For travelers looking to visit a country full of vibrant history with a beautiful, scenic backdrop, you’ll find no place better to visit than the country of Albania. The country lies on Europe’s coastline where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet, just north of Greece. You’ll find no shortage of historical archaeological sites and castles spread throughout the country to visit–in fact, most of the best cities to visit have at least one castle in their township. Visit the National History Museum in the capital city of Tirana, where you can learn about the country’s fall from a communist state and be sure to travel through one of the beautiful beach cities of Sarande or Himare, where the waters are beyond mesmerizing. Be sure to read on to find out more about the best places to visit in Albania.
1. Gjirokaster
The town of Gjirokaster has a wonderfully classic feel to it, leaving visitors with so much to see and explore. Stroll through the hillside streets of the town, where you can enjoy the prominent architecture of the buildings with their slate roofs and limestone-paved streets. Stop by Ethnographic Museum or Gjirokaster Castle, two great places that are must-stops while in Gjirokaster.
Tip from Content Creator
If I had to pick my favourite from the ton of cute cities in Albania, I’d have to say it was Gjirokaster, in the south of the country.
This UNESCO site is also known as the City of Stone. The cobblestone streets lined by traditional shops offer a whimsical experience. Even the drive to Gjirokaster from Ksamil was beautiful. On the way, you can see the mountains.
The grey and white shades mixed with the reds from the traditional Albanian tapestries were nothing but perfection. I was very keen on getting a rug myself, but since I always travel with a backpack, it was an impossible plan!
Book Tours : From Tirana: Full-Day Tour to Gjirokastra
2. Sarande
If you’re looking for a beach getaway in Albania, Sarande is where you want to be. The town sits on a horseshoe bay along the Ionian Sea and has beautiful sandy beaches with deeply turquoise waters that you’ll be hard-pressed to want to leave. Sarande isn’t all about the beach though; in town, you’ll find Lekuresi Castle and what remains of a 5th-century synagogue, including its famous floor mosaics. The war-damaged remains of a monastery can also be explored while in Sarande for interested visitors.
3. Himare
Himare is another beautiful beachside town where you can lounge in the sun and take in the scenery around you; in fact, there are several idyllic beaches to check out during your trip, including Gjipe Beach, Jala Beach, and Livadi Beach. The ruins of Himara Castle, which sit atop the hills above town, are also a great place to stroll through during your visit. Another fun venture available to you is taking a boat trip, where you’ll get the opportunity to try your hand at fishing or snorkeling in the offshore waters.
4. Durres
A great amount of history resides in Durres, making it a fascinating place within Albania that you’ll want to visit. The best-known attraction is likely the Roman Amphitheater that dates back many centuries to 200 AD. Another place in town you’ll want to check out is the Byzantine Wall that is considered to be a great engineering feat for the time in which it was built. Finally, you’ll also want to stop by the Archaeological Museum where you can learn even more about the history of Durres.
Book Tours : Durres Day Tour with Local Guide
Albania Tour Guide
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Explore the hidden gems of the Balkans with your personal guide and driver! I'm a licensed tour guide offering bespoke, private tours across Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia, and Montenegro. Whether you're captivated by ancient history, enchanted by unspoiled landscapes, or eager to experience the vibrant local cultures, I'll craft your perfect journey. Discover the region's best-kept secrets at your... Read more
5. Vlore
Vlore has a little bit of everything for those visiting its streets, from history buffs to beach bums. The town marks the spot where independence from the Ottoman Empire was called for, making the Independence Monument an interesting place to check out. Muradie Mosque and Kanine Castle are a few other places where you can enjoy the town’s lengthy history. While in Vlore, you’ll certainly want to hit the beach as well, and Radhime Beach and Vega Beach are two great choices for spending some time in the water or lounging on the shoreline.
6. Berat
Berat is home to many historical wonders, all of which you’ll love spending time exploring when you visit Albania. The city boasts two World Heritage Sites in the old town neighborhoods of Gorica and Mangalem that you should take time to stroll through before checking out the Caste of Berat, which happens to be the largest castle in the entire country. No visit to Berat would be complete without a trip to Medieval Center, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore King Mosque, which stands as one of the oldest mosques in Albania; Halveit Tekke monument is also an excellent stopping point during your trip.
Tip from Content Creator
Berat is one of the most well-known cities in Albania. It's also known as the City of Windows due to the very particular design of the houses.
The first time I went there, I could barely be outside. It was 45º C (113ºF)! I want to visit again, maybe during autumn or spring, because the city has this very traditional vibe to it, which I'd love to explore!
It has also played a sad part in Albania’s history, as it was a place of exile for everyone considered a “public enemy” of the authoritarian government. I would advise you to visit Bunk’Art in Tirana, which is a bunker turned museum, where they go into the history of the country and Berat’s role as an “Internment Camp”.
Book Tours : Premium Walking Tour of Berat with Expert Guides
7. Shkodër
Well-known for its beautiful scenery, Shkodër is one of the larger cities in Albania and also filled with a rich history. Ascend to the top of the hill overlooking the city and you’ll find Castle of Rozafa, which is ripe for exploration. In town, you’ll find varying houses of worship, from Leaden Mosque to the local Catholic church, allowing you to see firsthand the differing cultures that exist within the city as well as the fantastic architecture these sites have to offer. If you’re able, be sure to check out the local bazaar where you can continue your time spent among and interacting with the locals.
8. Kruje
Kruje sits in the shadow of Mount Kruje and along the banks of the Ishem River, giving visitors a bevy of beautiful landscapes to enjoy during their stay. The beautiful Castle of Kruje dates back nearly 19 centuries and was ground zero for the rebellion against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. There are several museums you’ll want to visit while in Kruje, including National Museum Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu and Ethnographic Museum of Kruja.
9. Ksamil
Ksamil is a lovely beach town that features white sandy beaches alongside the bluest of seas. Make it your mission to visit as many of the local beaches as possible, with top choices including Lori Beach and Pulëbardha Beach. Take a boat out to Ali Pasha Castle and be sure to check out the beauty and history of Butrint National Park, which features Butrint Ancient Theater.
Tip from Content Creator
If you prefer a sandy beach over Albania's typical pebble beaches, then head to the resort town of Ksamil. While Ksamil is home to some of Albania’s most famous beaches (they really are beautiful), it may not be the best place to be as a backpacker…
In the peak summer months, every inch of sand is taken up by sun beds of private beach clubs - and you’ll be looking at anywhere between 20–50 EUR (21.64–54.10 USD) to rent a couple for the day. So honestly, it’s more suited to boujee, wealthy locals or if you’re on a more spenny holiday.
That being said, I would still recommend visiting as it’s a top destination, but a more budget-friendly option is to stay in Sarandë and catch the regular public bus along the coast for a day trip! Or, visit out of peak season. In May and October, the weather is still mostly great and some beach clubs close, allowing some sections of the beach for those of us who just want to lay a towel down and go for a dip.
Tip from Content Creator
Patricia & Sergio
There is no doubt that Ksamil boasts natural beauty. However, we had our doubts about those many sun umbrellas spoiling the beaches! Even though Ksamil is pretty, its beaches are packed. We suggest you also check the beaches between Ksamil and Sarande, such as Pulëbardha Beach, if you're looking for a more relaxed experience.
10. Tirane
Tirane is a great place in Albania to visit where you can learn how quickly life changed for residents in 1991 when their nation’s communist government failed. Some of the only remnants of this period include a number of statues scattered around town that you should certainly check out during your visit. You can also marvel at some of the grand architecture throughout the city and stop by Et'hem Bey Mosque, which features Turkish stylings from 1793. The National History Museum should be another stop you make, as it can give you a great idea of the history of the region.
Book Tours : Highlights of Tirana 3-Hour Guided Walking Tour
11. Permet
Contributed by Tour Guide, Samuel Albania
If you are looking for fun day tours from Sarandë, then Permet is the best option. It is a small town located in south Albania and the expression there goes that it has everything besides the sea. The nature there is breathtaking, and it also boasts wonderful cultural sites. During your stay, you can visit the old villages of Bual and Frasher and the thermal waters of Benje, try horse trekking, and raft in the Vjosa River. Tekke of Ali Postivan and the national park of Fir of Hotova are other must-visit attractions.
Check out the best of Albania
From historical sites to sandy shores, Albania has something fun for all of its visitors. If you haven’t been before, now’s the time to start planning the trip of a lifetime!
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