Vlorë Airport Opens the Southern Riviera
The biggest news in June is the start of commercial operations at Vlorë International Airport. Swiss carrier Chair Airlines will launch a direct route from Zurich to Vlorë as early as June 26, 2026, twice a week until October 23. The airport boasts the longest runway in the Balkans (3.2 km), and Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet have also expressed interest. For properties in Saranda, Vlorë, and the surrounding areas, this means shorter travel times, higher occupancy rates for short-term rentals, and upward pressure on value.
EU Accession Progress Keeps Pace
Albania continues its accession negotiations. At the eighth accession conference on May 26, 2026, it received a positive IBAR assessment for Chapters 23 and 24 (Justice and Fundamental Rights), and the final benchmarks for the first cluster were set. The government aims to close all 33 chapters by 2027. Each step closer to the EU historically increases property values and strengthens legal certainty for foreign buyers.
Prices Are Rising, But Still Have Room
The average property price in Albania is around 1,600 EUR per square meter, a fraction of what comparable locations in Greece or Croatia cost. However, on the coast, prices soared by 25 to 58% annually in 2025. Foreigners can own 100% of a property in their own name, and the annual property tax is only 0.05%. Be aware, however, of the coastal zone within 200m of the shore, where it is always necessary to verify the cadastral classification of the land.
Tourism as a Revenue Driver
Albania is targeting 12.47 million foreign arrivals in 2026. Nearly 80% of stays occur between June and September, creating strong potential for seasonal rentals. Tourism accounts for over 20% of GDP, with an income target of 6 to 7 billion EUR by 2030. The economy is growing at a rate of around 3.6% with moderate inflation and a strong Lek.
Do you want to invest in Albania? Contact us at info@albaniaestates.cz