Mediterranean magic without madness - say hello to Vlora, Albania

Vlora in Albania is similar to Spain's Costa del Sol and offers warm weather and idyllic scenery, and it takes just over three hours to get there from the UK, writes Ashley Bautista for the British daily "Mirror".

Some of Europe's lesser-known gems are attracting tourists thanks to sun, sea and stunning landscapes this spring and summer, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

Spain, France and Italy usually remain the main destinations, but Spain's popular resorts and coasts are seeing an influx of visitors every year. Many tourists are looking for quieter places to relax.

Vlora – a wonderful city – resembles the Costa del Sol – a popular resort in Spain.

Less crowded – while still offering beautiful beaches and picturesque landscapes – Vlora is the perfect place to enjoy sunny days this spring and summer.

It is the third most populous city in Albania, located in the southern part of the country and surrounded by the foothills of the Vetëtima Mountains – along the coasts of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.

This beautiful city offers all the conditions for a dream holiday with temperatures ranging from 15 degrees Celsius to 23 degrees Celsius – with the weather expected to become much warmer in the coming weeks – and is only three hours and 10 minutes away from London airport.

The Albanian region is also known for its extensive vineyards and wineries, where the most popular products are "Vloshi" and "Shesh i Zi".

Its gastronomy has also gained popularity, as it combines traditional Albanian flavors with Mediterranean and Italian influences.

Popular dishes include; pie, fritters, tavë kosi, qifqi, sëtëtli, raki, pite, baklava and varieties of meat and seafood.

Activities you can do in Vlora

Vlora is known for its stunning beaches. The waters are crystal clear and there are many restaurants and cafes around the coast for locals and visitors.

The most popular beaches are the Old Beach, Radhima Beach and Orikum Beach overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Visitors can also explore the Independence Monument and Flag Square, which are known as the places where Albania declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912.

The Vlora promenade also offers stunning sea views and is the perfect place to stroll and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.

One of the most famous monuments in Vlora is the Muradie Mosque, which dates back to the 16th century, known for its Ottoman architecture.

Tourists can also visit the Zvërnec Monastery, which is another religious site.

For those who are more adventurous, other activities include boat trips to Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula – which are perfect places to explore hidden caves, go diving and swimming.

However, prices can increase during the peak tourist season, between June and August, prices can go up to 316 pounds.

For tourists still wondering where to spend their vacation – Vlora in Albania promises a great atmosphere away from the noise and chaos of the city.

Also, this coastal city is less crowded with tourists compared to other vacation destinations and who wouldn't love a quieter getaway?