UK media spotlight Albania’s beaches as Europe’s best budget summer escapes

As the summer season approaches, major British media outlets are turning their attention to Albania’s coastline, hailing destinations like Ksamil and Vlorë as top choices for travelers seeking stunning scenery at a fraction of typical Mediterranean prices.

Why this is important: With tourism on the rise, international media recognition boosts Albania’s profile as a serious competitor to more established destinations like Greece, Croatia, or Italy. For a country still building its tourism economy, endorsements from British newspapers could help attract a new wave of visitors looking for value, nature, and culture.

Context: Three major UK publications—The Mirror, Metro, and Daily Mail—have recently featured Albania in travel recommendations for 2025. The coverage centers on two hotspots: Ksamil and Vlorë, both located along the southern Ionian coast.

What happened: In a full-page feature, The Mirror dubbed Ksamil “the Maldives of Europe,” citing its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and proximity to the UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park. The article highlighted Ksamil’s rare combination of seaside charm, historical landmarks, and untouched natural surroundings.

The Mirror also referenced travel industry analysts who recently named Albania the best country to visit in 2025, based on safety, affordability, and overall appeal.

Meanwhile, Metro praised Vlorë for offering “the same Mediterranean climate as Croatia’s Split—without the crowds or soaring prices.” The article urged readers to consider Vlorë if they’re looking for clean, uncrowded beaches, mountain views, and local seafood at reasonable prices.

Adding to the buzz, Daily Mail echoed similar praise, calling Ksamil “a budget-friendly alternative to the Maldives.” It quoted tourists describing Ksamil as just as beautiful—but far more affordable—than its Indian Ocean counterpart.

What’s next: With this growing international attention, Albania’s tourism authorities may see increased visitor flows this summer, especially from UK and European travelers looking to avoid overcrowded and overpriced destinations. Continued media coverage, paired with infrastructure improvements and strategic promotion, could help Albania lock in its reputation as one of Europe’s last great coastal secrets.