How Tourism Is Shaping the Albanian Economy in 2025

By someone who lives it, every day  

I’ve lived in Saranda for over a decade now, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: when tourism shifts, everything else moves with it—especially in a place like ours.  

In the early 2010s, Saranda felt like a secret. We locals used to joke that foreigners only found Albania by accident—maybe they took the wrong ferry from Corfu or got lost looking for cheaper Greek islands. But here we are in 2025, and suddenly the secret’s out. The Albanian Riviera is booming, and tourism is right at the heart of it.  

And honestly? I get it.  

I mean, just last week I showed a client a seaview penthouse in Ksamil — this one here —and the look on their face when they stepped onto the terrace? That view of the turquoise water, the smell of grilled seafood from the tavernas below, the sound of cicadas in the background. That reaction reminded me exactly why I love this job. You don’t have to convince people. The place speaks for itself.  

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The Ripple Effect of Tourism  

Tourism has done more than just fill our beaches and restaurants. It’s reshaping the local economy from the ground up.  

Ten years ago, most locals here in Saranda relied heavily on seasonal work—hotel jobs, summer cafés, guiding boat tours. But now, thanks to the surge of interest in beachfront property and Saranda apartments for sale , we’re seeing a completely new wave of investment.  

Locals are turning old family homes into modern rentals. Small builders are becoming full-blown developers. Even my neighbor, who used to only fish in the summer, now runs a growing short-term rental business. It’s wild—in the best way.  

And then there’s real estate. Oh, real estate.  

Back in the day, you could grab an apartment with sea views for under €40,000. Try finding that now! That same unit today? Double. Sometimes triple. Especially if it’s in Ksamil or has direct beach access. Still, compared to Italy or Greece, these are affordable properties by Mediterranean standards. I truly believe Saranda offers the best value on the entire Mediterranean coast . And I say that as someone who eats, sleeps, and breathes this market.  

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A Small Tangent (Because That’s How Conversations Work)  

I have to say, the other morning I was sitting at the taverna near Borsh beach—you know the one, it doesn’t even have a sign, just a faded umbrella and the smell of fresh calamari—and I overheard a couple from Poland talking about how Albania “feels like what Greece used to be in the ’80s.”  

And I couldn’t stop smiling. Because they’re not wrong.  

That untouched charm, the unpaved paths, the way locals still bring you figs from their backyard just because. We haven’t polished everything up yet, and honestly, I hope we never fully do.  

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A Shift in Mindset 

Tourism hasn’t just brought money—it’s brought attention. People are starting to see Albania. Not just as a holiday destination, but as a place to live, to invest, to build a future. 

In my day-to-day, I now work with digital nomads, retirees from Scandinavia, young couples from Germany, even Albanians from the diaspora looking to come home. They’re all looking for the same thing: that sweet spot between beauty and opportunity. 

Sometimes, I take them to see properties like this luxury duplex in Ksamil . You’d be surprised how often they decide on the spot. The combo of modern amenities, sea views, and walking distance to the beach? It just works. 

And the return on investment? With summer rental demand through the roof, many of these homes pay themselves off within a few seasons. 

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Beyond the Beach 

But it’s not all sunshine and sold signs. Tourism has also put pressure on local infrastructure. Roads that weren’t meant for thousands of visitors now groan under the summer traffic. Wi-Fi has gotten better, but it’s still spotty in some parts. And don’t even get me started on August parking in Ksamil. 

Still, there’s progress. The government’s putting serious effort into upgrading roads, sewage systems, and even encouraging eco-tourism. That’s been exciting to watch. 

Even small villages inland are starting to benefit. I recently visited a property about 10 minutes above Saranda—peaceful, olive groves all around, views stretching down to the Ionian. It’s not listed yet, but I might add it soon. These hidden spots are becoming the next big thing. 

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Let’s Talk Numbers 

To give you a sense of the impact: 

• Saranda welcomed over 1 million visitors in the summer of 2024, and 2025 is already pacing ahead. 

• Hotel bookings? Up 32% from last year. 

• Real estate inquiries on our site tripled between January and April alone. 

And what are people asking for? Seaview apartments , beachfront homes , and properties with rental potential. Which is why listings like this one get snapped up fast. 

The market is still young. But that’s the magic. You’re not too late. Not yet. 

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So, What Does This Mean for You? 

If you’re thinking about investing or moving here, now’s the time to get serious. Not just because prices are rising (they are), but because Albania—especially the south—is evolving. 

But it’s doing it in its own way. Slowly, a bit chaotically, but always with heart. 

We still greet people with a coffee before we talk business. We still dance at weddings until sunrise. We still measure time in seasons, not quarters. And as the economy shifts, I think we’ll keep that spirit. 

That’s the Albania I know. And love. 

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If you’re curious about properties, have questions about specific areas, or just want someone to help you figure it all out—reach out. I’m here. Probably having coffee at Limani or walking a client through another hidden gem.

And maybe, just maybe, I’ll get to show you the view that changes everything.

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Want to explore what’s available?

You can start with this stunning Ksamil penthouse or browse more Saranda apartments for sale on VivaView.al.