Albania has recently become increasingly popular among tourists, which is not surprising given its historical monuments and, of course, the wonderful beaches.
Located on the Balkan Peninsula. It is bordered by Montenegro to the north, Kosovo to the north-east, North Macedonia to the east, Greece to the south-east and south, the Ionian Sea to the south-west and the Adriatic Sea to the west. Along this, many Mediterranean beaches can be found, while the interior of the country is rich in natural beauty with mountainous terrain.
Table of Contents
Best places in Albania
Tirana
Albania’s capital hosts a mix of architectural styles reflecting its defining historical periods.
Most attractions are centered around Skanderbeg Square, easily explored on foot. Besides the Et’hem Bey Mosque, it’s worth visiting the nearby Clock Tower, the Kapllan Pasha Tomb, and the central Skanderbeg equestrian statue.
As one of the country’s cultural hubs, it houses numerous museums, most notably the National Historical Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, which showcase Albania’s history from the beginning.
Gjirokastra
Located in southern Albania, this city is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list, thanks to its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and historical significance.
Its most famous landmark is Gjirokastra Castle, which towers over the city, offering magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The castle houses an arms museum.
Its traditional, slate-roofed, stone-arched houses and narrow, cobblestone streets create a unique atmosphere. About two hundred houses and the 17th-century bazaar, rebuilt after the 1872 fire, are under protection.
Berat
One of Albania’s oldest settlements, previously inhabited by the Illyrians, was founded by the king of Macedonia in 314 BC as Antipatreia.
Its most famous part is the fortress district. The castle hill, steeply rising on the right bank of the Osum river, is surrounded by outer walls and fortifications from the rule of the Despot of Epirus, Michael I, in the 13th century, which remain in good condition. Once home to over thirty Eastern Orthodox churches, today ten remain in nearly original form.
On the hillside, in the Mangalem district by the Osum river, characteristic white residential houses can be seen, along with the Bachelor’s Mosque. On the other side of the Osum, the picturesque Gorica district features the Cathedral of Saint Spyridon.
Llogara Pass
The pass creates a connection between the Vlorë Bay area and the Albanian Riviera, at an elevation of 1027 meters above sea level.
Along the road, restaurants and panoramic terraces offer views towards the Albanian Riviera. On clear days, Corfu is also visible.
Apollonia
As an important city of ancient Illyria, it’s one of Albania’s most significant archaeological sites.
It was one of the most important cities in the southern part of ancient Illyria between the 7th century BC and the 6th century AD. At its height, the city, along with Epidamnos to the north, played a dominant role in the economic, social, and cultural life of the Illyrian territories for a millennium.
Today, it’s a ruin, including the medieval Monastery of Saint Mary and the Archaeological Museum of Apollonia, which houses a collection of statues, busts, stelae, and weapons unearthed during excavations.
Saranda
Located on the amphitheater-like bay between the Ionian Sea, Cape of Qefali, and the Ksamili Peninsula.
Albania has the highest number of sunny hours per year here, exceeding 2900 hours, making the city and its surroundings increasingly popular among tourists.
The Lëkurësi Castle is situated within the city limits. The hilltop castle ruins feature round towers, beautiful views, and a restaurant.
Regular ferry service connects it with Corfu, making it a popular destination for day-trippers from the Greek island.
Ksamil
Located south of Saranda, this village has undergone rapid development recently.
Its beaches are often called some of the most beautiful in Europe, with azure waters and sandy shores, offering several less crowded small beaches.
Unfortunately, mass tourism has also reached here, so it gets very crowded in the high season. Those who want to enjoy the place should travel here in the pre- or post-season for a truly great experience!
Butrint Archaeological Park
Situated 17 kilometers south of Saranda, it encompasses the ruins of the ancient city of Buthrotum, along with Venetian period buildings.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it stands out not only for its historical and cultural significance but also for its natural beauty.
Influenced by various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, notable remains include the amphitheater, Roman baths, medieval basilica, and the famous Lion Gate.
Blue Eye Spring
This popular tourist attraction’s clear, blue water emerges from a pool more than fifty meters deep.
The force of the water is such that in the center of the spring, it rises 10-15 cm. If a stone is thrown into the center, it does not sink immediately but drifts to the side before sinking.
The spring’s surroundings are a protected area, with oak and sycamore trees, among about twenty other springs.
Durrës
Located on the Adriatic Sea plain, opposite the Italian port cities of Brindisi and Bari.
The city’s several kilometers long sandy beach has been discovered by tourists, so there’s a lot of activity in Durrës during the summer. Its proximity to Tirana makes it a popular holiday destination for locals as well.
The biggest attraction is the 2nd-century Roman amphitheater, discovered entirely by accident in the 20th century. The amphitheater has been partially excavated, revealing an ornately mosaicked chapel underneath the spectator stands in its entirety.
Theth National Park
Spanning 2,630 hectares, this national park is located in the geographical region of the Shala Valley, between the eastern and western ridges of the Albanian Alps in the northwest.
Its natural treasures, including continuous hornbeam-oak forests and beech forests, caves, waterfalls, glacial lakes, and the Grunasi canyon, make it a favorite destination for mountain tourism and hiking in Albania.
The central area of Theth and its parts, Fushë-Theth and Gjeçaj, offer accommodations, restaurants, and excellent sports opportunities for visitors.
Shkodra
One of the oldest and most important cities in northern Albania, surrounded by Lake Skadar and several 1,500-meter-high mountains.
Its main feature is the Rozafa Castle, dating back to Illyrian times but in its current form is medieval. It has a long history, blending architectural features from various periods, and has been home to numerous conquerors over the centuries. Inspired by a legend that a woman, Rozafa, was walled alive into the castle’s walls to strengthen them.
Also worth visiting are the 18th-century bazaar and the Lead Mosque at the foot of the castle hill, as well as the country’s largest Catholic church, the Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, in the city center.
Dajti Mountain
Located east of Tirana, it is one of the country’s most popular natural attractions as part of the Dajti National Park, making the mountain and its surroundings a popular excursion spot.
Dajti Mountain is also known as „Tirana’s Balcony” because of the spectacular view of the city and surrounding area it offers. The easiest way to reach the mountain’s summit is via the Dajti Ekspres cable car, offering a unique experience even on the way up.
Another attraction is Lake Bovilla, a man-made reservoir initially intended to supply drinking water to the Tirana region but has become a beautiful natural attraction with its surrounding mountains and rich vegetation.
Kruja
Located 20 km from the capital, this small town stands out for its historical significance.
Kruja Castle is a national symbol of the Albanian people: the birthplace and military headquarters of the 15th-century hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, who repelled Ottoman forces for nearly thirty years.
Its historical landmarks include almost entirely walkable medieval castle walls, a 20th-century restored citadel, and a 19th-century bazaar with narrow streets.
Valbona Valley National Park
The 8,000-hectare national park is located in northern Albania, within the steep Valbona River valley, nestled between the eastern highlands of the Albanian Alps. Along with Theth National Park, it is a favorite destination for mountain tourism in Albania.
Its diverse natural environment, valley and hiking trails nestled between monumental mountains, crystal-clear water, and mountain air, along with the valley’s relative isolation from major roads, make it a popular destination.
The most visited spots include the Rragam pine forest, the Vranica beech forest, Lake Xhema, and the Valbona and Shoshan springs, as well as the Dragobia Cave.
