Albania is a hidden gem in the Mediterranean. Rest on the clean beaches of the Adriatic, the tiny capital of Tirana, the most beautiful nature and cultural attractions, and also a generous cuisine. Everything about Albania from the Subtleties of tourism: maps, tours, photos and reviews of tourists.
The most poorly studied Balkan country by the general tourist community, Albania is comfortably located near the gentle waves of the Adriatic and Ionian seas, surrounded by its coastal neighbors, which are more popular among vacationers - Greece and Montenegro. For many years, Albania has remained isolated from the world, which is why most people know sadly little about its rich cultural heritage and beautiful nature with picturesque canyons and beautiful clean beaches. The local population is Balkan-style hospitable, which is expressed in plentiful and tasty food, more than reasonable prices for tours and a respectful, if not loving, attitude towards everyone who has shown an interest in their modest country.
No wonder the slogan of the National Tourism Office says: "Albania - a new love in the Mediterranean." In a word, they are waiting for us there, which means we have to go!
Regions and resorts of Albania
The capital is Tirana , a kaleidoscope city: there is colorful oriental architecture, neat European-style buildings, and unexpected Soviet monuments - either Lenin will wink with a sly eye, or a partisan will wave his powerful hand. Tirana was founded by the Turks, who built a mosque, baths, a bakery and shops at the intersection of trade routes, but life was in full swing here before: fragments of a Roman building and a Byzantine fortress of the 3rd-6th centuries will not let you lie.
Until recently, the Albanian capital looked depressing: gloomy streets, mountains of garbage, outdated infrastructure. But the 21st century and the identity revival program have turned it into a vibrant green city that continues to evolve.
Tirana is divided into 11 districts, most of the attractions are concentrated in the center - so compact that it is easy to get around on foot. The best hotels are also located there: the outskirts, unfortunately, are not yet well suited for tourists.
The country's second largest city is Durres, off the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Of the antiquities - the Roman amphitheater, mosque, baths, aqueduct, bizarre mosaics: from 627 BC. e. Corinthians, Romans, Byzantines, Italians and Ottomans ruled here. The beaches begin south of the port, in the Golem area there are beautiful sunsets, and in Cerret there are luxury hotels and a charming fishing village.
Another place with amazing beaches is Vlore: the coast is sandy, well-groomed, the sea is warm and clean, the air is fresh, filled with the scent of pine needles. Having properly rested, you can go to Corfu or Italy - you will not have to go far. Or continue to enjoy Albania: the silence of Saranda on the Ionian Sea - small, picturesque, with an archaeological reserve and a Byzantine fortress. The mild climate of Pogradets on Lake Ohrid, where diseases of the nervous and respiratory systems recede. The mountain air of Berat, reminiscent of Switzerland. Monuments of the times of the Ottoman Empire, which gave Gjirokastra the status of a UNESCO treasure. In general, everything that the cities of an unknown country are so rich in.