TIRANA, July 4  /ATA/ Berat is emerging as one of Albania’s leading tourist destinations, marking a record number of visitors so far this year.

Berat Mayor Ervin Ceca said that the city welcomed around 550,000 visitors in the first six months of 2026, marking a 22.04% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

According to Ceca, the increase reflects growing interest in Berat, where history, culture and hospitality continue to be the main attractions for visitors from around the world.

“A record that clearly reflects the growing interest in Berat, the city of a thousand and one windows, where history, hospitality and continued investment are making it an increasingly attractive destination for visitors from around the world,” Ceca said in a post on social media.

Ceca said that “2026 is surpassing the records set in 2025, and Berat continues to cement its position as one of Albania’s most popular tourist destinations.”

The strong influx of visitors has been evident across the historic quarters of Mangalem and Berat Castle, as well as the museum complex and other cultural heritage sites, which remain among the country’s most visited attractions throughout the year.

The positive trend is expected to continue in the coming months, further cementing Berat’s position as one of Albania’s most popular tourist destinations and a leading hub for cultural tourism in the region.

/k.s/ /a.g/sm/