The European hotspot dubbed ‘Little Italy’ – but is so much cheaper and has amazing beaches
A HOLIDAY hotspot in Europe is dubbed “Little Italy” by holidaymakers because of its beaches and cheaper prices.
Albania has seen an influx of visitors in southern Europe in recent months.
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The country’s rise in popularity is largely thanks to the army of social media influencers who have vacationed on the Albanian Riviera.
But the country has also attracted other high-profile visitors, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who was visiting the Albanian coast with her family.
In an article in the Financial Timesone holidaymaker, Nicola Ferrero, described Albania as “Little Italy”.
Earlier this year, Nicola went on vacation to Albania because he wanted to explore a new culture and cuisine.
But it’s not just the excitement of exploring a new destination that draws holidaymakers from all over the world, prices in Albania are also cheaper.
The Financial Times reported: “As prices have skyrocketed in Italy, international tourists have been lured by lower Albanian prices for everything from hotel nights to restaurants and sun loungers.”
Wizz Air, easyJet and British Airways all offer direct flights between the UK and the Albanian capital of Tirana. Fares start from £28 for a one-way ticket.
From Tirana, it’s a four-hour drive to cities like Ksamil, Himarë and Sarandë, which have become popular tourist destinations on the Albanian Riviera.
As well as cheap flights, food and drink is also cheap in Albania – a glass of wine, for example, costs £1.70 and a pint is just £1.10.
If you fancy a trip to the Albanian Riviera, there are several beaches you can try.
The northernmost part of the Riviera is Vlora, which most people visit before heading down the coast.
There are hundreds of properties for rent in Vlora and prices for rooms start from as little as 1,000,000 £20 per night – perfect for a budget holiday.
Further south along the coast is Dhërmi – one of the largest and most famous beaches, so you won’t have any trouble finding a spot.
And in the southern part of the Riviera lies Ksamil.
If you prefer to stay in this area, the rooms are a bit more expensive to begin with from £32 per night.
Holidaymakers traveling to Albania can also rent Maldivian-style beach huts for as little as £8 a day.
Tirana, the capital of Albania, tops the list of cheapest cities in 2021.
Meanwhile, travel expert Lisa Minot revealed the cheapest places to vacation this summer.
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