Why Albania is Europe’s Most Underrated Travel Destination

You’ve undoubtedly imagined Santorini sunsets, Italian piazzas, or Parisian cafés if you’ve ever daydreamed about Europe. Things changed when I came to know about Albania. When I was planning to come here, I was very doubtful as to why I was going there; I had very low expectations. But what I discovered was truly remarkable.

Albania appeared to be the best-kept secret in Europe. With its rugged mountains that seem like they belong in a book and its turquoise-hued beaches during the day, this small nation captured my heart. And what’s the best part? Not many people.

The Coast That Took My Breath Away

Albanian Riviera

I can still clearly remember my first drive along the Albanian Riviera. High above the Ionian Sea, the road wound and turned, and at every bend I saw water so blue and clear it appeared to have been painted. Some villages were like tiny pearls, such as Dhermi and Himare.

I dipped my toes into the cold blue water at some random covers. There, I was not able to find any umbrellas, and there were very few people. This is the thing I wanted, sea, wind, me, and the peace.

Heaven: Ksamil

When I arrived in Ksamil, I thought I had taken a wrong turn and ended up in the Caribbean. The sea was shallow and warm, the beach was light and soft, and you could swim to small islands off the coast. I went out on my own private island for the afternoon after renting a kayak. It resembled a dream.

Sarandë and Butrint

There was more activity in Sarandë, including beach bars with music, restaurants serving grilled fish, and families strolling along the waterfront. From here, I made a quick trip to Butrint National Park. Nestled among wetlands and forests are Byzantine, Roman, and Greek ruins. As I stood there surrounded by thousands of years of history, I felt a strange connection to all the passengers who had traveled the same land before me.

Cities with Soul: Tirana—Crazy and Colour

When I first arrived in Tirana, I had no idea what to expect. But I was immediately enamored with the city’s blend of the old and the new. The old Soviet blocks were painted in vibrant hues, and it felt like there was a café with the best coffee I’ve ever had on every corner.

I visited an art museum that was once a bunker and heard stories about the city’s history from locals. It was similar to passing through contemporary displays in underground passageways. Despite its youthful population, Tirana maintained its traditional ways, giving the impression of a city that was constantly evolving.

Berat’s Thousand Windows Are Observing You

And then there was Berat, a place straight out of a fairy tale. When the call to prayer echoed across the roofs at dusk, it was impossible to avoid falling in love.

Gjirokastër, the Stone City

Every street in Gjirokastër seemed to have a story to tell. When I saw the slate roofs, cobblestone streets, and a fortress towering over the city, it seemed as though time had stopped. I strolled through the market, sipping pomegranate juice and chatting with the vendors, who were delighted to show me their carved wooden bowls and handcrafted rugs. It was one of those places where every detail begged to be noted and photographed.

Not To HaveThe Cursed Mountains and Nature That Seems To Have Not Been Touched

To be honest, I had no idea how wild and amazing the Albanian Alps would be. These mountains are called the Accursed Mountains, but they will give you the best and amazing feeling.

One of the adventurous activities I did, which was the best, was to hike from Valbona to the Theth trail, which is very famous worldwide. I saw shepherds waving as I passed herds of sheep. Above me were snow-capped peaks and waterfalls cascading down rocks. At night, I stayed in family-run guesthouses where people who had never met before soon became friends over cheese, bread, and fireside stories.

Lakes That Inspire Love

I could see fish swimming in Lake Ohrid’s crystal-clear water. The water literally appeared to be glass. You can see the fishermen moving from one place to another in their boat along the shore. While having a boat ride on Lake Shkoder, you can witness pelicans and herons around you. It served as a reminder that Albania is stunning throughout, not just along its coastline.

A Snip of Albania

Food has the power to evoke memories, and for me, Albanian food did just that. I ate hearty mountain stews and a glass of raki, which the locals recommended I try, to cap off my meals. I began my days with warm byrek, a flaky pastry filled with cheese or spinach, and had lunches of freshly grilled fish by the sea.

I stayed with a family in Berat for one night. At their kitchen table, we had tavë kosi, which is roasted lamb served with rice and yogurt. Drinks were clinking, people were laughing, and everyone had a sense of belonging. That lunch was more than just food; it was an opportunity to socialize with others that you can’t get in a restaurant by yourself.

Albania’s Great People

Albania is truly unforgettable because of its people. Everywhere I went, I encountered friendly people. Families invited me to join them for coffee, grocers placed extra fruit in my bag, and strangers gave me directions.

In Albania, the term “besa” refers to keeping one’s word and safeguarding visitors. Coming to this place, you can get a sense of nationality. How you take care of your family and how they care for you, how much they love you, and how much you love and respect your country, everything matters here.

Unique Feature of Albania

After travelling the whole of Europe, I can say that Albania is a bit unique. You can trek in the mountains where the air smells of pine and wildflowers, walk through ancient ruins alone, or claim a section of beach as your own. You don’t have to spend a lot during the trip.

Adventure in Albania feels authentic rather than planned. It’s the kind of place where you create stories that you’ll talk about for years to come, rather than just crossing things off a list.

Discovery During Trvelling

• The best time to visit here is during the time of spring, as you will find less crowd, and the temperature during that time is very pleasant especially during the daytime and evening.
• Traveling: I rented a car to see more of the countryside, but I took buses for short trips.
• Money: Although euros were accepted in some locations, the Albanian Lek is the primary currency.
• Language: Although not everyone could speak English, gestures and smiles were very helpful. Coffee frequently became the language when words failed.
• Safety: In comparison to Western cities, I felt much safer elsewhere.

Leaving With More Than Just Memories

I discovered that Albania had provided me with more than just breathtaking scenery when my time there was over. It introduced me to tales of kindness, flavors that lingered long after meals, and scenery that appeared to have stood the test of time.

Albania is an amazing country that isn’t given enough credit. The serene beauty of a location like this, rather than the bustling streets of Europe’s largest cities, is, in my opinion, the greatest way to experience the continent.

Pack your bags and travel to Albania if you want to experience something new and different. You’ll be happy you trusted me.