Albania, located on Southeastern Europe's Balkan Peninsula, is a small country with a gorgeous coastline and the stunning Albanian Alps. The most popular beaches are located along the Albanian Riviera. This area, also known as Bregu and lies along the Northeastern Ionian coast, encompassing the areas around Sarandë and Vlorë in Southwestern Albania. 

There are some stunning beaches and little villages along this section of coast, which also used to be a hippie paradise for backpackers. These days the area has become a lot more developed, but it's easy to see why due to the crystalline water and white sand. The Albanian Riviera is not as cheap as it used to be for the backpackers, but it's still significantly less expensive than other Mediterranean destinations. If you stick to spots frequented by locals, then you are likely to find bargains for food and drink as well as feel immersed in Albanian culture. 

Himara

The village of Himara and the surrounding coastline is a popular place along the Albanian Riviera. It still hasn't lost its charm and is a good place to stay because there are quite a few beautiful beaches near the town, so even if you don't have a vehicle you can reach the beach by bus and taxi. Livadhi is one of the best; it's a white stone bay surrounded by olive trees, in a dramatic setting between the sea and a river. 

Vlora

Vlora is another place to stay if you don't have a vehicle and want to be near excellent beaches. It is Albania's third-largest city and features some stunning, untouched beaches in the surrounding area. There are boat tours available from Vlora, which take you to the bays of Karaburun and Sazan from the port. Both bays are immaculately stunning and situated inside a protected marine park, and they have some magnificent caves for snorkelers to explore. 

Drymades

Many people suggest that Drymades is the most beautiful beach in Albania. Situated in a small bay near the village of Dhërmi, there is a large white large rock dividing the shingle side from the sandy side. It's a good spot for beach bars too. 

Dhërmi

Only 5 kilometres down the coast you'll find Dhërmi beach, one of the most famous beaches in Albania. Its a strip of white rock lapped by turquoise waters. Being one of the longest and most accessible, it becomes crowded in the summer, but there are a few spots along the beach away from the crowds, even in peak season.

Borsh

Borsh beach is an untouched seven-kilometre-long stretch of sand located along the Albanian Riviera, surrounded by olive groves and high mountain peaks. Borsh is Albania's largest beach, but despite its beauty, it is surprisingly quiet.

Ferries to Albania 

There are lots of ferries to Albania available on the Netferry website. Let Netferry help you find out more information on destinations such as Vlore, Durres and Saranda. Find out about departure times, onboard accommodation and which ferry companies cover your route, along with any other useful information in just a few clicks.

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