For a beautiful autumn holiday, you don’t need to break the bank or travel for miles. In fact, one of the most gorgeous locations is practically on the UK’s doorstep.

Albania is an amazing country absolutely jammed with culture and has a fascinating history. Even better, it won’t cost the earth. In fact, Tirana – Albania’s capital was named the  cheapest place in Europe for a holiday according to Time Out. 

According to Time Out Europe, the Albanian capital is one of the cheapest places to eat and explore with museum tickets costing between £2.50 to £5. Even better, a pint costs just £2.24.

The history of Albania is a fascinating one. Between 1945 to 1985, the entire country was almost impossible to visit as it was under the rule of communist dictator Enver Hoxha.

If you want to explore this history further then a visit to the National Historical Museum is a must.

The museum doesn’t shy away from the sometimes brutal history of Albania and is packed full of fascinating artefacts. Make sure you set aside enough time, as a visit here can take up to three hours. 

There’s also the House of Leaves – a house once used as a medical clinic during World War 2 and then by the Gestapo under German occupation. Immediately after the end of the war, it was regained by the Albanian communist regime and utilised as a security office for investigations. 

Aside from its museums. Tirania is known for its buzzing nightlife – and if you fancy something stronger than a pint on your night out, a cocktail will only set you back £6.

Another bonus is that autumn temperatures in Tirania are much better than the UK – usually hovering around 25C through September and October. With the flight time from the UK just over three hours, it’s the perfect weekend break. 

If you want to explore this incredible city, now is the perfect time. Albania is already rising in popularity among British tourists with research by Saga Holidays showing UK searches for holidays in Tirana have risen 91% year-on-year, suggesting British travellers are chasing sunshine and value beyond the usual seaside favourites.