Ryanair launches £23 flights to ‘Europe’s answer to the Maldives’ | Europe | Travel

Budget carrier Ryanair has unveiled a raft of new routes to a city gaining traction amongst British travellers, partly due to its closeness to beaches frequently likened to the Maldives.

Ryanair will introduce 20 additional routes to Tirana, bringing its total number of services into the Albanian capital to 43. From spring, travellers will be able to reach this destination from Liverpool, Birmingham, and Dublin, with journey times of just over three hours.

The expanded network complements Ryanair’s current UK operations from London-Stansted and Manchester, alongside seasonal departures from Edinburgh.

Bookings are now open for Liverpool and Dublin services commencing March 30, whilst Birmingham flights begin March 29. Fares start from as low as £23 one-way in May, and with temperatures reaching 26C highs during this period, it’s set to attract budget-conscious holidaymakers seeking spring sunshine.

For those after a coastal getaway, numerous options await upon arrival in Tirana. Ksamil, situated in the country’s south, ranks amongst the most sought-after beach destinations, accessible via direct airport coach in just under four hours.

This village nestles between a lagoon and the Ionian Sea, with Corfu visible across the water. Boasting pristine white sand shores and azure waters, plus small islands accessible by boat, it has earned comparisons to the Maldives.

For the ultimate Maldives-esque experience, reserve a day at Pema E Thatë, an exclusive beach club offering cabana hire. Several beach huts feature overwater nets, providing the perfect spot to unwind whilst watching the gentle ocean waves beneath you. A beer costs approximately 250 Lek (roughly £2.25), ideal for enjoying alongside the stunning scenery.

Located roughly 30 minutes from Tirana, Durrës is a port city stretching along an extensive sandy coastline. Durrës Beach boasts a palm-fringed promenade and crystal-clear azure waters, yet remains mere minutes from the historic city centre.

There’s also the more compact Plazhi i Currilave adjacent to the port. Whilst beach space is limited, you can rent a sun lounger and parasol to claim your place, with beachfront bars and eateries creating a vibrant ambience.

Durrës is equally renowned for its Roman amphitheatre, with portions of this 2nd-century monument still intact, including the stone seating. Among the city’s most recognisable landmarks is the 5th-century Venetian Tower of Durrës, a medieval fortification offering remarkable coastal panoramas from its ancient watchtowers.

The Muzeu Arkeologjik is also well worth a visit – this local archaeological museum houses artefacts dating back millennia that have been unearthed beneath the city’s streets. Tirana itself also makes for a captivating city break destination, showcasing a distinctive fusion of architectural styles ranging from Ottoman to Soviet influences within one vibrant metropolis.

Skanderbeg Square serves as an ideal launch point for exploration. Here, you’ll encounter structures such as the 17th-century Et’hem Bey Mosque positioned next to the Soviet-era Opera House, alongside the National History Museum, which features an enormous mural depicting citizens battling for the nation’s independence.

Visitors can also experience the remarkable Bunk’Art 2 – a museum housed within a Communist-era nuclear shelter. Descend the steep staircase and you’ll step into an engaging environment where you can discover Albania’s intriguing past and gain insight into daily existence during its prolonged period as a clandestine Communist nation.

Numerous tourists to the capital also suggest visiting Tirana Castle. Whilst only scattered remnants of the medieval fortress survive, the location has been transformed into a distinctive attraction featuring food vendors and outlets selling handcrafted goods, allowing you to purchase mementos and sample Albanian gastronomy.