The Underrated Riviera In Europe With Luxury Like Italy's Amalfi Coast Minus The Crowds

The Amalfi Coast includes iconic Italian cliffside towns like Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi plus the luxurious island of Capri, which is just an easy boat ride away. Tourists (including plenty of celebrities) enjoy these places thanks to their incredible coastal views that feature bright buildings nestled right into the hills and beautiful blue colors of the Mediterranean Sea. However, the Amalfi Coast is far from a hidden gem. In fact, travel guru Rick Steves blogged that this region is "maddeningly touristy."

Tourists looking to avoid contributing to overtourism can find similar otherworldly sights in the lesser known country of Albania. While this country is among the many vacation options for travelers on a budget, you can still feel like a celebrity here, and not just because pop stars Dua Lipa, Ava Max, and Bebe Rexha all have Albanian heritage. The Albanian Riviera along the southern part of the country incorporates particular points of interest. Just like the Amalfi Coast, the Albanian Riviera has gorgeous ocean views and relaxing beaches. This region has plenty of history too, all with fewer crowds than Amalfi.

The small town of Saranda (Sarandë) is at the southern end of the Albanian Riviera. Like those of the Amalfi Coast, Saranda's lightly colored buildings vary in elevation as you get further from the beaches. It is best to wander on foot. There are swanky, yet reasonable places to stay right by the water in this town. Vila Kalcuni Luxury Resort is close to the ferry port, has a pool, and offers rooms from only around $80 per night. With its beautiful white and pastel furnishings that feel quintessentially Mediterranean, Vila Kalcuni is a destination in itself. 

The Albanian Riviera is an amazing destination to visit for gorgeous sunset views and among the places to catch the sunset in Saranda is at Lekursi Castle (Kalaja e Lëkurësit), a 16th century Ottoman hilltop structure on the outskirts of town. There are remnants of Cold War bunkers here too, offering an amazing perspective on how much history this small nation has seen. Some tours through Visit Saranda stop at the castle and cars can reach it too, but some opt to walk. Walking to the castle can take around an hour, yet the reward is not just the views, there is a restaurant right inside the castle where you can treat yourself to a well-earned meal. Grab something to eat and watch the golden lights turn on throughout the city as the sun sets. The picturesque town of Ksamil is about half an hour from Saranda and offers more stunning beaches, but tends to be more expensive and draws more vacationers.

Around halfway between the Albanian Riviera's endpoints are the small towns of Gjilekë and Palasë. There are quaint places to stay here, but the seemingly untouched beaches steal the spotlight. Relax with mountain views in the distance at Pepperon The Beach. The bright blue water here is clear enough for snorkeling too. These towns are just a stone's throw away from Llogara National Park (Parku Kombëtar Llogara). The protected area here includes plenty of hiking trails through mountains, forests, and scenic vistas overlooking the coast.

The largest city along the Albanian Riviera is Vlorë. Meandering through the winding streets and allowing yourself to get lost in the Old Town is the best way to see this city. You never know what historic gem or cute cafe you might discover. Near the marina you'll find the National Museum of Albanian Independence (Muzeu Kombëtar i Pavarësisë). Albania might not be a country as globally well known as some of its neighbors, so this little museum in an early 20th century building will likely teach you something new. it If you still want more sunshine, the hills give way to gold sand beaches both near the city center and further out.