Tourism boom in Albania: Italians stayed away in 2023!

Tourism boom in Albania: Italians stayed away in 2023!

Albania is enjoying increasing popularity among tourists, a fact that is impressively demonstrated by the latest figures. From January to July 2023, a total of 6.58 million foreigners traveled to the country, an increase of 3.5% compared to the previous year. The development of tourist numbers from Italy is particularly noteworthy. Despite an increase of 4.5% to 664 Italian citizens this year, the numbers have decreased compared to the previous year, where an increase of 47% was recorded. Italian travelers now make up 10% of total visitors, followed by German tourists at 7% and French guests at 3.5%, as reported by [Gazeta Express].

A look at the tourist flows shows that Kosovar citizens make up the largest group at 35%, although this group is declining. Arrivals in July 2023 amounted to 1.82 million, increasing only minimally by 0.4% compared to the same month last year. The overall picture shows that Albania remains a popular destination, but the overall increases are more dependent on previous years.

Growing tourism sector

Developments in tourism have a profound impact on the Albanian economy. In 2022, revenue from the tourism sector amounted to 2.20 billion euros, which corresponds to 15.77% of the gross national product (GNP). For comparison: in 1995 it was only 51.29 million euros. This increasing dependency shows how important the tourism sector has become for the country. The average expenditure per tourist is around 395 euros, which provides the state with a solid source of income, as Country Data makes clear.

In 2024, international arrivals increased to over 6.9 million, compared to 3.67 million in 2014. Travelers from southern Europe in particular have taken Albania to their hearts. 8.47 million came from there, while only 990,000 came from Western Europe. The tourism sector has thus developed into a mainstay of the Albanian economy and contributed 20 percent of the GDP in 2024, as Statista explains.

Attractive prices and offers

Albania scores not only with its nature and culture, but also with affordable prices. Average hotel prices are attractive year-round, and even in August 2025, a 5-star hotel will expect rates under $140 per night. For a 1-star hotel you will have to pay around 40 euros. With a variety of accommodation options – from nearly 1,280 hotels to 560 bed and breakfasts to 561 guesthouses – there is something for everyone. This diversity and the expected increase in sales in the tourism sector to almost 90 million euros by 2029 underline the stability and growth of the sector.

In summary, Albania is on the right track when it comes to tourism. Even if the current figures indicate a slower development among certain nationalities, the country remains an attractive destination with a lot of potential for many travelers. Whether it's Pacific beaches, high mountains or cultural treasures - Albania has a lot to offer and will continue to be an important destination for tourists from all over the world.