Albania is one of the easiest countries in Europe to explore on your own, and one of the most rewarding.
Whether you’re into beaches, hiking, or old Ottoman towns, so much of it still feels raw and real.
I’ve crossed the country by bus, boat, and car, from sleepy fishing villages on the Riviera to high northern valleys where eagles circle above the road.
A few places blindsided me in the best way.
Here I’m sharing the ones that stuck, and why they’re worth your time.
You’ll find practical tips on where to go, how to get there, and what to expect when you arrive.
Table of Contents
Toggle- Tirana: Albania’s Lively Capital
- Must-See Sights in Tirana
- Best Areas to Explore
- Gjirokastër: The Stone City
- Gjirokastër Castle
- Old Bazaar
- Skenduli House
- The Albanian Riviera: Stunning Beaches and Villages
- Ksamil
- Himarë
- Dhërmi
- Gjipe Beach
- Shkodër: The Cultural Capital of Albania
- Rozafa Castle
- Lake Shkodër
- Saranda: The Gateway to the Riviera
- Lëkursi Castle
- Nightlife and Beach Scene
- The Llogara Pass: Scenic Drives in Albania
- The Journey
- Llogara National Park
- The Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter): A Natural Wonder
- The spring
- Visiting tips
- Butrint National Park
- Ancient Ruins of Butrint
- Nature Trails
- Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
- Berat Castle
- Gorica and Mangalem Quarters
- The Onufri Museum
- Apollonia: Ancient Ruins Near Fier
- Ruins of Apollonia
- Monastery of St. Mary
- Theth and the Valbona Valley National Parks
- Theth to Valbona Hike
- The Blue Eye of Theth
- Valbona River
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations and Hidden Gems
- Përmet
- Korçë
- Osumi Canyon
- Practical Tips for Visiting Albania
- Best Time to Visit
- Getting Around
- Cultural Etiquette
- FAQs
- What is the most beautiful place to visit in Albania?
- Is Albania a good place for a holiday?
- What’s the best natural attraction in Albania?
- Is Albania safe to visit?
- Final Thoughts
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Tirana: Albania’s Lively Capital
Tirana’s energy is infectious. It’s a city in motion, full of colour, new ideas, and plenty of history just under the surface.
Must-See Sights in Tirana
Start at Skanderbeg Square, the city’s heart. It’s perfect for people-watching and getting your bearings.
Explore Bunk’Art 1 and 2, museums set inside former communist bunkers. Bunk’Art 1 is the big one by the Dajti cable car and takes time. Bunk’Art 2 is next to the square and quicker.
Climb the Pyramid’s new steps for city views. It reopened in 2023 as TUMO Tirana with cafés and creative spaces inside.
For a breather, ride the cable car up to Mount Dajti National Park for big views and cooler air.
Best Areas to Explore
Spend some time in Blloku, once a restricted neighbourhood for Albania’s communist elite. Today it’s Tirana’s go-to spot for coffee, cocktails, and people-watching.
Every bar and café spills out onto the pavement, and the vibe shifts from lazy mornings to lively nights without missing a beat.
I’d also recommend wandering through the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri). It’s one of my favourite corners of the city – colourful, friendly, and packed with character.
You’ll find stalls selling everything from local honey and olive oil to homemade raki. Grab a coffee, chat to the vendors, and watch daily life unfold around you.
If you’ve got time, head down to the Lana River and check out the street art scene. Many of the old grey buildings are now covered in murals, a reminder of how quickly Tirana has reinvented itself.
Gjirokastër: The Stone City
Gjirokastër is one of those places that feels frozen in time. Its steep cobbled streets and grey stone houses give it a distinctive look that’s earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.
I loved wandering here – every corner seemed to reveal another balcony view or winding alleyway.
Gjirokastër Castle
Start at Gjirokastër Castle, perched high above the town. It’s one of the biggest fortresses in the Balkans and has incredible views over the Drino Valley.
Inside, you’ll find old cannons, a small museum, and even a Cold War tunnel carved deep into the rock. Take your time – the scale of the place is impressive.
Old Bazaar
Down below, the Old Bazaar is the town’s heart. Cobbled lanes are lined with shops selling woven rugs, silver jewellery, and carved wooden ornaments.
It’s one of the best spots in Albania to pick up genuine handmade crafts rather than mass-produced souvenirs.
Skenduli House
Don’t miss Skenduli House, a beautifully preserved Ottoman mansion. The family who owns it still live there and often show visitors around, explaining the history of each room.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into traditional Albanian life.
The Albanian Riviera: Stunning Beaches and Villages
The Albanian Riviera is one of my favourite stretches of coast in Europe. It’s wild, dramatic, and still feels refreshingly undeveloped in places.
You’ll find turquoise water, sleepy stone villages, and beaches that look like they belong in the tropics.
Ksamil
Ksamil might not be a secret anymore, but it’s still worth seeing. The water here is unreal – clear, shallow, and shifting shades of blue.
I spent hours swimming between the little islands just offshore. Go early in summer, before the beach clubs fill every inch of sand.
Himarë
Further north, Himarë has a slower rhythm. Days seem to drift by between swims, seafood lunches, and sunset walks along the promenade.
It’s a great base if you want a mix of comfort and a more local feel. You can hike up to the old castle for sweeping views of the coast.
Dhërmi
Dhërmi is livelier, especially in July and August. Beach bars pump out music and it turns into a bit of a party scene, though you can still find quiet coves nearby.
The water here is impossibly clear, perfect for snorkelling.
Gjipe Beach
If you want something more remote, Gjipe Beach is the one. It sits at the mouth of a canyon and you have to hike about 40 minutes down from the main road, or take a small boat from Himarë.
There’s no shade and no crowds, just sea, cliffs, and silence. Bring water and proper shoes.
Shkodër: The Cultural Capital of Albania
Shkodër is one of Albania’s oldest cities and easily one of the most interesting. It’s packed with history, creativity, and a real sense of identity.
I loved how lively it felt in the evenings, with locals cycling through the centre and cafés buzzing until late.
Rozafa Castle
Rozafa Castle dominates the city from a rocky hilltop. It’s steeped in legend.
Locals say the castle walls were once strengthened by a woman sacrificed within them. Grim story, but the views make the climb worthwhile.
From the top, you can see the Drin and Buna rivers winding towards Lake Shkodër and Montenegro in the distance.
Lake Shkodër
The lake itself is huge, shared between Albania and Montenegro. It’s peaceful, with birds gliding over the shallows and fishermen pottering about in wooden boats.
You can rent a kayak and paddle along the reeds, surrounded by complete quiet. It’s also a great spot for a swim in summer.
Shkodër is the main gateway to the Albanian Alps too. Most travellers heading for Theth or Valbonë stop here first to stock up on snacks and hiking supplies.
Saranda: The Gateway to the Riviera
Saranda is the Riviera’s main hub, a lively coastal city that hums through summer.
Ferries from Corfu pull in daily, and by mid-morning the waterfront cafés are full of people sipping macchiatos under the sun.
It’s busier than most of the coast but still has a relaxed holiday rhythm.
Lëkursi Castle
Climb up to Lëkursi Castle for one of the best views in southern Albania. The ruined fortress sits high above town, with the Ionian Sea stretching all the way to Corfu.
I went up for sunset and stayed for dinner. There’s a small restaurant on the terrace that serves grilled fish and local wine as the light fades over the water.
Nightlife and Beach Scene
Saranda’s nightlife kicks off as the sun goes down. Beach bars and open-air clubs line the seafront, playing everything from pop to Balkan beats.
It’s fun if you’re after a sociable scene, especially in July and August. Out of season, things quieten right down.
During the day, most people head to nearby beaches like Pulebardha or Mirror Beach. Both are easy day trips and far less crowded than the main town beach.
The Llogara Pass: Scenic Drives in Albania
The Llogara Pass is one of those drives you don’t forget. The road climbs steeply from the coast, twisting through pine forests before opening out to views that stop you mid-sentence.
One moment you’re at sea level, the next you’re looking down on the entire Riviera spread out below.
The Journey
It’s not a long drive, but it’s spectacular. Every few minutes, another bend reveals a new stretch of coastline or a plunging valley.
Pull over at the viewpoints – don’t stop on the corners – and take it slow.
The highest point is just over 1,000 metres above sea level, where the air feels cooler and cleaner after the heat of the coast.
Llogara National Park
At the top, the road passes through Llogara National Park. It’s a good place to stretch your legs or stop for lunch. There are small lodges and restaurants serving grilled lamb and mountain honey.
If you’ve got time, take one of the short forest trails and you’ll likely spot eagles riding the thermals above the cliffs.
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter): A Natural Wonder
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter) is one of Albania’s most famous natural sights, and it really is as vivid as in the photos.
Hidden in a pocket of forest between Saranda and Gjirokastër, the water glows an almost unreal shade of turquoise.
The spring
Cold water bubbles up from deep underground, forming a pool so clear you can see every ripple.
It’s mesmerising to watch sunlight flicker through it, shifting the colours from dark cobalt to electric blue.
The water stays around 10°C year-round, so dipping a hand in is usually enough. Swimming’s forbidden, to protect the spring, although some people do it anyway.
Visiting tips
Go early in the morning before the tour buses arrive. There’s a short, easy walk from the car park through shaded woodland and a small café nearby where you can grab a cold drink after.
If you’re driving between Gjirokastër and the coast, it makes a perfect stop to break up the journey.
Butrint National Park
Butrint is one of those places that quietly blows you away. Set on a lush peninsula near Saranda, this UNESCO World Heritage site combines ancient ruins with calm, glassy wetlands full of birdlife.
It’s the kind of spot where history and nature blend together so naturally you almost forget which one you came for.
Ancient Ruins of Butrint
The ruins span thousands of years, from Greek temples to Roman baths and a beautifully preserved basilica.
The old amphitheatre still stands almost intact, and if you visit early in the day you might have it all to yourself. There’s plenty of shade from the trees, so it’s an easy wander even in summer.
Nature Trails
Beyond the ruins, narrow paths wind through quiet forest and along the edge of the lagoon. You’ll see turtles, herons, and flashes of bright green lizards darting across the stones.
Bring water, insect repellent, and cash for the entrance fee. The small café near the gate does decent coffee and cold drinks – perfect for a quick stop before continuing along the Riviera.
Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat is one of the most beautiful towns in Albania. Wedged between the Tomorr Mountains and the Osum River, it’s famous for its white Ottoman houses stacked up the hillside like a giant staircase.
At sunset the whole place glows gold, and it’s easy to see why it’s known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”.
Berat Castle
The castle sits high above town and is still home to families who’ve lived there for generations. Walking through its cobbled lanes feels more like exploring a small village than a monument.
Stop for coffee inside the walls and watch smoke rise from the chimneys. It’s one of those rare places where history still feels alive.
Gorica and Mangalem Quarters
The Gorica and Mangalem quarters face each other across the river, joined by an old stone bridge.
It’s worth wandering both sides, especially in the evening when the lights come on and reflect off the water.
You’ll find small cafés tucked between the houses and kids playing football in the streets.
The Onufri Museum
Inside the castle, the Onufri Museum displays bright Byzantine icons painted by Albania’s most famous artist.
Even if you’re not into religious art, the colours and detail are incredible.
Apollonia: Ancient Ruins Near Fier
Apollonia doesn’t get as much attention as Butrint, but it’s every bit as impressive. Once a thriving Greek and later Roman city, it now sits quietly among rolling hills and olive groves near Fier.
The setting alone makes it worth the trip. Peaceful, green, and far from the main tourist trail.
Ruins of Apollonia
The site is surprisingly big, with the remains of temples, theatres, and columns scattered across the hillside.
You can still see fragments of mosaics and carved stones half-hidden in the grass.
Monastery of St. Mary
At the heart of the site stands the Monastery of St Mary, a beautifully preserved Byzantine church. Inside, faded frescoes still cling to the walls, and the quiet gives it a calm, reflective feel.
There’s also a small museum nearby with artefacts from the site, worth a quick look before you head back down.
Theth and the Valbona Valley National Parks
Theth and Valbona Valley sit deep in the Albanian Alps, part of the broader Accursed Mountains range.
It’s one of the most spectacular areas in the Balkans. Remote, dramatic, and completely different from the coast.
The air feels sharper up here, and the villages still move at their own quiet pace.
Theth to Valbona Hike
The Theth–Valbona trail is Albania’s most famous hike for good reason.
It’s 16–18 kilometres long with roughly a thousand metres of elevation gain, and the scenery never lets up. Jagged peaks, pine forests, and little farms tucked into green valleys.
You can hike it in either direction, but starting in Theth means a steady climb followed by a gentler descent into Valbona.
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and cash. There’s nowhere to stock up along the way.
The Blue Eye of Theth
A short walk from Theth village takes you to the Blue Eye of Theth, a turquoise pool fed by an icy mountain spring.
It’s smaller than the one near Saranda but just as pretty in my opinion. Especially early in the morning when the light hits it just right.
Valbona River
The Valbona River winds through the valley floor, its water clear enough to drink straight from the source.
It’s a peaceful spot to rest your legs after hiking or to just sit and take in the mountains around you.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations and Hidden Gems
If you’ve already seen the main highlights, there are plenty of quieter corners worth seeking out.
These are the kind of places where you’ll meet locals rather than tourists and get a real sense of rural Albania.
Përmet
Tucked into the hills of southern Albania, Përmet is all about slow living.
The Benjë thermal springs sit just outside town beside an old Ottoman stone bridge, and the water’s comfortably warm. Perfect at sunset or in cooler months.
Stay overnight and wake up to church bells echoing through the valley. Bring cash though – most places don’t accept cards.
Korçë
Korçë feels cultured and proud, with wide boulevards, old villas, and a lively café scene.
It’s known for its serenades – locals still sing in the streets after a few glasses of wine — and for its art and history museums.
I think Korçë is one of those places that feels quietly confident in its own traditions.
Osumi Canyon
If you’re craving adventure, head for Osumi Canyon near Berat. The cliffs here plunge into a winding turquoise river that’s perfect for rafting in spring when the snowmelt swells the flow.
In summer, the water drops and you can hike along parts of the canyon floor. Either way, it’s an incredible place to experience Albania’s wild side.
Practical Tips for Visiting Albania
A few simple things can make travelling in Albania much easier. It’s a friendly country and great for independent travel, but a bit of local know-how goes a long way.
Best Time to Visit
Albania’s seasons vary by region. The coast is best from May to October when the sea’s warm and the skies are clear.
Spring and autumn are perfect for exploring inland towns or hiking in the Alps, with cooler air and fewer people around.
In the high mountains, snow can linger into June, so plan accordingly if you’re trekking.
Getting Around
Public transport works fine between major towns, but routes and timetables can be unpredictable.
Shared minibuses, known as furgons, leave when full rather than on schedule.
For exploring remote spots or combining mountain and coastal areas, hiring a car is much easier.
Download offline maps and double-check routes. Google sometimes suggests tracks that aren’t suitable for normal cars.
Cultural Etiquette
Albanians are warm and welcoming, and a little effort with local customs goes a long way.
A simple “Mirëdita” (hello) or “Faleminderit” (thank you) always gets a smile.
Dress modestly at religious sites, carry small cash for cafés and markets, and tip around 5–10% in restaurants.
FAQs
What is the most beautiful place to visit in Albania?
It depends on what you’re after. For beaches, Ksamil and the Riviera win hands down. If you love mountains, Theth and Valbona Valley are unbeatable. For history and atmosphere, Gjirokastër and Berat both have incredible character and charm.
Is Albania a good place for a holiday?
Definitely. It’s affordable, easy to travel around, and still feels authentic compared to much of Europe. You can spend mornings hiking in the Alps and afternoons swimming in the Ionian Sea. Whether you’re into history, food, or nature, Albania delivers without the crowds.
What’s the best natural attraction in Albania?
The Blue Eye is probably the most famous, but I’d also add Osumi Canyon and Valbona Valley to that list. Each shows a different side of Albania’s landscape — from tropical-looking springs to wild mountain rivers.
Is Albania safe to visit?
Yes. I’ve always felt completely safe travelling here, even when driving solo through remote mountain roads. Albanians are incredibly friendly and quick to help if you need directions or advice. Just take the usual precautions you would anywhere else.
Final Thoughts
Albania’s one of those countries that keeps surprising you. One moment you’re swimming in water as clear as glass, the next you’re hiking through valleys that feel completely untouched.
It’s got history, adventure, and warmth in equal measure.
What I love most is how varied it is for such a small place. You can drive for a few hours and go from crumbling Ottoman towns to beaches that look like they belong in the tropics.
And because it’s still under the radar, you often get the best spots almost to yourself.
If you’re planning a trip, take your time. Don’t try to rush it.
The magic here isn’t just in the sights, but in the slow mornings, roadside coffees, and unexpected conversations along the way.
Check out my other Albania posts for ideas on routes, hikes, and lesser-known places to explore.