Summary
Albania may be a small country, yet it offers a wealth of experiences in this emerging destination. Bordered by Macedonia, Greece, Kosovo, and Montenegro, Albania’s extensive coastline stands as one of the most stunning in the world.
While Albania is gradually gaining popularity among travelers, it remains largely undiscovered and has retained its pristine beauty. The nation is home to some of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture globally, coupled with remarkably clear Mediterranean air and breathtaking shores.
Moreover, visiting Albania continues to be an incredibly cost-effective experience, especially in comparison to many other areas of Europe. Let us explore the best places to visit in Albania!
1. Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera is arguably the most favored destination in the country for tourists. This region has been cultivating a reputation as a significant music hub, hosting numerous international festivals, including Turtle Fest and Soundwave Albania.
Nightclubs such as Folie Marine at Jale Beach and Havana Beach Club near Dhermi attract youthful crowds from across Europe to the Albanian Riviera.
The coastal town of Himara is among the riviera’s top destinations, while Porto Palermo Beach, Llamani Beach, and Filikuri Beach represent some of the finest sandy locales, with Drymades Beach being one of the most vibrant spots.
2. Tirana
The capital city of Albania, Tirana serves as the initial point for many individuals discovering the country’s key attractions.
Though Tirana hosts few essential tourist sites, the 18th-century Et’hem Bey mosque merits a visit.
The residents of Tirana, like the majority of Albanians, are exceptionally welcoming, and the city is remarkably affordable, offering unexpectedly high-quality food and beverages at very reasonable prices.
Skanderbeg Square stands as one of Tirana’s most significant locales, home to the National Historical Museum as well.
At the center of Skanderbeg Square—and thus the heart of Tirana—lies a statue of the revered national hero, Skanderbeg.
3. Llogara Pass
The Llogara Pass is among Albania’s most notable destinations, providing one of the most breathtaking drives globally.
Situated within Llogara National Park, the road ascends to over 1,000 meters above sea level, offering stunning vistas that will leave visitors in awe.
At the peak of the pass, a variety of restaurants await, providing ideal locations to take in some of the most extraordinary views in Albania.
Llogara National Park houses wildlife such as the golden eagle, the European wildcat, and fallow deer.
A journey from Tirana to Saranda, passing through Llogara Pass, should require a few hours; however, it is advisable to allocate ample time for stops and photography.
4. Berat
Berat, positioned centrally in Albania, is regarded as one of the nation’s oldest towns, often referred to by its moniker—the City of a Thousand Windows—due to its blend of Ottoman and Albanian architectural styles.
The primary tourist attraction in Berat is the 14th-century castle, Kalaja, which continues to be home to numerous residents. Once a prominent city in the Ottoman Empire, Berat was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008.
The Church of St. Mary of Blachernae and the Mangalem Quarter are essential sites to visit when in Berat.
5. Saranda
Saranda ranks as one of the most sought-after tourism spots in Albania, having experienced significant development over the past two decades.
Saranda offers some of the most memorable beaches in Albania, and the UNESCO World Heritage site at Butrint, located just outside Saranda, is also worth exploring.
Lekursi Castle is a prime attraction in Saranda, drawing visitors seeking to experience remarkable sunsets. Saranda is situated just across the Ionian Sea from the well-known Greek island of Corfu.
6. Gjirokastra
As a UNESCO city, Gjirokastra undoubtedly stands as one of Albania’s finest destinations. It showcases unique Ottoman architecture with houses resembling small castles, along with a military museum and an art gallery located in its remarkable castle, which dominates the skyline.
Every five years, a folklore festival is held at Gjirokastra’s castle; the last occurred in 2015. Exploring the old Ottoman bazaar in Gjirokastra should be on the list for anyone visiting this region.
Gjirokastra is renowned as the birthplace of celebrated author Ismail Kadare and Albania’s former dictator Enver Hoxha—both of their childhood homes are now museums.
7. Kruja
Located a short distance from the capital, Tirana, Kruja is an essential destination for first-time visitors to Albania.
Kruja hosts the national ethnographic museum, and it is widely recognized for the Skanderbeg museum, situated within the Kruja castle. This museum ranks as one of Albania’s most significant and frequently visited attractions.
From this fortress, Albania’s hero—George Kastrioti Skanderbeg—successfully defended the nation against Ottoman conquest for over three decades.
The castle offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Additionally, the Qafe Shtama national park and the tomb of Sari Saltik are located nearby.
8. Theth
Situated away from Albania’s larger cities in the northern region, Theth is nestled high in the Albanian Alps and is recognized as an area of exceptional natural beauty—a fact that is readily apparent.
Theth National Park may be the most picturesque location in all of Albania, featuring the stunning Grunas Waterfall and the Lock-in Tower, both highly favored by visitors.
The mountain peaks of Thethi, Boga, Razma, and Vermoshi offer an unforgettable experience of Albania in its most pristine form.
Hikers and nature enthusiasts will discover that Theth is among the premier locations to explore during their trip to Albania.
9. Ksamil Islands
Perhaps the pinnacle of the Albanian Riviera is the Ksamil Islands, a secluded trio of small islands situated just offshore, reachable exclusively by boat from the quaint town of Ksamil.
Part of the more extensive Butrint National Park, the Ksamil Islands exemplify Albania at its most untouched and pristine.
A visit to the Blue Eye Spring is also essential for those looking to discover the enchanting offerings of Ksamil during their exquisite Albanian getaway. The peak visiting season for the Ksamil Islands is July and August; nonetheless, even then, the area remains relatively uncrowded.
10. Shkodra
The largest town in northern Albania, Shkodra is often regarded as the cultural capital of the country.
This status is due to its hosting of events such as Carnival, Lake Day, the Children’s Festival, and Shkodra Jazz Fest, alongside a renowned historical fortress significant during the First Balkan War.
Shkodra is graced with an exquisite lake, and the medieval citadel of Drisht lies merely a few miles away. Additionally, the renowned Migjeni Theatre is located in Shkodra, along with an excellent market that is well worth a visit. Notably, Shkodra’s Malazeze cuisine is among the finest in Albania.
11. Vlore
Located in the southwestern region of Albania is the popular coastal resort of Vlore, known for its extensive olive production, with an estimated 280,000 olive trees in the area.
Vlore boasts numerous significant historical landmarks; however, the most renowned is the building where Albania proclaimed its independence a little over a century ago.
Today, a monument commemorates this pivotal moment in Albania’s history. The Cold Water area in Vlore attracts younger visitors due to its vibrant selection of trendy bars and restaurants.
12. Apollonia
Apollonia once stood as one of the most significant cities globally, making it a necessary stop for anyone exploring Albania for the first time.
Situated in the heart of Albania and easily accessible from the city of Fier, the remnants of Apollonia are magnificent, and the surrounding views are equally impressive.
Historically, Apollonia was among the dominions of Pyrrhus of Epirus. Although those days are long gone, Apollonia remains a key site for those interested in immersing themselves in Albania’s rich history.
13. Durres
As Albania’s primary port, Durres is also one of the country’s oldest cities. It is famous for housing the largest amphitheater in the Balkans, while the pristine northern coastline at Lalzit Bay is one of Albania’s most breathtaking locations.
Visitors should take the opportunity to explore the Durres Archaeological Museum, the Aleksander Moisiu Theatre, and the Royal Villa of Durres while in Albania’s second-largest city.
A plethora of cultural events and celebrations take place in Durres year-round; notably, the city is the birthplace of Bujar Nishani, the current President of Albania.
14. Lake Koman
For those seeking the most stunning scenery in the entire Balkans, a visit to Lake Koman in Albania should be included in anyone’s travel plans. Frequently hailed as one of the world’s premier boat excursions, the journey transports guests from the hydroelectric dam at Koman to the port of Fierza.
While locals who frequently use the boat may have grown accustomed to the rugged beauty of the Albanian mountains, first-time visitors will find the views from the Lake Koman Ferry to be truly awe-inspiring. The ferry ride also offers a unique glimpse into the everyday lives of Albanians residing in remote areas.
15. Pogradec
Pogradec stands out as one of the promising destinations in Albania, situated on the shores of Lake Ohrid in the east of the country.
Lake Ohrid is recognized as the deepest lake in the Balkan region, and while the Macedonian side is more frequented by tourists, Albania’s shore is rapidly gaining popularity.
Pogradec is celebrated for its rich folklore, and its Puppet Theater Festival ranks among the most intriguing events on Albania’s tourism agenda.
The stunning Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park lies about 30-45 minutes from Pogradec, while the springs of Drilon are also in close proximity.
