Edited by Anna Popper
The Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Hungary once again brought the colours, flavours and traditions of one of Hungary’s favourite holiday destinations to the heart of Budapest with the 4th edition of its annual tourism, cultural and gastronomic showcase: “A Touch of Croatia”.
The event, held on 18 June 2026, at the Representation of the European Commission in Hungary at Europa Point, has become one of the Embassy’s flagship public diplomacy programmes, presenting Croatia’s remarkable regional diversity while strengthening the close ties between the two neighbouring countries.
Nearly one hundred guests attended the showcase, including ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, tourism professionals, friends of Croatia and members of the Croatian community in Hungary. Among the prominent attendees were the newly elected Deputy Speaker of the Hungarian Parliament, Krisztián Kőszegi, as well as Ivana Herceg, Director of the Croatian National Tourist Board in Hungary.
The event was officially opened by Katalin Kovács-Toperczer, Deputy Head of the Representation of the European Commission in Hungary, and Dr. Mladen Andrlić, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Hungary. The programme was professionally led by Marina Sikora from the Croatian Embassy.
This year’s edition focused on three outstanding Croatian regions and communities: Istria County, theTown of Mursko Središće, and the Municipality of Kneževi Vinogradi, each offering visitors a glimpse into the country’s extraordinary cultural, historical and natural richness.
The unique attractions and achievements of the heart-shaped Istria County were presented by Boris Miletić, County Prefect, together with Dr. Ezio Pinzan, Head of the Administrative Department for Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Fisheries and Water Management.
Located on Croatia’s north-western peninsula, Istria is renowned for its breathtaking Adriatic coastline, picturesque Venetian towns, world-class olive oils, award-winning wines and exceptional gastronomy.
Places like Rovinj, Poreč and Pula perfectly combine Roman history, Venetian elegance, and Mediterranean charm, making the region one of Croatia’s most sought-after destinations.
The northern Croatian town of Mursko Središće was represented by Dragutin Stojko, President of the City Council, and Marina Matjašić from the local Tourist Board. Situated on the banks of the Mura River, which stretches 465 kilometres through four countries – Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Hungary – near the Slovenian border, the town proudly preserves its mining heritage while embracing nature tourism through its scenic riverside promenade, cycling routes and peaceful landscapes.
The Municipality of Kneževi Vinogradi (Hercegszöllős) in the heart of the Baranja region represented Eastern Croatia. Deputy Mayor Zoltan Šipoš, accompanied by Ines Palko Tata, Ivan Gerštmajer Zelember, President of the Baranja Winegrowers and Winemakers Association, and Đenđi Burjan of Belje Plus, introduced one of Croatia’s finest wine-producing areas to visitors. The presentation highlighted the region’s rich viticultural traditions, rural tourism, multicultural heritage, and outstanding gastronomy. An elaborately produced promotional film invited guests to discover Baranja’s vineyards, festivals, traditional cuisine, and unspoiled landscapes.
The cultural programme brought Croatian traditions vividly to life. The children’s folklore ensemble KUD Zvirek from Mursko Središće delighted the audience with authentic songs and dances, while guitarist Nenad Srpak added a refined musical dimension to the evening.
Beyond presenting destinations, “A Touch of Croatia” serves as an excellent example of cultural diplomacy. Through tourism, gastronomy, music and local traditions, it strengthens the already close friendship between Croatia and Hungary, while encouraging even more Hungarians to discover the country’s remarkable diversity beyond its famous coastline.
For Hungarians, Croatia is far more than a neighbouring country with long common history. Every year, hundreds of thousands of Hungarian tourists travel to Croatia’s Adriatic coast, drawn by its crystal-clear sea, spectacular coastline, historic towns, outstanding gastronomy and warm Mediterranean hospitality. Easily accessible by car in just a few hours, Croatia has become the preferred summer destination for generations of Hungarian families, who return year after year to enjoy its beaches, islands, UNESCO World Heritage sites, national parks and centuries-old cultural heritage.
Croatia continues to promote itself around the world under its inspiring tourism slogan, “Croatia – Full of Life”.
The motto perfectly captures the country’s vibrant lifestyle, spectacular natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and genuine Mediterranean hospitality.
Croatia’s latest international tourism campaign, starring acclaimed Hollywood actor John Malkovich, introduces the country in the emotionally engaging promotional film I Hear It’s Beautiful. On a personal and inspiring journey, the campaign invites travelers to explore not only Croatia’s iconic Adriatic coastline, but also its charming historic towns, unspoiled islands, breathtaking national parks, renowned vineyards, authentic cuisine and the genuine hospitality of its people – revealing a destination that offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
Whether visitors seek the turquoise waters of the Adriatic, Roman amphitheatres, medieval streets, picturesque fishing villages, vineyards stretching across gentle hills, or outstanding seafood paired with excellent Croatian wines – Croatia offers an unforgettable holiday experience only a comfortable drive from Hungary. This unique combination of proximity, safety, exceptional hospitality and extraordinary diversity has made Croatia one of Hungarians’ favourite holiday destinations for decades.
Events like “A Touch of Croatia” do far more than simply promote tourism – they celebrate the enduring friendship between the neighbouring countries, deepen cultural understanding, and inspire countless new journeys to discover why Croatia is truly “Full of Life”.
Source: Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Budapest
Photos from the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Budapest
