From turquoise waters to stunning sunsets: Why everyone’s going to Albania this summer

Girls pack your bags, it’s time for the ultimate Euro summer


If your TikTok feed is flooded with blue waters, martinis and sunsets by the beach, then you’re not alone.

I went through my week and heard five different girls tell me: “Guess what, I’m going to Albania for the summer.”

So, I suppose Europe’s best-kept secret, Albania, has officially been crowned as the ultimate hot girl summer destination. And the best is, it’s visa-free!

Tired of fighting for sun beds by the beach? Albania is the perfect less-crowded destination for your peaceful girlie summer. Picture this: Stunning shores, sun-kissed photos and delicious food, all by the sea.

It’s almost like the Maldives of Europe, and better yet, it most definitely won’t break your break.

Affordability for the perfect summer getaway

Aysha, who is currently a university student at Leeds Beckett, said: “I wanted to get the European summer experience without really breaking the bank, as we are uni students and going to one place from another.

“Visiting all the locations is really easy as well and the people being warm and cuisine just adds to that.”

Sneha, who also travelled to Albania, mentioned: “Instead of choosing a place like Greece, we chose Albania this summer, as it;s more affordable and you get to experience the same things, it’s a must-go for all the girlies!”

Ellie Gill from Byway, a sustainable travel agency, said: “It’s only once people visit Albania that they realise its affordable prices are just a small part of why the country is so great.”

And the draft beer there is as cheap as it can get (just saying). A beer while sunbathing? I’d say bravo!

Food, culture and much more

But Albania is not just about the beautiful sunsets and beaches. It’s also packed with culture and adventures. You could explore the ancient Greek and Roman history or visit the Albanian Alps. There’s something for every girly, be it nature, mountains or the beach.

Berat, located in Albania, is a UNESCO world heritage site, and trust me it’s as fabulous as it can get. Located on a hill, it is home to an ancient castle with origins tracing back over 2,400 years, and the streets below are famously known for Ottoman houses, often called the: “City of a Thousand Windows.”

Albania’s capital city, Tirana, is also a really nice summery place with a fusion of Soviet and Ottoman architecture and let me tell you… amazing, delicious food! Loads and loads of options as well. You have to try Tavë Kosi, a national dish that is made of baked lamb and yogurt, or the savory pastry Byrek.

Talking to The Tab, Sanya, who is also currently a student at Leeds Beckett, said: “I’m personally a beach person and after experiencing harsh winters, I needed a summer break. I chose to go to Albania because it is so affordable and it was so convenient to reach Tirana.”

“The food here is delicious and the people are so welcoming,” she further added.

Fun fact: Dua Lipa is an Albanian citizen

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A post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa)

Even influencers and celebrities are joining the Albanian summer trend. Pop star Dua Lipa, being proud of her Albanian roots, constantly promotes the country’s tourism.

I guess we could call her the brand ambassador for Albanian hot girl summer.

Dua Lipa’s celebrity push alongside the popularity of Albanian summer on the internet has definitely placed it highly on the map.

Featured image via @dualipa/Instagram

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