Albania: The Balkans’ Best-Kept Secret
Getting there is easier than many assume. Direct flights from the south of England, Wizz Air from Luton and Gatwick and British Airways from Heathrow, connect travellers to Tirana, Albania’s bustling capital, in just under three hours. For those looking to explore the south coast, seasonal services to Corfu provide another convenient option, with a short ferry ride whisking visitors across to the Albanian Riviera. The accessibility, combined with the growing network of affordable routes, makes Albania a realistic choice for both long summer holidays and spontaneous weekend escapes.
Once in Albania, visitors are struck by the sheer variety of experiences packed into such a compact country. The capital, Tirana, is vibrant and eclectic, blending colourful Ottoman and Italianate architecture with contemporary cafés and art spaces. The city’s youthful energy is infectious, and with a thriving culinary scene—think Mediterranean flavours with Balkan twists—it’s well worth a few days of exploration before heading out to the coast or countryside.
Albania’s Adriatic and Ionian coastlines are its biggest draw for sun-seekers. The Albanian Riviera, stretching from Vlorë down to Sarandë, boasts some of the most spectacular beaches in Europe. Places like Dhërmi, Jale, and Ksamil offer pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, yet remain refreshingly uncommercialised compared to Mediterranean hotspots elsewhere. Beach bars and guesthouses are typically family-run, adding to the sense of authenticity. For those who enjoy a more secluded escape, there are plenty of hidden coves accessible only by boat or hiking trails.
But Albania is far more than its beaches. Inland, the scenery transforms into dramatic peaks and alpine valleys. The Accursed Mountains in the north—known locally as the Albanian Alps—are a paradise for hikers, offering trails through wildflower meadows, past turquoise rivers, and into remote mountain villages where hospitality is legendary. The Valbona and Theth valleys, in particular, have become highlights for walking holidays, with new guesthouses opening each year to accommodate adventurous visitors.
Cultural heritage is another highlight. Albania’s history is written across its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the ancient ruins of Butrint, once a thriving Greek and Roman city, to the Ottoman-era towns of Berat and Gjirokastër, where cobbled streets wind past stone houses and hilltop castles. Exploring these sites provides a fascinating glimpse into the layers of civilisations that have shaped the country.
What makes Albania especially appealing to UK travellers is the value for money. Accommodation, dining, and transport are noticeably cheaper than in Western Europe, meaning that even in peak summer, a holiday here doesn’t have to break the bank. Combined with the friendliness of locals and the sense of discovery that comes with visiting a destination still relatively under the radar, Albania feels like a refreshing alternative to more traditional holiday spots.
For those in the UK ready to swap overcrowded beaches for unspoiled landscapes and genuine hospitality, Albania is a destination that promises both adventure and relaxation. With flights from the south of England making it easier than ever to reach, now may be the perfect time to discover Europe’s hidden gem.