Split has become the first city in Croatia to ban the sale of alcohol in shops and liquor stores after 8pm, in a direct response to what the mayor describes as “unacceptable” scenes of intoxicated visitors in the historic centre. The new measure, proposed by Mayor Tomislav Šuta, will restrict late-night alcohol sales in problematic parts of the city between 8pm and 6am, starting this summer.

The city centre, with its high concentration of clubs, bars, and all-night shops, has been singled out as particularly problematic. “It is precisely here that situations arise that impair the safety and quality of life of tenants,” Mr Šuta explained on Thursday (February 12), adding that the possibility of extending the rules to other parts of Split has not been ruled out. The restrictions will apply to grocery stores and liquor shops, but not to clubs and restaurants, meaning visitors can still enjoy drinks in licensed venues after 8pm.

Darijo Šarić, CEO of luxury villa rental agency VIP Holiday Booker, welcomed the ban, seeing the move as part of a broader rebranding of Croatian tourism: “In previous years, Split may have leaned into a ‘party destination’ image, sometimes encouraging partying among visitors. However, Croatian tourism is now actively rebranding to move away from that reputation, focusing instead on our rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and family-friendly environment.

“The new restrictions do not apply to clubs or restaurants, they only affect the sale of alcohol in grocery and liquor stores. You can still enjoy a drink after 8pm but the goal is simply to move drunken behaviour and alcohol consumption away from public streets and into appropriate venues. These measures are designed to encourage responsible drinking rather than to stop the fun.

“Ultimately, it’s all about balance. Everyone wants visitors to Split to have an unforgettable experience, but we also don’t want residents to feel like the city is a 24-hour party zone. By drinking responsibly and respecting local customs, you help us keep Croatia a cherished, safe, and welcoming destination for everyone.”

This is not the only recent attempt to curb the effects of overtourism and antisocial behaviour in Croatia, either. Last year, Hvar –  one of the country’s most famous “party islands” – voted to maintain strict noise restrictions during summer, limiting noise to 85 decibels (the equivalent of a noisy restaurant) despite pushback from local businesses.

The Express previously spoke with two members of the Dictum, Factum! Association which has been leading the fight for more relaxed noise restriction levels. “It’s really ridiculous because Hvar depends on tourism in the first place,” said local hotel, small restaurant and bar owner Nađa Vukasović. “Even if it didn’t, it’s still ridiculous as you can’t have birthday parties, guitar players singing inside the bars, so all bars, restaurants, hotels, hotel lobbies, conferences with microphones…”

“It’s a stupid law – it’s impossible to organise weddings,” added association president Visko Visković. “This is huge nonsense.”

Visitors should also be aware of other fines already in place across Croatian destinations, including wearing a bikini or Speedos in the town centre, which sparks fines of €600, being shirtless in the town centre at €500 (£434) and public consumption of alcohol at €700 (£609). Making noise above 85 decibels at night warrants fines of €300 (£261) for individuals and €1,320 (£1,148) for businesses.