Albania is quickly gaining attention from travelers thanks to its affordable price point, stunning coastline, and ancient history. Not convinced? Here’s why Albania should be on your summer travel radar and what to know before you visit (because by the end of this article, you’ll be booking a ticket).
How to Get to Albania
Before you discover Albania’s charms, you have to tackle the logistics of getting there. Luckily, the rise in tourism has increased accessibility and infrastructure. Most travelers arrive by flying into Tirana International Airport. Budget airlines are starting to offer direct flights from major European cities, making it easier than ever to visit.
Alternatively, there are ferry routes from Greece and Italy to Albania. There are also direct bus routes from neighboring countries, including Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia.
Why You Should Visit Albania
Affordability
Albania is a budget-friendly alternative European escape. From boutique hotels to seaside villas, you’ll find incredible accommodations at a fraction of the cost compared to nearby Croatia, even during the peak tourist season. Meals are equally affordable, with fresh seafood, traditional Albanian byrek, and wine costing less than €10.
Remarkable Natural Landscapes
It’s not just the affordability that makes Albania a must-visit destination. The weather and natural landscapes are another box ticked on the summer travel checklist. For sun-seekers, there’s the Albanian Riviera. Albania beaches are some of the most beautiful (and uncrowded) in Europe, including Ksamil, often referred to as the “Maldives of Europe.” We highly recommend venturing a bit further afield to Dhërmi, Vlore, and Himarë. For €10, you’ll gain access to all-day sun loungers right on the water, with beach club wait staff serving affordable beverages should you want them.
You may be more interested in Albania’s hidden waterfalls and rugged canyons. There are hikes sprinkled throughout the north in the Albanian Alps of the Accursed Mountains and don’t forget to add a stop at the Blue Eye.
History
Albania’s history is as diverse and intriguing as its landscapes. History buffs will revel in the wealth of ancient ruins and Ottoman-era streets scattered through Gjirokastër and Berat.
Where to Go in Albania
Tirana
Albania’s vibrant capital is a hub of creativity, offering quirky cafes, art galleries, and buzzing nightlife. There’s also a wealth of Communist-era history dotted throughout its many museums. Don’t miss the colorful streets of the Blloku district.
Albanian Riviera
Often compared to Croatia, the Albanian Riviera is a slice of paradise with turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and delicious seafood restaurants. Dhërmi is famous for its white pebble beaches and coastal caves. Himarë is another charming coastal town known for its castle and fantastic snorkeling.
Berat
Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat’s Ottoman-era architecture and riverside views are picture-perfect. You’ve undoubtedly seen photos of the city (a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage Site) and its famous white Ottoman-era houses cascading down the hillsides. Ancient Berat Castle is still inhabited today, and it’s the perfect place to grab a traditional dinner at sunset after shopping for Albanian handicrafts.
Theth National Park
The Alps of Albania are a hiker’s paradise brimming with stunning trails, quaint alpine villages, and cascading waterfalls. In the traditional village of Theth, the gateway community to Theth Nationl Park, visitors can learn more about mountain life in Albania. With only about 350 permenant residents, Theth is also home to a still-intact lock-in tower. These fortified structures were used as safe houses for villagers when under threat from warring tribes and factions in the region.
Albania’s rise as a summer destination is inevitable. With every passing year, more travelers discover its allure, meaning now is the perfect time to experience it before the crowds catch on.
If you’re searching for an affordable, beautiful, and culturally rich destination, Albania is your answer. This Balkan gem has everything you need for an unforgettable European summer trip. Don’t wait—pack your bags and see Albania while it’s still relatively a secret.
