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Over the past five years, Albania has been discovered by travelers as that rare thing: a largely unexplored corner of Europe (one with some 265

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Albanian National Tourism Agency Director: Kornelia Ferizaj 

Bulevardi Gjergj Fishta, Pallatet Shallvare A12, 1010AL, Tirana, Albania Tel: +355 (04) 2 273 778 [email protected] www.akt.gov.al

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Tourism in Albania is a growing economic activity due to its rich heritage, beautiful landscapes, and affordable prices. The country’s location in Southeastern Europe, with borders to Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece, offers diverse coastal scenery and mountains. Albania has become a popular destination, ranked highly by Lonely Planet and The New York Times. The country has seen an increase in foreign tourism since 2019, with 4.73 million visitors in 2016. The official slogan is “Go Your Own Way”.

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The touristic calendar for the summer, the new version of the TEA application is presented to promote touristic Albania

“TEA 2.0”, is the dedicated National Tourism Platform, launched today by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, in the capacity of national coordinator, in coordination with the National Tourism Agency, as an important innovation in the field of tourism development, which will enable the marketing and promotion of the tourist product in all its dimensions, through the development of traditional and innovative events, propelling the active participation of tourists in Albanian experiences, attractions and potentials of tourist destinations at the national level.

Prime Minister Rama was also present at the presentation ceremony of the new platform, who said that technology will continue promoting tourism with new options, so that tourists have the most complete experience of visiting our country

“We see the year 2030 as a point where not only the transformation of the country until now will become irreversible, but where Albania will without a doubt radiate in this region the image of a country that is the Europe of the Balkans.”  – said Prime Minister Rama in his speech.

Prime Minister Edi Rama : Hello everyone and first of all thanks to the Governor and the Bank of Albania for the hospitality in this activity, which as far as I understand, is the first of its kind in the premises of this institution which, in addition to being a central institution of the Republic, is also an important monument of our cultural heritage, now restored to identity, but with a different function.

I am also glad that today we are here together with not only representatives of the tourism industry, who are our inseparable partners in this joint effort to give Albania this extraordinary dimension of transformation, but also representatives from the banking sector, the local government, and representatives from friendly countries.

I do not want to repeat what was said and not bore you with figures, but I want to share one figure which is very significant, unimaginable until not many years ago, very meaningful for what we are trying to do, but also very indicative of how we should continue.

The historical monuments and archaeological sites of our country have attracted 182,000 visitors in the first 4 months of this year alone. Meanwhile, our national and natural parks have been visited by about 800,000 visitors. These are staggering numbers if we consider where we started from, but where we started from is always less and less important for us, while always more and more important for us is where we want to go. We see the peak of 2030 as a point where not only the transformation of the country will become irreversible, but where Albania, without any doubt, will radiate in this region the image of a country that is the Europe of the Balkans.

Today you got to know the new version of the application, which is an important innovation in the field of tourism development and which will continue to be improved with an artificial intelligence generator, which will make it possible for all tourists and visitors to customize their travel plans and have 3D maps. What is important to note is that the application mirrors what happens in reality, and in the reality of tourism development, we have included a component that every year becomes more present, which is the component of daily cultural and artistic activity, as a space that offers tourists and visitors opportunities beyond the beach, sun, sand, food, hotel and that also offers them the opportunity to take away from Albania more knowledge about our country, to have much more to remember from our country and to have much more to talk about our place.

It is not disputed that this aspect encourages and supports our scene of cultural and artistic creativity, as well as definitely motivates those who are directly engaged in this new industry of Albania, who invest and who work with a lot of passion and with a lot of effort.

Furthermore, we are very aware that what is needed is more than what has been done, in the sense that Albania of 2030 must be a country and will be a champion country of this region in tourism, which will not only be permanently stabilized in the “Champions League” of the Mediterranean, but which will have completed all those parts of the mosaic that are still missing today, starting from the infrastructure for which we are doing very intensive work.

I believe you are aware that we have a new touristic season that opens with some great infrastructure available to visitors, starting from the Llogara tunnel, an old idea, a legendary promise of all political forces in all campaigns.

Continuing with the new Orikum-Dukat road, which reveals another unknown part of the wonderful body of Albania, continuing with the Thumanë-Kashar axis, an extremely important axis due to the very fact that the high flow of vehicles from the north towards Tirana or further south, during the intense tourist season, becomes unbearable. The year has really been a torture for travelers, but at the same time this axis is part of the Blue Corridor, which was another project or was another idea that was much laughed at when we presented it. With the axis Thumanë – Kashar, only one of its segments is completed, and in the following days, work will begin on other segments. The Kashar – Lekaj segment that will make possible a completely new highway to connect Tirana with Rrogozhina, and then Lekaj – Fier to go to Vlora, guaranteeing the conditions of a high-speed highway, while the existing roads will serve as alternatives.

With this infrastructure, which will be completely completed within this decade, the Albania of 2030 will have an absolutely spectacular tourist offer in terms of transport, in terms of all the flows that go to the coast, I am not going to dwell on the other parts of infrastructure related to Corridor 8, etc.

While the Vlora airport will in all likelihood complete the works within this year, it will have passed the test and certification period in the first six months of next year and with God’s help, will be operational in the next tourist season, with an operator whose name says it all: The Munich Airport. Meanwhile, the competition for Gjirokastra airport will be opened. From all the studies done as well as from all the lessons learned with the effort for the Saranda airport, we have come to the conclusion that the most ideal place to guarantee all the needs that aviation has, because of all the components related to all the wind corridors, is Gjirokastra.

In the end I want to talk about the ports because we are a country that inherited a situation of a black hole in the Mediterranean and a country that practically did not appear at all on the map of the tourist cruise of the Mediterranean, as you know, work has begun on the tourist port of Durrës, work has begun on the tourist port of Vlora, we are waiting for the completion of an absurdity related to the small port of Saranda, an absurdity of a legal nature, let’s say, but in fact it is not, it is very close to surrealist literature, and we are very optimistic that with the opening of this component of the sector, which is the tourist ports, the framework will not only be completed, but at the same time we will have a very significant increase, not simply in the number of visitors, because it is not the number of visitors what interests us exclusively, but the income from these visitors.

The monthly increase in the number of contracts for 5-star hotels is also very significant. There are here some of the main actors of the sector and they know very well that until a few years ago, the 5 stars’ hotels did not come close to the idea that they could come to Albania. While today it has become quite simple to attract them, with the necessary projects and destinations.

Having said all this, the icing on the cake is Tirana, which until a few years ago was a capital that was completely emptied in the summer, or rather, inhabited only by those who must be here to perform certain services in certain jobs or from those who are unable to leave for vacation, while today Tirana grows in number in the summer season due to the increase in the number of tourists.

If they would show us a few years ago MasterCard’s publication, which is a publication related to MasterCard users, where Tirana was the third country with the highest growth of tourists for this year, we would say that this is a very funny joke, but this is also a reality today.

These are all the reasons to feel optimistic, to feel encouraged, to feel convinced that this Albania has tourism as its meaningful business card, this Albania, that thanks to tourism and also as a result of the growth of the economy, and the emphasis that the government has placed on increasing wages, is becoming a country where for all those who are in services in neighboring countries it is better to be here than to be there. I understand very well why some of the protagonists of the sector shake their heads at this because they know better than anyone that they are able to offer competitive salaries with Greece, salaries more or less close to Italy in these services, but some face a wall of prejudice, a psychological obstacle, to understand that today Albania is ready, to integrate in the labor market in tourism those who have gained experience there, have learned to serve, have learned to work in the kitchen, have learned to work at the reception and so on, offering without question a very competitive opportunity. And if you see from afar the salary of a waiter in Greece and the salary of a waiter in Radhima, it looks like that waiter in Greece earns more, but if you then see that that waiter in Radhima after finishing his work goes to a house where he doesn’t pay rent, while that Albanian waiter in Greece goes to a house where he pays rent and then he sees that at the end of the month that waiter in Radhima has a lower tax liability, then things are differently.

Everything is different and therefore my belief is that the great change that happens every day will be extremely visible, tangible and unnecessary to question in a few years, when we climb to the top of Albania 2030, and when without question, we are in the conditions that we will not sit around waiting for how many more tourists will come, but we will be careful to maintain the balance between the number and income, without going only after the number, but going after the income too. Thank you!

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The Albanian government has identified tourism as a key economic sector, touting its potential to spur development of the entire country. Located in the Mediterranean region, Albania could well represent Europe’s last tourism “secret.”

Albania has a diverse topography, including mountains, valleys, forests, rivers, lakes, and beaches. The country offers many opportunities for exploration of cultural heritage and archaeological sites that date back to pre-Roman and Greek times. Amphitheaters, castles, Roman cities, monasteries, and ancient churches are among the archeological points of interest that Albania has to offer, some of which are UNESCO protected sites.

Albania’s 450-km-long Adriatic coastline is one of the country’s best assets and offers numerous investment opportunities. The coast, which stretches from the Adriatic Sea in the north to the Ionian Sea in the south, is underdeveloped and generally lacks Western-standard beach resorts. Given the rising influx of Western tourists, demand is growing for high-end resorts, particularly in the south. Albania also holds great potential for mountain tourism.

After peaking in 2019, the number of tourist arrivals to Albania decreased in 2020 due to the global disruption of tourism industry following the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, only 2.65 million of foreign visitors came Albania compared to 6,4 million in the previous year.  A growing number of U.S. citizens also visit Albania, particularly the southern coastal region, as part of day-excursions from Corfu, Greece. In 2018, 119,200 U.S. citizens entered Albania.

Leading Sub-Sectors

• Leisure Boats
• Hotel franchises
• Upscale hotel accommodations
• Design, architectural, and, engineering services
• Construction materials.

Opportunities

The government aims to support development of tourist resorts, especially along the southern coastline. Hotel franchise opportunities are also present, particularly in tourist areas with new properties opening in recent years with agreements with Hilton, Radisson, Movenpick, and others. Agreements are also in place for future locations for Marriot and Hyatt. 

The sector also offers opportunities to develop marinas. Construction work has already started for a marina near Saranda while projects for two marina, one in Vlore and one North of Durres are in the planning stage. The new tourist port of Durres, a $2.5 billion investment from the UAE Emaar Group, aims to transform the port into an important destination for the whole Mediterranean Region. It represents significant business opportunities because besides the port comprises an area of 800,000 square meters for residential complexes, hotels, offices, etc. Exports of boats and small yachts also represent promising opportunities. In an effort to promote the sea tourism, in July 2020, government has exempted leisure boats from 20% VAT payment.  

Ministry of Environment and Tourism   Albanian Construction Portal The National Coast Agency Albanian Tourism Agency

About: National Tourism Agency (Albania)

The National Tourism Agency (AKT) (Albanian: Agjencia Kombëtare e Turizmit) is a government agency under the supervision of the Albanian Ministry of Tourism and Environment. The main task of the agency is to promote Albania as a tourist destination in the Mediterranean Basin, Europe and around the world. AKT organizes and manages the country's participation in international tourist fairs and provides on-line promotional offers to various international tour operators.

15 Reasons to visit Albania

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: February 17, 2021

Categories Albania

Home / Europe / Albania / 15 Reasons to visit Albania

Want to visit Albania? Good choice! I did it last year and I loved it. It’s one of my favorite countries so far, and here are 15 reasons why everyone should visit Albania ! 

It’s still a relatively unexplored country

How much do you really know about the Albanian country and culture? My guess, probably not that much. You might have heard things about the lovely Albanian Riviera and its beaches, but in general, it’s largely unexplored. That’s because it was having a bad reputation of being unsafe and unstable before, and the infrastructure isn’t the best either.

However, things are changing for the better, and the future is bright for this lovely nation. While the infrastructure still is struggling a bit, there is always someone who’s willing to drive you anywhere you want for a couple of Euros.

They are also very friendly, so it’s even possible to hitchhike and explore off the beaten path without having to worry.

Friendly Locals

The Albanian people are some of the most friendly locals I’ve met, and I’ve been to more than 40 countries, so that says quite a lot. You don’t even have to search for their attention.

They are curious and love to talk. It’s a big plus if you can speak german, especially when speaking to elderly men because many of them have been working in Germany before.

The only “problem” is that some of them don’t speak English, but it doesn’t matter because they go out of their way to make you understand, and they always do it with a smile. (UPDATE: Younger Albanians do speak English, anyway, there was never any problem to be understood, with or without English).

Photo: MehmetO / Shutterstock.com

Some of the best beaches in Europe

The Albanian beaches are very nice, and there is something that suits everyone, no matter if you prefer sandy bays, stone or pebble beaches, secluded or lively beaches. Albania has them all.

My personal favorites lie around the cozy little resort town Ksamil , and there you can find both pebble beaches and bays with the finest white sand you could ever find in Europe!

Cheap prices

You want to travel, but don’t want to break the bank? I got news for you. When you visit Albania, you can splurge without breaking the bank. Prices are at least half of the rest of Europe, thus making it easy to get a good value for your money.

Lots of hidden gems

Are you getting excited about visiting Albania yet? GREAT! Because there are more perks and reasons to visit Albania. As if the above reasons weren’t enough, I can tell you that Albania is housing lots of hidden gems that you will find off the beaten path.

Just a 15 minutes drive from Ksamil we found a beautiful bay with the most turquoise water you can imagine and the best part? It was without people. Albania has some beautiful nature, and not just beaches, but also hiking trails and lakes.

Delicious food

Feta, Gyros, Souvlaki, sure all of those Greek dishes are available, and while they are delicious in Albania too, they also have their own Albanian cuisine along with some Italian specialties, such as Pizza, Ravioli, Lasagna and much more.

Some local Albanian dishes that you should try:  Fëgesë, Tavë Kosi, Perime Në Scarë, Burek and Speca me Glizë.

Best places to visit in Albania

The Albanian capital is one of the least visited capitals in Europe. It’s also one of the few capitals where Islam is the dominant religion, although most are secular. That’s also why the culture is exciting and unique here.

In Tirana , you can expect to find the best Baklava in Albania and a busy nightlife with some really cool clubs. The residents of Tirana do know how to party!

A pristine resort town that offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. You can choose more lively spots or find your own paradise with just an umbrella, two sunbeds and two pedalos. What could possibly be more romantic?

A beautiful coastal town, and the main port for tourism in Albania and boats from abroad. It’s here that you’ll arrive with the boat from Corfu.

Besides from being a great starting point for exploring the Albanian Riviera, it’s a nice destination in itself with a lovely harbor, stores, many restaurants, and cafés.

A historic place that even Julius Caesar himself admired because of its strategic position. Here you can explore the Roman ruins with an old amphitheater and much more. Getting to Butrint from both Saranda and Ksamil is easy.

Syri I Kalter

A natural gem that shouldn’t be missed out when you’re traveling to Albania. It’s a short drive from Saranda, and here you can enjoy some mesmerizing scenery and one of the most turquoise waters I’ve ever seen. Syri i Kalter means “Blue Eye” translated into English.

And that’s exactly what you’ll see, not literally, but in the water, you’ll see bubbles and where the water is most turquoise you there’s a blueish dark color that reminds you of an iris.

Another big reason to visit Albania is the magical Lake Ohrid, that makes up the natural border of Macedonia and Albania. While most people go to northern Macedonia to visit Lake Ohrid, it’s definitely possibly to go here from the Albanian side, and it’s cheap to get here by local furgons.

Another beautiful lake. Shkodër is, however, located in the northern part, close to Montenegro. Here await hiking trails and beautiful scenery.

Gjirokaster

Fancy some more historic places? Then head to Gjirokaster, which lies halfway to Tirana from Saranda. Gjirokaster is on the UNESCO heritage list, and a quaint little town, mostly known for its fortress and stone houses.

Valbonë Valley National Park

Love being outdoors? Albania won’t disappoint you. Especially not if you’re heading to the national park of Valbonë.

My personal opinion on why you should visit Albania

First of all, why not? I mean, the major cities and destinations in Europe will probably stay the same year after year, but Albania is an upcoming destination.

It’s now that you can really experience the authentic Albanian culture. Tourism in Albania was largely just for nationals, and it wasn’t until recent years international tourists started to visit Albania.

Travel companies from the Nordic countries are now offering direct flights and packages to Ksamil and Saranda, which means more tourists are on their way to explore Albania and all of the hidden gems.

That’s probably the main reason why you should visit Albania . But also, because it’s such a lovely place to travel. It doesn’t matter that the locals rarely speak English, it doesn’t matter that Mastercard isn’t accepted, and it doesn’t matter if a local taxi driver hustles you on 1 or 2 Euros while driving you 1 hour away for just a couple of Euros.

Albania is very cheap compared to other European countries and it’s freaking awesome. I had the best Burek in my life for as little as 1 Euro and I had a really nice Frappucino for 1 euro down in the harbor of Saranda .

We went on a 6 hours bus ride for 5 Euros where we even got ourselves a local old lady who was eager to show us all of the old castles, despite the fact that she didn’t speak a single word in English.

It’s one of the least explored countries in Europe, and that’s why you should visit Albania. It’s really beautiful, and cheap!

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I hope this post got you inspired to Visit Albania, and if you’ve been already and have some more tips, feel free to share them in the comment section as well!

Julianna Kovacs

Monday 18th of June 2018

My love is so deep, that I represent now the Albanian National Tourism Agency in Hungary!!! It was love at first sight!!!

Tuesday 29th of May 2018

A lovely article, I am glad to hear so much positive feedback from everyone who has been in Albania. Thanks very much!

Saturday 26th of May 2018

Hi Alexander, I wanted to ask you about travelling by buses. We are planning to go from Thessaloniki to Sarande by bus, stay there a couple of days and travel to other destinations in Albania

Alexander Waltner

Monday 28th of May 2018

Hello Helena,

There are buses going all over the country. From Saranda, you have minibusses going to the capital and the northern parts. And then you have regular buses going to Ksamil and Butrint on a regular basis daily. It's very easy to get around, and if you want to travel to another city, just go to one of the tour agencies and they can arrange tickets.

Amanda Zdrava

Saturday 31st of March 2018

I appreciate all your words for us. It’s a small country, but with beautiful places ?

Dubufeetfak

" despite the fact that she didn’t speak a single word in English." Thats not a good reason to give up conversation with a foreigner for any Albanian who doesnt speak English. Somehow you get to understand a lot of what theyre trying to say

Who said anything about giving up the conversation? You don't need verbal language to explain basic things in life. We spoke different languages, yet had a memorable experience and conversation.

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Miss razan hawwa, courtyard by marriott burlington, ontario, mudi astuti, strategi komunikasi utama, jakarta, indonesia, caribbean office of trade & industrial development limited, christopher byneal, trinidad & tobago, bangladesh international hotel association, h.m. hakim ali, dhaka, bangladesh.

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TEA app brings cultural tourism package for this week

• 7/18/2023 11:16 AM

This week's cultural tourism packages, which the National Tourism Agency invites you to follow through the TEA application, travel from the capital's squares or big cities to the centers of Orikum and Belshi Lake.

Through a post on social networks, Prime Minister Edi Rama today shared a summary of information from the National Tourism Agency, while inviting citizens to follow the TEA application, to be informed about cultural tourism packages throughout this week in Albania.

Rama brought to attention that an electrifying musical evening is expected to enliven the city of Tirana, where the legendary Cuban musician Eliades Ochoa and the world Latin-American singer Ricky Martin will perform on July 20 for all those who want to experience extraordinary emotions at these festivals of international proportions.

"Between literature, folklore, cultural heritage, circus and puppet theatre, the TEA application will become your guide to Shkodra, Durres and Vlora, in these hot summer days", he said.

The Prime Minister invited citizens to download the TEA application to stay updated with what is happening everywhere in Albania.

From July 17 to 20, the "International Folk Festival" will be organized in the amphitheater of Tirana.

"Hemingway Jazz Fest" is another activity that will be organized from July 19-21 at "Mother Teresa" square in the capital.

TEA is a technological innovation for Albanian tourism. A digital calendar, which is offered through a user-friendly application for every user within Albania and around the world, giving you the opportunity to create cultural tourism packages for the first time and travel through the rich culture, heritage, arts, sports and cuisine of Albania.

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Albanian Visa: Start Your Visa Application Online

Guideline on how to apply online for an albanian visa.

Every person wishing to enter Albania, under whatever purpose, might be subject to a visa regime, depending on his or her nationality. If you have never been to Albania before, the first thing you have to do is ask yourself “Do I need a visa?”

Visa application

The “Application for a Visa” is an online service provides through e-Visa for foreign citizens to apply for a visa and requiring the presence at the Embassy or Consulate to receive the visa. After all verification procedures have been carried out, the application is accepted and the applicant is required to follow procedures for the payment of this service at the relevant bank and then send all relevant documents uploaded during the application and the bank receipt (all as uploaded and originals by post. This application requests the presence at the relevant Embassy/Consulate only once all have been completed. You will be informed via email for the date and time of the appointment.

Figure out which Albanian Visa type you need

Visa Type “C” – Short stay visa is issued to foreign nationals that wish to enter the Republic of Albania, are entitled to stay for a maximum period of 90 days out of 180 days, from their date of first entry. This visa type is Issued with one, two or multiple entries. Visa Type “D” – Long-stay visa is issued to foreign nationals who wish to stay in Albania for more than 90 days over a 180-days period and also issued to foreign nationals that might want to obtain a Residence Permit after entering the Republic of Albania. This visa type is issued with one, two or multiple entries. For children under 18 years: A statement expressing the consent of a parent or legal guardian of the child for the trip, or the person responsible is required. The following are excluded to personally present themselves at the Albanian Embassy or Consulate: – Holders of diplomatic passports; – Humanitarian cases; – High-Level Officials (personalities), their accompanying spouses and accompanying delegations on official visits; – A foreigner with a royal title and other members of the royal family on official visits; – Foreigners organized in tourist groups; – Foreigners which have previously applied for a visa within a 59 months (4 years and 11 months) period. Exemption of visa to enter and stay in the Republic of Albania for up to 90 days to 180 days: – Foreign nationals that have a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa, with the condition that the visa issued must have been used previously in one of the countries of the Schengen area or persons have a valid residence permit in one of the countries of the Schengen area; – Foreign nationals that have a valid multiple entry visa or a valid residence permit issued by the United States of America, Great Britain, and Northern Ireland, with the condition that visa issued must have been used previously in the country issued; – Foreign nationals, who can enter and stay in the Schengen states without a visa.

Gather the required documents

To be uploaded online then after acceptance of application they deposited at the relevant Consular Office of the Republic of Albania Missions or Honorary Consulates, as well as contracted agencies by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs in other countries. The applicant must present the following documents: 1) The application form for a visa must be completed online (after completion the applicant must print and sign the completed form); 2) One passport-sized photo no older than six months from the date of application; 3) Photocopy of a valid travel document, (valid for at least three months more than the period of validity of the requested visa); 4) Travel health insurance documents for the duration of the visa; 5) For children under 18 years: A statement expressing the consent of a parent or legal guardian of the child for the trip, or the person responsible. 6) An invitation from the host accompanied by a photocopy of their passport (if the host is a foreign citizen the invitation must also include their Residence Permit in the Republic of Albania issued by the relevant Albanian Authority). It is important to note that the host must deposit a copy of the invitation at the relevant Regional Department for Border and Migration, where the host is living.

THIS EXCLUDES “TYPE C VISA” APPLICATIONS FOR TOURISTIC PURPOSES, AS WELL AS FOREIGNERS THAT ARE INVESTORS/ ADMINISTRATORS/ SELF-EMPLOYED IN THE REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA, THAT APPLY FOR A TYPE D/APU VISA, WITH THE CONDITION THAT THEY GIVE A CONTACT NUMBER IN THE REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA.

VISA TYPE C

1. Visa for tourism (C) – Document of round-trip ticket booking; – Hotel booking or documents with information regarding the accommodation for the duration of their stay; – Proof that the foreign citizen has sufficient income (bank statements); – Proof of employment from their country of birth or country of residence. In case of this criteria not being met, the foreign citizen has to provide sufficient evidence that they will return to their country of birth or country of residence.

2. Visa for tourism, organized in tourist groups – invited by an Albanian tourism agency (C) – Photocopy of a valid passport for the whole group invited; – Notarized photocopy of the license of the Albanian Tourism Agency, which invites foreign tourist groups.

3. Visa for scientific, cultural, sports and humanitarian reasons (C) – Invitation from the host; – Hotel reservation or declaration of the host where they will reside; – Documents that prove that they have sufficient funds during their stay and return to their country of origin.

4. Visa for Official visit (C) – Invitation from the host institution; – Verbal Note from the institution where the foreigner is employed.

5. Visa for medical reasons (C) – The invitation from the host institution; – Medical diagnosis (original or copy) issued by a local doctor in Albanian; – Declaration from the Albanian hospital for medical treatment as well as details of who will cover these costs; – Sufficient financial means to cover the costs; – Health insurance for the persons accompanying the patient.

6. Professional, commercial and business purposes Visa (C) – Letter of invitation signed by the host, along with a copy of their identity document (when the host is a foreign national it is a requirement that they also submit a photocopy of their residence permit issued by the competent Albanian Authority); – The document that prove their professional, commercial and business activity; – Documents that prove the legal status of their commercial entity; – Photocopy of certificate of registration in accordance with the purpose of the visa issued (visas for 60-90 days) according to article 73 of Law 108/2013 “For foreigners”.

VISA TYPE D

1. Visas for economic activities (D / AE) Visas for professional activities (D / AP) Visa commercial activity (D / AT) Visa for employment activities (D / APU)

-Invitation signed by the host, along with a copy of their identity document (when the host is a foreign national it is a requirement that they also submit a photocopy of their residence permit issued by the competent Albanian Authority), excluding foreigners that are investors/ administrators/ self-employed in the Republic of Albania; -Documents that prove a trading professional competence, in the respective country to which they specify the purpose of the visa; -In cases of an invitation from a commercial entity, documents proving the legal status of the entity inviting are required; -Photocopy of their Work Permit issued by the Albanian authorities. -Criminal Record (Good Character) Document, legalized according to the regime with the relevant country which has issued this document.

2. Visa for study purposes (D / ST) -A document certifying the registration/admission to an educational institution in Albania; -Documents that prove and certify the coverage of all living costs and tuition fees; -Travel health insurance document for the duration of the visa; -A document that provides proof of accommodation while in the Republic of Albania; -A document that proves your knowledge of the Albanian language for carrying out your studies. -Criminal Record (Good Character) Document, legalized according to the regime with the relevant country which has issued this document.

3. Family Reunion Visa (D / BF) – Letter of invitation signed by the host, along with a copy of their identity document (when the host is a foreign national it is a requirement that they also submit a photocopy of their residence permit issued by the competent Albanian Authority); -Certificate issued within the last month that attests the relationship with the person that requests a family reunion; -Additional documents that prove the stable relationship with the person that has requested a family reunion; -Documents that prove that the foreign host (residing in Albania) has appropriate conditions for housing; -Notarized copy of documents that prove that the foreign host (residing in Albania) is employed or self-employed and has sufficient income to ensure they meet the needs of the inviting persons under their responsibility. -Document issued by Albanian institutions or foreign institutions where the applicant is applying from, which proves that the foreign has or has had at least one parent or grandparent with Albanian citizenship; -Criminal Record (Good Character) Document, legalized according to the regime with the relevant country which has issued this document.

4. Visa for humanitarian or religious activities (D/VHF) -Notarized copy of the license that allows for carrying out humanitarian or religious activities; -Photocopy of their work permit or certificate of registration from their employer; -Letter of Motivation by the religious community institution. -Criminal Record (Good Character) Document, legalized according to the regime with the relevant country which has issued this document

5. Diplomatic visa or visa service (D / DS) -Verbal Note from the Institution; -Invitation from the host institution, when necessary.

6. Visa for seasonal employment purposes (D / SP) -Invitation from the host; -Notarized photocopy of the employment contract with the host in Albania; -Photocopy of the work permit issued by the Albanian authorities; -A document that prove the registration of foreigners in the country of origin institutions. -Criminal Record (Good Character) Document, legalized according to the regime with the relevant country

7. Visa for humanitarian reasons (D / H) -Letter of invitation signed by the host, along with a copy of their identity document (when the host is a foreign national it is a requirement that they also submit a photocopy of their residence permit issued by the competent Albanian Authority); – Documents that prove their humanitarian motives.

Application process step-by-step

– Select the “Visa Application” service – Click the “Apply” button – Choose to perform a new application or track the status of an existing application – To track the status of an existing application, enter the application number and then click the “Search” button – To complete a new application, fill out the personal information and upload the documents that are necessary for identity verification. You will be informed via e-mail for the application confirmation as well as the special application code (which enables tracking of the application progress at any time) – After all verification procedures have been carried out, the application is accepted and the applicant is required to follow procedures for the payment of this service at the relevant bank and then send all relevant documents uploaded during the application and the bank receipt (all as uploaded and originals by post. – This application requests the presence at the relevant Embassy/Consulate only once all have been completed. You will be informed via email for the date and time of appointment

The application process is carried out online; 2. The initial verification process is carried out by the Consul, which includes checking the application form, all documents attached, and with the continuation of verifying the following: – If the application meets all the requirements, a message is sent to the applicant informing that their “application has been accepted”, and informs them of the fee to be paid and other procedures that must be followed; – If there are “irregularities” in the application, the relevant notification is sent to the applicant and they are required to upload the relevant additional document requested; – If the application does not meet all the requirements than the applicant is informed that their application for a visa “has been refused”, with the relevant explanation.

When the Consul accepts the application and the relevant fee has been paid, the following procedures are followed: 1. The Consul informs the applicant: – If the visa application is approved, the Consul requests the presence of the applicant, to retrieve their visa (Please Note: You must make sure that you bring your passport, all original documents uploaded for the application, The printed and signed application form and the original invoice of payment) – If the visa is refused, the Consul submits to the applicant the standard refusal message with the relevant explanation.

Visa processing time

A visa is issued up to 15 days from the acceptance of the application and in exceptional cases may take up to 30 days.

Visa duration of stay

Depending on the application

Based on the principles of reciprocity, according to the Council of Ministers Decision Nr. 569, date 03.10.2018 / 2) / Fees are varied for: a. Children up to 6 (six) years old; b. Holders of Diplomatic or Service passports, based on the principle of reciprocity; c. Humanitarian cases

Start your application HERE

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Tourist map of ALBANIA

Interactive travel and tourist map of Albania: click on icons and writings on the map to open web links.

Not touristy, not unspoiled, Albania is a good mix to enjoy a vacation with various scenery, from the stunning mountains of the Teth National Park and the splendid Skadar Lake in the North to the Osum Canyon and the white sandy beach of Ksamil in the South. 

Discover Albania’s best tourist attractions and top sights through our map! Which are the best places to visit in Albania and the best things to do in Albania? Simply click on the map’s links to be quickly redirected to images and useful websites for accommodation, activities, transport and much more about Albania travel.

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Albania 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in Albania. Below you will find 10 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in Albania offering in total 28 tours and holidays through-out Albania. Combined they have received 255 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in Albania are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Wildlife, landscapes and nature & Beach, romance, getaways and relaxation.

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10 Tour Operators in Albania with 255 Reviews

• Address Nelson House, 55-59 Victoria Rd, Farnborough, England
• Response Rate 95%
• Response Time 2 hours

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

Good Albania

• Address Rr. Todi Shkurti, Kompleksi Grand Sh.5, Ap.20, Tirane, Albania
• Response Rate 96%
• Response Time 1 hour

Exodus Travels

• Address Grange Mills, Weir Road, London, England
• Response Rate 85%

Evasion Albanie

• Address Rr. George W Bush, Shk1, Ap 1, Kati 3, , Tirana, Albania
• Response Rate 88%

Choose Balkans

• Address Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit Twin Towers, Tower 2, Tirana 1001, Albania, Tirana, Albania
• Response Rate 100%
• Response Time 3 hours

Drive Albania

• Address Yzberisht, Tirana, Albania
• Response Rate 90%

Intrepid Travel

• Address 380 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, Australia

Penguin Travel

• Address 2, Sveta Gora str. , Sofia, Bulgaria

Europamundo

• Address c/ Garcia de Paredes Nº 55 1ª Planta, Madrid, Spain
• Response Rate 97%

Indus Travels

• Address 233, 11951 Hammersmith Way, Richmond, Canada
• Response Rate 98%

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Albania’s rampant lek passes ALL100/EUR mark for the first time

T he Albanian lek has risen above the symbolic threshold of ALL100 to the euro for the first time, reaching a record high against the European currency. Bank of Albania data showed that on August 12 the euro was exchanged at ALL99.95 in Albania.

The strong rise of the Albanian lek comes despite concerted efforts by the Bank of Albania to prevent the euro from slipping below ALL100. Since May, the central bank has intervened in the foreign exchange market, conducting direct purchases and engaging with commercial banks to avoid further devaluation.

However, with an influx of tourists to Albania during the summer months, these measures were not sufficient to maintain the euro at above ALL100 within Albania. Historically, exchange rate pressures peak between late July and early August.

Since 2020, the euro-lek exchange rate has fallen by nearly 20%, a decline largely attributed to the rapid growth of the tourism sector and an increase in foreign investments, particularly in real estate.

In the past two years, however, interventions by the Bank of Albania, coupled with short-term market panics, have disrupted the usual market patterns.

The central bank's interventions have slowed the annual decline of the euro-lek exchange rate, which is currently down by approximately 3.8% compared to a year ago. The Bank of Albania's actions are primarily aimed at controlling inflation, which has remained below the target of 3% for several months.

In July, annual consumer price inflation was reported at 2.1% , according to the national statistics agency Instat. Inflation measured by the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) reached 2.5% in June.

The Bank of Albania announced a reduction in its monetary policy rate from 3.25% to 3% in July, but kept the rate steady at its latest rate-setting meeting in August.

Previously, the strengthening of the lek helped the Albanian economy to weather the inflationary pressures of 2022 with relatively milder consequences compared to neighbouring countries such as North Macedonia. Additionally, the stronger lek has played a positive role in financial stability, improving the solvency of euro-denominated borrowers with incomes in lek.

However, the stronger lek has also had negative repercussions, particularly for the country's export-oriented sectors. Albania's trade deficit stood at ALL42bn (€419mn) in June, with exports of food, textiles and construction materials all falling in annual terms during the month, as the high value of the lek took its toll on Albanian exporters.

The country’s large textiles and footwear sector has suffered the most, with industry representatives warning in 2023 that 75,000 jobs were at risk as the high lek made exports less competitive. The tourism sector has also become less competitive.