It’s unimaginable to record the entire greatest locations to go to in Albania. It’s a rustic with essentially the most gorgeous surroundings, the friendliest individuals, and an intriguing historical past that’s assured to cease you in your tracks.
There are essentially the most lovely locations to go to in Albania together with its gorgeous shoreline, mountain ranges, and pure points of interest. For my part, these can rival the surroundings in neighbouring nations of Greece and even Italy.
Albania journey is an actual deal with for these on a finances, with costs only a fraction of the prices in lots of different European nations. Decide up a espresso for lower than $1 and lunch for below $5 even in excessive season.
I spent round 10 weeks exploring Albania as a digital nomad. I used to be in fixed awe of this nation that I knew nothing about earlier than. Its magnificence, welcoming individuals and distinctive locations by no means didn’t shock me.
Finest Locations to Go to in Albania
In the event you’re considering a go to, however questioning the place to go in Albania, this weblog will make it easier to get an itinerary collectively. There are countless issues to see and do in Albania.
Throughout my time spent in Albania, I visited these locations and selected so as to add them to the record because of their historic significance, pure magnificence, ease of journey and the actions accessible.
1. Berat
The primary UNESCO World Heritage web site featured on this record is Berat. It’s among the best locations to go to in Albania for its enticing structure and essentially the most lovely cityscape.
Berat’s hillside options stone homes which look like stacked on prime of each other. It’s generally known as the town of 1000 home windows because of the symmetrical openings in every constructing.
You need to go to the Fort while you’re within the metropolis, it was the spotlight of my go to. It’s tremendous spectacular, and also you get essentially the most spectacular view of the town. Inside the town partitions, you’ll additionally see that individuals nonetheless reside within the historic buildings right here.
Take a stroll down the Bulevardi Republika; a large promenade lined with cafes that characteristic lovely views of the Tomorr mountain at one finish, and the citadel on the different.
A day journey to Berat will provide you with a very good period of time to discover the town. You may get there simply by taking a bus from Tirana which takes round 1.5 hours. Alternatively, it’s possible you’ll want to go to for a few days and discover the encircling areas, that are additionally featured on this record.
It’s positively one of the distinctive locations in Albania and shouldn’t be missed. See our full publish on the Finest Issues To Do in Berat.
2. Tirana (Certainly one of The Finest Cities to Go to in Albania)
The capital metropolis is undoubtedly among the best locations to go to in Albania. It merely can’t be missed. A metropolis nestled inside mountains and hills, this contemporary and cosmopolitan metropolis has a lot to supply.
I’d suggest studying all about Tirana’s most well-known points of interest, just like the Et’hem Bey Mosque and Clock Tower, by taking a strolling tour of the town.
If you wish to be taught extra concerning the fascinating historical past of Albania, head to Bunk’Art1, my favorite museum in Tirana. Primarily based in an outdated nuclear bunker, you’ll be taught all concerning the historical past of Albania. It’s actually near the Dajti Specific which additionally options on this record!
Bunk’Art1’s sister museum, Bunk’Art2 is within the centre and focuses on the function of the key police in communist Albania. It’s a bit extra area of interest however positively value a go to.
Foodies additionally gained’t be disillusioned right here with some superb eating places to strive within the prestigious neighbourhood of Blloku. There are some unbelievable Tirana Airbnbs there as effectively.
Tirana must be on the prime of your record – it’s among the best cities to go to in Albania. To study the most effective neighborhoods and lodging, don’t miss our publish: The place to Keep in Tirana – Finest Areas and Locations. Tirana is a good place to go to, nevertheless it’s additionally an incredible base for day journeys from the town.
3. Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster is among the most lovely locations in Albania. An outdated Ottoman city which is so effectively preserved it’s designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Website.
Town is dominated by the Gjirokaster Fortress which supplies a incredible view of the town, the Gjere mountains, and the Drino River. The Fortress holds many historic artefacts on the grounds and the on-site museum. This features a US Air Pressure Jet which crash-landed throughout WWII.
The Previous City is among the highlights, and among the best locations to go to in Albania. It’s one of many principal points of interest that brings individuals to Gjirokaster. I cherished the candy little artisan retailers, charming cafes, and distinctive eating places.
The Chilly Warfare Tunnel can also be an incredible place to go to and expertise one of many many bunkers and tunnels dotted all around the nation.
In case your go to falls over the colder months, it is best to take a fast journey to Permet, which is simply exterior of Gjirokaster. It’s among the best locations to go to in Albania within the winter for its toasty scorching springs.
4. Cities of The Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera might be the place that brings most individuals to the nation. It’s no surprise why! It’s positively one of the lovely locations in Albania.
The shoreline alongside the Riviera was not what I anticipated. It was phenomenal. The water was unbelievably clear, blue and heat. In some locations, it was just like the water you see within the Caribbean or in Asia. I spent a while residing in an Airbnb in Saranda whereas having fun with the entire enjoyable issues to see and do.
The Albanian Riviera is among the greatest locations to go to in Albania in the summertime, not only for the attractive shoreline, however as a result of it’s changing into a haven for music festivals.
The city of Dhermi hosts standard music festivals, together with Kala Pageant, Turtle Fest, and ION Pageant, which magnetize many backpackers. Additional south, the seaside city of Himare is among the greatest locations to go to in Albania for a few of the greatest seashores within the nation.
5. Osumi Canyons
A visit to the Osumi Canyons, or the ‘Grand Canyon’ of Albania, is to not be missed for adventurers. The Osumi Canyon is the right place for white water rafting when you’re visiting Albania on the proper time.
In the event you’re staying in Berat for a couple of days, be sure to go to. This highly-rated journey consists of the canyons, waterfalls, a picnic, swimming, transportation and extra. Click on right here for particulars.
The very best time to discover Osumi is in spring. Throughout these months, the water degree is excessive sufficient to discover your entire canyon by water. You’ll paddle proper by the canyon partitions and float subsequent to eight spectacular waterfalls. For these after a thrill, there’s even the possibility to go white water rafting.
By the top of the summer season, you gained’t have the ability to see the canyon from the river because the water gained’t be deep sufficient. If the water ranges are low on the time of your go to, the canyon is simply as lovely from the highest and also you’ll nonetheless have the ability to swim in swimming pools, hike, and revel in its pure magnificence.
6. Ksamil
Unquestionably one of the lovely locations in Albania, Ksamil attracts hundreds of vacationers from all around the world.
Ksamil options each pebbly and sandy seashores, and the clearest, turquoise water. The water is similar to the seashores in Southeast Asia. It’s completely gorgeous. This is among the greatest seashores in Albania.
The primary Ksamil seashore, (Plazhi Ksamilit), and Plazhi Bora Bora, are normally the busiest as they’ve essentially the most lovely, shallow water. These have been my favorite seashores as you possibly can swim over to the close by Ksamil Islands that are only a stone’s throw away.
Additional down the coast, you’ll discover the marginally quieter seashores of Lori Seaside and The Final Bay that are simply as lovely and a very good choice within the peak of summer season when the primary seashores get a bit busy.
And wow, it does get busy. The greatest time to go to Albania for seashores is between April – mid-June, and in September, while you’ll get the most effective climate with fewer crowds. In the direction of the top of our go to in June, the seashores have been getting very busy right here.
7. Mount Djati Nationwide Park
Top-of-the-line locations to go to in Albania is the Dajti Nationwide Park. It’s conveniently positioned simply exterior of Tirana. It’s the place many locals come to flee the town and warmth.
You may simply catch a bus from the town centre; simply hop on the blue bus heading to Porcelani which departs from the Clock Tower, and by the New Bazaar. The drivers will provide you with a heads-up when it’s time to get off.
The Dajti Specific, an excellent speedy trendy cable automobile, will take you up the mountain to the park. It’s round 1000 lek, ($9), for a return ticket.
Within the park, you possibly can play mini-golf, take a horse experience, play fairground video games, and seize lunch at a restaurant with panoramic views of the town under. That is simply the most effective view you’ll see of the town.
There are additionally plenty of walks and hikes you possibly can take to the mountain summit. The views from the highest are gorgeous and it’s not solely one of many greatest issues to do in Tirana, however in Albania as an entire.
8. Butrint Nationwide Park
Butrint is undoubtedly among the best locations to go to in Albania. It’s one of the standard points of interest and is essentially the most visited UNESCO world heritage web site within the nation.
Butrint has been inhabited since prehistoric occasions; its lengthy and wealthy historical past consists of being occupied by the Greeks, Romans and Venetians.
It effortlessly blends historical past with nature, as the location is positioned amidst marshes, Lake Butrint, and gorgeous open plains which make up the nationwide park. Climb the Venetian tower to view the splendour of Butrint’s superb location.
Sights to see inside Butrint embrace a Roman theatre, Temple, and Discussion board to call a couple of. There’s additionally a museum on web site the place you possibly can learn concerning the historical historical past of this superbly preserved metropolis.
Entrance prices 1000 LEK, ($9), per particular person, and it’s greatest to reach right here very first thing as it may well get extremely heat, and the crowds intensify because the day goes on. We arrived at 8 am when the park opened and it was positively a good time to reach judging by the dimensions of the queue once we left.
It’s one of the distinctive locations to go to in Albania. In the event you’re staying in Saranda or Ksamil, you merely can’t miss Butrint, because it’s only a brief journey down the coast. Take a look at this high-rated day journey from Saranda which takes in Butrint and plenty of different lovely sights.
9. Durres
With over 3,000 years of historical past, Durres is each the second largest and one of the historical cities in Albania. It’s unsurprising that it’s bursting with archaeological websites, historic buildings and remnants. Top-of-the-line issues to see is the spectacular Roman Amphitheater.
In addition to being a well-liked alternative for historical past lovers, it’s additionally a gorgeous alternative for these looking for a combination of metropolis life and enjoyable seashores. In the event you’re primarily based in Tirana, this is a superb day tour to Durres.
While the seashores in and round Durres aren’t as placing as these in Ksamil, they’re sandy and supply lovely views over the Adriatic Sea. My favorite seashore on this space is Spille Seaside, only a brief taxi or bus journey out of the town.
10. The Blue Eye
The Blue Eye is among the greatest locations in Albania. It’s a fully lovely place to go to in Albania, notably in the summertime. Click on right here to get there from Saranda.
The Blue Eye is positioned between Saranda and Gjirokaster. It’s a crystal clear, pure spring water and pure phenomenon which descends not less than 50m. No one is certain precisely how deep it’s as a result of the water stress is so intense that no diver has been capable of attain any additional.
You may stare into the paranormal Blue Eye from the platform instantly above it. Within the centre, is an underground cave which releases hundreds of gallons of water. Its depth makes it look black, just like the pupil of a watch, and the brilliant blue round its centre is akin to an iris.
You may bounce instantly into the Blue Eye from the platform. Nevertheless, be warned, the temperature of the water is 10 levels all 12 months spherical. It’s freezing and never for the faint-hearted!
There’s a coated cafe by the Blue Eye the place you possibly can seize refreshments. The cafe is constructed proper on the river and the water right here is essentially the most vivid shades of aquamarine and turquoise. It’s one of the distinctive locations in Albania and positively value a go to.
11. Bovilla Lake
Travellers who’ve a ardour for nature and getting the blood pumping will adore Lake Bovilla. It’s excellent for exploring when you’re primarily based in Tirana because it’s round 20km north of the capital.
The area surrounding the lake is gorgeous. The water of the lake is a vibrant turquoise blue, and the views over the peaks are attractive. It’s these excellent views and rocky ravines that entice travellers from throughout for the most effective mountaineering, climbing, and mountaineering alternatives.
In the event you’re mountaineering in the summertime and work up a sweat, take a load off and have a refreshing swim to complete your day. It’s positively among the best locations to go to in Albania when you love the outside.
I like to recommend that you simply go to with a information to point out you the most effective locations to climb, hike, and swim. A 4×4 automobile is good to entry the world, so a tour might be your greatest guess. This tour is a good choice.
12. Vlore
Vlore is a seaside metropolis, with a large and exquisite palm tree-lined promenade. The ocean is on one aspect, and bars, cafes and eating places border the opposite – it’s tremendous fairly.
To see a few of the clearest water within the area I might suggest that you simply take a ship journey. You may ebook one with one of many native companies promoting on the promenade. Ensure you see the Karaburun area and Sazan Island – the water is so blue and dreamy.
Different issues to see in Vlore are the colorful buildings and enjoyable bars in Previous City, and a visit north to Zvernec to see St Mary’s Monastery. That is notably cool because it’s accessed throughout a slender picket bridge over the encircling lagoon.
Lastly, the seashores within the metropolis can get very crowded in the summertime. Head to Orikum Seaside to the south for a vibrant white pebbly seashore, or Narta Seaside to the north for sand.
13. Saranda
Saranda (Sarande) is a stupendous seaside resort city simply north of Ksamil on the Albanian Riviera. It has some enjoyable, pebbly seashores, and essentially the most lovely promenade proper on the water.
There are such a lot of nice issues to do in Saranda; like heading as much as Lekarsi Fort for essentially the most unbelievable sunsets, and having fun with a drink on the bar. Take a look at this enjoyable jeep journey which is an effective way to see the Saranda space.
A ship journey is a should, as most of the seashores near Saranda can solely be accessed by the water. Kroreza Seaside has essentially the most superb turquoise waters, which evoke footage of Mexico. You may hardly consider you’re in Europe.
Saranda additionally has some superb eating places, with some tasty seafood on supply. Haxhi is a private favorite, and the seafood pasta is a few of the greatest I’ve ever eaten. For an genuine expertise, Fish Filipi is an effective alternative.
Lastly, Saranda supplies a perfect base, and really, I spent a month residing in Sarande in an Airbnb.
You may get buses all around the nation and throughout the Macedonian border from right here. It’s additionally near most of the greatest locations in Albania. This consists of Gjirokaster, Ksamil, and The Blue Eye. This extremely rated day journey really takes in these three locations.
14. Shkoder
Shkoder often is the most quaint of the Albanian cities, and you are feeling such as you’ve stepped again in time right here. It’s tremendous relaxed, with a thriving cafe tradition, and cheerful vibrant buildings.
As many vacationers use Shkoder to cross into Montenegro or to do a few of the greatest mountaineering in Albania within the Albanian Alps, it’s an incredible place to keep away from the crowds. It’s among the best locations in Albania for finances backpackers, and for seeing what the Balkans have been like earlier than the crowds arrived.
It’s on the border with Montenegro with which it shares Lake Shkodra, a shocking physique of water and the most important within the Balkans. Discover the lake by boat or kayak and benefit from the very good surroundings.
Not too removed from Shkoder is the Theth Nationwide Park. The mountains listed here are so placing, sharp and steep in opposition to the backdrop – it’s breathtaking. You may discover the most effective surroundings in North Albania by finishing the Theth to Valbona hike when you’re up for the problem.
15. Korce
In the event you’re a beer drinker, you’ll seemingly be acquainted with this little city because it’s the place the favored Albanian beer will get its identify.
Korce, (pronounced kor-cha), is an attention-grabbing city to go to with a lot of lovely Ottoman structure, quaint cafes, and superb eating places. Nevertheless, Korce is changing into generally known as an excellent winter vacation spot.
With such a incredible shoreline, it’s simple to overlook that Albania can also be coated by mountains. And what goes hand in hand with mountains? Snowboarding in fact.
Korce is residence to a lot of up-and-coming ski resorts because of the low value of residing. This makes for an ideal place to ski on a finances. The individuals are pleasant and it has a pleasant ambiance. It’s the most effective place to go to in Albania in winter for positive.
FAQs About Visiting Albania
Solutions to some generally requested questions on visiting the attractive locations in Albania.
Ksamil, Saranda, and the Albanian Riviera are the most effective locations in Albania for seashore lovers. For nature seekers, Bovilla Lake, and The Blue Eye, are two of essentially the most lovely locations in Albania.
Albania is a good place for a trip. There’s one thing for everybody and it’s an excellent reasonably priced vacation spot. Whether or not you’re keen on exploring a metropolis, enjoyable on a seashore, or get pleasure from being exterior in nature, Albania will ship every part you need and extra.
It is a powerful query as there are such a lot of gorgeous pure points of interest in Albania. In the event you can solely go to one, I might suggest that you simply go to Osumi Canyon. It’s among the best locations to go to in Albania and in contrast to anything within the nation.
Sure, Albania is secure to journey round. While there may be petty crime across the nation, it’s nothing that doesn’t occur elsewhere round Europe. I discovered the locals to be each welcoming and pleasant, and felt very secure all over the place I visited.
Now You Know the Finest Locations To Go to in Albania
Albania is a rustic that has a lot to supply. Magnificence, historical past, tradition, and journey, all wrapped into one. Unimaginable seashores on the west coast and to the south, endless nature to find, and charming historic cities and cities dotted all around the nation to discover, and fall in love with.
In the event you have been questioning the place to go to in Albania, I hope this information has given you some solutions and a few nice concepts to your journey.