Albania is full of towns with centuries of history. Places where cobbled streets, stone houses, and old markets tell stories of different times. But keeping these places alive and thriving isn’t always easy. Many historic towns have struggled with neglect, migration, and economic challenges.
That’s where small businesses are making a difference. Locals are stepping up, opening cafes, guesthouses, artisan shops, and restaurants that are breathing new life into these old towns. And it’s working, places that were once fading into the past are now attracting visitors and giving residents a reason to stay.
The Power of Local Businesses
One great example is Korça’s Old Bazaar. A few years ago, this historic marketplace was falling apart. Many of its old shops had closed, and the place felt forgotten. But a few local businesses, government initiatives, and investments helped restore it.
Now, the bazaar is buzzing with life. You’ll find small boutique hotels, family-run restaurants serving traditional food, craft shops selling handmade goods, and lively cafes. This transformation hasn’t just brought in tourists; it’s created jobs and given the community a new sense of pride.
A similar success story is Tirana’s New Bazaar. The government restored this area, but it’s the small businesses that have made it a destination. Fresh food markets, traditional eateries, and modern bars now fill the space, drawing in both locals and visitors. It’s a perfect example of how restoring an old part of a city isn’t enough. People need a reason to come, and small businesses provide that reason.
More Than Just Tourism
While tourism plays a big role, it’s not just about bringing in visitors. Small businesses help keep traditions alive. In places like Gjirokastër and Berat, you’ll find artisans still crafting silver jewellery, weaving carpets, and making byrek the way it’s been done for generations. These businesses are more than just shops, they’re a direct link to Albania’s cultural heritage.
Then there’s agritourism, which is becoming more popular. Instead of moving to big cities or abroad, some families are turning their homes into guesthouses or starting farm-to-table restaurants. This is happening everywhere in Albania, for example, in places like Voskopoja, Përmet, and the villages around Shkodër, where visitors can stay in traditional stone houses, eat homemade food, and experience rural life.
Support from Government and Organizations
Of course, small businesses can’t do it all on their own. Government programs and private initiatives are playing a role in making this transformation possible. One major effort was the 100 Villages Project, which focused on improving infrastructure, preserving historic sites, and encouraging tourism.
Another key player is the Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF), which has worked on revitalization projects in cities like Korça and Berat. By funding restoration efforts and business initiatives, they’re helping towns find new life without losing their character.
A Future Built on Small Businesses
The impact of small businesses on Albania’s historic towns is clear. They create jobs, keep traditions alive, and turn once-forgotten places into must-visit destinations. Most importantly, they give locals a reason to stay and invest in their communities.
For anyone travelling through Albania, supporting these businesses is one of the best ways to experience the country’s culture and history. Whether it’s buying handmade crafts, staying in a family-run guesthouse, or enjoying a meal in a small restaurant, every choice helps keep these towns thriving.
And for the towns themselves? The future looks promising, thanks to the people who believe in them.
