Croatia’s growing tourism sector is being urged to improve its vegan food offering, with an animal protection organisation warning that some international visitors are leaving disappointed by the lack of suitable meals.
The association Prijatelji životinja (Animal Friends) says it is increasingly receiving complaints from foreign tourists who struggle to find quality vegan dishes in Croatian restaurants.
The organisation argues that Croatia’s natural beauty and Mediterranean cuisine are not always enough for visitors who choose their holiday destinations based on the availability of plant-based food.
According to Prijatelji životinja, many restaurants still offer little beyond chips, boiled Swiss chard or salad when customers request a vegan meal. The association says some establishments also lack knowledge about what constitutes vegan food or are unwilling to adapt existing dishes.
The group points to Germany, one of Croatia’s largest tourism markets, where it says 8.12 million people are vegetarian or vegan. It says an increasing number of travellers consider access to plant-based food when choosing destinations, accommodation and restaurants.
Prijatelji životinja believes Croatia has considerable potential to expand its offering, noting that many traditional Croatian dishes are naturally plant-based or can be easily adapted.
The organisation says improving vegan options could strengthen Croatia’s competitiveness as a modern and sustainable tourism destination. It is calling for greater awareness among hospitality workers and for vegan options to be included more prominently in tourism guides.
The issue will also be highlighted at the upcoming ZeGeVege Festival, which will take place at Zagreb’s European Square from 4 to 6 September 2026, showcasing plant-based food and products.
Source: www.croatiaweek.com
