TIRANA, Jan 19 /ATA/ Tourism is steadily transforming into a sector that promotes the development of natural and economic resources in cities across the country.
The Director of Tourism in the Municipality of Shkodra, Renato Lumçi, stated in an interview with the Albanian Telegraphic Agency that tourism expectations for this year are projected to increase by 20% compared to 2024.
“The results for 2024 were highly positive, reflecting growth across all areas. Based on these results, I can confidently say that expectations are very high, with an overall increase of at least 20% in the figures and projections we, as a directorate, have for 2025. Tourism in the Municipality of Shkodra has now become a concrete economic reality and a new sector for the entire region’s economy,” he said.
The most reliable indicator for the municipal institution is the reporting and collection of the accommodation tax, as it shows the number of tourists who have stayed in lodging facilities.
“Throughout the entire previous year, during the January to August period, there was a 32% increase compared to 2023 and approximately 70% compared to 2022. In the June to August period (the summer season), there was a 30% rise in overnight stays compared to 2023 and around 60% more than in 2022,” stated Lumçi.
According to him, it is observed that the increase in overnight stays during the January-May period, referred to as the off-season, rose by 75% compared to 2023 and 133% (more than double) compared to 2022.
The Director of Tourism in this municipality said that the growth in numbers during the summer months is mainly due to tourist destinations in Velipojë and Theth, while in the other months, the increase is primarily seen in the city. It is evident that in Shkodra, tourism is beginning to extend throughout the entire year, making this sector a sustainable business for numerous bars, restaurants, hotels, travel agencies, transport services, and other businesses offering tourist products.
He emphasized, “This progress is mainly attributed to the investors, businesses, and the vast workforce in this sector, who, year after year, are enhancing their offerings for tourists by introducing new products and drawing visitors to the regions where they operate.”
“Undoubtedly, this growth is closely tied to the overall development of tourism in the country. I also believe that the policies of the Municipality of Shkodra this year have had a positive effect in this regard. The events that captured the interest of Albanians both inside and outside the country, the promotion of the region, and the emphasis on expanding tourist products have brought Shkodra into the spotlight and enhanced our area’s tourism offerings. Of course, there is still much room for improvement. We have learned a great deal from this season and will strive to do even better in the next one,” he added.
According to official figures from this municipality, the most visited areas in Shkodra are: Velipoja, Theth, the Shkodra Lake area, the city’s pedestrian zone, Shkodra Castle, and others. In addition to its natural attractions, Shkodra also offers significant cultural offerings, with attractions such as the “Marubi” Museum, the Museum of Testimony and Memory, the “Oso Kuka” Museum, Shkodra Castle Museum, and more.
Lumçi states that, according to the statistics, Velipoja had 277,634 overnight stays last year, compared to 222,444 overnight stays in 2023; Theth had 39,431 overnight stays last year, compared to 18,570 overnight stays in 2023; and the city of Shkodra had 110,007 overnight stays last year, compared to 85,951 overnight stays in 2023.
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