Albania – A Glimpse into an Underrated Region
The Balkans have long remained one of Europe’s lesser-explored regions, primarily due to historical and political complexities. Countries like Albania were isolated for decades under communist regimes—Albania itself spent over 40 years under the dictatorship of Enver Hoxha. However, the tide is changing. As I discovered during a tourism event in February 2025, Albania is emerging as one of the true hidden treasures of the region.
A Surprise in Every Corner
Albania pleasantly surprised me in more ways than one. With a rich cultural tapestry, incredible landscapes and diverse experiences, the country offers something for every kind of traveler. From its sparkling coastlines to mountainous hiking trails and even ski resorts, Albania is far more than it appears on the surface.
Adventure, Culture and UNESCO Heritage in Albania
Adventure seekers will find no shortage of thrills here—whether it’s paragliding, rafting, Via Ferrata, or multi-day hikes in the mountains. For those drawn to heritage and history, Albania boasts four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each reflecting its layered past.
The culinary scene is equally compelling. Food and wine lovers can dive into authentic Albanian gastronomy and explore its under-the-radar wine regions. The nightlife, especially in Tirana, is vibrant and youthful, while the famous Albanian Riviera promises laid-back beach vibes and summer parties. Places like Sarandë, located just across from Northern Greece, offer coastal beauty that rivals the Mediterranean’s best.
Easy Access for Indian Passport Holders
For Indian travelers, Albania is more accessible than many might think. If you hold a valid US, UK or Schengen visa, you can enter Albania without requiring a separate Albanian visa, provided certain conditions are met.
I was fortunate to be the only Indian among delegates from over 18 countries to explore Albania and its neighboring regions. Upon arriving at Tirana International Airport, I was welcomed by a statue of Mother Teresa—an iconic figure of Albanian descent, although born in Skopje, now part of North Macedonia.
Safety & Affordability: Albania’s Biggest Strengths
Two aspects of Albania truly stood out for me: its safety and its affordability. It is considered one of the safest countries not just in the Balkans but in all of Europe. And from a budget perspective, it’s a dream. A trip that might cost you 8 days in Western Europe could stretch to 10–12 days or more in Albania—without compromising on quality.
Albania – Ideal for Self-Drive Holidays & Multi-Country Hops
Albania is also an excellent self-drive destination. Tirana, the capital city, serves as a great base for day trips into neighboring countries such as Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia. You can also drive south towards Greece, making it an ideal hub for a cross-border Balkan experience and more.
A Complex Past, A Modern Identity
Under Enver Hoxha’s dictatorship, religion was banned, travel was forbidden and the nation was closed off from the world. The legacy of that era still lingers in the form of over 200000 concrete bunkers scattered across the country. Today, many of these have been repurposed into quirky art galleries, shops and cultural spaces.
Interestingly, Albania has resisted the tide of global commercialism—there are no Starbucks or McDonald’s. Instead, local cafés dominate the social scene, reflecting the country’s strong coffee culture. While Albanians now enjoy the freedom to practice any religion, the nation continues to thrive on religious and cultural harmony, which is beautifully evident in their everyday life.
Day Trip to North Macedonia: A UNESCO Surprise
Since I arrived a day early, I had the chance to venture into North Macedonia by road and visit Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared between both countries. Just a 2.5-hour drive from Tirana, the journey is smooth and scenic. Once you cross the border, you arrive in a town that spans history from the 7th to 19th century, steeped in Byzantine architecture, monasteries and lakeside churches.
Do note: if you’re driving across the border, you’ll need additional car insurance for North Macedonia—something your travel planner (like Namaste Tourism) can assist you with.
Stay tuned for Part 2