Croatian tourism went through many phases during its development and its diverse characteristics derive from social changes, trends of a particular era, crises, wars, unrest as well as positive and negative decisions made by the stakeholders. Despite that, it has managed to persevere and develop into its present form and establish Croatia as one of the most recognizable Mediterranean destinations. Opatija, Dubrovnik, Brijuni, Crikvenica and Mali Lošinj are among the first tourism destinations in Croatia and, as such, have become examples and role models for the development of subsequent destinations. Istria achieved its status as one of Croatia’s most developed regions partly through tourism. The political climate, changes of government and the presence of multicultural elements influenced the growth and moulding of Istria as a region as well as its cultural identity. Pula, being a product of such a region, is recognizable for its diverse cultural and historic heritage, developed tourism and traffic connections to not only Croatian, but the European heartland. Owing to the fact that the road to success was not easy, Pula treasures its characteristics and continues its upward growth. Brijuni, a nearby destination, is another example of perseverance of heritage and naturally beauty whose appeal has not diminished in its long tourism history.