Shkodra is experiencing a tourism boom. It is attracting visitors from across Albania, the region, and Europe. They come for its historic sites, cultural landmarks, and vibrant local life. Attractions like Lake Shkodra, Thethi, Velipoja, and Shiroka are drawing visitors. Rozafa Castle, the Marubi Museum, and the Historical Museum are popular attractions. The city’s vibrant cultural life also draws in locals and guests from the wider region and Europe. 

Renato Lumçi, from the Municipality of Shkodra, said to ATA that “the city is experiencing transition and growth.” It is the responsibility of the municipality to continue unlocking this potential in a prudent manner. This ensures that economic development goes hand in hand with the preservation of Shkodra’s identity and cultural heritage.” 

According to Lumçi, in 2022, the Municipality of Shkodra recorded approximately 264,000 overnight stays. Meanwhile in 2025 this number is expected to exceed 538,000, representing a doubling in just four years. 

“By the end of October 2025 alone, the number of overnight stays has surpassed 500,000. The city of Shkodra has tripled its accommodation nights compared to 2022, demonstrating sustained growth even during off-peak seasons. INSTAT data show that Shkodra is one of the top two regions with the highest growth rate in tourism. This has been consistent over the past two years. It is outperforming the majority of other regions in Albania,” Lumçi stated. 

“Shkodra, once regarded primarily as a summer destination, is now developing into a year-round tourist center. This transformation has been the result of sustained efforts in several key areas. These efforts include investment in infrastructure and promotion of the city’s natural and cultural assets. Strengthened cooperation with the private sector is part of this transformation. The establishment of a sustainable year-round calendar of activities is also part of this transformation,” he added. 

Lumçi also highlighted several key projects in which the municipality has invested. These projects aim at transforming various areas of the city. They focus on improving the quality of life for residents, citizens, and the many tourists. 

“The first major project is the entrance to Shkodra. The Western Park, covering approximately 18 hectares, is presently under construction and will include the Navigation Museum. This project is highly significant. It will offer tourists the opportunity to explore the city’s history. It will also allow local residents to learn more about their city’s past. We have the Buna Bridge to the Western Park entrance. This bridge will feature four lanes. Two lanes are for entry, and two are for exit. The new Shirokë-Zogaj tourist route will extend to Montenegro. It is set to become one of the most scenic roads in the region. This project will accommodate not only vehicle traffic but will also include dedicated bicycle lanes,” Lumçi explained. 

The construction of the Dukagjin road, along the 17 km Prekal-Kir segment, will ease transportation. It will help both local residents and the many tourists seeking to explore Dukagjin and other attractions in northern Albania. 

Lumçi emphasized that ongoing efforts aim to set up Shkodra as a coastal destination. They also want to make it a cultural and historical hub. 

Velipoja is a coastal area famed for its beaches and tourism infrastructure. He noted that it has benefited from investments in hotels, guesthouses, and tourist apartments. Similarly, in Shirokë, Zogaj, and the surrounding areas of Lake Shkodra, extra guesthouses have been developed. These areas have significant tourism potential. Airbnb accommodations have also been created to cater to visitors exploring both the city and the lake. 

Lumçi highlighted that the city center serves as a primary hub for tourists visiting Shkodra. It also caters to excursionists exploring the surrounding mountainous areas. In Thethi, residents are converting their homes into guesthouses and small hotels. The tourism infrastructure, including trails, lodgings, and services, has been substantially enhanced. 

He further emphasized that the economic and urban development of Shkodra municipality are closely linked. The preservation of its cultural, historical, and natural heritage is vital. Cultural tourism, in particular, forms a strategic pillar that the municipality aims to promote to support sustainable, year-round development. 

Based on data collected to date, the number of visitors to cultural sites within Shkodra municipality has increased significantly. The average growth is around 30%. Specifically, the Shkodra Archaeological Park (Rozafa Castle) recorded 167,109 visitors between January and October 2025. This contrasts with 157,827 visitors for the entire year of 2024.”

Shkodra, designated as the “European City of Sport 2025,” has hosted a series of national and international sporting events. These include the Shkodra Marathon. Another event is the Shkodra Summer Cup 2025, which is an international youth football tournament. The EuroBasket U16 is also included and is a European basketball event for boys under 16. Other events include the Triathlon and the 1st IPA World Football Tournament 2025. This last event is a 7×7 football tournament organized by the International Police Association, among others. 

Another key strategy is promoting Shkodra as a year-round tourist destination.