Tourism in Croatia is undergoing dynamic changes, with a particular emphasis on the growing importance of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) in this rapidly evolving ecosystem. To gain a deeper understanding of how these companies impact tourist destinations, this study conducts a comparative analysis of both domestic and international DMCs. While the primary focus is on Croatia, the research has been expanded to also encompass a broader international context, providing a more comprehensive view of global trends and practices. This analysis delves deeply into the DMCs' ability to understand different market conditions, the quality of their collaboration with suppliers and partners, the implementation of sustainable tourism practices, and the identification of key challenges and opportunities for further growth and development. Based on the collected data and analysis, the study clearly highlights the critical and irreplaceable role of DMCs in creating high-quality experiences for tourists. Simultaneously, DMCs play a central role in promoting sustainability within the tourism sector, not only in Croatia but also on a global scale. The paper aims to deepen the understanding of the complexities that come with managing tourist destinations, with the goal of identifying directions for future academic research and practical applications. Through this comparative perspective, the research also provides important insights that can inform policy and strategy in the tourism sector, both at the national and international levels.