Albania is not the country most travelers know. Yet it has a lot to offer those who love history, architecture and nature. From its capital Tirana, you can travel through a territory mainly made up of mountains and forests, then stop off at charming little historic towns. Their monuments never cease to amaze, and make you want to learn more about this hidden pearl of Europe. Its 300 km of coastline along the Adriatic Sea also make it a prime destination for sunbathing during the summer season. With its large lakes, sunny coastline, splendid nature and charming towns, Albania is an undiscovered treasure nestled in the heart of the Balkans. Here are the 15 must-sees when you decide to visit Albania!
1. A visit to Albania's capital: Tirana
Tirana is a cosmopolitan city that's great to stroll around. Discover its main monuments, such as the Et'hem Bey mosque and the Orthodox church. Then head for the Blok district, the trendy part of a city that's constantly opening up to the outside world. This is where you'll find young people frequenting bars, restaurants and stores. It's also a great place for street art lovers.
Read the article to find out more: What to do and see in Tirana? The 13 must-sees.
Don't miss this guided tour of downtown Tirana.
2. Get away to Berat
Berat is one of the country's oldest municipalities, located in the south. It lies on either side of the Osum River, on a hillside, and is characterized by its many traditional Ottoman houses with a large number of windows. This has earned it the nickname"city of a thousand windows". Be sure to explore the Berat citadel, as well as the historic districts of Mangalem and Gorican.
Activities to book : this guided tour of Berat and Lake Belshi, departing from Tirana.
3. What to do in Albania Visit Butrint
Still in the southern part ofAlbania is the archaeological site of Butrint, founded by the Greeks. It was later inhabited by a multitude of other civilizations, before being abandoned in the Middle Ages. You'll be amazed by the beauty of the Roman theater and the many other vestiges of Byzantine, Venetian and Greek civilizations lost in the middle of nature. This incredible site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Related article butrint is one of the most beautiful ruins in the world!
4. Explore the Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera stretches for a hundred kilometers between the towns of Vlorë and Saranda. In spring and summer, this is the place to take the car and drive along the coast, watching the mountains and steep cliffs plunge into a bluish Adriatic sea. You can swim in beautiful, crystal-clear coves and on white-sand beaches such as Gjipe Beach, a veritable paradise on earth, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For hiking, there's an ideal spot: the forests of Llogara National Park.
The article to read if you want to get to Albania without flying!
5. Take a walk in Gjirokastër (or Gjirokastra)
Like Berat, Gjirokastër is an exceptional commune with a definite character, and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a lively, craggy town where you can enjoy strolling through the cobbled streets and alleys of medieval charm. Continue your visit to Gjirokastër Castle, home to various collections. It is quite simply the second largest in the Balkans. Gjirokastër is also home to the house where dictator Enver Hoxha was born. Now an ethnographic museum, it is a delight for history buffs.
Read more to discover other UNESCO World Heritage sites in Europe.
6. Shop at the Korça bazaar
Here's an unusual experience to enjoy in Albania: strolling through the lively Korça bazaar. This is the most Francophile of Albanian towns, as it was under French administration during the First World War. Here you'll discover beautiful places of worship, such as the Mirahori Mosque and the Cathedral of the Resurrection of Christ. A not-to-be-missed moment is when you take a stroll through the narrow streets of the famous bazaar. Here and there you'll find stalls selling absolutely everything, in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
7. What to do in Albania? An expedition to Moscopole
Moscopole (or Voskopoja) is a remote Albanian town, a kind of lost paradise in the heart of the mountains. Located 18 kilometers from the town of Korça, you have to climb winding roads to reach it, with occasional dirt roads. But the journey is well worth the detour, with its cobbled streets, sculpted fountains and authentic old houses. The other attraction is the sheer number of religious buildings, including numerous churches and a monastery with incredible frescoes. This little expedition is the perfect opportunity to photograph the Shën Premte Bridge and the Kovaçi Bridge, two constructions that are now listed monuments.
Read more 8 tours to discover the rural splendors of the Western Balkans.
8. Lake Ohrid
Lake Ohrid is 30 km long and 15 km wide. It is one of the oldest lakes in the world and lies on the Albanian-Macedonian border. Its crystal-clear waters are ideal for scuba divers, and it's also home to a number of endemic species. On the Albanian side, the town of Pogradec lies on its shores, a perfect spot to sit on a restaurant terrace and enjoy a dish of freshly caught fish. Take your time to admire the charming, colorful little boats and the lovely, well-maintained beaches.
9. Hiking in Dajti National Park
Located just 25 km from the center of Tirana, the national park is a must-see for nature lovers and breathtaking panoramas. Take the cable car up to 1,200 m above sea level. You can then hike through the national park, with numerous trails leading into the heart of the forest. For the more courageous - and experience is highly recommended - don't hesitate to climb to the top of Mount Dajti. Once there, you'll enjoy views of the Albanian capital, Dajti Park and its relief, and Lake Bovilla. When the weather's clear, you'll have a superb view of the sea in the distance.
Activities to book you can also hike to Lake Bovilla, the canyon and the Gamti mountain on this day trip from Tirana.
10. Admire the ancient site of Apollonia d'Illyrie
The site of Apollonia d'Illyrie is an ancient Greek city near the village of Pojani, founded by Corinthians in 588 BC. For lovers of history and ancient architecture, it's a real treasure trove! Named after the god Apollo, the city's ruins are still superb, offering a glimpse of their former splendor. These include a temple whose façade is still standing, an obelisk and an odeon. In addition to the splendor of the Greco-Latin ruins in Albania's largest archaeological park, the site's exceptional location in the middle of the hills offers magnificent views.
11. Durrës, its festivals and cultural life
Fans of all kinds of cultural events and festivals, welcome to Durrës! Most of the time, these major events take place in the town's amphitheater, making the shows even more memorable. Durrës is one of the best places in the country to attend unique and festive performances, such as the International Festival of Modern and Contemporary Dance. Don't hesitate to consult the city's calendar of events before planning your vacation. You could well leave with stars in your eyes!
To book : this guided day trip from Tirana to discover Durrës and Kruja.
12. Admire the superb Osum Canyon!
The emerald river is matched only by the superb view of the heights and walls surrounding the Osum canyon. During your visit to Berat, take some time to descend into this natural setting that invites you to escape. Walking, swimming, canyoning and rafting are just some of the activities you can enjoy to discover this elusive wilderness. The Bogove waterfall shares the territory with natural pools, which welcome visitors to their refreshing waters.
Activities to book discover the natural beauty of Osum Canyon and Bogove Falls on this exclusive guided tour offered by our partner.
13. Kruja, the epitome of Albanian culture
From Tirana, history buffs drive another 20 kilometers to Kruja and its many treasures of the past. Its most emblematic monument is undoubtedly Kruja Castle. Inside, you'll find the Skanderberg Museum. Here you can learn all about the war that, at one point in history, was waged in this part of the country. Then continue your historical journey to the tomb of Sari Saltik, a Turkish dervish considered a saint by the Albanians.
To bookon this guided tour, you'll visit the historic castle of Kruja, one of Albania's most important sites, as well as the country's largest bazaar and the sacred site of Sari Saltik.
14. Dhërmi, between sea and mountains
The village of Dhërmi lies just a few kilometers from the Llogara pass. If you're a nature lover, this is the place for you! Sea and mountains share this unique natural territory. Lovers of fine sandy beaches should head for the beaches of Dhërmi and Dhrale. Prefer the charm of pebble beaches? Head for the beaches of Ohana, Palasa and Jale, to name but a few. During the day, we invite you to discover Grama Bay and its blue caves. Finally, stroll through the narrow streets of the old village of Dhërmi, nestled in the heights of the town, on the cliffside. You'll be greeted by an air of happiness, peace and the end of the world!
15. Shkodra, on the borders of Montenegro
Putting your bags down in Shkodra (or Shkodër) may be a good idea if you want to visit both Albania and Montenegro during your stay. A number of interesting sights await you, including Lake Skadar, the Old Mes Bridge and the Rozafa citadel. As well as being one of Albania's largest cities, Shkodër boasts a dreamlike landscape, bordering the Adriatic Sea.
The must-read article to discover Montenegro's must-sees.
When is the best time to visit Albania?
The best time to visit Albania is from May to September. Temperatures are pleasant and there's plenty of sunshine. In fact, Tirana is one of Europe's sunniest cities. However, it's best to avoid August if you can. As everywhere, it's the busiest month in terms of tourism. Visits would therefore be less pleasant, and temperatures are generally quite hot during this month. Spring and early autumn seem to be good compromises, to enjoy the sunshine without getting too hot or suffering the inconveniences of mass tourism.
Good to know : Leave with peace of mind and benefit from a 5% discount on your contract by book your your travel insurance!
What to do in Albania with your family
During your visit to Tirana, take the opportunity to take your child to Dajti Adventure Park. It's a welcome break from your busy vacation schedule, which should be adapted, at least in part, to your children's needs. In Kashar, you can also spend a day with your family at the Aquapark Blue Magic Water, for a pleasant, relaxing experience. In Shkodër, the Venetian mask factory is sure to surprise both children and parents!
Of course, the superb beaches, lakes and canyons also offer great opportunities for swimming. Kids love it, and it's a great way to see the Albanian landscape. Some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe can be found there: the Ksamil beaches.
What to do in Albania in summer?
In summer, Albania offers you all its splendour. Between sea and mountains, between city and culture, dive into the heart of the country's most beautiful places. This tourist season, with its mild temperatures, means that all points of interest are open, offering superb days of discovery. Among the must-see places to visit in summer, we can recommend the following:
- the Llogara pass, offering superb views of the sea and surrounding countryside;
- the famous Gjipe canyon and its superb hidden beach;
- Dhërmi, the pearl of Albania.
You can complete your visit in Himarë. Although the coast is hardly worth a visit, having been so industrialized and adapted to tourism, it can be interesting to get off the beaten track. Here, you'll find a wild coastline, sublime nature and an old town with cobbled streets that's 100% exotic.
What to do in Albania in 5 days?
Albania isn't as far from France as you might think. The country is less than 3 hours' flight from Paris, offering the opportunity for an extended weekend or a short week's vacation without wasting any time. Start your journey in Shkodër. Here you can see Lake Skadar, the theater, and visit the Rozafa citadel and Clock Tower. The second day will of course be dedicated to Tirana and its many wonders, both on site and in the surrounding area. If you have time, don't hesitate to visit nearby Kruja. Your third stop will be Durrës and its bustling life. Situated on the coast, the town offers excellent bathing opportunities, especially in summer. Some of the most beautiful beaches on or near Durrës include :
- The General's Beach;
- Durrës Beach 2;
- Currilave Beach;
- White Beach.
The fourth day is devoted to the most beautiful spot on the island: the Gjipe Canyon and its beaches, via Vlora. Finally, walk or drive to Himarë, some 15 kilometers away, with a stopover at Dajti National Park if time permits. It's a superb hike for the motivated, but you'll need to arrange your own transport to get back to Gjipe, as it's quite long.
To sum up, Albania is a welcoming land offering an ideal location for a vacation in the sun. Between city, mountains and sea, you've covered the most beautiful places to visit in Albania! The country is superb, as is nearby Montenegro. If you can, spend at least 15 days in Albania, as there are so many marvellous and exotic sites to discover.
Find out more about the hottest things to do in Albania here:
