Albania, located in the southwestern Balkans, borders the Adriatic and Ionian Seas and impresses with a variety of crystal-clear bays, rugged mountain landscapes and fertile valleys. The country looks back on a history thousands of years old, shaped by Illyrian, Ottoman and Byzantine influences. The capital Tirana is the political and cultural centre, while the Albanian Riviera in the south is considered one of Europe’s most exciting hidden gems. Albania is known for its authenticity, its hospitality and a nature that can hardly be found in this form anywhere else in Europe. The official language is Albanian, the currency the Albanian lek.