Like a beauty who has finally awakened from a long communist sleep, Albania appears to Western tourists in the form of a beautiful stranger from another time. What to see in Albania, where to go to fully enjoy all that this Balkan state has to offer?
Many tourists who travel to Europe know annoyingly little about Albania. Indeed, in terms of tourism, it pales somewhat among its stellar neighbors - Greece and Montenegro. And its history has developed in such a way that the Albanians were forced to endure a rather long and exhausting isolation. However, all this in no way diminishes its wealth - beautiful nature, magnificent beaches, rich historical and architectural heritage. Local residents, not spoiled by guests, cordially, in a family way, welcome every tourist who decides to spend a vacation in their small but very interesting country.
Excursion holidays in Albania
Tirana can rightfully be considered the quietest European capital. There is no bustle inherent in large metropolitan areas, there are no multi-storey skyscrapers made of glass and concrete. But there is enough comfort and peace for everyone. Sometimes it seems that each of its 350 thousand inhabitants lives only to greet tourists passing by with a smile.
The history of Tirana began relatively recently, in the 17th century. It was then that one of the Ottoman rulers founded a small mosque, a bakery and a hammam here. Since then, Turkey, Italy and the Soviet Union have all influenced the formation of the Albanian capital. As a result, its architecture combines oriental pomp, and European grace, and Soviet monumentalism.
Almost all city attractions are concentrated in the center. One of the most notable objects is the Petrela Castle. It is much older than Tirana itself, was founded almost 2 thousand years ago, and is an excellent example of ancient European architecture. By the way, this is far from the only castle on the territory of the country, and some of them are in no way inferior to the advertised French or Romanian ones in terms of the degree of preservation, and of what interest they are.
However, the symbol of the city is still not an ancient fortress, but a much younger Clock Tower. Also, having arrived in Tirana, you cannot pass by the main square of Skanderbeg, the Ethema Bey mosque and numerous museums, where you can get acquainted with the history and traditions of the country, as well as enjoy the works of art.
Russian tourists visiting the Albanian capital pay special attention to places and monuments associated with the Soviet Union. This is Deshmoret-e-Kombit boulevard with administrative buildings of the communist period, and the house of the dictator Enver Hoxha, and many other buildings.
And, of course, Tirana cannot be imagined without numerous parks where you can relax after a busy excursion walk.
Beach resorts in Albania
In terms of their infrastructure and level of development, Albanian beach resorts are in no way inferior to neighboring Greek ones. However, the beaches here are much cleaner, the prices are lower, and the hospitality and joy with which every tourist is received here is not even worth talking about.
Albanian resorts are located on the coast of two seas at once - the Adriatic and the Ionian. The most popular among them - Durres, Fier, Saranda - boast not only beautiful beaches, but also a rich architectural heritage. An excellent option for those who like to combine beach and sightseeing holidays.
