Albanian riviera: What are the best places to visit?

HOLIDAYMAKERS might think that perfect beaches, clear blue waters and lots of sun might be out of their price range at the moment.

However, with cheap flights and even cheaper drinks, a holiday on the Albanian Riviera might be the answer to your prayers this summer.

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With lots of choice to choose from in this emerging destination, we’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in Albania, to make sure you have a great holiday.

Most of the Albanian beaches are wide and sandy so you have your pick of where to go.

Vlorë

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The most northern part of the Riviera is Vlorë, where most people will visit before heading down the coast although it does have its own beaches.

Vlorë sits on the Bay of Vlorë and is surrounded by the foothills of the Ceraunian Mountains, along both the Adriatic and Ionian Sea coasts.

The city has a warm Mediterranean climate, with high average temperatures of between 24C-31C during the summer months.

Dhërmi

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Further south of the coastline is Dhërmi – one of the largest and most famous beaches, so you won’t struggle to find a spot.

Its beach boasts white sands with crystal clear turquoise waters and between May and October, temperates range between 22C-30C.

Sarandë

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The city of Sarandë sits on an open sea gulf of the Ionian Sea within the Mediterranean Sea.

It has more than 300 sunny days a year, with highs of around 34C in the summer months.

It’s known for its deep blue waters, as well as the remains of the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO world heritage site.

It’s also the closest city to the Blue Eye – a water spring and natural phenomenon occurring near the village of Muzinë

The water at the spring is so clear, you can see down as far as 50 metres.

Ksamil

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In southern part of the Riviera is Ksamil, which sits close to the Greek border.

Videos of the coastal resort show turquoise waters with what one tour guide group describes as a “Bora Bora feel”.

Others have called it the “European Maldives”.

It’s home to multiple white sand and stone beaches, as well as ancient ruins and affordable luxury hotels.

Flights to Albania start from as little as £25, with direct flights to the capital of Tirana.

The average flight time between the UK and Albania’s capital, Tirana, is approximately three hours.

Direct flights to Ksamil with Wizz Air are cheap, starting from just £55, although British Airways also fly limited direct flights.

Bookings to Albania are up 96 per cent compared to 2019, according to Skyscanner, and this is expected to continue to rise.

It is also very affordable when you are out there – a glass of wine will set you back £1.70 and pints cost just £1.10.

Another option is to fly to Corfu then catch one of five daily ferries across to Sarandë.

Meanwhile, there are places in Albania with overwater sea huts for £8 a night.

And travel expert Lisa Minot revealed the cheapest places to go on holiday this summer.

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