Budget carrier Ryanair has unveiled a range of fresh flight routes to a city gaining popularity among British travelers, partly due to its vicinity to beaches often likened to those in the Maldives.
Ryanair is introducing 20 new routes to Tirana, increasing its total routes to the city to 43. Commencing in spring, passengers can fly to this Albanian city from Liverpool, Birmingham, and Dublin, with flight durations slightly over three hours. These new routes supplement Ryanair’s existing services from London-Stansted and Manchester, along with seasonal flights from Edinburgh.
Flight bookings from Liverpool and Dublin are open for dates starting March 30, while departures from Birmingham are available from March 29. Fares start from as low as £23 for one-way trips in May, a month known for its 26°C temperatures, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious sun-seekers in the spring.
For travelers seeking a beach getaway, Tirana offers numerous options upon arrival. Ksamil, situated in the south of Albania, stands out as a popular beach destination accessible via a direct bus ride from the airport lasting under four hours. Ksamil boasts a scenic setting between a lagoon and the Ionian Sea, drawing parallels to the Maldives with its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and small islands awaiting exploration by boat.
For a complete Maldives-esque experience, visitors can reserve a day at Pema E Thatë, a private beach club offering cabana rentals. Some beach huts feature overwater nets, providing a tranquil spot to relax while admiring the ocean’s gentle waves. Guests can enjoy a beer for approximately £2.25 (equivalent to 250 Lek) as they soak in the picturesque views.
Durrës, located approximately half an hour away from Tirana, is a coastal city with a vast stretch of sandy beaches. Durrës Beach boasts a palm-lined promenade and crystal-clear blue waters, all within minutes of the historic city center.
Additionally, the smaller Plazhi i Currilave, situated near the port, offers loungers and umbrellas for rent, surrounded by beachfront bars and restaurants creating a lively ambiance. Durrës is famed for its Roman amphitheater, with remnants of the 2nd-century structure still visible, including the preserved stone steps. The city’s iconic 5th-century Venetian Tower of Durrës, a medieval fortress, offers breathtaking coastal views from its ancient guard towers.
Visitors can explore the local archaeological museum, Muzeu Arkeologjik, showcasing artifacts dating back thousands of years unearthed beneath the city streets.
Tirana itself serves as an intriguing city break destination, blending Ottoman and Soviet architectural styles in a vibrant urban landscape. Skanderbeg Square serves as an excellent starting point for exploration, featuring landmarks such as the 17th-century Et’hem Bey Mosque alongside the Soviet-style Opera House and the National History Museum adorned with a large mural depicting the country’s struggle for independence.
Travelers can also delve into history at Bunk’Art 2, a museum housed within a Communist-era nuclear bunker, offering insights into Albania’s past and life during its years as a secretive Communist state.
Many visitors recommend a trip to Tirana Castle, which, although mainly in ruins, has been transformed into a unique attraction featuring food stalls and craft shops, allowing tourists to savor Albanian cuisine and purchase souvenirs.
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