A major step forward for business tourism in Istria - Poreč is set to open the region’s largest convention centre
The past year has been exceptionally important for Hotel Pinija and its Congress & Event Center Zadar, which in its very first year of operation has already positioned itself as one of the most compelling new MICE venues on the Croatian coast. The opening of the congress centre coincided symbolically with a major recognition for the destination – Zadar was named Europe’s best destination for 2025, further confirming the region’s strategic potential for the development of business tourism.
A symbolic opening with strong industry support
Congress & Event Center Zadar was officially opened on 28 March 2025, and its opening was marked by the hosting of UHPA Days 2025, the largest annual gathering of members and partners of the Association of Croatian Travel Agencies (UHPA). This immediately introduced the congress centre to the professional and business community as a new and relevant venue for the MICE segment.
A distinctive venue with a view that transforms the event experience
Located in the heart of the Adriatic, Congress & Event Center Zadar combines luxury, professionalism, and personalised hospitality, leaving a strong impression on guests and clients from around the world. The centre’s main space is Donat Hall, distinctive for its architecture and panoramic sea views. This combination of functionality, natural light, and Mediterranean surroundings has proved to be a strong differentiating advantage in the market, especially for organisers looking for more than standard congress infrastructure.
Alongside Donat Hall, the congress centre also includes Forum Hall, as well as several additional halls and smaller spaces within Hotel Pinija, allowing for a high level of flexibility in organising events of different formats and sizes. This variety of spaces makes it possible to host conferences, workshops, meetings, and accompanying programmes simultaneously within a single event.
The halls are designed for a wide range of business event formats, from smaller meetings and workshops to complex multi-day programmes, with full technical and logistical support.
A year filled with events and confirmed client trust
Over the past year, Congress & Event Center Zadar has hosted a wide range of business events across different sectors – from the IT industry and corporate clients to medical and professional congresses, as well as internal conferences and team-building programmes. It is particularly important to note that many organisers, satisfied with the professionalism and overall experience, have chosen to return and have already confirmed dates for 2026.
This continuity clearly shows the level of trust the congress centre has built in a relatively short time, as well as the fact that new enquiries and events are increasingly being secured through recommendations following successfully delivered projects.
More than congresses: a destination experience
A major advantage of Hotel Pinija, and of Congress & Event Center Zadar, is the ability to create a complete MICE experience. In addition to conference facilities, clients also have access to:
This approach is increasingly sought after by modern event organisers who want to add emotional and experiential value to business gatherings.
Systematic positioning in the international MICE market
An important role in the development and visibility of Congress & Event Center Zadar is played by Hotel Pinija’s dedicated MICE team, which continuously invests in service quality, client relations, and promotion. Active participation in MICE trade shows and business workshops, as well as targeted international positioning, is already delivering tangible results through growth in enquiries from abroad and stronger booking performance.
Thanks to its committed team and carefully planned service development, Hotel Pinija and Congress & Event Center Zadar continue to strengthen their position in both the domestic and international MICE market.
Hotel Pinija and its Congress & Event Center Zadar are entering 2026 with optimism and positive booking trends. Interest for 2026 is already evident, and the calendar is gradually filling up, confirming that they are increasingly being recognised as a reliable partner for year-round business events.
A solid foundation for further growth
A strong start, a distinctive venue, a strategically positioned destination, and a professional team form a solid foundation for further growth. Today, Congress & Event Center Zadar is not just a new congress venue, but a recognised reference point on the Croatian MICE scene – with clear ambitions, proven results, and client trust that continues to grow stronger year after year.
