When Croatia came to Budapest – highlights from the “Touch of Croatia” event

For the third year in a row, the Embassy of the Republic of Croatia in Hungary hosted its flagship promotional event, A Touch of Croatia, on 25 June 2025, at the European Commission Representation’s Europe Point (Európa Pont) in Budapest. The event offered a vibrant celebration of Croatian culture, gastronomy, and tourism, drawing a large and diverse audience from the diplomatic, business, and local communities.

Speeches

Dr. Gábor Zupkó, Head of the European Commission Representation in Hungary, emphasised that showcasing the European Union’s diversity is a core mission of the institution, and hosting Croatia as a guest country is a perfect opportunity to highlight this cultural richness.

Dr. Mladen Andrlić, Ambassador of the Republic of Croatia to Hungary, in his remarks, underlined Croatia’s readiness to welcome Hungarian and EU tourists, recommending not only its stunning Adriatic coastline but also inviting guests to discover the lesser-known treasures of the country’s inland regions, as highlighted by the evening’s program.

Touch of Croatia

This year’s event featured regional presentations from Primorje-Gorski Kotar County, the City of Požega, and the Municipality of Sračinec. Guests had the chance to enjoy aromatic delicacies prepared according to traditional recipes, offering a taste of authentic Croatian hospitality.

The cultural program captivated attendees with performances by the Požega Majorettes, led by Marina Mihelčić, and Trenk’s Cops, while musical entertainment was provided by the Tambura Band from Požega, adding a festive atmosphere.

Primorje-Gorski Kotar County was represented by County Prefect Toni Štimac and Maja Baković, Head of Promotion at the Rijeka Tourist Board. The delegation represented both the county and the tourist offices of Rijeka and its surrounding areas.

Požega was represented by Mayor Prof. Dr. Sc. Borislav Miličević, as well as by Mirna Šimunović Svoboda, Director of the Požega Tourist Board, and Vice-Dean Dr. Sc. Berislav Andrlić from the Faculty of Tourism and Rural Development in Požega. The Municipality of Sračinec was represented by Mayor Božidar Novoselec, Deputy Mayor Kruno Lukačić, and Eva Friščić from the association Preslica.

Following the indoor program, the celebration continued outdoors in the beautiful garden of Millenáris Park, where exhibitors created a true “postcard from Croatia” through tastes, aromas, and melodies that brought the Adriatic spirit to the heart of Europe.

Each year, A Touch of Croatia draws growing interest and participation, offering a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural and tourism heritage of one of the EU’s most scenic destinations.

Read here for more news about the relationship between Hungary and Croatia

Read also:

• Hungary-Croatia governments work together to boost cooperation
• Hungary now connected to the Croatian coast with 3 daily affordable bus services – read details HERE