As summer approaches, many tourists look for quiet and crowd-free destinations in Europe, writes Kris Boratyn in the British newspaper *Express*.

Spain, Greece, and parts of Italy are often packed with tourists. So, it’s worth considering alternative spots in the Mediterranean.

Luckily, Europe still has a peaceful riviera. It offers calm beaches, affordable food, and beautiful towns untouched by mass tourism.

The Albanian Riviera, located along the country’s southern coast, is becoming a popular choice. Tourists enjoy the sun, sea, and stunning views at reasonable prices.

It remains much cheaper than better-known Mediterranean destinations. Many beaches are still peaceful, especially after the peak summer season.

“In Europe, I’ve always found peaceful towns along the Albanian Riviera,” said travel expert Jiayi Wang, who runs *The Diary of a Nomad*.

“Places like Himara are still quiet. You can find empty beaches, especially after July and August,” she added.

“The water is crystal-clear, the food is affordable, and the locals are very welcoming,” Wang said.

Himara is one of the hidden gems of the Albanian Riviera. It is quieter than resorts like Saranda or Ksamil. Its beaches are larger and cleaner.

Unlike Ksamil, where many beaches are packed with sunbeds, Himara still has public beaches with lots of space.

Other beautiful resorts include Dhërmi, Vuno, Borsh, Qeparo, and Gjipe. Each place has its charm, with whitewashed houses, mountain views, and calm coastlines.

Gjipe Beach attracts mainly tourists. You need to hike for 45 minutes to reach it, but the peace and clean water make it worth the effort.

Food is another reason to visit. Albanian cuisine blends Turkish and Mediterranean flavors. Prices are still low.

You can enjoy a full meal at a restaurant for less than 10 euros. Local street food is even cheaper.

Popular dishes include *byrek* (filled with cheese or meat), *fërgesë* (baked cheese and peppers), and *tavë kosi* (baked lamb with rice, yogurt, and eggs).

Tourism in Albania has grown rapidly, up nearly 125% since 2019. Still, much of the Riviera remains untouched.

If you want a quieter and more affordable alternative to Greece or Italy, southern Albania could be the perfect spot this summer.

/a.c/