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The prestigious "The Travel": Seven reasons why you should visit Albania instead of Italy

2024-09-17 10:22:00, Trending CNA

The prestigious "The Travel": Seven reasons why you should visit

Italy is a beautiful country with wonderful beaches, great mountain ranges, stunning medieval cities and exceptional cuisine, according to an article published in "The Travel" magazine.

However, all this may be worthless – compared to other quieter European countries that are also cheaper alternatives such as Albania, which is further south on the continent.

Albania is a Balkan country that boasts pristine nature, stunning beaches, wonderful cities, interesting history, affordability and friendly locals.

The hospitality in Albania cannot be compared to a country like Italy, as the familiarity and personality shared by the local Albanians is extraordinary.

Instead of choosing the typical vacation spots like Italy, I decided to go to the touristy and unspoiled areas of Albania to see what the beautiful country had to offer.

The Albanian Riviera is a more affordable alternative compared to the Amalfi Coast and the mountain ranges of Italy.

The small Balkan country is an undiscovered, cheaper, but just as stunning version of Italy.

Seven reasons why you should visit Albania instead of Italy:

1-The beaches in Albania are much quieter than those in Italy

In Albania you will have the opportunity to find incredibly quiet beaches - which are just as stunning as those in Italy.

The southern coast of Albania is one of my favorite areas to visit during the summer.

During the warmer months, always choose the beaches of Ksamil and Saranda over Italy's Amalfi Coast.

While Albania is welcoming an increasing number of tourists, the popular beaches are still quiet if you visit them at the right time of day.

Ksamil and Saranda are Caribbean-like beaches with golden sand and crystal clear waters.

Itan Kryeziu Beach is the quietest beach you can visit on the southern coast.

Dhërmi beach is also another quiet beach – compared to beaches in Europe.

It can be a bit more crowded with locals, but you can do some fantastic diving here.

Ditch the Amalfi Coast and head to the Albanian Riviera for a quieter holiday and more watery beach life.

2-The mountains of Albania are more picturesque than the Alps of Italy

The Albanian Alps are epic and unmatched by any other in Europe, including Italy.

Italy offers stunning mountain walks and views, including Mount Etna and Monte Baldo.

However, they do not compare to the pristine nature of the northern Albanian mountains.

The Albanian Alps can offer more to tourists looking for quiet walks and pristine landscapes.

Bjeshke and Nemuna are part of Southeastern Europe and a significant feature of northern Albania.

My first visit to Kukës County, where the Albanian Alps are located, was during autumn when the temperature was a comfortable 24 degrees Celsius.

You can see the mountains around the guesthouses in Valbona and go hiking in the morning when the weather is still dry and mild.

The alpine landscape passing by on the way to the small village of Kukaj resembles that of Switzerland or the Italian Alps.

3-Albania has the friendliest locals

Albania offers the best hospitality in Europe and smiling locals are around every corner.

If I had to say one characteristic about Albania, it would be that the country has some of the friendliest locals I've ever met.

Initially, I thought that the locals in the capital city of Tirana would be less friendly and would have less time to talk.

However, the staff in the cafes and shops offered the same hospitality as the people in the small towns and villages of Albania.

4-Albania is significantly more affordable than Italy

A big difference between Italy and Albania is affordability.

While tourism prices always rise due to demand and inflation, Albania is significantly cheaper than Italy.

Everything from accommodation and restaurants to shops and cafes – low prices are on offer that will encourage you to return to Albania for your next holiday.

5-The way of life in Albania is more peaceful than that in Italy

Albanian living is unmatched, you can experience less stress and a relaxing travel experience wherever you go.

The way of life in Albania is different from anywhere else in Europe. It's quieter than Italy and has a unique cultural feel.

Of course, the beaches in Italy offer a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, but the cities are quite the opposite.

The cities of Rome and Florence are beautiful, but the lifestyle was chaotic. Whereas, in Albania, wherever you go, you will feel fresh and relaxed.

The whole experience of traveling in Albania is more relaxed and stress-free. It is remarkable how relaxing and soothing the Albanian culture is.

6-The hiking trails in Albania are incomparable

Do not be surprised if you are the only person in inaccessible places in Albania.

While Italy and Albania offer incredible opportunities, I prefer the hidden gems of Albania.

The lack of noise and tourism in these undiscovered places will offer an experience you won't find anywhere else in Italy.

Visit the Osum Canyon in Berat, which is one of the many interesting spots in Albania.

Don't be surprised if you visit other places in Albania and you are the only person there; it's a magical feeling.

Other must-see hidden gems in Albania – include Valbona National Park, Thethi National Park and Syr e Kaltër.

7-The landscapes of Albania are more diverse than those of Italy

Albania offers diverse landscapes - from stunning beaches to high mountains.

Albania is largely unspoilt and offers unique landscapes.

The Balkan country is a hidden gem for nature lovers, and the landscapes are more diverse than those of Italy.

The landscapes of Italy are wonderful, but covered with tourist buildings, while, in Albania, most of the landscapes are stunning, calm and attractive.

Head to the south coast to explore the beaches along the Albanian Riviera.

Those looking for unique gems along the coast should head to Gjipe beach for its coves hidden among the high limestone cliffs.

The ideal time to visit this beach is during sunset.

In the north you can also find rugged mountain peaks with very few tourists. Locals can guide you, or you can explore the area on your own.

The trails in the Albanian Alps from Valbona will always be in my heart!/ ATA