1 –It is a relatively un-crowded and unspoilt destination: Albania gradually emerged from 50 years of communist isolation in the 1990s and has only just begun to reveal its closely guarded secrets. Montenegro, Greece and Croatia may be top holiday destinations but Albania has much to offer without the tourist crowds, especially outside the July and August peak season.
2 – It has a reliable mostly Mediterranean weather: Albania is best visited in Spring from April to June and Autumn from September to November. Summers are stifling hot and beaches tend to be crowded but the weather is dry and there is plenty of sunshine. Winters are cool and best avoided.
3 –It offers great value for money: Accommodation, food and shopping prices are roughly half of the price of Western Europe. There is an increasing number of budget and mid-range hotels in Tirana, Durres and Vlore, as well as family friendly resorts along the coast.
4 – It can be easily reached from the UK: In addition to BA, Wizz Air now flies 3 times a week from London Luton to Tirana. The flight takes just under 3 hours.
5 – It is a safe destination: Whilst petty theft exists in cities like Tirana, it is no worse than other cities in Europe and Albania remains a safe destination for single travellers, including women. Families with children will enjoy the safety of the numerous resorts along the coast. There is very little religious tension and there has been no known terrorist attack in recent years.
6 – Eat and drink with passion, like the locals:
There are many excellent inexpensive restaurants in Tirana, major cities and coastal resorts. Albania is a culture crossroad between Greek, Ottoman and Italian influences and this is reflected in the local cuisine: From Feta, Gyros and Souvlaki to Pizza and Ravioli, Albania cuisine has much to offer. Local must-try dishes include Fëgesë, Tavë Kosi, and the famous spinach and cheese Burek.
7- Relax and unwind on the beautiful Albanian Riviera:
Did you know that despite its relatively small size, Albania boasts more than 265 miles of shorelines, lined with pristine beaches? Moreover, despite the Riviera’s transformation over the past few years – and providing that you avoid July and August – you will find un-crowded resorts and idyllic breathtaking spots dotted along the coast. Dhermi beach is one of the most popular locations, with its clear blue water.
8 – Learn about the rich and long History of the country: Albania has almost 5,000 years of history, with influence from Greeks, Illyrians, Romans, Venetians, Byzantines and Ottomans. In the 1920s and 1930s, King Zog ruled Albania and from 1944 to 1985, Enver Hoxha ruled with an iron fist and turned the country into an autarky. From the ancient archaeological sites of Butrintand Durresi Castle to the magnificent Ngjallja e Krishtit Cathedral in Korçë, and Skanderberg Square in Tirana, history has left its marks.
9 – Enjoy Nature parks and spectacular mountains: Lovers of outdoor activities can trek across the magnificent Albanian Alps and visit historic villages such as Valbona.
There are several national parks to explore including Theth. A must see attraction is the magnificent Shkodra Lake, located on the border of Albania and Montenegro.
10 – Enjoy the buzzing night life and cultural activities in Tirana and the Riviera: Tirana, the chaotic capital of Albania, is a thriving and fast growing metropolis with around 1 million inhabitants. Visitors can expect colourful houses and buildings, a lively coffee culture, a myriad of nightclubs and a huge number of bars and restaurants. Relax in Parku I Madh (Grand Park) or head to Mount Dajti National Parker for fresh air and country walks. Skanderberg Square, named after the great Albanian hero, is the heart of the city, flanked by the National History Museum and the Palace of Culture. From 31 May to 02 June, UNUM (a new House and Techno festival) will take place on e Hedhun Beach in Shengjin.
Skandeberg Square