The European hotspot dubbed 'Little Italy' – but is so much cheaper and has amazing beaches | The Sun

A HOLIDAY hotspot in Europe has been dubbed "Little Italy" by holidaymakers because of its beaches and cheaper prices.

In recent months, Albania, in southern Europe, has seen an influx of visitors.

The country's rise in popularity is largely thanks to the army of social media influencers who've holidayed in the Albania Riviera.

But the country has also attracted more high-profile visitors, including the Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni who visited the Albania coast with her family.

In an article in the Financial Times, one holidaymaker, Nicola Ferrero, described Albania as "Little Italy".

Earlier this year, Nicola holidayed in Albania because he wanted to experience a new culture and cuisine.

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But it's not just the draw of exploring a new destination that's attracting holidaymakers from across the globe, prices in Albania are cheaper too.

The Financial Times reported: "As prices have soared in Italy, international tourists have been lured by lower Albanian costs on everything from hotel accommodation to restaurants and sunbeds."

Wizz Air, easyJet, and British Airways all operate direct routes between the UK and the Albania capital of Tirana, with flight prices starting from £28 for a one-way ticket.

From Tirana, it's a four-hour drive to towns like Ksamil, Himarë, and Sarandë, which have become popular destinations on the Albania Riviera.

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In addition to affordable flights, food and drink is cheap in Albania- for instance, a glass of wine will set you back £1.70, and pints cost just £1.10.

If you fancy a trip to the Albanian Riviera, there are several beaches to try.

The northernmost part of the Riviera is Vlorë, which most people will visit before heading down the coast.

There are hundreds of properties to rent in Vlorë, and rooms start from just £20 per night – perfect for a budget-friendly holiday.

Further south of the coastline is Dhërmi – one of the largest and most famous beaches, so you won't struggle to find a spot.

And in the southern part of the Riviera is Ksamil.

If you'd rather stay in this area, rooms are slightly more expensive, starting from £32 per night.

Holidaymakers heading to Albania can also rent Maldives-style beach huts for just £8 per day too.

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Tirana, the capital of Albania, has topped the list of cheapest cities in 2021.

Meanwhile, travel expert Lisa Minot revealed the cheapest places to go on holiday this summer.

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