Why South Africans Should Add Albania to Their Travel Bucket List

08 Apr 2025

Imagine Mediterranean beaches, ancient castles, delicious food, and warm locals — all without the European price tag. That’s Albania. While it's still under the radar for most South Africans, this little Balkan gem is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

If you're looking for serious value for the rand, visa-free travel, and unique adventures, Albania ticks every box.

✈️ No Visa, No Problem

First off, South African passport holders can stay in Albania for up to 90 days visa-free. That’s three whole months to explore the coast, hike in the mountains, or slow travel your way through old towns and beach villages — no red tape involved.

💸 Affordable Euro Vibes

One of the biggest surprises? Albania is incredibly affordable. Unlike its pricey neighbors (looking at you, Greece and Italy), here you can:

Book beachfront Airbnbs from R500–R800/night

Enjoy local meals for under R100 (think grilled seafood, fresh salads, and homemade rakija)

Rent a car for less than R400/day — ideal for road-tripping the stunning coast

The rand goes far, making Albania a perfect choice for budget-conscious South Africans who don’t want to skimp on experience.

🌊 Beaches that Rival Greece (Without the Crowds)

Let’s talk about the Albanian Riviera. With crystal-clear water, white pebbled beaches, and turquoise coves, places like Ksamil, Himarë, and Dhermi feel like secret slices of paradise.

Here’s the kicker: You’ll often have entire stretches of beach to yourself — especially if you go outside of July/August.

🏛️ Culture, Castles & Cobbled Streets

Beyond the coast, Albania is packed with charm:

Gjirokastër: A UNESCO World Heritage town with stone houses, Ottoman-style architecture, and a massive hilltop castle

Berat: Known as the “Town of a Thousand Windows,” this picture-perfect spot is ideal for culture lovers

Butrint National Park: An ancient Roman-Greek city in the jungle — like visiting a lost world

And if you're into quirky experiences, Tirana’s bunkers-turned-museums offer a fascinating look into Albania’s Cold War past.

🚙 Travel Tips for South Africans

Here are a few handy things to know before you go:

Flights: The cheapest way to get there is usually via Istanbul, Belgrade, or Athens. From those cities, budget airlines fly into Tirana, Albania’s capital.

Currency: The local currency is the Albanian Lek, but euros are often accepted in tourist areas.

Transport: Albania’s public transport system is basic — rent a car for the best flexibility (driving is safe, just expect a few mountain passes).

Language: Albanian is the official language, but many younger locals speak English. Hospitality is top-notch.

🏄 Bonus: Adventure, Nature & Wine

If you’re into hiking, rafting, or nature, Albania delivers:

Valbona Valley and Theth in the north are dream spots for alpine hiking

The Blue Eye Spring is a surreal, ice-cold turquoise pool surrounded by jungle

Albanian wines are surprisingly good — and super cheap. Go wine tasting in Berat or near Tirana for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere in Europe.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time for South Africans to Go

With the euro being a bit tough on the rand lately, Albania offers all the "European vibes" without the financial sting. And because it's still relatively unknown to mass tourism, you’ll get an authentic, unspoiled experience — something that's getting rare these days.

Ready to Discover Albania?

From its beaches and mountains to ancient ruins and local hospitality, Albania is one of the most underrated countries South Africans can visit right now. You’ll get a taste of Europe, a slice of the Mediterranean, and a whole lot of adventure — all on a budget that still lets you splurge a little.