Split Implements Nighttime Alcohol Sales Ban to Tackle Tourist Disruption
The picturesque Croatian city of Split, renowned for its ancient old town and breathtaking coastal scenery, is set to introduce a significant ban on late-night alcohol sales. This decisive move comes in direct response to escalating issues caused by intoxicated tourists disturbing local residents and tarnishing the city's reputation.
Mayor Proposes Strict Trading Restrictions
Mayor Tomislav Šuta has formally submitted proposals to amend the Trade and Hospitality Act, aiming to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages between 8:00 PM and 6:00 AM. The restrictions are anticipated to take effect as early as this summer, targeting specific areas in the city centre where bars and nightclubs have reported a surge in what authorities describe as 'unacceptable' conduct.
'It is precisely here that situations arise that impair the safety and quality of life of tenants,' Mayor Šuta emphasised, highlighting the urgent need for intervention to restore peace and security for Split's permanent inhabitants.
Shifting Tourism Strategy Away from Party Image
Darijo Šarić, chief executive of VIP Holiday Booker, a luxury villa rental agency, provided context for the ban, noting that Split has historically cultivated a 'party destination' image that sometimes encouraged excessive revelry among visitors. However, Croatian tourism is now undergoing a strategic rebranding initiative.
'Croatian tourism is actively rebranding to move away from that reputation, focusing instead on our rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and family-friendly environment,' Šarić explained to the Mirror. 'These measures are designed to encourage responsible drinking rather than to stop the fun entirely.'
Precedent from Hvar and Contrast with Thailand
Split is not the first Croatian destination to implement alcohol-related controls. In 2017, the popular party island of Hvar launched a stringent clampdown on boisterous tourists, imposing substantial fines for offences such as public drinking, which carried penalties up to €700 (£608). Other infractions included wearing swimsuits on town streets (€600 fines) and failing to wear t-shirts (€500 fines), with signs prominently displaying the regulations.
Meanwhile, other global tourist hotspots are experimenting with different approaches. Thailand previously enforced a ban on alcohol consumption and purchases between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM and from midnight to 11:00 AM, with sellers facing fines up to 10,000 Thai baht (£234). However, following backlash from business owners and the tourism sector, Thai authorities reversed these regulations in November 2025.
Instead, Thailand introduced a six-month pilot programme permitting alcohol sales during the previously restricted afternoon hours, as announced by Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat. This trial could be extended further, illustrating the complex balance between public health concerns and economic interests in tourist-dependent regions.
The proposed alcohol sales ban in Split represents a proactive step to preserve the city's charm and livability, aligning with broader efforts to promote sustainable and respectful tourism practices across Croatia.
