Croatian coastal city cracks down on late-night alcohol sales

Makarska's city council approved a ban on the sale of alcoholic drinks between 9 pm and 6 am in shops, bakeries, tobacco stores and other retail outlets, becoming the first city in Croatia to introduce such a measure.

The restriction applies across the city but does not affect bars, restaurants or other hospitality venues, whose opening hours remain unchanged, CE Report quotes HINA.

City authorities said the measure was introduced in response to late-night gatherings during the summer, particularly in the old town and beach areas, which are often accompanied by noise, anti-social behaviour, littering and damage to the historic centre.

They said the aim was to strike a balance between residents' quality of life, tourism, business interests and the preservation of the city's cultural heritage.

The cities of Split and Zadar are also mulling crackdowns on late-night alcohol sales.

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