Greece and Albania are developing joint tourism packages and cross-border routes
Co-operation between the two countries is moving towards concrete products and itineraries, with a focus on the Ionian coast and the growing demand for regional travel.
Cooperation between Greece and Albania is entering a new phase – with the clear aim of creating joint tourism products and strengthening cross-border traffic. The agreement signed in Athens by the representatives FedHATTA-e i Albanian Tourism Union signals a shift from declarative to operational cooperation, which could have a direct impact on how southeastern Europe positions itself in the market.
Joint itineraries as a new standard of offering
At the heart of the agreement lies the development of combined journeys that connect two destinations in one unique experience. Special emphasis has been placed on the Ionian coast, where geographical proximity and complementary offerings create a logical basis for cross-border routes.
For agencies and tour operators this means room for creating new products which combine, for example, Greek islands with Albanian coastal and cultural destinations. It is precisely these types of packages that are increasingly in demand among travellers wishing to cover multiple countries in a single trip.
Albania's rise is changing the region's dynamics.
This development does not come by chance. In 2025, Albania recorded approximately 12.5 million international arrivals., thereby increasingly profiling itself as a growing destination in Europe. Interest in so-called multi-destination travel is growing in parallel, especially among guests from the EU, Israel and the Baltic countries.
In practice, this means that travellers are already combining regions in their itineraries – the market exists, and this agreement seeks to structure and commercially exploit it.
Air connectivity as an operational advantage
Development common products and strengthening transport connectivity. Direct routes between Tirana, Athens and Heraklion, operated by SKY express and Aegean Airlines, further simplify travel between the two countries.
For the industry, this means fewer operational hurdles and greater flexibility in the design of arrangements, particularly with shorter and more dynamic tours.
Focus on niche segments and concrete B2B steps
Co-operation doesn't stop at classic “sun & sea” products. Both sides see potential in developing alternative forms of tourism – from active holidays and nature to gastronomy.
The Epirus region particularly stands out as a zone of potential cooperation, where cross-border routes can be built around authentic experiences, rather than just destination “checklists”.
At the same time, specific B2B steps are planned, including visits by Greek agencies to Albania and meetings with local partners, which should accelerate the development of joint products.
Source: GTP
