European capital has views just like Greece with £2 beers and flights for £26
Discover the hidden gem of Europe where vibrant street art meets culinary delights, all without breaking the bank.
Tirana, the stunning capital of Albania, was recently crowned among the most budget-friendly cities for Brits to visit this year. And flights come in at just £26 in October, according to travel site Skyscanner. According to experts at eurochange, this vibrant and colourful city is bursting with culture. They said: “One of the best ways to explore is by taking a stroll through the streets, following the eccentric street art, graffiti and murals.
“The city is a foodie’s paradise too, with incredibly reasonable prices. Remember to order an Albanian favourite, Fërgesë Gjize (baked cheese with peppers) and Trilece (a tasty pie made with sponge cake and three different kinds of milk) for dessert.” Time Out Europe named Tirana as one of the least expensive cities in terms of dining and activities compared to other European capitals. Entrance fees to major museums range from £2.50 to £5, while a pint will set you back around £2.95. The average cost of a one-bedroom Airbnb is a reasonable £40 per night. A meal for two could cost between £21 and £25, often with generous portions.
READ MORE: Man boards 'UK's most luxurious train' but people spot issue
READ MORE: Foreign Office travel advice for France as riots bring country to standstill
READ MORE: Benidorm battered by storm as man swims down flooded high street
Tourists can explore Tirana's museums, with Bunk'Art 1 and 2 being top choices for many travellers. These museums, located in the city's former bunkers, offer insights into Albanian life during Enver Hoxha's dictatorship.
The city also boasts a vibrant nightlife, particularly in the Blokku district where cocktail bars abound. Expect to pay no more than £6 or £7 for a cocktail, and you can enjoy all this with similar views to those you might get in Greece. Albania is just a short ferry ride from Corfu, so you are looking out onto an almost identical seascape.
When it comes to dining, Tirana offers a plethora of options. Look out for lamb or aubergine dishes, or grab a famous burek pastry from a local bakery. The city is nestled amid rocky terrain, and the best way to appreciate Tirana's beauty is from atop Dajti Mountain, accessible via the city's cable car. Once at the summit, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and engage in a variety of family-friendly activities.
Don't miss: Charming unknown European seaside town has no queues and €3 beers
Don't miss: Europe's 'most charming Old Town' is home to one of the best Christmas markets
Don't miss: Panic in French church as statue of Virgin Mary set on fire during mass
With budget airlines such as Wizz Air and Ryanair offering flights, it takes just over three hours to travel from London to Tirana. Accommodation options are plentiful, with hotels, holiday lets, and hostels available for tourists.
As a bonus, Albania is also a “non-Schengen” zone country. This means it is not part of the 29 countries that will be implementing new Digital Entry and Exit systems (EES), which will affect all non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay. Popular holiday destinations that are affected by EES for Brits include France, Portugal, Italy and Spain.
Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital & engagement at eurochange, says we can expect to see an influx in people travelling to non-Schengen countries as a result. She said: “The introduction of this new border control system may be off-putting to people, especially those who like to keep travel as fuss-free as possible.
“I think we can definitely expect to see an increase in Brits travelling to countries that are exempt from the legislation over the next few months.”
