If getting a Schengen visa feels like too much work, there’s a European country that offers Indian travellers a far easier entry. Albania, located in the Balkans
along the Adriatic and Ionian seas, allows Indians to visit without a Schengen visa. There is much to see here: scenic beaches and historic towns, plus the costs are lower than Western Europe, so you save big bucks too! This is why the country is quickly becoming a smart alternative for those planning a Europe trip with fewer formalities. According to data reported by Albanian Times, Albania saw a sharp rise in international tourist arrivals in early 2025, driven largely by non-traditional markets. Indian tourist arrivals more than doubled, recording a 103 per cent year-on-year increase in the first four months of the year. Overall, Albania welcomed more than 10 million tourists in the first nine months of 2025!
Albania Visa For Indians
Unlike most European destinations, Albania is not part of the Schengen Area, which significantly simplifies entry for Indian travellers. There are multiple easy ways to visit:- E-visa facility: Indians can apply online for an Albanian Type C e-visa, with no embassy visit required
- Visa-free entry: Travellers holding a valid, multiple-entry US or UK visa or residence permit can enter Albania without a separate Albanian visa
- Stay allowed: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period
Why Albania Is Suddenly On Every Traveller’s Feed
Social media has played a major role in Albania’s rising popularity. Travel influencers who recently visited the country called it “Europe’s best-kept secret” in a viral reels that crossed millions of views. The videos showcase Albania's turquoise beaches, cliff-side cafés and pastel-coloured streets, which make it perfect with Indian travellers seeking a European experience without excessive paperwork or expense.Top Places To Visit In Albania
- Tirana: The capital city known for colourful architecture, cafés and museums
- Sarandë: A beach town along the Ionian Sea, close to Greece
- Ksamil: Famous for white beaches and clear turquoise waters
- Berat: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”
- Gjirokastër: A historic Ottoman town with stone houses and a hilltop castle
- The Albanian Alps: Ideal for hiking, nature escapes and mountain villages
Flights From India To Albania
There are currently no direct flights from India to Albania. However, Indian travellers can reach Albania via one-stop connections through major European and Middle Eastern hubs such as Istanbul, Doha, Dubai, Vienna or Rome. Tirana International Airport (TIA), also called Rinas International Airport, is the main entry point, with good connectivity from European capitals.Also Read: Why Amsterdam Wants To Limit Cruise Ships Like Santorini, Venice And Barcelona
