The Mediterranean is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year with its sandy beaches and historic sites.
Now that borders have reopened and airports and airlines have resolved most of the aircraft resource and availability issues in 2022, capacity has returned to pre-pandemic levels in all Mediterranean countries, at exception of Slovenia.
Spain, France and Italy remain the largest markets in terms of international capacity, and Turkey is experiencing significant growth. However, the biggest growth is in Albania, which grew by 277% this summer compared to 2013. Greece also grew by 147%, Turkey by 114% and Croatia by 104%.
The 15 Mediterranean destinations with the highest growth rates are all in the Southeast, each experiencing an increase in international seat capacity of more than 100% compared to summer 2013. Seven of these hotspots are Greek destinations, with Santorini (JTR) growing 366% and Mykonos growing 250% over the past decade. In early 2023, the European Travel Commission confirmed that Greece had overtaken Italy and Spain as one of the countries to which American vacationers are most likely to travel in 2023.
The Balkan countries Albania and Croatia have also emerged as promising sunny destinations. International capacity to Tirana (TIA), the capital of Albania, has increased by 273% over the past ten years. With its modern and quirky atmosphere, Tirana was recently named European Youth Capital for its reputation as a center of innovation and entrepreneurship. Thanks to its vibrant social scene and strong cafe culture, it’s a favorite among digital nomads. Albania’s greatest strength lies in its affordability as a Mediterranean destination and its openness to foreigners.
On the other hand, Croatia is the newest country in the borderless Schengen zone. Zadar is experiencing the fastest growth rate among Croatian destinations, with an increase of 171% compared to 2013, of which 93% are served by low-cost airlines. The city offers a perfect blend of history, gastronomy and adventure. It is one of the oldest still inhabited towns in Croatia, located on the picturesque Adriatic Sea and surrounded by nature, contrasting with the crowded cruise destinations of Split and Dubrovnik.
In contrast, the bottom 15 Mediterranean destinations in terms of growth rate saw growth of 55% or less compared to summer 2013. Girona (GRO), on the Costa Brava, Spain, saw a decline of 45%. % during this period. These destinations represent the most traditional and established vacation spots in the Mediterranean.