Albania is an underrated gem of Europe that’s becoming increasingly popular for tourists every year. As more and more people discover the unique blend of history, adventure and stunning landscapes that Albania has to offer, it’s no wonder tourism is booming!
Whether you’re planning a road trip through Albania or seeking ideas for your next beach holiday, I wrote this post about the best places to visit in Albania to inspire your trip to this captivating Balkan destination.
From popular beach towns on the Albanian Riviera to historic mountain villages, there’s something for every type of traveller waiting to be discovered. The best way to the see the highlights on this list in a short period of time is to follow my one week Albania road trip itinerary!
After several trips to Albania over the years, I was always amazed at the beauty of the landscapes, the kindness of the people and the surprisingly low prices (when compared to other popular European countries!) In my opinion, Albania deserves the attention it’s receiving as the new “hot spot” in Europe.
I’d say that tourism numbers will continue to climb higher and higher so there’s really no better time to visit Albania than right now. So without further ado, let’s dive in and uncover the most beautiful places to visit in Albania!
Sunset views in Saranda
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Explore Albania’s diverse landscapes from the popular beaches of Ksamil to the ancient stone city of Gjirokaster
- Escape the crowded tourist areas and discover hidden gems such as the mountain village of Kruje and the spectacular Osumi Canyon
- Immerse yourself in Albania’s rich history and cultural heritage by tasting traditional foods and connecting with local culture in the mountain village of Theth
- Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Albanian people everywhere you go. Albanians are known to be friendly and welcoming people.
- Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and exploring ancient ruins
23 Bucket List Places to Visit in Albania
Berat
Known as the City of a Thousand Windows, Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, rich history and cultural significance.
Take a wander through the cobblestone streets of the historic neighbourhoods of Mangalem and Gorica. Getting lost in the narrow alleys allows you to stumble on hidden gems like ancient churches and mosques.
These old quarters of Berat are connected by the Gorica Bridge, where you can stop and admire an amazing view of the iconic white houses built into the hillside, cascading down towards the river below.
A visit to the Berat Castle is where it really gets exciting. Perched high up on a hilltop, towering over the old town and Osum River below, the panoramic views from top will absolutely blow you away!
Within the castle’s walls you will find restaurants, shops, towers, and Byzantine churches. Don’t miss the Onufri Museum which is home to an impressive collection of religious art and icons dating back to the medieval period.
Panoramic view from Berat Castle
Gjirokastër
The stone city of Gjirokastër is an incredibly well preserved Ottoman-era town that dates to the 12th century AD. It’s one of those places that just blows your mind with its striking features like the imposing castle and historic Ottoman houses.
Nestled within the dramatic landscapes of the Drino Valley and surrounded by mountains, the UNESCO listed old town of Gjirokastër stands as a testament to centuries of history.
The streets of Gjirokastër showcase a rich tapestry of influences from its Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman past. Take a stroll through the lively bazaar soaking in the sights and browsing the colourful shops for souvenirs. This is a great opportunity to taste some classic Albanian cuisine at one of the many local restaurants.
Finish your visit by walking up to Gjirokastër Castle to marvel at the stunning panoramic views and learn about the city’s history at the museum. Gjirokastër is an essential stop on your Albania road trip itinerary and if you’re planning a beach holiday in the south, it’s an easy day trip from Saranda.
The Old Bazaar in Gjirokastër at sunset
Butrint National Park
Take a step back in time at the ancient city of Butrint which dates back to the 8th century BC. Located only 10 minutes south of Ksamil in a picturesque location, a visit to the ruins of Butrint will take you on an exciting journey through the ages of history.
Butrint is well-preserved UNESCO listed park featuring a range of ancient sites that date back to the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman civilizations. These impressive ruins have stood the test of time, some of the monuments can be traced back over 2,500 years!
Marvel at the unique blend of history and nature as you explore the trails leading from one archaeological wonder to the next. The park is in such a beautiful setting, surrounded by lush vegetation and the shimmering blue Butrint Lagoon.
The journey through Butrint will take you through remains of temples, theatres, Roman baths and fortifications. The visit ends at the Butrint Archaeological Museum where you’ll find a display of artefacts from the Greek and Roman periods. The museum’s collection includes sculptures, jewellery, coins and everyday objects offering a valuable insight into the ancient city’s rich history.
The amazing ruins of Butrint National Park
Theth National Park
Discover the remote beauty of Theth, a small village nestled in the Albanian Alps. With its charming stone houses and iconic church, Theth is a place where time seems to stand still amidst the majestic mountains of the far north.
A visit to Theth offers a glimpse into Albanian rural life and a chance to connect with locals at your guesthouse and dine at traditional restaurants.
For the outdoor lover, it is a paradise waiting to be explored. The mountains of Theth offer an abundance of hiking trails and natural wonders to discover. Take a hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, a natural spring with a waterfall and crystal-clear waters.
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Theth and highly recommend anyone visiting Albania to add this special place to your bucket list. The landscapes and people of Theth certainly left an impression as it quickly became one of my favourite places to visit in Albania.
Exploring the village of Theth in northern Albania
Ksamil
The coastal town of Ksamil has become known as the most popular place to visit on the Albanian Riviera thanks to its pristine beaches and picture-perfect islands. Ksamil has risen to fame on social media platforms resulting in a frenzy of beach-going tourists over the months of June – August.
While I agree that the beaches of Ksamil are comparable to those of the Maldives, it’s important to time your visit right to enjoy the best of this stunning beach town. Aim to visit Ksamil during May/early June or September/early October to avoid the overcrowded beaches and heightened peak season hotel prices.
Ksamil is the ultimate beach lover’s destination where you can bask in the sun on soft white sand, swim in the azure-coloured sea and taste fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants that overlook the Ionian Sea. The best part? This is all possible for a fraction of the cost of popular European countries like Greece or Italy!
One of Ksamil’s beautiful beaches
Saranda
Saranda is the largest town on the Albanian Rivera and a bustling hub for travellers to the south of Albania. Full of fascinating history and Mediterranean charm, Saranda captivates visitors with its sun-soaked beaches, lively promenade, and panoramic ocean views.
Saranda is the kind of place where you can get comfortable and stay a while in one of the many affordable apartments the town has to offer. It has become a hot spot for expats and digital nomads who reap the benefits of the mild climate and reasonable cost of living.
During my 3 month stay in Saranda I loved trying all the delicious restaurants, discovering sunset bars and exploring the amazing nearby beaches. Check out my blog post to see a round up of the top beaches near Saranda.
Saranda makes an excellent base for those looking to explore the riviera by day trip. Take a boat tour to the spectacular beaches of Kakome & Kroreza, enjoy a sunset from the hilltop Lëkurësi Castle and venture out to the natural wonder of Syri i Kalter (the Blue Eye). Read my guide on the best day trips from Saranda to plan your adventures.
Taking in a magical sunset at Lëkurësi Castle
Shkodër
Known as the cultural capital of Albania, Shkodër entices visitors with its charming blend of medieval architecture, lively streets, and picturesque landscapes. The city is located at the foothills of the Albanian Alps offering the perfect gateway to places like Theth or Lake Shkodra, the largest lake in the Balkans.
Make your way up to Rozafa Castle for an amazing panoramic view of the city and Lake Shkodra, this is particularly nice to do at sunset. Take an easy day trip to the Mesi Bridge, a traditional Ottoman bridge in a beautiful river valley that dates to 1770.
One of my favourite things to do in Shkodër was simply strolling the pedestrian-only streets, stopping at cafes, browsing the cute shops and snapping photos of the pretty historic buildings.
Visit Mesi Bridge on a day trip from Shkodër
Dhermi
Sandwiched between the mountains and the sea, the seaside village of Dhermi is a must-see on your Albania road trip itinerary. A visit to Dhermi is often the first stop for those who have completed the scenic drive over the Llogara Pass.
Dhermi may be small but it’s full of history and pretty scenery. With its cute white-washed buildings and blue domed church, the Santorini vibes are strong. The main draw to Dhermi is the idyllic beaches replete with clear turquoise water and backed by towering mountains.
Visit the hidden gems of Drymades Beach and Gjipe Beach and don’t miss a quick stop at the nearby Monastery of Saint Theodore. Stay awhile and soak up Dhermi’s serene beauty and laid-back charm, you’re bound to fall in love with the relaxed rhythm of coastal life.
Swim at Drymades Beach near the village of Dhermi
Vlorë
The historic port city of Vlorë is often referred to as the gateway to the Albanian Riviera. From here, you can begin the drive over the famous Llogara Pass and then visit towns such as Dhermi and Himare as well as the spectacular beaches the region is known for.
Vlorë had an important role in Albania’s independence, be sure to visit the Independence Monument and the Museum of Independence to learn more about the nation’s liberation.
Take an easy day trip to the ancient city of Orikum, located 20 minutes from Vlorë, which is home to ruins dating back to the Hellenistic period. Orikum Beach is a stunning place to spend a few hours soaking up the sun and swimming in the vibrant turquoise water.
Add the city of Vlorë to your Albania bucket list
Borsh Beach
Escape the crowds of Ksamil and Saranda and opt to stay at this peaceful town on the Albanian Riviera instead of the tourist hot spots. Borsh Beach is the longest beach in Albania which is known for its laid-back atmosphere and traditional Albanian hospitality.
Enjoy dining on fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants and lazy days spent lounging on the beautiful white shore. Head up to the ruins of Borsh Castle which was built in the cliffs behind the town sometime around the 4th century BC. Panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and coastline can be found from this prime vantage point.
The town of Borsh is famous for producing some of the finest olive oil in Albania. Take a tour of a local olive grove which has over 500 years of history to learn all about the harvest and production of Albanian olive oil.
I can highly recommend staying at Guest House Luiza, a beautiful property with friendly hosts and incredible beachfront location.
Borsh Beach, Albanian Riviera
Himare
Himare is another coastal gem on the Albanian Riviera which is easy to reach on a day trip from Saranda or as a stop on your Albania road trip. With plenty of hotels, restaurants, historic sites and stunning beaches, Himare makes a perfect beach getaway on its own.
Being a smaller town, Himare has a more relaxed vibe compared to Ksamil and Saranda making it a great option for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere. There are many attractions surrounding the town such as the Old Town of Qeparo, Porto Palermo Castle and the gorgeous Livadi Beach.
You can book a boat tour with a local operator that will take you to the secluded coves and hidden bays around the area. Himare Beach is also stunning so you don’t have to go far to relax in paradise.
The gorgeous Himare Beach
Llogara Pass
The Llogara Pass is a scenic mountain road that connects the city of Vlorë with the rest of the Albanian Riviera. Crossing over this pass will give you a breathtaking view over the turquoise coast below.
There is a viewpoint at the very highest point which sits at 1,027 meters above sea level, right before the road begins to descend. This is where you can park the car and get out to admire the dramatic ocean and mountain views.
This is honestly one of the most epic drives I’ve done and one of the highlights of my road trip through Albania. The winding road takes you from the Ceraunian mountain range straight down to the pristine beaches of Dhermi where you can hop in for a refreshing swim.
Most people visiting the Llogara Pass make it a quick stop while passing through on a road trip however you can also see it on day trip from Saranda or Vlorë.
Llogara Pass viewpoint
The Blue Eye of Albania
The Blue Eye is an enchanting natural wonder and one of the most popular places to visit in Albania. It’s located in the beautiful Albanian countryside near the village of Muzinë.
This unique phenomenon consists of a crystal-clear spring with water that bubbles up from a depth of more than 50 meters, creating a vivid blue hue reminiscent of an eye. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, the scenery at the Blue Eye is absolutely breathtaking.
The water at the Blue Eye is so clear that it might entice you to hop in for a swim. It is possible to swim here but the temperature is icy cold (10°C) so be prepared for a very refreshing swim!
Taking a day trip to the Blue Eye from Saranda is the best way to visit, allow for around 3 – 4 hours for the excursion. You can easily book a tour to the Blue Eye which offers a relaxing experience that includes stops at several other attractions near Saranda.
The mysterious Blue Eye is easily one of the most beautiful places in Albania
Tirana
I couldn’t write a list about the best places to visit in Albania without including the country’s capital! The vibrant capital city of Albania is full of colourful buildings, bustling markets, and rich history.
Explore the historic landmarks of Tirana including Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the iconic Et’hem Bey Mosque, showcasing the city’s cultural heritage.
Wander through the Blloku district, once a restricted area but now a trendy neighbourhood filled with popular cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, offering a glimpse into Tirana’s modern lifestyle.
Swing by the Castle of Tirana which includes the remnants of a 14th century fortress. Nowadays you’ll find restaurants, cafes and shops within the castle walls making it a fun place to have lunch or drinks.
Visit Tirana, the bustling capital city of Albania
Off the Beaten Path Places to Visit in Albania
Apollonia
Dive into centuries worth of history at one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites, the ancient city of Apollonia. Located around 30 minutes north of Vlorë, the ruins are home to over 2700 years worth of fascinating history! The site is set on a hilltop among the olive groves and surrounded by countryside views.
Apollonia was once thriving city in ancient Illyria which now attracts visitors to marvel at the impressive Greek and Roman buildings. Enjoy a journey through the ages and experience the timeless beauty of Apollonia as you wander past ancient temples, theatres, and the pillars of a 2nd century façade.
The visit ends at the Museum of Apollonia where you’ll get a close look at some of the archaeological findings that have been unearthed from the site. If you’re planning to rent a car and drive to the south from Tirana, Apollonia makes an easy and worthwhile stop on the way down.
The amazing ancient city of Apollonia
Përmet
Immerse yourself in the local culture and natural beauty of the town of Përmet in southern Albania, not far from Gjirokaster. Located in a beautiful spot in the heart of the Vjosë River Valley, this is a place to connect with nature and local traditions.
Visitors to Përmet can enjoy an authentic experience as you explore the town and stop for lunch at a local tavern, check out Bar Restaurant Trifilia for a nice traditional meal. A unique highlight of Përmet is the huge rock that you can climb up for spectacular city and river views.
Enjoy a dip in the Benje hot spring which are known for their healing properties and stunning scenery. There’s an Ottoman bridge near the springs that spans over the river below, creating a magical scene to enjoy as you bathe in the springs.
Përmet is often overlooked by visitors to Albania so if you’re a lover of hidden gems, add this lovely town to your Albania bucket list.
Permet Hot Springs
Tepelena
Not far from Përmet, the town of Tepelena offers more opportunities to connect with Albania’s fascinating culture and history. A great way to visit Tepelena is to combine it with a stop in Përmet on a day trip from Saranda.
Take a step back through history as you wander through the ancient walls of Tepelena Castle, echoing tales of the past. The castle was once the residence of Ali Pasha, a powerful Ottoman ruler known for his political influence.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Vjosë River, soaking in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Experience the warmth of traditional Albanian hospitality as you interact with friendly locals and savour authentic cuisine.
Discover centuries of history in Tepelena
Korçë
The pretty city of Korçë or Korca is located in the far southeast region of Albania, not far from the Greek border. Very few tourists make it out to this off-the-beaten-path city as it’s fairly out of the way compared to the more popular places in Albania.
For those who make the effort to visit Korçë, you’ll be rewarded with plenty of unique adventures and memorable cultural experiences. Some of the must-dos in Korçë include exploring the city’s lively Ottoman-style bazaar and sampling local delicacies at traditional taverns.
Make a point of visiting the Korca Brewery to taste the famous beer of Albania that you’ll find all over the country. Stop at the National Museum of Medieval Art to see a unique collection of artwork and religious artefacts dating to the Byzantine period.
The beautiful city of Korçë
Pogradec
The lakeside town of Pogradec lies on the shores of beautiful Lake Ohrid on the far east side of Albania. Lake Ohrid is Europe’s oldest and deepest lake sharing a border with North Macedonia.
Similar to Korçë, Pogradec receives minimal tourism but the town is a nice place to stroll through and it’s surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The history of Pogradec goes all the way back to the 5th century BC when Illyrian tribes inhabited the area.
Take a walk up to the 5th century castle ruins on a hill above town for a stunning panoramic view of the lake. Nearby attractions include Drilon National Park and the small village of Tushemisht which has many canals running through the streets.
Pogradec, Albania
Elbasan
Discover the historic city of Elbasan in central Albania, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, rich history and vibrant culture. Several times per year the streets of Elbasan come to life with festivals and celebrations that brighten up the city with music, dancing and traditional food.
Get lost in the old quarters of Elbasan. A place where narrow cobblestone streets lead to hidden gems such as historic houses and mosques, providing glimpses into the city’s history and daily life. Visit the Ethnographic Museum which is housed in a traditional Ottoman-era building, to learn about the city’s history, customs, and traditions.
The imposing Elbasan Castle is the centrepiece of the city with a colourful history that can be traced back to the 15th century. The castle is the remaining legacy of Ottoman sultan Mehmed II who built it to protect Elbasan from threats and invasions.
Elbasan Castle walls and clock tower
Krujë
Perched atop a rugged hill and surrounded by mountains, Krujë is a captivating little town steeped in history and culture. The iconic Krujë Castle proudly dominates the town as a symbol of resistance against Ottoman invasion. You can visit the castle to learn more about its history and take in the panoramic valley views.
Another highlight of Krujë is exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Bazaar, where vibrant markets stalls and traditional craft shops invite you to browse. This is a fantastic place to pick up a souvenir or two to remember your time in Albania.
Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, dedicated to Albania’s national hero, and learn about his valiant efforts to defend the country’s independence. With its breathtaking scenery, ancient monuments, and historical significance, Krujë is a must-visit destination for travellers exploring central Albania. It makes an easy day trip from Tirana.
The village of Krujë is an impressive place to visit in Albania
Valbona Valley National Park
Tucked away in the Albanian Alps, Valbona Valley National Park offers an exciting escape to the unspoiled wilderness of the north. Towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear rivers create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures and exploration.
Hikers can traverse scenic trails, leading to alpine meadows, hidden waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints. The emerald waters of the Valbona River provide opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and picnicking along its scenic banks.
Retreat to a cozy guesthouse or mountain lodge after a long day of adventures where you’ll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the locals. Valbona Valley is one of the best places to visit in Albania for adventurers and those looking to get off the beaten path.
The majestic Valbona Valley of far north Albania
Osumi Canyon
Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Osumi Canyon, often dubbed as the Grand Canyon of Albania, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. The Osumi Canyon is a natural wonder in southern Albania and a paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts.
Its imposing limestone cliffs, reaching heights of up to 100 meters, create a breathtaking landscape of rugged beauty. Visitors can embark on exhilarating hikes through the canyon, navigating its winding paths and hidden caves while marvelling at the pristine wilderness that surrounds them.
Be sure to explore the tranquil waters of the river, where kayaking and rafting offer a unique perspective of the canyon’s sheer walls and lush vegetation. A trip to Osumi Canyon promises a thrilling outdoor experience.
The incredible Osumi Canyon
Map of Albania’s Best Places
Click the image below to view a larger, interactive version of this map.
FAQs About Best Places to Visit in Albania
What are the must-visit destinations in Albania?
If you’re on a time limit and only have one week to spend, here are the most iconic places in Albania you definitely shouldn’t miss.
- Berat
- Gjirokastër
- Butrint National Park
- The Blue Eye
- Ksamil
- Saranda
How many days do I need to explore the most beautiful places in Albania?
To visit the best places in Albania on a road trip, I would allow a minimum of one week, follow my itinerary to plan your trip. However if you have more time, it would be easy to stretch it out over 10 – 14 days.
The Blue Eye is an iconic landmark of Albania
Is Albania safe for tourists?
Yes, Albania is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it’s essential to take usual precautions and stay informed about local conditions.
Albania has had a reputation for being a dangerous, crime riddled country thanks to movies like Taken. However this is far from the truth and serious crimes against tourists in Albania are very rare.
During my stay in Albania, I was blown away by the friendly and welcoming locals. Of course, petty crimes such as pick pocketing can happen anywhere so it’s important to be aware and cautious in busy areas.
A spectacular cliffside beach near Saranda
Is it safe to drive in Albania?
The internet is full of misconceptions about the dangers of driving in Albania. All it takes is a quick Google search to read all about the poorly maintained roads full of potholes and the crazy Albanian drivers that will inevitably cause you to get in an accident.
Having driven in Albania on several trips, I can assure you that these articles don’t paint an accurate picture. The roads were mostly fine to drive on, you can expect some potholes as you drive through rural areas but it wasn’t nearly as bad as what I expected.
They main thing to watch out for, especially on mountain passes, are the locals who don’t seem to mind overtaking people on blind corners. As long as you are a confident driver who takes things slowly and cautiously on the windy mountain roads, you shouldn’t run into any issues.
Just be aware of other drivers not adhering to the rules of the road, as you would be in any other country that you drive in. After driving in countries all over Europe, I don’t see Albanians to be any more dangerous than other nationalities.
Explore Albania on a road trip
Where can I rent a car in Albania?
If you’re planning to road trip through Albania, you can easily rent a car in any major city such as Tirana or Saranda. Renting a car is the best way to get around the country, giving you flexibility to explore the landmarks of Albania on your own schedule.
The best part about driving around Albania is the affordable cost of renting a car. At only 25 – 35 euros per day, this makes renting a car possible for every budget. Of course you also have the option to travel Albania by bus however in my experience, renting a car is definitely the way to go.
→See prices and availability for booking your rental car in Albania online←
Driving over the Llogara Pass on the Albanian Riviera
What is the best time of year to visit Albania’s top destinations?
The best time to visit Albania’s top destinations is during shoulder season aka the spring and autumn months, particularly from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is nice and the crowds are thinner compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.
If you’re planning a beach holiday in Albania, I would advise to avoid peak season (July and August) as this is when the south of Albania is at its peak capacity for tourism. Speaking from experience, the beaches in Ksamil are much more enjoyable in September as opposed to July. Not to mention the prices are also cheaper outside of peak season!
Visit Albania during shoulder season to avoid crowded beaches
Final Thoughts on Visiting these Famous Landmarks in Albania
I hope that this article has inspired you to get off the beaten path and discover the beauty and charm of this underrated Balkan gem. As you can see, Albania offers a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be explored, from ancient cities to pristine beaches, rugged mountains and bustling cities.
You could easily spend months exploring the country and still not see it all, there is truly no shortage of spectacular places to visit in Albania. If you’re looking for some useful guides to plan your trip, check out all of my Albania travel articles and itineraries below! Don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or reach out to me on Instagram if you have any questions🙂
Wishing you safe and happy travels in Albania!
Read More Albania Travel Guides
- The Best Restaurants in Saranda
- The Best Hotels in Saranda
- The Best Hotels in Ksamil for Every Budget
- The Best Beaches in Saranda
- Saranda vs Ksamil – Which town should you stay in?
- 12 Awesome Day Trips from Saranda + How to Get There
- Day Trip to the Blue Eye from Saranda – Ultimate Guide
- The Ultimate One Week Albania Road Trip Itinerary
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