Albania's Ksamil emerges as ‘Maldives of Europe’ for British tourists

Tourists seeking stunning and sunny destinations this summer may consider traveling beyond traditional spots like Spain or Greece, and instead explore Ksamil, a spectacular coastal area dubbed the “Maldives of Europe,” according to an article in the British newspaper Nottingham Post.

With crystal-clear waters, breathtaking mountain scenery, and affordable prices, Ksamil is located along the Albanian Riviera and is quickly becoming a favorite destination for British tourists, attracted by its natural beauty, warm climate, and extremely affordable beer, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

It’s no surprise that 120,000 British visitors travel to Albania every year. The beautiful European country is only a three-hour flight away. With its picturesque coastline and a cluster of quiet beaches, Ksamil represents a captivating treasure for travelers.

Dubbed the “Caribbean of Europe” by The Telegraph, Ksamil features palm trees, dazzling beaches, blue waters, and straw umbrellas. Located on Albania’s southern Riviera, it is also near Butrint National Park.

This coastal village is stunning enough to enchant even the most experienced tourists. Ksamil Beach offers clean sandy shores and summer temperatures reaching up to 30°C, creating an ideal retreat for sun lovers.

Importantly, Ksamil remains extremely affordable, with accommodation available for as little as £20 per night, while three-course meals can cost up to £17, reports Mirror.

The British newspaper The Guardian listed Ksamil Beach and the Albanian Ionian coast among the top 20 beach destinations in 2013, for both British and international tourists.

In recent years, the Albanian Riviera has seen significant growth in tourism, resulting in an increase in hotels. According to DW.com, over 11.7 million international tourists visited the Balkan country in 2024, and authorities expect this number to rise to 15 million by the end of 2025—almost four times the country’s population.

To compete with traditional holiday destinations, Albanian hotel owners are seeking to strengthen connections with visitors by offering cultural attractions, including culinary tastings and traditional Albanian dance performances. Moreover, tourists enchanted by Albania often share their recommendations on social media.

“Ksamil’s beaches remind you of those in Greece. Most are privately owned, but restaurants and cafes with beach loungers and umbrellas offer them cheaper after 3 p.m. You can swim in crystal-clear waters or relax while reading and enjoying pancakes, fresh fruit, and other sweets sold by locals,” reports 48 Hours in Europe.

Culture enthusiasts also have plenty of choices, with a mix of natural wonders and historical monuments. These range from Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former Ottoman fortress, to the Archaeological Park of Apollonia, filled with remnants of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations.