TIRANA, May 19 – According to an article published by the US travel magazine Islands, Korça is increasingly presented as one of the most affordable and undiscovered Mediterranean destinations for 2026. Robert Isenberg highlighted the city’s combination of heritage, hospitality and low costs.

The report described Korça as a classic Mediterranean setting. It noted cobbled streets, tiled roofs and traditional neighbourhoods. It also pointed to a daily rhythm shaped by public squares, café culture and surrounding bronze-coloured hills. The scenery was compared to Andalusia, Tuscany and Thessaly, while the city remained positioned as a low-cost destination in Albania.

Korça’s historic identity also featured in the article. The old bazaar and Ottoman-era streets continued to define the city centre. At the same time, the report noted traces of communist-era urban development on the outskirts. It also highlighted Albanian hospitality, rooted in the tradition of “besa”, as part of the visitor experience.

In terms of affordability, Albania ranked among the cheapest destinations in Europe. The article estimated daily spending at around 50 US dollars for a single traveller. It compared this with Spain, where costs reach at least 85 US dollars per day.

The report then detailed key attractions in Korça. The Old Bazaar remained the main walking area, with stone buildings, shops and restaurants. Prices included around 2 dollars for a cappuccino and 11 dollars for a meal. It also cited entry of around 7 dollars for the National Museum of Medieval Art, which holds about 7,000 works of Eastern Orthodox heritage. The Resurrection of Christ Cathedral and the Iljaz Bej Mirahori Mosque, built in 1496, also formed part of the city’s cultural landscape.

Access conditions remained limited, according to the article. Tirana International Airport stood more than three hours away by car. Rental cars cost around 15 dollars per day. Public transport relied mainly on private bus operators. The city itself lies inland, while Lake Prespa sits about 32 kilometres away across three borders.

Finally, the report pointed to growing tourism appeal. Hotels and guesthouses offered rooms under 50 dollars per night. Electric taxis operated within the city with fares between 5 and 10 dollars. Cycling tours also supported regional exploration. The article concluded that Korça increasingly attracts attention as both a short-stay destination and a potential long-term stay option in Europe.

/a.p./