Why Albania’s Coastline is a Smart Alternative to Greece & Croatia

If you’ve ever daydreamed about owning a place by the sea—waking up to blue waters, sipping coffee on your balcony, and taking a swim whenever you feel like it—you’re probably thinking of Greece or Croatia. But here’s the thing: Albania offers the same breathtaking experience, for a fraction of the price. 

In recent years, more and more people are realizing that Albania’s coastline is just as stunning, far more affordable, and still has that untouched charm that Greece and Croatia lost years ago. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, an investment property, or a permanent escape, here’s why Albania might just be the smartest choice in the Mediterranean right now. 

1. Seafront Properties Without the Crazy Price Tags 

Let’s talk numbers. If you’ve looked at buying property in Greece or Croatia , you’ve probably noticed that anything remotely close to the sea costs an arm and a leg. 

• A small apartment in Corfu ? Easily €300,000+ . 

• A beachfront home in Dubrovnik ? Get ready to spend at least €500,000 —or more. 

Now, compare that to Albania : 

• You can still find seafront apartments starting at €80,000 in places like Saranda and Ksamil . 

• Want something more luxurious? A modern villa with a private pool can be yours for under €500,000 —in Greece or Croatia, you’d need at least €1 million for the same level of luxury. 

This price gap won’t last forever. As more people catch on, prices will rise. But for now, Albania is a hidden gem for smart investors and homebuyers. 

2. The Same Stunning Views—Just Without the Overcrowding 

Albania’s southern coastline shares the same turquoise waters as Greece because, well, it’s the same sea —the Ionian. 

• Ksamil is often called the “Maldives of Europe” because of its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters . 

• Saranda , just across the water from Corfu, has the same views—but properties cost half the price. 

• Borsh , with its 7-kilometer beach , is still untouched by mass tourism, making it one of the last hidden paradises in the Mediterranean. 

Meanwhile, many parts of Greece and Croatia have become overcrowded. You’ll struggle to find a quiet spot in Santorini or Dubrovnik during summer, while Albania still offers peace, space, and room to breathe. 

3. A Growing Tourism Hotspot (Great for Investors!) 

If you’re thinking of buying property as an investment, Albania makes a lot of sense right now . 

Tourism has skyrocketed in recent years, with more visitors choosing Albania over expensive destinations like Greece, Italy, or Croatia. This means: 

✔ High demand for short-term rentals (especially in summer) 

✔ Potential for strong rental income (Airbnb rates are rising!) 

✔ A market that’s still growing, meaning property values will go up 

For example, an apartment in Saranda or Ksamil can earn €100–€200 per night in the summer —and with Albania’s tourism boom, those numbers will only get better. 

4. No Property Taxes (Yep, You Read That Right!) 

Unlike Greece and Croatia, Albania does not have annual property taxes . That means once you buy, you’re not stuck paying extra fees every year just to keep your home. 

Add to that the fact that everyday living costs in Albania are significantly lower , and you’ll find that owning property here is a financially smart move in the long run. 
 

5. A Simple Buying Process for Foreigners

Let’s be honest—buying property abroad can be a headache. But in Albania, it’s refreshingly simple.

• Foreigners can own property outright (no complicated loopholes like in Greece).

• Fewer restrictions and lower taxes make it an attractive market for international buyers.

• Many real estate transactions are done in euros, making things easier if you’re coming from abroad.

In Greece and Croatia, the process can be slow, expensive, and full of red tape. In Albania, it’s much more straightforward—which is one of the reasons why more investors are making the switch.

6. A Safe, Friendly, and Welcoming Place to Live

Albania might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of relocating to the Mediterranean, but here’s what people love about living here:

• It’s safe – Crime rates are low, especially in coastal towns.

• The locals are incredibly welcoming – Albanians are famous for their hospitality, and you’ll feel at home right away.

• It’s developing fast – New roads, better infrastructure, and a growing expat community make it easier than ever to settle in.

7. Perfect Location for Travel Lovers

One of the best things about Albania? It’s perfectly positioned for exploring the rest of Europe.

• A 30-minute ferry ride gets you to Corfu, Greece.

• Direct flights from Tirana connect you to major cities across Europe.

• Italy is just a short ferry ride away from Vlora or Durres.

So whether you want a quick weekend trip to the Greek islands or a shopping spree in Rome, it’s all within easy reach.

Final Thoughts: Why Albania is the Smarter Choice

If you love the Mediterranean lifestyle but don’t want to overpay for a property in Greece or Croatia, Albania is the perfect alternative.

✔ Lower prices for seafront apartments and luxury villas

✔ Same stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters

✔ A booming rental market with high return potential

✔ No property taxes and lower cost of living

✔ A simple buying process with fewer restrictions

Albania won’t stay under the radar forever. Prices are rising, tourism is booming, and smart investors are already making their move.

Thinking about buying in Albania? At Viva View, we specialize in luxury apartments, beachfront villas, and investment properties in Saranda, Ksamil, and beyond. Get in touch today, and let’s find your perfect home by the sea!