Considered the European Caribbean, Albania is one of the most authentic and affordable destinations in Europe, full of natural wealth and cultural influences from East and West, writes Cristina Blanco Vázquez in an article published in the Spanish daily "El Debate". ATSh.

That's it

In the heart of the Albanian Alps, there is Thethi, the most famous mountain village in Albania.

Founded in the 17th century by Catholic Albanians fleeing the Ottoman occupation, this small village is a true haven of peace and also has a National Park, making it a must if you visit the Albanian country.

Tirana

Its capital, Tirana, stands out for its colorful buildings. In addition, you should also visit Skënderbej Square in this destination.

The Byzantine castle, known as the Castle of Justinian, was built in 1300 and is the place where the main Roman roads cross, reports KosovaPress.

Within the old defensive walls, there are many tourist facilities, including restaurants and hotels.

On June 10, 1973, the castle was declared a monument of the first category.

The coastal beauty of Vlora

With blue waters, impressive mountains and accessible to everyone, Vlora has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, thus becoming the "continent of the Maldives".

Vlora is a small town located in the southwest of Albania and only 135 km from the capital.

Vlora is also emerging as a culinary destination: you can enjoy Italian cuisine across the Adriatic, mixed with local cuisine with fresh seafood, sour cream casserole.

Himara

The best beaches in the country are also found in Himare.

In this quiet village, life passes between traditional Greek taverns and modern resorts, in a true reflection of Albania, open to its tourist potential, without losing sight of its roots.

The best option for relaxing in the sea is Llamani, a very popular beach in local tourism, near Himara.

Nestled between two hills, this pebbly cove represents the ideal beach in the Mediterranean.

Berat, the city of a thousand windows

Berat is located about 120 kilometers south of the capital, a city that stands out for its rich history, its wonderful architecture and its fabulous location.

It is popularly known as the 'City of a Thousand Windows', due to the traditional Ottoman houses with large wooden windows overlooking the cobbled streets of the old town.

Its biggest attraction is the castle that dominates the city from the hill.

Blue eye

Syri i Kaltër, together with the Natural Park of Butrint, is one of the most visited places in Albania.

Just 25 kilometers from Saranda, near the traditional stone village of Musina, the fresh water spring is formed by a small pool-like lake with beautiful shades of green and blue.

Bênja thermal water sources – Bênja Baths

To the northeast of Gjirokastra are located "Ura e Kadiu" and Banjat e Bênja, which have become one of the most photogenic places in the south of Albania.

Small waterfalls cascade down and the river forms a twisting channel that meanders down the valley.

This is a great camping spot if you don't mind the smell of sulfur.

There is a beautiful view of the Ottoman bridge and the hot springs from a cave located on the mountainside.

Upstream you can walk over rocks to enter the Langarica canyon.