Albania has rapidly transformed from a hidden gem on the Balkan Peninsula into one of Europe’s most exciting travel destinations.
With its turquoise Adriatic beaches, rugged mountain landscapes, and UNESCO-listed heritage towns, the country has seen a tourism boom unmatched in the region.
In 2024, Albania welcomed around 11.7 million international visitors — a 15% increase from 2023 and nearly double the pre-pandemic levels of 2019.
Tourism now accounts for more than a quarter of the country’s GDP, making it one of the pillars of Albania’s growing economy.
Key stats: Albania Tourism
- 11.7 million foreign visitors in 2024 – a new high, marking Albania as one of Europe’s fastest-growing travel destinations.
- ~US$4.8 billion in tourist spending in 2024 – with a dramatic ~55 % surge year-on-year.
- Visitor arrivals have grown roughly 80 % since 2019, reflecting Albania’s rapid ascent in the tourism market.
- German visitors topped nearly 400 000 in 2024, representing one of the biggest source-market gains in recent years.
- The tourism sector now accounts for approximately 8 % of Albania’s GDP, underpinning its growing economic role.
- In 2023, Albania welcomed 10.1 million foreign tourists, already showing strong recovery post-pandemic.
- The government is targeting 14 million tourists in 2024, underscoring its ambitions for the sector’s growth.
How Many Tourists Visit Albania Each Year?
In 2024, Albania hosted around 11.7 million international tourists.
| Year | International Visitors | Growth |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | ~6.4 million | – |
| 2022 | ~5.7 million | Recovery phase |
| 2023 | ~10 million | +75% YoY |
| 2024 | ~11.7 million | +15.2% YoY |
| 2025 (projected) | ~12.5 million | Continued growth |
(Sources: INSTAT, Albanian Times, AIDA 2024 Fact Sheet)
How Many Tourists Visit Albania Each Day?
On average, around 32,000 international tourists visit Albania every day.
This number peaks above 50,000 daily arrivals in July and August, when coastal regions reach full capacity.
How Much Do Visitors Spend in Albania?
International tourists spent approximately €5 billion in Albania in 2024, a 20% increase from 2023.
- Average spending per tourist: ~€427
- Tourism sector share of GDP (2024): ~26%
- Total employment supported by tourism: ~21.8% of national workforce
(Sources: Euronews Albania, Albanian Daily News, INSTAT)
Which Countries Visit Albania the Most?
Albania’s tourism boom is driven mainly by visitors from Southern and Western Europe, as well as fast-growing markets in Asia and the Middle East.
| Country | Growth (2024) | Key Travel Motivation |
|---|---|---|
| 🇽🇰 Kosovo | +12% | Family visits, short trips |
| 🇲🇰 North Macedonia | +18% | Proximity travel |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | +22% | Beach & cultural tourism |
| 🇬🇷 Greece | +20% | Regional tourism |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | +41% | Adventure & nature |
| 🇫🇷 France | +40% | Cultural exploration |
| 🇦🇹 Austria | +48% | Nature & hiking |
| 🇵🇱 Poland | +32% | Riviera holidays |
| 🇮🇱 Israel | +25% | Growing Middle East arrivals |
| 🇮🇳 India | +30% | Group travel & weddings |
What Are the Most Visited Attractions in Albania?
From the beaches of the Riviera to UNESCO towns and mountain lakes, Albania’s tourism diversity has become its greatest strength.
| Attraction | Annual Visitors (est.) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Albanian Riviera (Sarandë, Ksamil, Dhermi) | ~3M+ | White-sand beaches & summer resorts |
| Tirana & Durrës Region | ~2.5M | Urban tourism & nightlife |
| Berat & Gjirokastër (UNESCO) | ~500K+ | Historic architecture & heritage |
| Llogara National Park | ~400K | Scenic mountain routes |
| Koman Lake Ferry | ~300K | Fjord-like adventure route |
| Shkodër & Lake Shkodra | ~250K | North Albania culture |
| Ksamil Islands | ~200K | Instagram-famous beaches |
| Valbona & Theth National Parks | ~150K | Hiking & nature tourism |
| Butrint Archaeological Site | ~150K | Ancient ruins (UNESCO site) |
| Albanian Riviera Cruises | ~100K | Growing luxury segment |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Albania?
| Season | Visitor Volume | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar–May) | Medium | Pleasant climate, green landscapes |
| Summer (Jun–Sep) | High | Peak beach tourism season |
| Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Medium | Ideal for cultural & road trips |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | Low | Mountain & heritage tourism only |
☀️ June–August attract the highest tourist numbers, especially in coastal towns like Sarandë and Himarë.
🍂 September–October offer the best mix of weather, prices, and smaller crowds.
What Are the Biggest Events Attracting Tourists to Albania?
| Event | Time of Year | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Albanian Summer Festival | July–August | Music, food, and beach festivals along the Riviera |
| Tirana International Film Festival | April | Film & arts showcase |
| Durrës Summer Days | June | Coastal celebration of culture |
| Gjirokastër National Folklore Festival | September | Traditional music & dance |
| Llogara Pass Marathon | November | Adventure & sports tourism |
| Winter Tourism Campaigns (Valbona & Theth) | December–March | Expanding off-season tourism |
How Much Does Albania Rely on Tourism?
Tourism is now one of the main economic drivers of Albania:
- 26% of national GDP (2024)
- Over 21% of total employment
- €5B+ in annual visitor spending
- Rapid infrastructure expansion — airports in Tirana, Kukës, and Vlorë increasing capacity
(Sources: Albanian Daily News, AIDA, Euronews Albania)
Which Regions in Albania Are Most Popular With Tourists?
- Albanian Riviera (Sarandë, Ksamil, Dhermi): Top coastal destination for luxury and beach tourism
- Tirana & Durrës: Main hubs for international arrivals and nightlife
- Northern Albania (Valbona, Theth): Trekking and mountain eco-tourism
- Gjirokastër & Berat: UNESCO heritage and culture
- Shkodër & Koman Lake: Offbeat, authentic experiences gaining popularity
FAQ – Albania Tourism Insights
How many tourists visit Albania yearly?
Around 11.7 million international visitors in 2024, with 2025 expected to exceed 12 million.
What is Albania known for?
Beautiful Adriatic and Ionian beaches, the Albanian Alps, ancient cities like Berat and Gjirokastër, and affordable travel prices.
When is the best time to visit Albania?
Summer (June–September) for beach vacations, or spring and autumn for culture and hiking.
Is Albania expensive?
No — Albania remains one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, with an average tourist spend of around €427.
Is Albania safe for tourists?
Yes, Albania is considered safe and welcoming. Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist spots, but serious crime is rare.
Which area is best to stay in Albania?
For beaches: Riviera (Sarandë, Ksamil, Dhermi). For culture: Berat or Gjirokastër. For mountains: Valbona or Theth.
Sources
- Albanian Daily News — Foreign Tourist Spending Surged by 54.7% in 2024
- INSTAT Albania — Tourism Statistics – Movements of Citizens and Accommodation Data
- Euronews Albania — How Much Did Tourists Spend in Albania in 2024?
- Albanian Times — Albania Welcomed 11.7 Million Tourists in 2024
- AIDA – Albanian Investment Development Agency — Albania Tourism Fact Sheet 2024
- SeeNews — Foreign Tourist Arrivals to Albania Rise 3.2% Y/Y in April 2025
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