Croatia is set to once again grace the small screen as the backdrop for a major new British historical television series. Scheduled for filming in May and June of 2026, the production will spotlight the cities of Zagreb, Rijeka, and Pula, promising to unveil a different side of the country to a global audience and ignite a new wave of film-induced tourism.
A Glimpse into the Production
The upcoming series, set in the late 19th century, is currently shrouded in mystery, but details are beginning to emerge. A local casting agency has released a public call for a large number of extras, specifically seeking individuals with “natural appearances”—no modern tattoos, hairstyles, or cosmetic enhancements—to ensure historical authenticity.
While the title remains unconfirmed, speculation is rife that the series could be a prestigious adaptation of a Charles Dickens novel. If true, this would tap into a dedicated global fanbase of classic literature and period dramas, drawing a new demographic of travelers to Croatia’s shores.
The “Game of Thrones” Effect: A Proven Track Record
Croatia is no stranger to the global spotlight. The country’s stunning landscapes and well-preserved historical architecture have made it a favorite among international film and television producers. The most notable success story is HBO’s Game of Thrones, which transformed cities like Dubrovnik and Split into the fictional realms of King’s Landing and Meereen.
The impact was monumental. Following the show’s success, tourism in Dubrovnik surged, with some estimates suggesting that the series was responsible for a significant portion of the annual increase in visitor numbers. Guided tours of filming locations became a staple of the local tourism industry, generating millions in revenue and solidifying Croatia’s reputation as a world-class filming destination.
This success is supported by strategic government initiatives. The Croatian Audiovisual Centre (HAVC) offers a competitive “Filming in Croatia” incentive program, which provides international productions with a cash rebate of 25% on qualifying local expenditure. This financial benefit, combined with the country’s natural assets, makes Croatia an almost irresistible choice for producers.
Future Impact: Spotlight on New Destinations
What makes this new production particularly exciting is its choice of locations. While the Dalmatian coast has enjoyed the bulk of the film tourism boom, this series will shift the focus to the country’s north and the Istrian peninsula.
Zagreb: The Austro-Hungarian Heart
As Croatia’s capital, Zagreb’s grand 19th-century Austro-Hungarian architecture provides a perfect, authentic setting for a period drama. The city’s elegant squares, historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad), and grand museums could easily stand in for Vienna, Budapest, or even a stylized Victorian London. This production will offer a chance for travelers to discover the capital’s rich cultural and historical tapestry beyond its popular Christmas markets.
Rijeka: A Port with Industrial Charm
Rijeka, a major port city, offers a different aesthetic with its rich industrial heritage and imposing harbor-front architecture. Its unique blend of Italian and Central European influences could provide a gritty, dynamic backdrop for the series, showcasing a less-seen, yet historically significant, part of Croatia.
Pula: Roman Grandeur Meets 19th Century
Located on the Istrian peninsula, Pula is famous for its magnificent Roman amphitheater, one of the best-preserved in the world. This ancient grandeur, juxtaposed with the city’s 19th-century naval port history under Austrian rule, creates a visually stunning and versatile filming location.
A New Chapter for Croatian Tourism
The arrival of this British production is poised to do for Zagreb, Rijeka, and Pula what Game of Thrones did for Dubrovnik. It will not only bring immediate economic benefits through production spending but will also have a lasting impact on tourism.
Viewers who fall in love with the series’ settings will be inspired to walk the same streets as their favorite characters. This will likely lead to the development of new themed tours, boost local economies, and encourage visitors to explore regions of Croatia beyond the traditional summer hotspots. For travelers, it presents a perfect opportunity to visit these cities ahead of the curve, experiencing their authentic charm before they become the next must-see film tourism destinations.
