Sun-seekers on the hunt for a budget-friendly paradise with fewer crowds than Spain or Croatia are now turning their gaze towards Albania’s hidden gems. Nestled between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania boasts a breathtaking Riviera, complete with idyllic beaches and secluded coves that give Greece a run for its money.
Adventurous travellers have been quick to compare this under-the-radar destination to pricier, well-trodden resorts. Laura Hewson, a Kiwi globetrotter who explored Albania last fall, shared her experience with Express.co.uk: “We were planning to go Croatia.”
“But one of our friends who’d been to Albania told us [we should go there]. They said it’s like Greece or Croatia but cheaper and a lot more beautiful because there are not as many tourists.”, reports the Express.
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She added that in Albania, they could afford a four-star hotel, breakfast included, for the same price they paid for crammed hostel stays in Italy and Spain. Farrell Modd, Laura’s travel buddy, credited TikTok for steering them towards Albania, after being wowed by stunning travel clips on the platform.
Farrell was thrilled to find that the country lived up to its online hype, offering crystal-clear waters and ample swimming spots, all while being surprisingly tourist-friendly. She said: “It’s beautiful, clear blue water, lots of swimming spots.”
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During a visit to the resort town of Vlore in November 2023, Express.co.uk chatted with backpackers who were enjoying the balmy 19C weather. The palm-tree lined beachfront was practically empty, allowing the duo to fully enjoy it, yet the town itself was not short on amenities for holidaymakers seeking fun at a bargain price.
In Albania, a meal rarely exceeds £10 to £15 per person even in high-end establishments, while budget-conscious travellers can savour freshly made pizzas for less than £5. On Vlore’s main strip, beers start at a mere £2, while spirits and cocktails hover around £4. Flights from the UK are also affordable, with direct flights from London to Albania’s capital, Tirana, available for as little as £28.
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