Budget airline Ryanair has introduced several new flight routes to a city growing in popularity among Brits, partly due to its beautiful beaches often likened to those in the Maldives.
Ryanair will add 20 new routes to Tirana, expanding its total routes to the city to 43. Starting in spring, travelers can fly to this Albanian city from Liverpool, Birmingham, and Dublin, with flight durations just over three hours. These new routes supplement Ryanair’s existing UK services from London-Stansted, Manchester, and seasonal flights from Edinburgh.
Flights are open for booking from Liverpool and Dublin starting March 30, and departing from Birmingham beginning March 29. Fares are available for as low as £23 one-way in May, with temperatures reaching 26°C, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious sun-seekers in the spring.
For beach enthusiasts, Tirana offers a variety of options upon arrival. Ksamil, situated in the southern part of the country, is a popular beach destination accessible via a direct bus from the airport, taking less than four hours. With its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and tiny islands for exploration, Ksamil has drawn comparisons to the Maldives.
For a luxurious beach experience akin to the Maldives, visitors can spend a day at Pema E Thatë, a private beach club offering cabana rentals. Some cabanas feature overwater nets where guests can relax while admiring the ocean waves below, with the option to enjoy a beer for around £2.25.
Durrës, located approximately 30 minutes from Tirana, is a port city boasting a long stretch of sandy coastline. Durrës Beach features a palm tree-lined promenade and clear blue waters, all within minutes of the historic city center.
Near the port lies the smaller Plazhi i Currilave, where visitors can rent loungers and umbrellas for a relaxing beach experience, complete with nearby bars and restaurants for added convenience.
Durrës is renowned for its Roman amphitheater, showcasing parts of the 2nd-century structure, including the preserved stone steps. The Venetian Tower of Durrës, a medieval fortification offering panoramic coastal views, stands as one of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Additionally, tourists can explore the Muzeu Arkeologjik, a local archaeological museum housing ancient artifacts discovered beneath the city streets, dating back thousands of years.
Tirana itself serves as an intriguing city break destination, blending Ottoman and Soviet architectural styles in a vibrant urban setting. Skanderbeg Square serves as a central hub for exploration, featuring the Et’hem Bey Mosque from the 17th century alongside the Soviet-style Opera House and the National History Museum adorned with a large mural depicting the country’s struggle for independence.
A visit to the unique Bunk’Art 2 museum, housed within a Communist-era nuclear bunker, offers a glimpse into Albania’s history during its years as a secretive Communist state. Visitors can immerse themselves in the country’s past and lifestyle during that era.
Many travelers suggest a trip to Tirana Castle, where remnants of the medieval castle have been transformed into a lively attraction with food stalls, handicraft vendors, and opportunities to sample Albanian cuisine and purchase souvenirs.