If you’re looking for a cheap European vacation, Albania will be the place for you. Albania has everything you need for a Mediterranean vacation, like beautiful beaches, mountains, and friendly locals. Plus, it is inexpensive compared to Italy or Greece.

So, is Albania cheap to travel? The short answer: yes, and it’s one of Europe’s best-kept budget travel secrets. Let’s examine why Albania is a great destination for travellers on a tight budget as well as what costs to anticipate.

Accommodation: Affordable and Abundant

Albania has a lot of cheap places to stay, whether you’re a backpacker, a single traveler, or a couple looking for a cosy place. You can stay in hostels in big cities like Tirana, Berat, and Saranda for as little as €8 to €12 a night. Most of the time, a private room in a budget hotel or guesthouse costs between €15 and €30 per night.

Airbnb rentals are also very cheap, with many options available for less than €25 a night, even during the busiest times of the year. You don’t have to give up comfort if you want to see Albania on a budget.

Food & Drink: Deliciously Inexpensive

One of the best parts of traveling in Albania is the food and the prices. Traditional Albanian meals are hearty, fresh, and affordable. In most places, you can enjoy a full meal at a local restaurant for under €6. Street food like byrek (savory pastries) or qofte (grilled meatballs) costs as little as €0.50–€1.

Even dining at more upscale places won’t break the bank. A nice dinner with drinks can still cost under €20 for two people. Coffee lovers will be delighted to know that an espresso typically costs just €0.50–€1 in cafés across the country.

Transportation: Affordable and Scenic

Not only is public transport in Albania cheap, but it also lets you see the country’s many different landscapes. Most towns and cities are connected by buses and minibuses (called furgons), and the fares start at just a few euros. A ride from Tirana to Berat that lasts two hours might cost you between €3 and €5.

Renting a car or taking a taxi is also cheaper than in most other European countries. Renting a car for a day may cost between €25 and €35, which gives you the freedom to visit remote villages, beaches, and mountain trails whenever you want.

Attractions and Experiences: Rich and Affordable

Albania is full of amazing things to do that won’t break the bank, like hiking in the Accursed Mountains or relaxing on the beaches of Ksamil. There are a lot of things to see and do that are either free or have a small entrance fee. These include historical castles, Ottoman bridges, and beautiful hiking trails.

Most museums cost less than €3, and guided tours are often available for much less than what you’d pay in Western Europe. A full-day guided tour from Tirana to nearby attractions could cost as little as €20 to €30.

Tips for Saving Even More

  • Travel during the shoulder season (April–June or September–October) to get lower rates on hotels and fewer people.
  • Albanian telecom companies offer great value for money when it comes to cheap data and navigation.
  • If you’re cooking for yourself, go to local markets to get fresh fruits and vegetables and snacks.
  • Stay in guesthouses run by families to get a real feel for the place and get meals made at home.

Final Verdict: Albania is Budget Traveler Gold

So, is it cheap to travel to Albania? For sure. It’s one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe that doesn’t skimp on scenery, culture, or experience. You’ll be amazed at how far your money goes, whether you’re hiking in the mountains, relaxing on the Ionian coast, or exploring old towns.

If you want to see Albania on a budget, get ready for an amazing trip full of natural beauty, history, and friendly people that won’t cost you as much as other European countries.