The Independent: Albania emerges as a top summer destination for 2026
Albania is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after travel destinations for 2026, according to an article by Fran Watts published in the British newspaper The Independent. The report says growing numbers of visitors choose Albania for its clear waters, relaxed coastal towns and competitive prices. It notes that the …
Hoxha: Albania Targets Closing EU Negotiation Chapters by Next Year
Albania aims to close all EU negotiation chapters by next year, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said on Thursday. Speaking to journalists from EU member states, Hoxha said Albania’s EU accession process has entered a decisive stage. He also described EU membership as the country’s top national …
Hoxha: Everything that happens in Albania draws EU attention, protests are part of freedom of expression
The European Union follows developments in Albania closely, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said on Thursday. Speaking at a press conference with journalists from EU member states, Hoxha addressed concerns over the proposed project in Zvërnec. He also commented on the European Commission’s reaction and recent protests …
Hoxha: Greece remains a strong supporter of Albania’s EU membership
Greece remains a strong supporter of Albania’s European Union membership, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said on Thursday. Speaking to journalists from EU member states, Hoxha described relations between Albania and Greece as stronger than ever. He said both countries are working to address long-standing bilateral issues …
Hoxha: No approved project in Zvërnec yet, full environmental impact assessment will be done
No approved project exists yet for the Zvërnec investment, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said on Thursday. He added that authorities will carry out a full environmental impact assessment before any decision. Speaking to journalists from EU member states, Hoxha said institutions continue preparatory work. He also …
Hoxha: EU enlargement will be key priority of Irish Presidency in 2026
EU enlargement will be a key priority of the Irish Presidency of the European Union in the second half of 2026, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha said on Thursday. Speaking to journalists from EU member states, Hoxha said his recent visit to Ireland focused on Albania’s EU …
TKOB prepares tribute evening for Albanian bass-baritone Lukë Kaçaj
The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet (TKOB) is preparing a special evening dedicated to the great Albanian bass-baritone Lukë Kaçaj. The event will pay tribute to one of the most powerful voices in Albanian opera. It will also honor his life, marked by artistic achievement and personal hardship. Lukë …
Golem Becomes a Tourism Hotspot, Short-Term Rental Market Records Strong Growth
Golem is emerging as one of Albania’s fastest-growing tourist destinations, recording significant increases in both demand and supply in the short-term rental market. According to data from AirDNA, a platform specializing in short-term rental market analytics for platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo, the area recorded the strongest growth in …
Non-Performing Loan Ratio Fell to 3.75% in April
The ratio of non-performing loans (NPLs) returned to a downward trend in April. According to statistics from the Bank of Albania, the NPL ratio declined to 3.75%, down from 3.85% recorded in March. The indicator also continued to decrease on an annual basis, compared to 4.03% in April 2025. The …
Albanian Medicinal Plants Attract Tourists in Gjirokastër, Demand for Traditional Products Rises
Medicinal plants and traditional Albanian products are attracting growing interest from tourists in Gjirokastër, particularly foreign visitors seeking natural and authentic products from the region. Mountain tea, lavender, spices, and endemic plants are among the most sought-after products in the city’s historic bazaar, becoming an important part of its tourism …
Jet Bank has officially launched its operations and its mobile application, marking a historic milestone for the Albanian financial sector as the first 100% digital bank in the country. At the launch event held at the Palace of Brigades, with the participation of representatives from state institutions, the banking sector, …
Tens of thousands filled Tirana on June 20 demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama and his government, turning a three-week protest movement into the most serious political challenge to his 14-year rule. Tirana Times, June 20, 2026 – Albania witnessed its largest anti-government protest in years on Saturday, …
How a criminal political economy built on concrete, dirty money and construction may put the Albanian state at risk. Tirana Times, June 22, 2026 – Tirana’s skyline has become the most visible expression of Albania’s new political economy. Over the past six or seven years, dozens of high-rise towers have …
Tirana Times, June 22, 2026 – Albania is no longer facing a normal demographic decline. It is facing the possible disappearance of the very generation on which its economic, social and political future depends. New United Nations population projections cited in the latest analysis show that Albania is expected to …
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
The journey starts in the old village of Dhërmi along the main road. It leads through one of the most scenic hiking trails of the Albanian Riviera. First, the village of Dhërmi stands out with its white stone houses and blue sea views. Moreover, its narrow paths and natural spring …
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the opening of a new guesthouse called “Rrënjët” in the center of Rilindja Square in Ersekë. The project adds new accommodation capacity to the Kolonjë region. It also strengthens the local tourism offer. Moreover, Rama shared images of the guesthouse on social media. He described …
Albania is attracting strong international attention as one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations for 2026. The Spanish media outlet Noticias del Vino describes the country as “the last affordable paradise” in Europe. Moreover, the article highlights that Albania trends heavily on social media, especially TikTok. It shows how low-cost …
The coastal town of Ksamil has transformed from a small holiday destination into one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Albania and beyond. Moreover, the town attracts visitors with its crystal-clear waters, small islands, and proximity to Butrint National Park. It also benefits from its strategic location near Sarandë …
The public beach along the “Taulantia” promenade in Durrës has been equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds. As a result, it now offers more comfort, relaxation, and free access to the coastline for both residents and tourists. Moreover, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja shared images of the upgraded …