Co-Travel Agency
April 11, 2025
When planning a trip to the Ionian coast, the first destination that pops into many travelers’ minds is Greece—with its famous islands like Corfu, Zakynthos, and Lefkada. But just across the water lies a lesser-known treasure: Albania. Once off the radar, Albania has been emerging as Europe’s best-kept coastal secret.
So, if you’re trying to decide between the two, let’s dive into what each destination offers—and why Albania might just surprise you.
Greece: You can’t deny it—Greece’s Ionian Islands are beautiful. Beaches like Porto Katsiki or Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) are iconic, and the towns are postcard-perfect. But with that fame comes crowds, higher costs, and sometimes a slightly overdone tourist feel.
Albania: The Albanian Riviera, stretching from Saranda to Dhermi, is dramatic, unspoiled, and more diverse in its raw beauty. Picture turquoise bays surrounded by mountains, hidden beaches like Gjipe, and stretches of sand where you might not see another person for hours. Plus, the sunsets? Absolutely stunning.
🏆 Winner for adventure and wild beauty: Albania
Greece is no longer cheap—especially in the Ionian islands. Even a simple beachfront lunch or ferry ride can quickly add up, especially during high season.
Albania is still incredibly affordable. Think:
Beachfront meals under €10
Boutique hotel rooms for €40–60/night
Cappuccino for €0.80
Fresh seafood dinner with wine for €12
Here, your money goes much further, letting you stay longer or travel in more comfort.
🏆 Winner for value: Albania
Greece has no shortage of history. From ancient ruins to Byzantine churches, you’ll be surrounded by heritage. But that doesn’t mean Albania is lacking—in fact, it’s full of underrated cultural gems.
Visit Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site near Saranda, and you’ll walk through Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins in one place. Or head inland to explore Berat and Gjirokastër, with Ottoman-era architecture that feels frozen in time.
🏆 Winner for hidden cultural discoveries: Albania
Greece offers comfort, but often feels standardized. Expect queues at famous spots and menus catered to tourists.
In Albania, the experience feels more personal and authentic. Guesthouse owners invite you for raki (local liquor), and you’ll eat food that tastes homemade—because it is. The hospitality here isn’t scripted—it’s genuine.
Plus, Albania is still off the main tourist trail, so your trip feels like an adventure, not a tour.
🏆 Winner for authenticity: Albania
Greece has better infrastructure and public transportation, but it can get complicated moving between islands (ferry schedules, connections, etc.).
Albania’s Ionian coast is a single, spectacular stretch, making it ideal for a road trip. Drive the coastal highway from Vlora to Saranda and pass beaches, castles, and mountain views that rival the Amalfi Coast—without the traffic or price tag.
🏆 Winner for ease of coastal exploration: Albania
Greek cuisine is world-famous—and for good reason. You’ll find tzatziki, moussaka, fresh octopus, and olive oil-rich everything.
Albanian cuisine, while less known, is a flavorful mix of Mediterranean, Balkan, and Ottoman influences. Try dishes like:
Tavë Kosi (baked lamb with yogurt)
Byrek (savory pies)
Grilled fish, fresh from the sea
Homemade wine and raki
You’ll leave the table full, happy, and amazed at how little you spent.
🏆 Winner for surprises and diversity: Albania
Both countries offer plenty of hikes and outdoor experiences, but Albania’s wild side is more accessible. Imagine:
Hiking from Theth to Valbona in the Alps
Exploring Karaburun Peninsula by kayak
Swimming in remote caves at Grama Bay
Taking the ferry through Komani Lake, called “the fjords of the Balkans”
🏆 Winner for outdoor adventure: Albania
Here’s the thing: Greece is a timeless classic. But Albania? Albania is a thrilling chapter waiting to be discovered.
If you’re looking for:
A destination that’s affordable
Less crowded beaches
More genuine hospitality
Nature and adventure with room to breathe
A place your friends haven’t all been to yet…
Then Albania’s Ionian coast is your answer.
If this all sounds like your kind of trip, let us take you there. Co-Travel Albania offers:
Private or group tours along the Albanian Riviera
Cultural explorations in Gjirokastër, Berat, and Butrint
Adventure hikes, boat tours, and curated local food experiences
📩 Reach out today and we’ll help you plan a coastal journey that blends beauty, culture, and affordability—with none of the stress.
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