Top 5 resorts in Albania: where to go for "European Maldives"

Why should you travel to Albania?

Affordable prices are just one of the many advantages Albania has to offer. In fact, the list of benefits is much broader:

• Exceptionally tasty and diverse local cuisine
• Authentic national character, untouched by standard resort tourism
• One of the most affordable countries in the Balkans
• Landscapes reminiscent of the Maldives, Greece, and Montenegro — all in one place
• Numerous attractions scattered throughout the country
• Excellent beach holidays
• Great shopping opportunities, as a large share of Italian clothing production is based in Albania

What are the reasons for budget prices in Albania?

We have already said that the prices in the resorts of Albania are much nicer than most European counterparts. What is the reason for such attractive pricing for travelers? The fact is that unlike Greece, Italy or other major Mediterranean countries, Albania is not a member of the EU or the Eurozone, so the tourism sector here is less developed. But this has its advantages. The depreciated Albanian lek will remain in circulation in the coming years.

Also, there is only one airport in the country, so such tourist gems as Xamil will be protected from the crowds of travelers for a long time due to its remote location from the place of arrival of most tourists.

Accommodation in the most expensive hotel in the same Xamil will cost you from 70 to 120 euros per night. A day at a nice private villa on the beach will cost from 50 to 70 euros. Other options are even more affordable.

Daily expenses will also please you. Local beer here costs about 1 euro, and lunch in an inexpensive institution will cost 7-10 euros.

Puedes reservar un hotel en Albania con un descuento de hasta el 65 % en la página web.

Which resort in Albania to choose?

Durres

All resort towns in Albania are small. Nevertheless, this does not prevent it from being completely stuffed with tourist infrastructure and amazingly beautiful spots. One of such locations is the city of Durres, washed by the waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Its characteristic feature is wide sandy beaches and comfortable shallow water, which is usually very popular with tourists with children. The presence of local nightclubs, stores, tourist infrastructure and affordable prices for trips attract young people here as well.

What to see in the resort town of Durres?

• If you are a connoisseur of antiquity, the Byzantine Forum and Rotunda, the Ancient Road, the Ancient Amphitheater and the Venetian Tower are worthy of your attention.
• If you are more into modern entertainment, you will definitely find it on the Albanian Boulevard.

Location: Durres, Albania.

Vlorë

This resort is unique in that it boasts two seas. The Adriatic Sea, with its gently sloping sandy shore, lies in the lively central part of the city, while the Ionian Sea, known for its pebble beaches, is located in the quieter southern area.

This destination suits travelers with different goals and preferences. Those seeking a relaxed holiday should stay farther from the center, while fans of vibrant nightlife will feel most comfortable in the heart of the resort.

Mountains and greenery, dramatic rocky landscapes, and the stunning turquoise color of the water — created by the meeting of the two seas — will accompany you throughout the entire resort area.

What to see in the resort town of Vlorë?

• Be sure to visit the Karaburun–Sazan Marine Park, home to one of Albania’s main symbols — the remarkable Sazan Island. Please note that Sazan is a military zone, so swimming is allowed only at certain times and exclusively as part of an organized tour.
• You can also explore the unique Haji Ali Cave, which features a lake 10 meters deep.

Location: Vlorë, Albania.

Sarandë

The resort is located 280 km, or about 4.5 hours by car, from the country’s capital, Tirana. However, the long journey should not discourage you — the transfer feels more like a sightseeing tour, with stops at scenic viewpoints and meals at picturesque restaurants.

Sarandë is one of the most beautiful resorts in the country, with landscapes that resemble Greece more than the Balkans. The beaches here are pebble-lined with a gentle entry into the water, and the sea is crystal clear — thanks to the pebbles, the Ionian Sea remains exceptionally clean and transparent.

Fresh mountain air, olive groves, and a rich excursion program, including trips to the Greek island of Corfu, make Sarandë especially attractive to travelers. A truly unique feature of the resort is that sea views are available from almost any point along the coast, as the houses are built in tiers on the hillsides like an amphitheater.

What to see in the resort town of Sarandë?

• The Sarandë promenade is considered the most beautiful on the entire Albanian Riviera. It resembles Spanish and French resorts, with a vibrant nightlife scene.
• Just imagine: only 1,800 seconds — and you’re in Greece! A ferry departs daily from Sarandë to the Greek paradise island of Corfu. The ticket price is €19.

Location: Sarandë, Albania.

Xamil

When we talked about similarities with the Maldives, we were referring primarily to this resort area. Ksamil is best suited for a quiet beach vacation, because people come here primarily for the sea!

The water of bright blue color at the shore passes into deep emerald at depth. The beaches here are snow-white, because they are formed not from sand, but from stones grinded into flour. And palm trees against the background of fir trees only add to the exoticism of all this beauty.

What to see in the resort town of Ksamil?

• Not far from the shore, there is a group of small uninhabited islands. You can reach them by boat or pedal boat and enjoy nature in peace and quiet.
• The main attraction of the resort is Lekuresi Castle. From its observation deck, Sarandë can be seen as if in the palm of your hand. According to legend, the castle was built by Sultan Suleiman for Roxolana.
• Another place where Albania’s nature reveals itself in full splendor is the Blue Eye spring.

Location: Ksamil, Albania.

Golem

This town is even smaller and quieter than its neighbors. Pine trees are everywhere, the sand is fine, and the entrance into the Adriatic Sea is gentle. Most importantly, there is space — lots of space. Low-rise buildings are nestled among the pines, followed by a promenade with shops, cafés, an amusement park, and second-line hotels.

Nightlife here is almost nonexistent, which makes Golem especially appealing to those who value a calm and relaxing holiday.

What to see in the resort town of Golem?

• The main activities in Golem are beach relaxation and water развлечions: banana boat rides, pedal boats, and boat trips.
• Another popular leisure option among tourists is a trip to the city of Durrës, where you can explore the ruins of an ancient amphitheater, a Venetian fortress, the Archaeological Museum collection, and other attractions.

Location: Golem, Albania.

We wish you pleasant journeys and unforgettable experiences!