Kolasin Tourism Organization Seeks Growth Through Year-Round Events

The Kolasin Tourism Organization is calling for increased investment and year-round event programming to boost local tourism. According to the organization’s director, Zorica Milašinović, tourism is a vital part of the region’s economic development, and strategic planning is essential for maximizing its potential.

Milašinović emphasized the need for events that are not only frequent but also well-organized and aligned with the region’s natural and cultural offerings. “We must approach each day as if it is the peak of the tourist season,” she stated. Kolasin, known for its diverse natural landscapes, is poised to attract more visitors if its unique offerings are effectively promoted.

Funding for the tourism organization primarily comes from member contributions, occupancy taxes, budget allocations, and donations. In 2024, the organization generated nearly €100,000 from occupancy taxes, which is an increase of €13,000 from the previous year. The municipal budget allocated €80,000 for tourism, a significant rise compared to the previous year. Furthermore, the organization received an additional €2,644 in incentives for tourism development, bringing the total budget for 2025 to €224,207.

The Kolasin Tourism Organization employs eight staff members dedicated to providing information to visitors throughout the year, with heightened activity during the winter and summer seasons. New brochures, informative panels, and the first-ever gastro guide featuring local restaurants have been launched to enhance visitor experience. The organization has also hosted study visits for journalists and influencers from various countries, including Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Denmark, and more.

In a significant development, the number of registered accommodation providers in Kolasin increased by 80 in 2025, bringing the total to 477 private accommodation providers with 3,300 beds available. The tourism organization actively supports a variety of cultural, recreational, and educational programs, striving to create more traditional events that establish Kolasin as a recognized destination.

While expressing satisfaction with recent achievements, Milašinović underscored the need for continued improvement. She highlighted the essential requirement for additional tourism inspectors during peak seasons to address the growing number of private accommodation providers. The current lack of adequate oversight has led to losses in occupancy tax collections, with an estimated €20,585 uncollected in 2025 alone.

Milašinović also addressed challenges faced by the local tourism infrastructure, including the disorganization at the bus station, insufficient information regarding train services, confusing traffic signs, stray dogs, and a lack of public restrooms. She emphasized the necessity of a dedicated vehicle for the tourism organization to facilitate promotional activities and other essential tasks.

In terms of occupancy tax contributions, the Hotel Bjanka led in 2025 with payments of €32,053, followed by Swiss Hotel at €15,239, Hotel Wulfenija at €8,400, and others. The private sector, particularly Camping Lipovo, also contributed significantly with a payment of €3,567.

Overall, Kolasin has made considerable strides in attracting international visitors. Guests from Albania, France, Germany, Russia, Serbia, the United Kingdom, Turkey, Kosovo, and Croatia frequently visit. From outside Europe, 12,140 visitors were recorded, with the largest groups coming from Israel (9,045 guests), the United States (461), and China (108).

The Kolasin Tourism Organization is committed to enhancing the region’s tourist appeal and ensuring that its unique offerings are well communicated to potential visitors. As it navigates the challenges ahead, the organization aims to position Kolasin as a vibrant destination that continues to attract diverse travelers year-round.