Croatia had its moment—and deservedly so. With its dramatic coastline, medieval cities, and turquoise waters, it became the darling of European summer travel. But savvy travelers are now casting their eyes south, toward a country that offers similar magic for a fraction of the cost: Albania. With wild beaches, mountain towns, and ancient ruins still blissfully under-touristed, Albania just might be the next big thing. Here's what to know before you go.

🏖️ The Albanian Riviera Is Seriously Stunning

From Ksamil to Himarë and Dhermi, Albania’s southern coast rivals Croatia’s for beauty—but with fewer crowds and much lower prices. Expect sapphire water, rugged cliffs, and low-key beach bars where sunbeds don’t require reservations (or half your paycheck).

There’s no shortage of hidden coves, hike-worthy hills, and family-run guesthouses just steps from the sea. And yes—your seafood pasta will probably cost under €10.

🏛️ There’s History Everywhere—Without the Tour Buses

Albania’s history spans Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans—and you’ll find traces of all of them in places like Berat, Gjirokastër, and Butrint (a UNESCO site set among olive groves and lagoons). Many towns feel like open-air museums, minus the lines or entrance fees.

💰 It’s Wildly Affordable

If you’re used to paying €200+ a night for a sea-view room in Croatia, Albania will feel like a dream. Think boutique hotels for €40, full meals for €8, and coastal bus rides for the price of a coffee. It’s one of the last truly budget-friendly places on the Mediterranean.

🚗 It’s Still a Bit Rugged (And That’s Part of the Charm)

Don’t expect polished infrastructure or slick tourist brochures. Albania is still developing its tourism game, which means a few bumpy roads, minimal signage, and the occasional power outage. But it also means authenticity, adventure, and a refreshing lack of cookie-cutter resorts.

🥘 The Food Deserves More Hype

Albanian cuisine is a flavorful fusion of Balkan, Greek, and Mediterranean influences. You’ll find grilled meats, baked pies, fresh seafood, and addictive dips like tzatziki and tarator. Vegetarians won’t go hungry either—there’s always something hearty and local on the menu.

🌄 Mountains, Too

Not just a beach destination, Albania is also home to the Accursed Mountains, some of the most dramatic (and least visited) peaks in Europe. The Valbona to Theth hike is legendary—offering alpine views, glacial rivers, and the kind of solitude you rarely find in more developed trekking regions.

🌍 So, Is Albania the New Croatia?

Not exactly—and that’s a good thing. Albania is rawer, cheaper, and less polished. It doesn’t have Dubrovnik’s walls or Hvar’s yacht clubs, but it has warmth, wild beauty, and the sense that you’ve arrived somewhere special just before the world catches on.

🧭 Ready to Explore Albania?

If you’re craving a coastal escape with real character—and want to get ahead of the next big travel trend—Albania is calling. Let MagicTrips.ai help you plan a personalized itinerary based on your vibe, budget, and pace. It’s free, fast, and designed for travelers who’d rather find hidden gems than follow the crowd.