Albania is set to take center stage as the official host country for ITB Berlin 2025, bringing its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions to one of the world’s largest travel trade shows. The journey begins on March 3 with an opening press conference and a spectacular opening ceremony.
“Albania All Senses”: A Celebration of Culture and Nature
Under the theme “Albania All Senses”, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment of Albania will showcase the country’s diverse tourism offerings from March 4 to 6, 2025. Visitors can expect an immersive experience, complete with cultural performances, culinary delights, and captivating exhibitions.
Grand Kickoff: Press Conference and Opening Ceremony
The official opening press conference, led by Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister of Tourism and Environment Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi, will take place on March 3 at 10 a.m. in the Marshall-Haus. Later that evening, the CityCube Berlin will host the grand opening ceremony at 6 p.m., promising an unforgettable display of Albanian culture.
Highlights include a cinematic journey through Albania, live performances by Shkodra Elektronike – Albania’s Eurovision 2024 representatives – and traditional Albanian music recognized by UNESCO. The Albanian National Ensemble will perform iconic dances like the Dance of Tropoja, Sword Dance, and the Dance of Osman Taka, while the National Opera Theater and contemporary dancers will add modern flair. The evening will conclude with a culinary reception at 7:30 p.m., featuring authentic Albanian delicacies.
A Strong Albania Presence at ITB Berlin 2025
The official opening tour kicks off on March 4 at 9:30 a.m. at Albania’s stand in Hall 3.1, marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by prominent leaders, including the Governing Mayor of Berlin, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, and the CEO of Messe Berlin.
Albania’s presence will be anchored by an impressive 700-square-metre stand located in Hall 3.1 (Stand 105) and Hall 4.1 (Stand 200). The exhibit will offer virtual tours, interactive experiences, and networking opportunities, giving visitors a deeper understanding of Albania’s rich cultural and natural attractions.
Daily Highlights at Albania’s ITB Berlin Stand (Hall 3.1)
Tuesday, March 4:
10:30 a.m.: Meet & Greet with Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi, followed by a group photo with Albanian tour operators.
1:30 p.m.: “A Taste of Albania – Wine & Tradition”, hosted by Anila Denaj, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development.
2:30 p.m.: “Exploring Albania Through Active Tourism”, moderated by travel journalist Alex Crevar, with insights from Ilva Gjuzi and Dr. Sonja Kurz.
3 p.m.: “Melodies of Metropolis” – a musical journey through Albania’s urban rhythms.
3:30 p.m.: Panel discussion “Albania: The Rising Gateway of Southeast European Tourism”, featuring industry leaders from Air Albania, Tirana International Airport, and Maritim Marina Bay.
4 p.m.: “The Art of Elegance” – Traditional Albanian dances showcasing regional variations.
4:30 p.m.: “The Beauty of Tradition is ‘Woman'” – a digital art experience by Korça’s Digital Art Gallery and Space 05 Tirana.
5 p.m.: “Happy Hour & All Senses Cocktail Experience”, blending coastal flavors with expert mixology.
Wednesday, March 5:
11 a.m.: Launch of TEA (Tourism Events of Albania), a digital platform promoting cultural tourism.
11:30 a.m.: “Albania 2025 – The Next Investment Frontier”, featuring Elira Kokona, Laura Saro, and Hans-Jürgen Wittmann.
12 p.m.: “A Mediterranean Culinary Journey” – Live cooking show by Mandarine Restaurant chefs.
3 p.m.: “Agritourism, Tradition and Folklore”, hosted by Anila Denaj, Armando Muça, and Sofjola Kotelli.
3:30 p.m.: “Cultural Exchange as the Foundation for Sustainable Tourism”, with experts like Sofjan Jaupaj and Elvis Kotherja.
4:30 p.m.: Albanian Wine Tasting accompanied by Korça serenades.
Thursday, March 6:
11 a.m.: “Visit Gjirokastra” showcases how the region leads Albania’s destination management efforts.
11:30 a.m.: “Innovation Now: The Amazing Landscape of Innovative Albania” – exploring Albania’s thriving start-up ecosystem.
12 p.m.: “A Taste of Albania” – an interactive culinary experience featuring local specialties.
2 p.m.: Documentary screening: “Peeping Tourist – A Journey Beyond the Forbidden Curtain”.
2:30 p.m.: “Beyond Traditional Tourism: Albania for Digital Nomads”, moderated by Arlind Haxhiaj.
3 p.m.: “Wanderlust in Albania” – a photography competition highlighting the country’s beauty.
Key Presentations and Panels Across ITB Berlin
Tuesday, March 4:
11:40 a.m.: Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi joins the Global Round Table Panel at the Orange Stage (Hall 7.1a).
1 p.m.: “Whispers of Vjosa: Nature’s Melody”, a live tribute to the Vjosa River, at the South Entrance.
Wednesday, March 5:
10:30 a.m.: Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi delivers a keynote at the ITB Convention Blue Stage (Hall 7.1b).
10:30 a.m.: “Whispers of Sorrow: The Voices of Iso Polifonia”, a performance by Albanian Night.
1 to 3 p.m.: Mirela Kumbaro Furxhi participates in the Ministers’ Summit at CityCube Berlin (Room A3).
2 p.m.: Mr. Jaupaj, Deputy Minister of Tourism, speaks at the Destination Track (Blue Stage, Hall 7.1b).
Thursday, March 6:
3:30 p.m.: “Adventure Travel and the Trans Dinarica Cycling Route”, presented by Jan Klavora and Alex Crevar at the Lighthouse Stage (Hall 4.1b).
