Albania is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful European countries to spend the holidays. Currently, it is becoming more and more popular, and airlines are increasing their flight networks by new lines. Does Albania have a chance to become the new Croatia? I judge based on my two-month stay in the Mediterranean country!, writes journalist Małgorzata Chuchel in an article published in the daily “NaTemat”

Albania remains a favorite holiday destination, often chosen by Poles. It cannot be denied that those who have been there at least once, would like to return again with great pleasure.

Now that Ryanair has launched new flights, including from Poland to Tirana, the capital of Albania, you can see for yourself how diverse and friendly this country is.

During the last years, Albania has become famous by being compared to the Croatian coast.

And although it was indeed the case, over time the prices in Albania are lower, considering those in Croatia too.

Tourists are often attracted by Albania’s beautiful nature, wild beaches hidden among rocks where there are no crowds of visitors, and countless attractions that, miraculously, are still affordable.

Does Albania have a chance to become the second Croatia? What were my two months in Albania and what is worth seeing there?

Prices in Albania

Accommodation prices in Albania vary depending on the season and the region you choose. However, the average price is around 45 Euros per day for an apartment. Food costs are very similar to those in Poland.

It should also be noted that Albanians are a very hospitable nation and ready to help you.

When you go to Albania for vacation, you should keep in mind that living costs are similar to those in Poland. However, compared to current prices in Croatia, it still remains a cheaper option.

Albania is the ideal place for lovers of nature, history and military fortifications.

Apart from places like Gjirokastër or Syri i Kaltër /The Blue Eye/, which are usually visited by all tourists, there are many gems hidden in Albania. Therefore, it is worth thinking about traveling to Albania by car, because this is the only way you will be able to organize a tour and explore as many places as possible.

Which places in Albania are worth visiting?

For example, in Berat, which is also called the city of a thousand windows, we will have the opportunity not only to admire the former city registered on the UNESCO heritage list, but also to sleep on top of the hill in a castle with quite reasonable prices.

It is interesting that in Berat, depending on where we go, two separate worlds await us. The hilltop has a truly idyllic and rural atmosphere, and the town is full of activity.

A little further down, near Saranda, there are plenty of attractions for nature lovers, such as The Blue Eye, or hot springs known as the Thermal Waters of Bënja [in Përmet].

Although in Bënja, you can meet a high number of hot spring lovers, the views are breathtaking and it is really worth going there.

Along the way, you can stop in mountain or coastal villages, which are far from resorts.

Visit wild beaches where you can not only swim in crystal clear waters, but also spend the night. I recommend you to go to Ksamil.

Is Albania prepared for an influx of tourists?

According to statistics, the number of tourists in Albania is constantly increasing from year to year and compared to the previous season, in 2023 it has increased by 49 percent.

The World Tourism Organization ranked it third in terms of tourism growth, after Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Durrës, Saranda, Vlora and Ksamil are the cities where coastal tourism is concentrated.

Albania has a great potential to become a tourist powerhouse like Croatia, but this still requires a great contribution to the entire infrastructure.

/a.p./