Albania has been named one of the top holiday destinations to visit in 2025, and it’s easy to see why – the country has been dubbed the ‘Maldives of Europe’ for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters
As 2024 draws to a close, you might be starting to think about where to jet off to for your spring or summer holiday in the new year. Luckily, we Brits don’t have to travel far to find sun-soaked beaches and warm weather.
There are plenty of European destinations just a short flight away that offer a peaceful retreat from the daily grind. And if you’re getting a bit bored of the usual Spanish getaways, there’s one place that’s been hailed as one of the best spots to visit in 2025.
Known as the ‘Maldives of Europe’, you’ll feel worlds away as you unwind on one of its stunning beaches, surrounded by shimmering turquoise waters.
READ MORE: ‘Undiscovered’ country that’s a perfect alternative to holiday hotspots Majorca and Tenerife
The consumer experts at Which? have named Albania as one of their top holiday destinations for 2025.
These locations were carefully selected based on factors such as emerging flight routes and value for money, providing some much-needed inspiration for your next trip.
Situated in southeast Europe on the Balkan Peninsula, Albania is definitely worth considering for a sunny escape, reports the Express.
Last year, the country experienced a significant surge in tourism, with over 3.3 million foreign visitors. That number is predicted to rise even further next year as more people discover its charms.
Much of Albania’s allure lies in its picturesque coastline and beautiful beaches along the Albanian Riviera.
Saranda, the main town, boasts an ancient port and numerous sunbathing and swimming spots, along with a boulevard that ‘comes alive’ at night.
But despite the stunning coastline, the inland areas have been highlighted as Albania’s true gems by experts at Which?.
Here, sky-scraping mountains await, with the adventurous having the option to take on the full-day Valbona trail pass to the mountain village of Theth. This popular hiking trail takes between six to nine hours to complete, so ensure you’re up for the challenge.
After a day of hiking or sightseeing, unwind with a glass of wine – Albania has a rich history in wine-making, dating back to the Bronze Age. Wine tourism is a significant draw, with the Cobo vineyard in Berat being a must-visit.
The family-run business has been producing quality wines for over a century, using the local grape variety Sheshi i Zi, as well as Merlot and Cabernet.
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