If you are looking for a holiday destination near France, offering sublime beaches and a rich cultural heritage, look no further: Albania is made for you.
This small Balkan country, located just a 2.5 hour flight from Paris, has everything it needs to seduce you.
Idyllic beaches without the crowds of classic tourist destinations
Albania offers an exceptional coastline, with almost 500 kilometers of coastline on the Adriatic and Ionian seas. You will find beaches of fine sand or pebbles, bordered by crystal clear waters where it is nice to swim. Among the most beautiful beaches in the country:
- Ksamil Beach – a real paradise located in the south of the country
- Drymades Beach – a wild beach surrounded by green hills
- Gjipe Beach – a secluded bay accessible only by boat or on foot
By choosing Albania as a destination, you avoid the crowds present on the Spanish or Italian coasts.
A rich culture and a fascinating historical heritage
Albania is a country with a rich historical and cultural heritage. You will discover:
- The city of Berat, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its Ottoman architecture
- The archaeological site of Butrint, testimony to the different civilizations that occupied the region
- Rozafa Fortress in Shkoder, offering breathtaking views of Lake Skadar and the Albanian Alps
Don’t miss the capital Tirana either, a city in full transformation that will surprise you with its dynamism and modernity.
Various activities for all tastes
In addition to the beaches, Albania offers a wide range of activities for nature and sports lovers:
- Hiking in the mountains of Theth National Park or Mount Korab
- Mountain biking in the Dajti region, near Tirana
- Rafting on the Osumi or Vjosa river
For lovers of history and culturedon’t miss the numerous museums in the country such as the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of Tirana, the Ethnographic Museum of Korçë or the National Historical Museum of Gjirokastër.
Practical advice for your stay in Albania
Here are some tips to make the most of your stay in Albania:
- The best time to visit Albania is between May and September, with pleasant temperatures and optimal sunshine
- There are few direct flights from France, so remember to book your plane ticket in advance
- The local currency is the lek, but in many places the euro is also accepted
- The level of security in Albania is satisfactory, but it is important to remain vigilant as in any tourist destination
To conclude, Albania is a still little-known destination with undeniable tourist potential. Don’t wait to get there before this little gem is invaded by the crowd !