Macedonia tourism sees 23.6% rise in foreign visitors

Macedonia is experiencing a significant rise in tourism. According to data highlighted by the VMRO-DPMNE-led government, the number of foreign tourists increased by 23.6% in the first five months of the year, while the number of overnight stays rose by 18.7% compared to the same period last year.

This growth is supported by a 40% annual increase in arriving passengers, a figure corroborated by a World Bank report. The government is focusing on several strategic areas to sustain this momentum, including infrastructure improvements such as the Skopje–Thessaloniki high-speed railway, enhanced air connectivity with 21 new destinations from Skopje and Ohrid airports, and road network upgrades.

Efforts are also being directed toward rural, cultural, and gastronomic tourism to ensure year-round engagement. Additionally, the government is working to simplify procedures for new tourism investments and provide financial support through rural development programs to stimulate local economic growth.