TIRANA, April 10 – The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sports said cultural tourism recorded strong growth in the first three months of 2026. Minister Blendi Gonxhja published data showing increased visitor numbers across archaeological parks, museums, and heritage sites. The figures point to higher interest from both domestic and foreign tourists.
Overall, visitor numbers rose by 81 percent compared to 2023. Museums welcomed 39,338 visitors, while archaeological parks, castles, and monuments recorded 53,580 visits. The data reflects a continued expansion in cultural tourism activity across the country.
Within this context, Shkodër Castle Archaeological Park led national rankings with 16,309 visitors. The site also benefits from its position as a gateway to the Albanian Alps, which attracts a growing number of travellers. In this way, the northern region strengthens its role in cultural and nature-based tourism.
Meanwhile, the National Museum “George Kastrioti Skanderbeg” in Kruja recorded 14,924 visitors. The site remains a fixed stop in most tourist itineraries due to its historical significance. Similarly, Gjirokastër Castle received 13,460 visitors, confirming steady demand for southern heritage destinations.
In addition, Butrint National Park recorded 9,160 visitors, while the “House of Leaves” Museum in Tirana reached 8,957 visits. Together, these destinations show balanced interest across archaeological, historical, and museum-based tourism products.
As a result, cultural tourism continues to contribute more strongly to the national tourism sector. The ministry said the steady growth reflects rising attractiveness of castles, museums, and archaeological parks, which continue to draw increasing numbers of visitors year after year.
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