Travel search data from Kayak and Skyscanner shows Albania topping the charts as the fastest-growing European destination for American travelers this summer, with flight searches up 185% year-over-year. The small Adriatic nation offers pristine beaches, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and vibrant nightlife at a fraction of the cost of neighboring Greece or Italy.

A typical day in Albania costs roughly $60 to $80 including a beachfront hotel, three meals, and local transportation. The Albanian Riviera, stretching from Vlora to Saranda, features turquoise waters and uncrowded beaches that rival any in the Mediterranean.

New direct flights from New York JFK to Tirana on Albanian Airlines have made access easier than ever, with round-trip fares averaging $550 for summer travel.