Albania: Europe on a budget
Looking to vacation in Europe while on a budget? Albania travel may be the answer you need — history, beaches, and good food await!
EUROPE
When people think about heading to Europe, they usually picture themselves on the canals of Venice, strolling the streets of Paris, or riding a double-decker bus in the UK. But for those trying to do Europe on a budget, the more popular destinations tend to be out of reach. Yet, there are several overlooked places that can offer more bang for the buck, like Albania. Travel in Europe doesn't have to break the bank if you are willing to venture beyond the typical spots!
Albania is a mountainous Balkan country that is relatively small, with around 3 million people, and Albanians are said to be descended from ancient Illyrians. The country is the birthplace of Mother Teresa, and it is known for its gorgeous coastline, historical architecture, and abundance of castles.
Albania travel: The culture
The people in Albania welcome tourists and are generally very nice. But one of the key areas of confusion for visitors is yes and no gestures. They are the opposite of what you might expect! A head nod means no, and a shake of the head means yes!
Other cultural things to be aware of before you visit:
Smoking is officially prohibited, but you will still see lots of public smoking.
It is a Muslim country, but many locals are non-practicing.
Tipping is just rounding up to the next full note, but 10% is good for exceptional service or large transactions.
Albanians are physically affectionate, but men generally will not invade a woman's space.
A steady gaze during conversation is thought to be indicative of sincerity.
It is polite to be five minutes late when visiting someone.
There is no drinking age, but public drunkenness is unacceptable.
Traveling within Albania
One great thing about Albania is that it is quite walkable in most urban areas, and even when walking isn't feasible, a bus is! Bus travel is inexpensive, but obviously not as efficient as a taxi. (You'll want to ensure the meter is running on each trip. Some drivers may try to "quote" an inflated price instead.)
Trains within the country are available, but they are notoriously unreliable. Even the buses may be a little flexible in their time schedules. It's good to pad in an extra hour or two, especially when you are traveling greater distances.
You can rent a car in Albania, but the roads are not in the best of shape. If you do decide to try it out, you'll need an International Driving Permit to obtain a rental. A lot of people in Albania hitchhike! It is said to be quite safe.
The Food in Albania
Food is generally a big draw no matter where you are visiting, and Albania travel is no different. Here are five foods you should definitely try when you visit this Balkan country:
Ferges: You'll find this stew at traditional restaurants and in more rural areas. It is generally eaten cooled, two to three hours after preparation. The ingredients include tomato sauce, cottage cheese, green peppers, and garlic, and the stew is great with bread for dipping.
Ashure: A sweet and healthy dessert that can be found in most areas, Ashure was brought over from Turkey and contains gelatin, nuts, and dried fruit.
Speca te Mbushur me Oriz: These stuffed bell peppers are an extremely popular dish in Albania. Green bell peppers are stuffed with rice and other ingredients like lamb, tomatoes, or black pepper.
Flija: Commonly found in the northern parts of the country, Flija is a crispy crepe-like dish served with cheese or yogurt.
Tave Mishi: Not for vegetarians, Tave Mishi is a meat platter that is often served at family gatherings. You'll get to sample various types of meat which are enhanced with a sprinkling of lemon juice on top.
Note: Foreigners may be charged more than the locals at dining establishments.
Things to see in Albania
Whether you prefer cultural sites or natural wonders, Albania has plenty to keep you entertained!
Albania for history buffs
Those with a love of all things historical will enjoy a visit to Krujë Castle. It is a well-preserved piece of architecture that dates back to the 6th century. Inside, you'll find a museum dedicated to Georg Kastriot, a military leader who commanded 3,000 men from the castle.
Another great adventure to have in Albania is a visit to Berat, an ancient city. You can wander this UNESCO World Heritage Site a see the thousands of windows, a castle, and an 18th-century church with houses a museum. There is also plenty of natural beauty surrounding the city to admire.
Albania for the outdoor types
If you are looking for outdoor adventures in Albania, you can start with a trip to the Blue Eye. This mesmerizing body of water is crystal clear and extremely deep. Swimming is not allowed, but you are sure to get plenty of joy just taking a peep.
You can also go hiking in the Albanian Alps if you are up to the challenge. There is an all-day hike that will take you from Theth to Valbona, two remote villages. It is a strenuous hike, but the views are well worth the effort. Note: You can only make the trek during the summer months.
Those willing to road trip will enjoy a ride through the stunning Llogara Pass. Found in the Llogara National Park, the pass is 3,280 feet above sea level and gives you views that go on for miles, all the way to the sea.
Albania for beach bums
A visit to the Albanian Riviera is in order for anyone who likes sun and sand. You'll find stunning beachfront, sparkling waters, and plenty of strolling, shopping, and nightlife. The Riviera also offers up some great restaurant options to tickle your tastebuds.
Gjipe Beach is rarely crowded because it is a remote beach that can be tricky to get to since it requires a boat trip or a hefty hike. You'll want to make the effort, however, because the water is dazzlingly blue and the white sandy beach is a dream for your toes.
Whether you prefer cultural sites or natural wonders, Albania has plenty to keep you entertained!
Where to stay in Albania
Most people choose a home base from one of three spots when visiting Albania: the capital city of Tirana, the historical city of Berat, or the Albanian Riviera.
Tirana offers a vibrant entertainment scene with plenty of restaurants to choose from. You can easily find affordable accommodations in the city, and you'll find it is quite walkable. You'll find interesting architecture dating back to the Ottoman Empire, and there are nightlife options aplenty.
Berat is one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, and it offers a magnificent hilltop castle to enjoy. You'll also find yourself standing in the view of Mount Tomorri while visiting the abundant museums on offer, like the Onufri National Museum.
Stretching from Llogara Pass to Ksamil, the Albanian Riviera offers some of the least crowded beaches in Europe. You can enjoy sunbathing, splashing in the waves, and walking in the white sand without all the tourists who crowd other European beach destinations.
Add Albania to Your Bucketlist!
Beautiful, affordable, and plenty to do — what else could you want for your European vacation?