Over 500,000 visitors through August, as foreign tourists’ interest in Pogradec grows

Pogradec, Lin and Tushemisht have become favorite destinations for foreign tourists, who come from America, Australia, Japan and various European countries.

From January to August alone, around 500,000 visitors frequented Pogradec’s tourist destinations and attractions. Among the most visited attractions is the Early Christian Basilica of Lin, with around 6,000 visitors, mostly foreigners.

The Drilon Springs, the Drilon–Tushemisht Water Park and the Monumental Tombs of Selca are also drawing strong interest. For foreign tourists, southeastern Albania offers the opportunity to visit several destinations in a short time. This has made their stays last from one week to two months, as in the case of a German tourist.

“I came from Germany, through Montenegro, to Albania, and I have been here for two months. I was also in Korça, a very beautiful city, and now I have been here for two weeks. The people are very calm and relaxed and I like that very much. Albania is truly a beautiful country. I have tried everything, Albanian food is very good and I have seen many beautiful places,” said a tourist from Germany.

British tourists also show interest in the area, singling out Lake Ohrid, the climate and the opportunities to explore the destinations around it.

“This is our eighth day here. Lake Ohrid is wonderful, the temperature is very pleasant and it is fantastic for swimming. We were at the Monastery of St. Naum and took a boat trip across the lake. This is my first time in Lin. It looks really very beautiful. It is hot, very hot, especially for an Englishman,” said a tourist from England.

The influx of tourists has also been reflected in accommodation facilities. According to the data, bookings have continued throughout the season, while a considerable share of accommodation units remain booked even during September.

Last year Pogradec closed the 12-month period with around 450,000 tourists, while this year the number is expected to exceed 550,000 by the end of the year.