Albania strengthens its position as top Balkan destination

Albania continues to attract an ever-increasing number of foreign visitors, confirming its position as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Balkan region, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

According to data released by the National Institute of Statistics (INSTAT), a total of 1,965,601 Albanian and foreign citizens entered Albania in September 2025, marking a 9.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

Of this number, 1,259,684 were foreign visitors, representing a 9.9% year-on-year rise. This positive trend highlights not only the extension of the tourist season beyond the summer months but also the strengthening of Albania’s tourism offering in international markets.

During the same period, 2,127,386 people departed from Albania, including 1,354,731 foreign tourists, up 10.2% from September 2024.

According to the statistics, 95% of foreign arrivals originated from European countries, with Southern Europe accounting for 69%, followed by Western Europe (12%) and Central/Eastern Europe (11%), the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATSh) reported.

When it comes to the purpose of travel, 98% of foreign visitors entered the country for personal reasons, an increase of 9.8% compared to September 2024. Meanwhile, business and professional visits also saw a notable rise of 15.3% over the same period.

The data confirm that Albania is consolidating its status as a year-round tourist destination, thanks to expanding accommodation capacity, improved infrastructure, and a diversified tourism offering.