Poreč October Sporting Extravaganza Draws Multitude of Visitors

After an exceptionally successful tourist season, Poreč continues to shine in the post-season, achieving outstanding results from October 1 to 22. The destination recorded 103,000 overnight stays, marking a 19% increase compared to the same period in 2022. German visitors led the way with a 16% increase, followed closely by Croatian guests at 16%, and Austrian visitors taking the third spot with an impressive 24% increase. Slovenian guests secured the fourth position, experiencing an 18% rise in overnight stays, followed by Italian visitors with a 22% increase.

Hotel accommodation saw the highest number of overnight stays, followed by private accommodation, boasting a 29% increase from 2022, and non-commercial accommodation with a 2% rise. These tourism results highlight the extension of the tourist season, attributed to the quality offerings that attracted a significant number of visitors to the destination.

Two Major Sport Events

The primary contributors to this success were the sports events held in October, with Poreč hosting two major sporting spectacles – Istria300 and Plava Laguna IRONMAN 70.3.

The third edition of Istria300 brought together approximately 3,000 ambitious cycling enthusiasts from around the world. The four-day cycling event featured thrilling routes through some of Istria’s most beautiful roads and spectacular locations. Beyond the race, Istria300 Expo offered everything the cycling world has to offer, complemented by exciting lectures and a special family program.

In October, the second edition of Plava Laguna Ironman 70.3 Poreč successfully took place. Despite changing weather conditions, over 1,500 athletes from 56 countries enjoyed an exciting weekend marked by a great atmosphere and sportsmanship. The race’s global popularity was evident as registrations were sold out three months before the event. With a proven accessible and attractive course, excellent conditions for swimming and running by the sea, Poreč provided an unforgettable sports weekend for all athletes and their companions.

Sport Fest

October also saw Poreč hosting the largest regional sports fair and conference – Sport Fest, bringing together everyone connected to sports, from athletes and enthusiasts to sports equipment and food manufacturers, as well as companies and associations providing services in sports.

Epic Rides

Looking ahead to the coming weekend (Saturday, October 28), Poreč will host the recreational cycling event – Epic Rides. This non-competitive cycling gathering is designed for all bike enthusiasts, promoting nature, fun, and camaraderie, regardless of age, gender, or physical and technical abilities.

Thanks to numerous high-quality events, Poreč has solidified its position as a top Croatian destination, realizing over 100,000 new overnight stays, particularly in the pre and post-season. Excitement builds for the continuation of quality projects expected until the end of the calendar year.