While classic holiday destinations such as Greece and Croatia are increasingly crowded and expensive, Albania is starting to establish itself as an attractive alternative for European tourists.
This Balkan country offers both gorgeous beaches on the Adriatic Sea and impressive mountain scenery, all at affordable prices. In 2023, hundreds of thousands of people chose Albania as their holiday destination, which represents a significant increase compared to previous years.
Dream destinations: the Albanian coast and Tirana
Albania is well known for its spectacular beaches, with 362 kilometers of coastline on the Adriatic Sea. The most popular resorts are located in the south of the country, where clean beaches and crystal-clear waters compete with famous destinations in Greece and Croatia.
Ksamil and Saranda are among the most popular locations, attracting tourists from all over Europe due to their natural beauty and competitive prices. The beaches in this area are often compared to those of the Maldives due to the fine sand and turquoise water.
In addition to the seaside, the capital Tirana is a city-break destination on the rise. The city retains traces of the communist past, visible in the buildings and museums that tell the story of the dictatorial period.
For example, the House of Leaves and former dictator Enver Hodja’s bunker are tourist attractions that reveal Albania’s tumultuous history. At the same time, Tirana is a modern city with a vibrant nightlife, full of restaurants, bars and cafes that cater to all tastes.
Albania, a gastronomic and cultural destination
Beyond its natural landscapes, Albania also attracts visitors with its gastronomic diversity. Agritourism restaurants, such as Mrizi i Zanave and Uka Farm, offer tourists authentic culinary experiences based on the concept of slow food.
Traditional Albanian food, influenced by Italian and Ottoman cuisine, is growing in popularity, being prepared with local ingredients, many of which come from the restaurants’ own farms.
In addition to fine gastronomy, Albania is an ideal destination for those who want to explore Balkan culture and history. Cities like Berat and Gjirokastër, included in the UNESCO World Heritage, are major destinations for lovers of history and architecture. Albania is also a perfect place to discover local traditions, festivals and customs that are still kept sacred.
With lower prices for accommodation, food and transport compared to Greece, Albania has quickly become a favorite destination for tourists from all over Europe. If you want to explore a country with diverse landscapes, rich history and fascinating culture, Albania is definitely an option to consider for your next vacation.