Budget airline Ryanair has unveiled a series of new flight routes to Tirana, Albania, providing an affordable gateway for British travellers to discover a European destination often hailed as the continent's answer to the Maldives. With fares starting from just £23 one-way, these flights present a compelling option for sun-seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.
Expanded connectivity to a rising hotspot
Ryanair is set to boost its presence in Albania by adding 20 new routes to Tirana, bringing the total number of connections to 43. From spring onwards, passengers will be able to fly directly from Liverpool, Birmingham, and Dublin, with journey times averaging just over three hours. These new services complement existing UK routes from London-Stansted and Manchester, as well as seasonal flights from Edinburgh.
Flights from Liverpool and Dublin will commence on March 30, while departures from Birmingham start a day earlier on March 29. With May temperatures reaching highs of 26°C, Albania is poised to become a favoured destination for budget-conscious holidaymakers looking to escape the British spring for some early summer warmth.
Discovering Albania's coastal gems
Upon landing in Tirana, travellers have a wealth of beach options to explore. Ksamil, located in the south of the country, is particularly renowned for its pristine white sands and turquoise waters, drawing frequent comparisons to the Maldives. Accessible via a direct bus from Tirana Airport in under four hours, this village nestled between a lagoon and the Ionian Sea offers idyllic scenery and tiny islands perfect for boat excursions.
For a truly luxurious experience, visitors can book a day at Pema E Thatë, a private beach club where cabanas with overwater nets provide a serene spot to relax and enjoy the ocean views. A local beer costs around 250 Lek (approximately £2.25), making it an affordable indulgence.
Cultural and historical richness
Beyond the beaches, Albania boasts a rich tapestry of history and culture. Durrës, just a half-hour drive from Tirana, features beautiful sandy coastlines along the Adriatic Sea, such as Durrës Beach with its palm-lined promenade. The city is also home to significant historical sites, including a 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre and the 5th-century Venetian Tower of Durrës, offering panoramic coastal views.
The Muzeu Arkeologjik in Durrës showcases archaeological finds dating back thousands of years, unearthed beneath the city's streets. Meanwhile, Tirana itself is a vibrant urban destination, blending Ottoman, Soviet, and modern influences. Key attractions include Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the National History Museum with its striking mural.
For a unique historical perspective, Bunk'Art 2—a museum housed in a Communist-era nuclear bunker—offers an immersive look into Albania's past. Additionally, Tirana Castle, though largely in ruins, has been transformed into a lively hub with food stalls and craft shops, ideal for sampling local cuisine and purchasing souvenirs.
With its combination of affordable travel, stunning natural beauty, and deep cultural heritage, Albania is set to capture the hearts of British tourists seeking an exotic yet accessible getaway.
