Albania reports 1.2 million visitors to cultural heritage sites

Albania has seen a significant rise in cultural tourism, with over 1.25 million visitors to its heritage assets between January and September of this year. According to data released by the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Blendi Gonxhja, this represents a 57 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023.

Ticket revenues have grown by 84 percent compared to the previous year, a trend the Minister attributed to improved administration. The Butrint Archaeological Park led the visitor numbers with 257,670 guests, followed by Gjirokastër Castle with 253,407. Other notable sites included the Shkodër Archaeological Park, the National Museum “Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu”, and the Apollonia Archaeological Park.

Cultural tourism is increasingly becoming a year-round economic driver for the country, as visitors seek out historical and authentic experiences alongside traditional attractions like beaches and gastronomy.