European tourism market.
Adriatic Croatia has secured its position as the second most sought-after region in the European Union for short-term vacation rentals booked via online platforms during the second quarter of 2025, according to new data from Eurostat.
Between April and June, the Adriatic coast recorded a total of 9.6 million overnight stays, making it the second-highest in Europe for digital accommodation bookings. The region was outpaced only by Spain’s Andalusia, which took the lead with a significant 13.3 million overnight stays during the same period. Close behind, France’s Île-de-France region claimed third place with 9 million booked nights, solidifying its spot as one of Europe’s key tourism hotspots.
This surge in demand highlights the Adriatic region’s strong position within Europe’s tourism industry, especially in terms of digital accommodation bookings made through popular online platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and others. These figures underline Croatia’s appeal as a prime summer vacation destination, drawing significant attention from tourists seeking easy, convenient access to coastal beauty.
Further analysis of Eurostat’s findings reveals that the 20 most popular regions for summer 2025 short-term rental bookings were predominantly concentrated in just five EU countries. Spain and France led the charge, with six regions each making the list. Italy followed closely with five regions, while Portugal contributed two. Croatia, representing the Adriatic coast, was the only country outside the big four to secure a spot, underscoring its growing influence in European tourism.
The figures underscore a broader trend within the European travel landscape, where tourists increasingly turn to online booking platforms to secure their accommodations. This shift is especially evident during the summer months, when demand for prime coastal locations peaks. The high demand for the Adriatic coast demonstrates not only the region’s appeal but also how it competes with other well-established destinations across Europe.
The strength of the Adriatic region as a summer destination reflects a combination of factors. Its picturesque coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture make it a natural draw for tourists. Additionally, the ease of booking through digital platforms allows for a seamless travel experience, further enhancing its attractiveness. The region’s consistent popularity, coupled with its competitive pricing and variety of accommodations, positions it as one of the most desirable coastal destinations in Europe.
As the summer of 2025 approaches, these numbers suggest that Croatia’s Adriatic coast will continue to thrive as a key player in the European tourism market. The region’s strong showing in digital accommodation bookings not only highlights its importance as a destination but also emphasizes the growing reliance on online platforms to meet the demands of today’s travelers. As European tourists look for convenient, accessible vacation options, Adriatic Croatia remains a top choice, offering everything from luxurious seaside resorts to charming local apartments.
Looking ahead, Croatia is expected to remain a dominant force in Europe’s coastal tourism sector, attracting millions of visitors every year. Its robust tourism infrastructure, coupled with continued growth in online accommodation bookings, positions it as a leading destination for both short-term stays and longer vacations. The Adriatic coast’s consistent performance on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com reflects a broader shift in how people plan and book their holidays, with digital solutions increasingly becoming the preferred choice.
The Adriatic region of Croatia’s ranking as the second most in-demand destination for short-term accommodation in the EU during the second quarter of 2025 underscores its rising importance on the global tourism map. With its appeal to summer travelers, ease of access via online platforms, and competitive pricing, Croatia is set to remain a favorite destination for European tourists in the years to come.
