Albania

Albania: general info for travelers

Albania is a small Balkan country located on the coast of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. It is bordered by Greece to the south, Montenegro to the north, Kosovo to the northeast, and North Macedonia to the east. Albania has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from Ottoman, Italian, and Balkan cultures. It is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the ancient city of Butrint, the historic center of Gjirokastra, and the beautiful Albanian Alps.
The coastal region of Albania offers stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, while the interior is filled with picturesque mountain ranges and traditional villages. Tirana, the capital city, offers an urban experience with a vibrant nightlife and a growing arts scene.
Overall, Albania is a beautiful and unique destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and adventure.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Albania, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Albania: places to visit

Sure, here is a list of some top places to visit in Albania along with a brief description of each: 1. Tirana - The capital city of Albania known for its vibrant street art, boulevards, and colorful buildings. It’s a great place to experience Albanian culture, food, and mingle with the locals.
2. Berat - Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows", Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a fortress, castle, and Ottoman-era houses. It’s a beautiful and historic city with many things to do and see.
3. Gjirokastra - Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Gjirokastra is a historic town with Ottoman architecture and cobblestone streets. It’s also the birthplace of former Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha.
4. Shkoder - The largest city in Northern Albania known for its ancient castle and beautiful Lake Skadar. It’s also a great place to explore Albanian heritage and traditions.
5. Butrint - An ancient city with Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins located near the southern coast of Albania. It’s a popular destination for history enthusiasts and a great place to learn about Albania’s rich culture and history.
6. Saranda - A coastal town in southern Albania known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s also a great place to experience Albanian nightlife and cuisine.
7. Valbona Valley National Park - One of Albania's most stunning natural attractions. It's known for its stunning landscape of soaring mountains, crystal-clear rivers, and colorful wildflowers. It’s a great place to escape the city and get in touch with nature.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Albania. I hope this helps you plan your trip!
There is more to see and do in Albania: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Albania: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Albania, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Albania has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and hot summers along the coast. The inland areas have a continental climate, with more variation in temperature. The best time to visit Albania is from April to June or September to October when the temperatures are moderate and the crowds are relatively thin. During these months, the days are warm and sunny, with an average temperature of around 25°C (77°F). July and August can be very hot and crowded, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F) or higher. This is the peak tourist season because of the summer holidays, so prices may be higher and it may be more difficult to find accommodation. In the winter months (December to February), temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F) in the coastal areas and can get quite cold in the mountainous regions. However, the winter months can be a good time for skiing in the mountains.

Albania: activities and what to do

Albania offers a wide range of activities and sports for travelers looking for an adventure on their holiday. Some popular options include: 1. Hiking: Albania has plenty of hiking trails and mountains for all levels of hikers. The Albanian Alps in the north are particularly beautiful.
2. Cycling: Albania has many scenic routes and cycling trails. Some cities like Tirana, Vlora and Saranda offer bike-sharing systems.
3. Rafting: Albania is an excellent destination for rafting, especially on the Vjosa River.
4. Snorkeling and diving: Albania has some of the highest-quality water in the Mediterranean and is a great destination for snorkeling and diving in places like Ksamil.
5. Paragliding: You will get an amazing view of the country’s spectacular landscapes from above.
6. Skiing and snowboarding: Albania has a couple of ski resorts in the Albanian Alps, offering great skiing and snowboarding opportunities.
Besides these, you can also enjoy beach activities, sea kayaking, rock climbing, and more according to your interests.

Albania: few words on history and culture

Albania has a rich and diverse history and culture. The Albanian people have been influenced by many different civilizations over the centuries, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottoman Turks, and Italians. Albania became an independent state in 1912, after nearly five centuries of Ottoman rule.
The country has a rich tradition of music, dance, and art. Albanian folk music and dance are popular throughout the Balkans and are known for their lively beats and intricate movements. Albanian folk art includes weaving, embroidery, and woodcarving.
Albania has a predominantly Muslim population, with a small Christian minority. However, religion is not a significant factor in daily life, and Albanians are generally quite secular. Cuisine in Albania is similar to that of other Mediterranean countries, with an emphasis on fresh produce, grilled meats, and seafood.
Overall, Albania is a unique and fascinating destination with a rich cultural heritage that is well worth exploring.

Albania: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transport that you can use to reach and visit Albania, depending on your preferences and budget: 1. Plane: The quickest way to reach Albania is by plane. The country has two international airports - Tirana International Airport (TIA) and Kukës Airport. Both are well connected with several European countries and airlines.
2. Bus: Buses are a cost-effective way to reach Albania from neighboring countries. You can take a bus from Greece, Montenegro, Kosovo, and North Macedonia to different cities in Albania.
3. Car: You can also reach Albania by car. The entry points are via Greece, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Kosovo.
4. Train: Although Albania has a limited train network, you can take a train from neighboring countries like North Macedonia and Greece to reach the capital city Tirana.
Once you are in Albania, you can use buses, taxis, and rental cars to travel around the country and visit popular tourist destinations. To hire a car to visit Albania, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Albania: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Albania with a full stomach:D
Albania has a diverse culinary scene influenced by Turkish, Balkan, and Mediterranean cuisines. Some of the main typical foods in Albania include: 1. Tavë Kosi - a dish made with lamb and rice cooked in yogurt.
2. Fërgesë - a mix of capsicum, tomato, and cottage cheese cooked in oven.
3. Byrek - a traditional Albanian pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat.
4. Qofte - delicious meatballs made of a blend of minced beef and lamb.
5. Pite - a savory pie filled with beef, onion, and spices.
6. Speca me gjize - roasted peppers filled with cottage cheese, served as an appetizer.
7. Baklava - a sweet pastry filled with chopped nuts and sweet syrup.
8. Shendetlie - a type of honeydew sap boiled and then stirred for hours until it becomes caramelized and firm.
Overall, Albanian cuisine has something for everyone and is definitely worth trying out on your next trip to Albania.

Albania: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Albania can be considered an affordable destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, meals and transportation are generally lower than in many European countries. However, the prices also depend on the areas and the level of comfort and luxury you are looking for. For instance, coastal towns such as Saranda or Durres may have higher prices during the high season. Overall, tourists often find Albania to be a budget-friendly destination.

Albania: where to find accodation

There are several options for finding accommodation in Albania. Some popular websites include Booking.com, Airbnb, and Hotels.com. Additionally, there are also local travel agencies and hotels that offer direct bookings. It's recommended to research options based on location, budget, and specific needs prior to making a reservation. It may also be helpful to read reviews from previous guests to ensure you choose a safe and comfortable accommodation.
You can check hotel prices in Albania here:
Booking.com

Albania: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to statistics, Albania received around 6.4 million tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of tourists has significantly decreased in 2020 and 2021.
In terms of crowded periods, the summer months of July and August tend to be the busiest, especially in coastal areas and popular tourist destinations. If you prefer to travel during the less crowded times, it's best to plan your trip during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. These seasons also offer pleasant weather and beautiful scenery, but with fewer crowds and lower prices.
Albania has been continuously improving its safety measures and standards in the recent years, making it a relatively safe country for tourists. However, like any other country, there are certain areas that visitors should avoid. These include the more remote and rural areas as well as some neighborhoods in larger cities. Tourists are also advised to be cautious of pickpocketing and other petty crimes in crowded areas. Overall, it is recommended that visitors exercise caution and common sense, be aware of their surroundings, and follow the advice of local authorities. As a helpful tip, travelers should always stay informed and up-to-date about the latest travel advisories and guidelines before planning their trips to Albania.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Albania on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Albania: events for tourists

Albania has many interesting events throughout the year that tourists can attend. Some of the most popular events include: 1. Tirana International Film Festival: A week-long festival showcasing the best of Albanian and international films.
2. Kala Festival: A music festival held on Albania's beautiful coastline featuring a mix of local and international artists.
3. National Folk Festival: A celebration of Albanian folk traditions held annually in Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Gjirokastra Cultural Festival: A two-week event featuring musical performances, art exhibitions, and theater shows celebrating the cultural heritage of the city.
5. Albanian Wine Festival: A three-day festival in Tirana, showcasing the best of Albanian wine and food.
These are just a few of the many events that take place in Albania. It's always a good idea to check local listings and event calendars for more up-to-date information.

Albania: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Albania, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a suggested two week itinerary for a typical tourist in Albania: Day 1-2: Arrival in Tirana and exploration of the city's sights such as Skanderbeg Square, Et'hem Bey Mosque, National Museum of History, and the Blloku area.
Day 3-4: Head to the coastal town of Durrës and visit its Roman amphitheatre and Archaeological Museum. You can also relax on the beach and enjoy the local seafood.
Day 5-6: Explore Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "city of a thousand windows" due to its Ottoman-era architecture. Don't miss the Berat Castle and the Onufri Museum.
Day 7-8: Head south to the quaint town of Gjirokastra and visit the Gjirokastra Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Bazaar.
Day 9-11: Drive to the Albanian Riviera and discover its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visit the towns of Saranda, Ksamil, and Himara, and take a boat tour to the nearby islands.
Day 12-13: Venture inland to the town of Korça, known for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art and the Old Bazaar.
Day 14: Return to Tirana for the departure flight.
This itinerary allows you to experience a mix of Albania's history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. Of course, you can adjust it depending on your interests and preferences.

Albania: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Albania described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Bajram Curri is a picturesque town located in northern Albania in the middle of the Albanian Alps. It's the capital of the Kukës District and has a population of around 5,000 people. The town is named... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bajram Curri
- Berat is a city in central Albania, located in the district of the same name. It is situated on the banks of the Osum River and is surrounded by hills and mountains. Berat is known as the "city of a t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Berat
- Borsh is a small town located in the southwestern part of Albania, known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is situated about 25 kilometers south of Himara and about 70 kilometers ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borsh
- Borshi is a beautiful coastal village located in southern Albania, about 20 km south of the city of Himara. It is known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters, and is a popular destination ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borshi
- Bulqize is a town located in northeastern Albania, known for its rich mineral resources, particularly its chromium reserves. It is situated in the foothills of the Albanian Alps and is surrounded by n... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bulqize
- Butrint is an ancient city located in the southern part of Albania, close to the border with Greece. It was founded by the Greeks in the 4th century BC and later became a Roman colony. Today, it is co... CONTINUE here for a trip to Butrint
- Corovode is a small town located in the district of Skrapar in Southern Albania, near the Osumi Canyon. It has a population of around 14,000 people and the main economic activities are agriculture and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Corovode
- Delvine is a municipality located in the southern part of Albania, in the region of Vlorë. It has a population of approximately 10,000 people and its administrative center is the town of Delvine. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Delvine
- Dhermi is a coastal village located in the southern part of Albania, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. It sits at the foot of the Ceraunian Mountains and has a mild Mediterranea... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dhermi
- Dhërmi is a popular tourist destination located on the Albanian Riviera, in the southern part of Albania. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking scenery. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dhërmi
- Divjake is a small town located in the western part of Albania, near the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, including the Divjake-Karavasta National Park, which is home ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Divjake
- Durres is a coastal city located in western Albania, on the Adriatic Sea. It is recognized for having beautiful sandy beaches, clear waters, and a rich cultural heritage. Durres is one of the oldest a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Durres
- Elbasan is a city located in central Albania, about 50 kilometers southeast of the capital city of Tirana. It has a population of approximately 120,000 people, and is one of the country's largest citi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Elbasan
- Gjashte is a village located in the Municipality of Tepelena, southern Albania. It is situated near the Vjosa River and in between the Gjere Mountains and the Nemercke Mountains. The village offers st... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gjashte
- Gjipe is a beautiful beach located on the Albanian Riviera, near Dhërmi. This secluded beach is surrounded by impressive cliffs, and is accessible only by foot or by boat. Gjipe is known for its cryst... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gjipe
- Gjirokaster is a charming city located in Southern Albania, known for its unique Ottoman-era architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city is nestled between the Gjerë mountains and the Drino vall... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gjirokaster
- Golem is a popular beach destination located on the Adriatic coast in Albania, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It is situated about 15 kilometers south-west of the capi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Golem
- Himara is a small town located on the southwestern coast of Albania, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. It has a population of around 6,000 people and is the center of the Albanian Rivi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Himara
- Himare is a small town located on the Albanian Riviera, in the southern part of Albania. The town is known for its crystal clear waters, sandy beaches, and stunning scenery. It is a popular tourist de... CONTINUE here for a trip to Himare
- Kavaje is a city in western Albania, located near the Adriatic Sea. It is the capital of the Kavaje District and is situated between the cities of Tirana and Durres. The city has a population of aroun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kavaje
- Koman is a small town located in the north of Albania, in the district of Shkoder. It is most famous for its breathtaking Koman Lake, which is formed by the damming of the Drin River. The lake is surr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koman
- Koplik is a small town in the northwestern part of Albania, located in the Shkodër County. It serves as a rural trade center for the surrounding area, and its economy is based primarily on agriculture... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koplik
- Korce is a city located in the southeastern part of Albania, near the border with Greece. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural scenery. The city has a population of around 6... CONTINUE here for a trip to Korce
- Kruja is a city in Albania, located about 20 miles (32 kilometers) north of the capital city, Tirana. It is known for its historical significance as the birthplace of Albania's national hero, Skanderb... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kruja
- Kruma is a small village situated in the northeastern part of Albania, in the region of Dibër. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kruma
- Ksamil is a small village located in the southern part of Albania, near the Greek border. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. The village... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ksamil
- Kukes is a northeastern city of Albania, located near the border with Kosovo. It is situated on the shore of Lake Kukes and surrounded by mountains, which makes it a popular destination for nature lov... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kukes
- Lezhe is a historic town located in the northwestern part of Albania. It is situated on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, between the cities of Shkoder and Durres. Lezhe has a rich history, dating back t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lezhe
- Lin is a small village located in the southwestern part of Albania, near the Albanian Riviera. It is part of the municipality of Himara and is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lin
- Mali i Robit is a popular coastal destination located in the western part of Albania, approximately 28 km south of the city of Durres. The beach stretches for about 4.5 km and is known for its crystal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mali i Robit
- Patok is a small town located in the central region of Albania, near the city of Elbasan. It has a population of around 3,000 people and is surrounded by beautiful hilly landscapes. The town is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Patok
- Permet is a small town located in southern Albania, near the Greek border. It is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and forests, and is known for its natural beauty and hot springs. The town... CONTINUE here for a trip to Permet
- Peshkopi is a town located in the northeastern part of Albania. It's situated in the Dibër County, near the border with North Macedonia. The town has a population of around 11,000 people and is known ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Peshkopi
- Pogradec is a town located in eastern Albania, along the shores of Lake Ohrid. It is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque location and rich cultural heritage, which includes ancient Ro... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pogradec
- Porto Palermo is a natural bay located on the southern coast of Albania, in the region of Himara. The bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, as well as for its historic castl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Porto Palermo
- Qeparo is a picturesque village located in southern Albania, situated on a hillside overlooking the Ionian Sea. It is part of the municipality of Himara and is known for its stunning natural scenery, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Qeparo
- Rreshen is a small town located in the north-central part of Albania. It is the capital of the Mirdita District and has a population of around 9,000 people. The town is surrounded by scenic mountains ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rreshen
- Rrogozhina is a town located in central Albania, about 35 km southwest of the capital city of Tirana. It has a population of around 20,000 inhabitants and is the administrative center of the Rrogozhin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rrogozhina
- Saranda is a charming coastal city located in the southeast of Albania, on the shores of the Ionian Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and stun... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saranda
- Sarande is a coastal city located in southern Albania, situated on the Ionian Sea. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and rich history. The city has a po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sarande
- Shengjin is a coastal town located in the northwestern part of Albania. It is situated on the shores of the Adriatic Sea and is known for its long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Shengjin is a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shengjin
- Shkoder is a city in northwestern Albania, situated near the Montenegrin border. It is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the country, with archaeological evidence suggesting it has been in... CONTINUE here for a trip to Shkoder
- Theth is a small remote village located in the Albanian Alps, known for its stunning mountainous landscapes, traditional architecture, and cultural heritage. It is mainly accessible by foot, and it of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Theth
- Tirana is the capital of Albania and the largest city in the country, located in the central part of Albania. The city has a population of around 800,000 people and is known for its colorful buildings... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tirana
- Valbona Valley is a beautiful natural area located in northern Albania, near the border with Kosovo. It is part of the Albanian Alps and features stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Valbona Valley
- Vlora is a city located in southwestern Albania, facing the Adriatic Sea. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters. The city has a rich history, having pla... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vlora
- Zvernec is a small village located in southwestern Albania, near the city of Vlora. It is situated on a peninsula that is surrounded by the Narta Lagoon and the Ionian Sea. Zvernec is best known for i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zvernec


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