In Grodno, the volume of tourism services exports has doubled pre-COVID figures

15:00 04 September 2026

According to the results of the first half of the year, Grodno's volume of tourism services exports has doubled the pre-pandemic figures, with the city on the Neman ranking among the top-3 destinations in Belarus. This was announced to journalists ahead of a tourism forum timed to coincide with Grodno City Day by Deputy Chairman of the City Executive Committee Dmitry Mikhalsky, a BELTA correspondent reports.

"Today, Grodno is one of the most attractive tourist cities in Belarus. This is confirmed by statistics. An analysis of the first half of the year showed that we have recovered and even doubled the pre-COVID volume of tourism services exports. And today Grodno is among the top-3 destinations in the Republic of Belarus," said Dmitry Mikhalsky.

He also noted that the structure of the tourist flow has changed due to an increase in domestic tourism. "But at the same time, Grodno remains a popular destination for representatives of the Russian Federation. There is increased interest today from tourists from China. The visa-free regime for visiting our country and Grodno in particular is used not only by residents of distant countries, but also by our neighbors. Many come here not for the first time, spend their time here favorably, and return," noted the deputy chairman of the city executive committee.

According to Dmitry Mikhalsky, the city on the Neman is popular among tourists who come with different purposes - to receive medical services, see the architecture, or spend time with children. "Everything that the city authorities do, with the help of the regional authorities, certainly provides a certain foundation for the growth of the tourism sector," he said.

The deputy chairman of the city executive committee noted that the issue of accommodation remains relevant. "Our demand exceeds supply. If previously the main tourist flow occurred during the summer season and winter holidays, this year hotels have been filled from April through September as well," said Dmitry Mikhalsky. "Belarus is implementing a state tourism program until 2030, with the goal of increasing the tourism industry's contribution to the republic's gross domestic product by 2.5 times. This is planned through the creation of new infrastructure, as well as increasing domestic and foreign tourism. And thanks to the fact that currently, within the framework of the five-year plan, the Development Bank has offered preferential programs through which financing can be attracted, our city has already received 17 applications, 13 are being reviewed. Financing has already been opened for some of them. Investors are attracted by the purchase of real estate in Grodno to create accommodation facilities and catering establishments, which will increase tourism attractiveness."

The deputy chairman of the city executive committee added that preparations for Grodno's 900th anniversary, aimed at beautifying the Neman embankment, will allow for a new tourist route to be completed. "Today, tourists mostly visit the central part of the city; part of the historic city is located across the Neman River, so thanks to the embankment, we plan that the new tourist route will be completed with the crossing along the embankment to the facility we plan to commission this year (the 'Lazurny' swimming pool). Additionally, the implementation of a major facility is nearing completion—a multifunctional complex based on the former brewery," he said, adding that investors are also offered facilities that will help increase the number of accommodation options. One such facility is the former Grodno Hotel, which has been put up for auction.

Today's tourism forum will allow participants to discuss the results of work in the tourism sector, as well as the tasks ahead in this direction. By the way, guests from Grodno's sister city of Krasnodar are also participating in the event, which will help combine efforts in promoting the city on the Neman River.

As noted by the director of the information policy department of the Krasnodar administration, Nadezhda Lutai, Krasnodar and Grodno are developing friendly ties in absolutely different areas.

"Our delegation is in Grodno, on a small information tour, for which we are grateful to our welcoming brotherly side. We are happy to be part of a big celebration. And in these days we are feeling all the charms of this city. We are absolutely delighted. We really like the combination of the historical part of the city with modernity," she said, adding that steps for mutual tourism promotion have already been outlined.

Grodno is celebrating its 898th anniversary this year. The main events are scheduled for September 4 and 5. The city's historical center will become a large interactive venue for several days.

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