Shkodra is experiencing steady and impressive growth in tourism. In recent years, the northwestern city has gained strong recognition for its history, culture, and art.

Attractions such as Lake Shkodra, Theth, Velipoja, Shiroka, Rozafa Castle, the “Marubi” Museum, and the Historical Museum continue to draw visitors from Albania, the region, and Europe.

According to Renato Lumçi, Director of Tourism at Shkodra Municipality, the city is in a phase of rapid transition and growth. “Our goal is to develop this potential carefully,” he said. “Economic progress must go hand in hand with the preservation of Shkodra’s heritage.”

In 2022, Shkodra recorded around 264,000 overnight stays. By 2025, this number is expected to reach over 538,000 — a twofold increase in four years.

By the end of October 2025, the city had already surpassed 500,000 overnight stays. Tourism has grown not only in summer but also throughout the year. Data from INSTAT show that Shkodra ranks among the top two regions in Albania for tourism business growth over the last two years.

Once known mainly as a summer destination, Shkodra is now becoming a year-round tourism hub. This success comes from several key factors — infrastructure investment, cultural promotion, strong public-private partnerships, and an active events calendar.

Furthermore, major projects are transforming the city’s landscape. “The main project is the western entrance of Shkodra,” Lumçi explained. “The 18-hectare Western Park is under construction and will include a Museum of Navigation. It will give both tourists and locals a chance to connect with the city’s history.”

He added that the Buna Bridge will soon have four lanes to ease traffic. The new Shirokë–Zogaj tourist road, which connects to Montenegro, will offer one of the most scenic drives in the region and will include a cycling lane.

Meanwhile, construction on the 17-kilometer Prekal–Kir road in Dukagjin will improve access for both residents and visitors exploring northern Albania.

Shkodra is also focusing on cultural and historical tourism. In Velipoja, new hotels and guesthouses are opening. Around Lake Shkodra, in Shiroka and Zogaj, the number of accommodations has increased, including Airbnb rentals.

The city center serves as a hub for tourists heading to the mountains. In Theth, locals have turned homes into guesthouses, while hiking trails and tourist services have improved.

Tourism growth in Shkodra aligns with efforts to protect its cultural and natural heritage. Cultural tourism remains one of the city’s main strategic priorities.

Visitor numbers at cultural sites have risen by about 30%. At Rozafa Castle alone, 167,109 people visited between January and October 2025 — more than the total number for all of 2024.

Moreover, Shkodra, named European City of Sport 2025, has hosted major events such as the Shkodra Marathon, Shkodra Summer Cup, EuroBasket U16, the Triathlon, and the IPA World Football Tournament.

According to Lumçi, international promotion is now a key strategy. Shkodra has joined major tourism fairs like ITB Berlin, FITUR Madrid, and the Prishtina Tourism Fair.

“At these events, Shkodra promotes itself as part of Albania’s national tourism offer,” he said. “We highlight cultural heritage, the lake, and natural adventure. International events — both cultural and sporting — play an important role in promoting our city worldwide.”

/a.c/