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IN BRIEF
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In recent years, Albania has become the most dynamically growing tourist destination in Europe. With a remarkable increase in the number of visitors, the Balkan country is attracting more and more tourists thanks to its cultural wealth, diverse landscapes, and accessibility. In 2024, around 11.7 million tourists visited Albania, marking a 60% increase compared to the pre-Covid period.
A Tumultuous Past and a Promising Future
Having endured forty years of communist dictatorship under Enver Hoxha, Albania has managed to rebuild and evolve into an economy open to tourism. Today’s visitors discover a country that blends culture, history, and modernity, while offering suitable infrastructure and quality services at affordable prices. Furthermore, the Albanian government has launched a National Tourism Strategy aiming to welcome up to 30 million visits by 2030, a project that could rival countries like Portugal or Croatia.
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A Diverse Tourist Offering
With its Mediterranean beaches and impressive mountainous hinterland, Albania meets the expectations of all types of travelers. The capital, Tirana, is undergoing transformation, with the emergence of new districts, shops, and luxury hotels. Vacationers can explore history through the ancient Ottoman cities of Berat and Gjirokastër, both UNESCO World Heritage sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Constant Improvement of Infrastructure
Albania is striving to enhance its public transport network, making it easier for visitors to get around. The recent arrival of low-cost airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air that operate routes to Tirana allows for easy travel from various regions in France and Belgium. These airlines have even established operational bases in Tirana, ensuring increased accessibility for all travelers eager to discover the charms of this emerging destination.
A Growing Tourism Sector
The numbers speak for themselves: with tourism revenues reaching 4.2 billion euros in 2023, up from 2.8 billion a year earlier, Albania is experiencing a true renaissance in this sector. The ambition to quadruple these revenues by 2030 shows the country’s determination to position itself as a leader in European tourism. Sector stakeholders, including French tour operators like Bourse des voyages, offer a wide range of packages, from seaside holiday stays to cultural tours at the heart of Albanian heritage.
A Growing Demand
Online searches for Tirana have increased by 144% among French travelers for summer 2025, reflecting a growing interest in this destination. Tourists, in search of new authentic experiences, are discovering a blend of tradition and modernity. Communication campaigns and cultural events are also contributing to raising Albania’s profile on the international stage.
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Exploring Albania, an Enriching Experience
There are numerous and varied activities to do in Albania. Whether for a relaxing beach holiday or active explorations in the mountains, everyone can find their joy. Food enthusiasts will enjoy quality cuisine that highlights local products and traditional recipes. For those wishing to discover unique experiences, several options include excursions to historical sites or stays in the preserved nature of the country.
To learn more about the destinations to explore in Albania, feel free to consult useful resources, such as the article on the impact of the air passenger tax or destinations without a passport.
