The underrated European country 'more beautiful and way cheaper than Greece or Croatia'

The Mediterranean's guaranteed sunshine and stunning beaches have long been a draw for Brits seeking a getaway.

A short hop by plane, budget-friendly flights often make a jaunt to Southern Europe more wallet-friendly than a UK staycation. Yet, as the cost of holidays in popular spots like Spain and Greece climbs, snagging a bargain break in the Med is getting trickier.

Croatia, with its 'Game of Thrones' fame, and Turkey are rising stars on the travel scene, but even these destinations have seen prices soar post-pandemic. However, thrifty travellers are in for a treat as Albania emerges as a budget-friendly paradise, tucked between Italy and Greece.

READ MORE: Mum-of-five takes kids to Benidorm as schools return saying 'I'll fight any fine'

With flights to this once Communist haven starting at a mere £20 and only over two hours away from the UK, it's an unbeatable deal. The cost of living and staying in Albania is a steal compared to other European countries. Down on the breathtaking Riviera, Express.co.uk chatted with two Kiwi backpackers who were quick to extol Albania's virtues.

"We were planning to go Croatia," Laura Hewson, 23, shared. "But one of our friends who'd been to Albania told us [we should go there]. They said it's like Greece or Croatia but cheaper and a lot more beautiful because there are not as many tourists.

"We're actually staying at a four-star hotel with breakfast included for the same price that we were staying in hostels with eight [strangers] in a room in Italy and Spain."

Her travel buddy Farrell Modd, 22, was also drawn to Albania's charms after being wowed by its stunning landscapes on various TikTok travel accounts. Farrell was thrilled to find that the breathtaking views lived up to the hype seen in the TikTok clips and appreciated how tourist-friendly the country was, reports the Express.

"It's beautiful, clear blue water, lots of swimming spots," she said. The New Zealanders were soaking up the rays in the resort town of Vlore, where even in mid-November, they basked in a pleasant 19C warmth.

With the palm-fringed beachfront virtually deserted, the duo enjoyed the serene setting all to themselves. Vlore isn't short on entertainment either; the street behind the main beach brims with bars and eateries offering very reasonable prices.

In Albania, a lavish dinner seldom exceeds £10 to £15 per head in upscale venues, while budget diners can savour freshly made pizzas for less than £5. And then there's the booze beers on Vlore's prime strip are priced from just £2, with spirits and cocktails costing about £4. These bargains hadn't gone unnoticed by Farrell and Laura, who shared their excitement about indulging in the affordable nightlife later on.

"We love a good cocktail," Farrell added, already eyeing up the evening's possibilities. "So we're planning on getting some tonight. They're like 500LEK (£4) whereas in a lot of other places it's been like €10 euros, I think we went to a place in Madrid where it was €15."

Those keen to experience the magic of Albania's stunning coastlines at bargain prices should consider booking soon, as word about the country's charm and affordability is spreading rapidly amongst globetrotter. Laura shared her insight, hinting that this hidden gem might not stay hidden for much longer: "I think next summer [a lot of tourists will come here]. I've heard more people talking about Albania."