Published on
August 29, 2025
For years, Split, Croatia, has been a magnet for young travelers eager to experience its vibrant nightlife, characterized by 24-hour bars and a party atmosphere. While this has contributed to the city’s growing popularity, it has also led to a series of challenges that have left many local residents frustrated, particularly due to sleepless nights and disturbances caused by late-night revelers.
This summer, the trend of round-the-clock drinking establishments continued, with little to no respite for locals. Despite police data showing a decrease in offences against public order in July, many residents remain unhappy with the situation. Their concerns are compounded by the feeling that law enforcement cannot respond quickly enough to the disturbances, leading to a growing sense of urgency for change.
The Mayor’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
In response to mounting frustration, Mayor Šuta of Split has announced plans to curb the excessive partying culture that has become synonymous with the city. These proposed changes aim to transform Split into a more balanced and sustainable destination, while addressing the concerns of its residents.
The new plans are expected to be introduced by the end of the year, but they will require approval from the Croatian Parliament (Sabor) before being fully implemented. Although the specific details of these proposals remain under wraps, it is clear that a shift is being prioritized.
As part of the new direction, Split is aiming to reduce its reliance on the “alcohol tourism” that has been the driving force behind much of the city’s recent growth in popularity. The mayor’s office has pointed to examples set by other European cities such as Barcelona and Prague, which have already introduced measures to curtail the disruptive behaviour associated with alcohol tourism. These cities have led the way in finding ways to attract different types of tourists, including those seeking cultural and historical experiences, rather than solely the party scene.
A Mixed Picture of Public Safety
While the shift in Split’s tourism model is supported by many, police data presents a mixed picture. Statistics from July show a significant drop in offences against public order compared to the same month last year. Despite this reduction, complaints from residents regarding the lack of police presence on the streets continue to surface.
This situation has led some local officials to stress that while changes in legislation and stricter regulations are important, they will not be sufficient on their own. In fact, some believe that more proactive measures, including better policing and infrastructure, are necessary to create a truly safer and more livable environment for residents.
The ongoing issue has become a source of division in Split, with some residents calling for an immediate overhaul of the city’s approach to tourism. They argue that the current tourism model is unsustainable and is damaging the quality of life for those living in the city year-round.
Rethinking the Party Tourism Model
One of the key elements of Mayor Šuta’s new plan is to encourage a shift away from party tourism. The mayor has stressed the importance of attracting a more diverse range of visitors who are interested in exploring the cultural and natural beauty of the region, rather than simply enjoying its nightlife. This will involve a comprehensive strategy that could potentially include restricting flights from low-cost airlines that contribute to the influx of budget-conscious party tourists.
To achieve this vision, the city is considering the introduction of incentives for more sustainable tourism. This could include tailored packages for tourists interested in the cultural, historical, and natural offerings of Split, alongside initiatives aimed at preserving the city’s heritage and natural landscapes.
The proposal to focus on a broader range of tourists reflects a growing sentiment among locals that Split’s image as a party destination is no longer desirable. Instead, there is a strong desire to reposition the city as a place where visitors can enjoy a slower, more relaxed pace of life, in harmony with its residents.
Balancing Tourism and Local Well-being
The push for a more sustainable approach to tourism in Split is not without its challenges. The city has long been a favorite among young, budget-conscious travelers, and changing its image will require careful planning and coordination. While tourism is crucial to the local economy, the aim is to strike a balance that ensures the well-being of residents without sacrificing the vibrancy and appeal that draws visitors in the first place.
Split’s new direction also aligns with broader European trends, where cities are beginning to rethink their tourism strategies. The emphasis is shifting away from mass tourism and towards more sustainable models that prioritize quality over quantity. By fostering a tourism industry that respects local communities, cities like Split hope to create a more resilient and long-term tourism economy.
What Lies Ahead for Split’s Tourism Industry?
Looking forward, the future of Split’s tourism industry is poised to evolve significantly. With the mayor’s office pushing for changes, the city is set to embrace a new phase where tourism and resident quality of life can coexist in a more harmonious way. By diversifying the types of tourists that are attracted to the city and focusing on cultural and sustainable travel, Split hopes to emerge as a model for other European destinations grappling with similar challenges.
While the journey ahead will require careful planning and cooperation between local government officials, residents, and the tourism industry, there is optimism that Split can successfully transition into a city that values its residents and promotes a sustainable form of tourism for the future.
