Sports tourism: Large sports events during October in Poreč generated an increase in overnight stays

After a very successful tourist season, Poreč continued to achieve excellent tourist results in the post-season, and from October 1 to 22, 103.000 overnight stays were realized in the destination, i.e. an increase of 19% compared to 2022. 

The most numerous were guests from Germany, with an increase of 16%, in second place are guests from Croatia with an increase of 16%, in third place are guests from Austria with an increase of as much as 24%. Guests from neighboring Slovenia are in fourth place in terms of overnight stays with an increase of 18%. Guests from Italy follow with an increase of 22%.

According to sales channels, the most overnight stays were realized in hotel accommodation (ind 116), private accommodation with an increase of 29% compared to 2022, and non-commercial accommodation with an increase of 2%.

But behind the mere statistics, it is important to highlight what is behind these record numbers in the postseason sports tourism. If any destination has positioned itself through sports tourism, it is the city of Poreč. And this is the best proof of that thesis.

"Tourist results speak in favor of the extension of the tourist season, all thanks to the high-quality facilities that are the reason for the arrival of a large number of visitors to the destination. First of all, it is the sports events that achieved the highest number of overnight stays in October." they state from TZG Poreč. 

In October, Poreč hosted two sports mega events - Istria300 i Blue Lagoon IRONMAN 70.3. 

The third edition of the sports event Istria300 gathered around 3.000 cycling fans from all over the world who could enjoy  cycling routes that pass through some of the most beautiful Istrian roads and the most spectacular locations. However, the Istria300 race is "only" one of the important events of this four-day cycling event. Istria300 Expo it offered those interested everything that the cycling world can offer at the moment, and exciting lectures and a special family program rounded off this sports story and completed it brilliantly. 

In October 2023, the second edition was successfully held Plava Laguna Ironman 70.3 Poreč. Despite the changeable weather conditions, more than 1500 competitors from 56 countries enjoyed an exciting weekend marked by good atmosphere and sportsmanship. The popularity of this race in the world of triathlon is evidenced by the fact that the registration fees were sold out three months before the competition. With a proven accessible and attractive track, excellent conditions for swimming and running by the sea, all athletes and their companions had an unforgettable sports weekend in Poreč.  

During October, Poreč also hosted  the largest regional sports fair and conference - Sports Fest, bringing together everyone who has active connections with sports, from athletes and recreationists, manufacturers of sports equipment and food, companies and associations engaged in service activities in sports. 

In the weekend ahead (Saturday, October 28.10) Poreč will host a recreational cycling event  - Epic Rides, the meaning of which is not a competition, but an organized ride together with the support of the organizer. This sports gathering is intended for all lovers of bicycles, nature and good fun, regardless of age, gender, physical and technical ability. 

"Thanks to numerous high-quality events, Poreč has established itself as a top HR destination and realized more than 100.000 new overnight stays, especially in the pre- and post-season. We look forward to the continuation of quality projects that await us until the end of the calendar year."  conclude from TZG Poreč.

Photo: Poreč Tourist Board