Dalmatia 2023: price observations from the field

Observation

Five days in Biograd na Moru showed price trends in Central Dalmatia. Social media posts complain about Dalmatia, mostly about tourist costs. Prices rose sharply. The same is happening throughout Croatia.

Context

Many blame inflation, but 10% inflation doesn’t explain 40-50% price increases on products. In busy tourist spots in Dalmatia, prices hit 100% and higher. Euro adoption matters, but it’s not the only cause.

The logic is simple. When the tourist season gets shorter but profit must stay the same, raising prices is the easiest way. The post-pandemic tourism boom made this worse. Tourists spend money freely, which pays for glamping luxury upgrades. Loyal returning guests leave.

Reading

The choice is clear when Dalmatia costs €2,600 instead of last year’s €1,600. Add road tolls and EU-mandated fuel prices. Compare that to an all-inclusive resort in Egypt for €3,200 including flights and meals.

Croatia might be hurting its own tourism sector. Or it could be part of something bigger in Europe. Price increases are driving traditional visitors away.

Notes

Campsites are turning into glamping resorts. A grass pitch reservation costs up to €100. People who want to avoid price increases have to compare providers or find places off the beaten track.