Hotel & Tours Group

One of the reasons behind the rise in popularity of Croatia as a tourist destination is its accessibility to visitors, according to an industry representative.

Meri Matesic, director of Croatia's UK tourist board, said that modern roads and air connections throughout Europe and the world are boosting the country's appeal as a travel destination.

She also claimed that Croatia is "known worldwide" for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes.

Commenting on the particular destinations that are popular with visitors, Ms Matesic said: "90 per cent of our tourist visits are to the costal part of Croatia, on the Adriatic coasts.

"The main attraction of this area is its natural beauty and preserved cultural heritage. Croatia is truly Mediterranean; it is a country with more than 1,000 islands, a sailing and boating paradise."

The tourist board director described Dubrovnik as one of the leading destinations in Croatia, as "an attraction in and of itself".

Travellers can also catch flights to destinations including Zagreb and Split with Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa and other carriers.