July the 16th, 2026 – Makarska in central Dalmatia has become the first Croatian city of all to restrict late-night alcohol sales in shops and kiosks.
Poslovni reports that beautiful Makarska, which attracts countless visitors each and every summer, has become the first Croatia city to restrict late-night alcohol sales in shops. The move marks a very significant shift in how popular tourist destinations are tackling public disorder during the busy summer season.
The decision follows recent amendments to Croatia’s Trade Act, which give cities and municipalities the authority to regulate when alcoholic beverages can be sold in shops. While bars, restaurants and cafés remain unaffected, local governments can now prohibit the retail sale of alcohol during designated nighttime hours.
Makarska is the first local authority to formally implement the measure, which aims to reduce street drinking, excessive noise, littering and other disturbances associated with cheap alcohol purchased from supermarkets and convenience stores.
City officials argue the move is intended to improve residents’ quality of life while encouraging more responsible tourism. The restrictions apply only to retail outlets, meaning visitors will still be able to purchase alcoholic drinks in licensed hospitality venues.
The new powers were introduced after years of complaints from residents in Croatia’s busiest tourist destinations, where late-night drinking in public spaces has become an increasing concern. National lawmakers argued that local authorities are best placed to determine whether such restrictions are necessary in their own communities.
Makarska’s decision is expected to serve as a test case for other Croatian destinations. Split has already launched public consultations on introducing similar seasonal restrictions, while other coastal cities including Zadar and Hvar have also expressed interest in using the new legislation. Proposed measures elsewhere would generally prohibit alcohol sales in shops between 21:00 and 06:00 during the peak summer tourist season, while allowing restaurants, cafés and bars to continue operating as normal.
The introduction of local alcohol sales restrictions reflects Croatia’s broader effort to balance its tourism industry with the needs of residents. Rather than discouraging visitors, authorities say the goal is to reduce antisocial behaviour linked to public drinking and promote a more sustainable tourism model.
Whether other municipalities follow Makarska’s lead is likely to become clearer before the end of the summer season, but the city’s decision has already established a precedent that could reshape nightlife management across Croatia’s most popular destinations.
