The Albanian language is not related to any other language in the world. (Image: Getty)
Albania, often overlooked in favour of its Mediterranean neighbours, has recently been drawing attention as one of Europe’s most promising travel destinations.
Once famously dubbed ‘Europe’s North Korea’, the country has undergone a remarkable transformation.
Today, Albania is a stunning blend of pristine beaches, dramatic mountains, and a rich cultural heritage, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking adventure off the beaten path.
Whether you’re exploring its ancient cities, lounging on its unspoiled beaches, or hiking through its majestic mountains, Albania offers something for every kind of traveller.
The country’s fascinating history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes make it a hidden gem in the heart of Europe’s Balkan region—one that’s well worth exploring.
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Enver Hoxha was the son of a wealthy Muslim cloth merchant. (Image: Forrásjelölés Hasonló, John Oldale )
Albania’s transformation is rooted in its turbulent history.
For much of the 20th century, the country was under the tyrannical rule of Enver Hoxha, a Communist dictator who led the nation from the end of World War 2 until his death in 1985.
Hoxha’s regime was one of strict isolationism, cutting Albania off from the outside world for nearly 40 years.
During this time, Albania became one of the most repressive and isolated nations in Europe, earning the nickname ‘Europe’s North Korea.’ Hoxha’s totalitarian policies stifled freedom of speech, banned travel abroad, and brutally punished dissent.
People lived in fear of government surveillance and repression, with informants and spies lurking around every corner.
For Albanians, the idea of a “normal” life outside the constraints of dictatorship was an unimaginable concept.
One local resident, Rrapo, spoke with BBC’s Europe editor Katya Adler, recalling his experiences under Hoxha’s rule.
Appearing on the first episode of The Balkans: Europe’s Forgotten Frontier, she said: “Everyone was afraid back then. There was this feeling that everyone was spying on their neighbourhood, their friend… whatever they were doing. Some were prosecuted. You couldn’t criticise the politics of the state. You couldn’t leave the country. If you crossed the line, you’d be punished.”
The country’s isolation from the global community came to an end in 1991, after Hoxha’s death and the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe.
The effects of this long period of isolation are still evident today, but Albania’s recent efforts to embrace modernity have slowly begun to shift the narrative.
Lake Ohrid (pictured above) is the oldest in Europe and the world and is located in Albania (Image: Getty)
Today, Albania is a country of unexpected beauty. From its rugged, mountainous landscapes to its sparkling Mediterranean coastline, Albania offers a wide range of experiences for travellers seeking something different.
Visitors can explore the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or soak up the sun on the pristine beaches of the Albanian Riviera, often compared to the famous coastlines of Italy or Greece.
Adler, in her BBC documentary, highlighted the country’s strategic location, noting: “If I say Mediterranean beach holiday, you probably wouldn’t think of Albania, but that’s Corfu over there, so this is prime Med location.”
Albania’s proximity to popular Greek islands like Corfu makes it an accessible and beautiful alternative to traditional Mediterranean destinations.
With its charming towns, lush forests, and idyllic beaches, Albania’s natural beauty is rivalled by few in Europe.
The Albanian Riviera, with its turquoise waters, jagged cliffs, and sandy coves, has been compared to some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean.
The town of Dhermi, for instance, is quickly becoming a hotspot for beach lovers, while the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër offers a glimpse into Albania’s Ottoman past with its ancient stone houses and cobbled streets.
Tirana is Albania’s capital is the greenest capital in southeastern Europe. (Image: Getty)
In addition to its natural wonders, Albania is home to a vibrant cultural scene that reflects its long history of diverse influences.
From ancient Greek and Roman ruins to Ottoman-era architecture, the country’s cultural heritage is as varied as it is fascinating.
Albanian cuisine is another highlight, offering a mix of Mediterranean and Balkan flavours, with fresh seafood, locally grown vegetables, and traditional dishes such as byrek (a savoury pastry) and tave kosi (a baked lamb dish with yoghurt).
The country’s capital, Tirana, has experienced a modern resurgence, with newly renovated buildings, lively cafes, and a bustling art scene. The transformation of Tirana from a communist-era city to a thriving metropolis has been impressive, and it now serves as a cultural and economic hub for the country.
Albania is known for its legendary hospitality and pride in guest welcome. (Image: Getty)
In recent years, Albania has become an increasingly popular destination for travellers seeking an affordable alternative to more well-trodden European hotspots.
Tourism now makes up a significant portion of the country’s economy, accounting for around 80% of GDP.
With its relatively low cost of living, Albania offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy a Mediterranean holiday without breaking the bank.
Moreover, Albania’s tourism industry is growing rapidly, with new hotels, restaurants, and infrastructure popping up along the coast.
The country has become a popular choice for adventure tourists, offering hiking, mountain biking, and even white-water rafting in its rugged interior. As a result, Albania is quickly establishing itself as one of Europe’s most exciting and underrated destinations.
The early Christian Great Basilica of Butrint was built in the 6th century AD and is one of the best (Image: Getty)
Modern Albania stands in stark contrast to the country’s past. What was once a closed-off, impoverished nation is now one of Europe’s most dynamic up-and-coming travel spots.
The long years of isolation under Hoxha’s regime have given way to a new sense of freedom and opportunity, with Albania embracing its place as a unique and beautiful destination for tourists.
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Publish date : 2025-02-08 20:00:00
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