25 Best Places To Visit In Albania
Top 25 Must-Visit Destinations in Albania for 2024.
Albania , this warm and hospitable country which in recent years has opened its doors to tourists from all over the world and amazed them with its beauty and magic. It doesn’t matter if you are an adventurer, nature lover, historian, explorer or just a visitor who wants to explore. Albania has a place for everyone, and if you are considering visiting Albania, we will present you with 25 best places to visit in Albania, as well as information about the activities, distance from cities, and what these places offer. Prepare to be amazed.
1)- THETH
For all those who adore nature, here they will truly find their paradise. Theth is a small village positioned in the Albanian Alps, and it is surrounded by every component that nature can offer: from waterfalls to high mountains, rivers, amazing hills, wide fields, and thousands of trees, which together provide this place with clean, healing air. You can enjoy visiting the Lock Tower as well as Grunas Waterfall, and exploring the Blue Eye of Theth and do a lot of hiking alone or guided by people who have stepped in these areas before and can guide you. A popular one is Zbulo Discover Albania (https://www.zbulo.org).
Theth has a unique energy that not only gives you a calm, relaxing vibe but also makes you see the world from a different point of view. Furthermore, the food is traditional, prepared in local guesthouses using only fresh, local products, which adds to the authentic experience. Located approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) from Tirana, if you plan to visit, be sure to bring some thick clothes, tyre chains for the winter season, and cash, as there are no card payment options available.
Top 3 Activities:
Hiking through the Valbona-Theth trail.
Exploring the Blue Eye of Theth.
Visiting the Grunas Waterfall and the Lock Tower
Top 3 Things Known For:
Stunning landscapes and mountainous terrain.
Traditional stone houses and guesthouses.
Rich cultural heritage and local folklore.
2)- GJIPE
Gjipe is the king of the Albanian Riviera, only 220 kilometres (137 miles) from Tirana. This beautiful place is like a rainbow after the rain. After you have to walk through the canyons, a rocky terrain that you have to describe for about 40 minutes on foot, you will find yourself in front of a beautiful crystal-clear beach with a beauty that you have rarely seen before.
This beach is a true pearl, and its water is considered one of the clearest waters in all of Albania. Here, a good alternative to spending the summer nights are the camping umbrellas, and besides the days that are fantastic here, the nights are even more impressive, in the company of thousands of stars and a magical and quiet landscape that, apart from the eyes, will calm your heart. On your way here, don’t forget to take food with you and cash, as you won’t find many shopping options there and even more ATMs.
Top 3 Activities:
Camping under the stars
Swimming in the crystal-clear waters
Hiking through the canyon to the beach
Top 3 Things Known For:
Secluded beaches and virgin nature
Gjipe Canyon and hiking trails
Crystal-clear waters and a tranquil environment
3)- BERAT
Berat, also known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” is 120 kilometres (75 miles) from Tirana. This UNESCO World Heritage Site not only boasts Ottoman-style houses and a large castle at the highest point of the city, which offers a majestic view, but also features hospitable people, traditional food, long pedestrian streets, and authentic views of the city structure.
Here you can take a walk around the city, drink a glass of wine by the river, visit the beautiful castle, and take a trip to the nearby villages where organic food is consumed with a taste that leaves an impression.
Top 3 Activities:
Exploring Berat Castle
Walking through the old town with its Ottoman-style houses
Visiting the Ethnographic Museum
Top 3 Things Known For:
“City of a Thousand Windows”
UNESCO’s World Heritage Status
Rich historical and cultural significance
4)- THE BLUE EYE
If you are resting in the beautiful coastal city of Saranda, then don’t miss the opportunity to make a stop at the blue eye because it is only just 22 kilometres (14 miles) away. A beautiful and rare paradise with water as clear as glass but really cold. It is a perfect stop to relax and refresh. The Blue Eye, or Syri i Kaltër, is one of the 25 best places to visit in Albania, located approximately 210 kilometers (130 miles) from Tirana. Additionally, this natural spring resembles a human eye, which is why it is called that.
Top 3 Activities:
Swimming in the cold, deep blue waters
Picnicking in the surrounding natural area
Hiking through the nearby trails
Top 3 Things Known For:
Natural spring with vibrant blue water
Unique underwater cave system
Stunning natural beauty and tranquil surroundings
5)- CANYONS OF OSUM
Located 140 kilometres (87 miles) from Tirana, the Osum Canyons are a paradise full of adventure seekers that invites you to be part of them. In the spring, when the river flows increase, it becomes the perfect place for rafting enthusiasts. This is the main activity you can do here, although you can also enjoy climbing canyons, hiking, and exploring untouched nature. Obviously, this place is known for cooking fresh organic meat from animals raised in that area.
Top 3 Activities:
Rafting through the canyons
Hiking along the canyon edges
Exploring the surrounding nature and wildlife
Top 3 Things Known For:
Breathtaking gorges and cliffs
Thrilling rafting experiences
Rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes
6)- SARANDA
It is known by all visitors as a place with a lively nightlife where you can have endless fun, and why not forget for a little bit every problem that connects you with the outside world? Besides this, there are endless things you can do here. In the summer season, every activity here blossoms, and Saranda becomes the perfect place for new experiences and memories that will be remembered for a long time.
You can take an interesting adventure trip and try a trip with boat tours that leave from the boulevard and go to the beaches of Kakome and Krorez. If you want to spend a quality afternoon, we suggest visiting Lekursi Castle and enjoying an amazing view when the sun melts in the sea and offers you breathtaking sunsets. Saranda is also so close to the famous Greek island of Corfu, so you can also consider visiting it. And don’t forget to mention the distance; it is about 280 kilometres (174 miles) from Tirana, so it will take approximately 3.5 hours by car, but it is totally worth it.
Top 3 Activities:
Relaxing on the beautiful beaches
Exploring the vibrant promenade and nightlife
Taking a boat tour to nearby islands and beaches
Top 3 Things Known For:
Lively summer atmosphere
Stunning beaches and clear waters
Close proximity to the ancient city of Butrint
7)- GJIROKASTRA
One of 25 best places to visit in Albania is also Gjirokastra, located 230 kilometres (143 miles) from Tirana, is a UNESCO World Heritage City known for its Ottoman-era architecture. It is a very old city that stretches back at least 2,500 years, and it is located in southern Albania.
The city is surrounded by 600 or so stunning Ottoman-era manor houses, some of which are open to visitors. You should visit the cobbled streets, historical houses, artistic shops, cafes, and the majestic castle. Moreover, known as the city of stone, it was the birthplace of the former communist dictator, Enver Hoxha.
Top 3 Activities:
Visiting Gjirokastra Castle
Walking through the cobbled streets of the old town
Exploring the Skenduli House
Top 3 Things Known For:
UNESCO’s World Heritage Status
Ottoman-era architecture and historical houses
Rich cultural heritage and artistic shops
8)- PERMET
Let’s start the description of this place with the wonderful Vjosa River, located about 32 km (20 miles) from Greece, where the river springs. Furthermore, it is the pride of Përmet and was recently designated as a wild river national park. You can engage in many adventure activities in the region, such as white-water rafting, camping, hiking, and mountain biking.
Additionally, once an Ottoman-era commercial center, Përmet is now “one of the greenest and cleanest parts of the country.” Located 29 km (18 miles) away are the Bënjë thermal baths, situated next to an Ottoman-era bridge on the Lengarica River (a tributary of the Vjosa). If you plan to visit, it is approximately 240 kilometers (149 miles) from Tirana. In the summer, you can pick up supplies from small vendors here, but in the off-season, consider bringing your own food and drinks.
Top 3 Activities:
Rafting in the Vjosa River
Hiking in the surrounding mountains
Relaxing in the thermal baths
Top 3 Things Known For:
Adventure activities and outdoor sports
Thermal springs and natural beauty
Traditional local cuisine and hospitality
9)- SHKODRA
Shkodra, a very quiet and special city about 95 kilometres (59 miles) from Tirana, is known as the “city of bicycles”. When you arrive, you’ll notice most of the population peddling around the city by bike, since for them this has remained a tradition as a quick and pleasant way to go around the city in a short time without getting too tired.
Make sure you visit Rozafa Castle and ask one of the guides about the legend of Rozafa, as it is a really interesting legend that you should know if you visit Shkodra. Also, when you reach the top, you’ll experience a magnificent 360-degree view of the city.
If you want to experience a relaxing trip, we recommend visiting Shkodra Lake or exploring the snow-covered Razma near Shkodra in winter for a magical experience.
Top 3 Activities:
Exploring Rozafa Castle
Enjoying a boat ride on Shkodra Lake
Cycling through the city
Top 3 Things Known For:
Rozafa Castle and historical significance
Shkodra Lake and natural beauty
A cultural hub with a vibrant arts scene
10)- MOUNT DAJTI
Just 25 kilometres (16 miles) from Tirana, Mount Dajti offers a quick escape from the capital, especially on hot summer days when you are looking for some coolness and relaxation just a few minutes away from the city. Take the Dajti Express cable car or drive to enjoy activities like horseback riding, cycling, hiking, picnicking, and other activities that you will really enjoy.
Top 3 Activities:
Taking the Dajti Express cable car
Hiking and picnicking in Dajti National Park
Horseback riding through the trails
Top 3 Things Known For:
Proximity to Tirana and easy accessibility
Stunning panoramic views
Outdoor recreational activities
11)- RANA E HEDHUN
This will be the rarest beach you’ve ever seen, as its name itself is characteristic of the way the sand is positioned and looks like a big hill of sand very close to the sea.
Rana e Hedhun, located near Shengjin and about 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Tirana, is known for its unique sand dunes that descend into the sea. Moreover, it’s a great spot for picnics, social gatherings, and enjoying the views from the top of the dunes. Additionally, you can visit this place in any season of the year and experience the magic of the tranquility here, which helps you understand why we have included it in the 25 best places to visit in Albania.
Top 3 Activities:
Climbing the unique sand dunes
Enjoying a beach picnic
Taking in the breathtaking views
Top 3 Things Known For:
Unique sand dunes descending into the sea
Tranquil and scenic environment
Ideal spot for picnics and social gatherings
12)- KORCE
One of 25 best places to visit in Albania is Korca. The most beautiful place you can visit during the winter season is this city, which is filled with snow and gives a special shine and beauty to the whole city. When you visit Korce, don’t forget to visit Pazari i Vjeter, which is the old bazaar of the city in 13th-century style in the form of old cobbled streets and Ottoman-style architecture.
Also visit the Kooperativa, a communist-themed cafe that gives you a glimpse of Albania’s communist history from 1944 until 1991. Korçë city is 170 kilometres (106 miles) from Tirana. Furthermore, Korca offers you a romantic atmosphere, and it is perfect for date nights, nightouts with a group of friends, or just for passing a great weekend.
Top 3 Activities:
Strolling along the main promenade
Visiting the old bazaar
Enjoying traditional food and music
Top 3 Things Known For:
Charming winter destination
Rich cultural and historical heritage
Traditional cuisine and a vibrant music scene
13)- TIRANA
There was no way to miss the capital of Albania in the list of “25 best places to visit in Albania” because if you visit Albania, there is no other way but to pass by the beautiful capital, Tirana. A place full of life and vitality with a variety of activities and ways of entertainment, this place offers a lot of Tirana offers a lively nightlife, particularly in the Bllok area, which has many bars and restaurants. If you’re into history, there are countless places to visit in Tirana. Pay a visit to the National Historical Museum to learn more about Albania, or head to Bunk’Art for some more in-depth information on Albania’s dark and complicated past. If you want to find a lates museum, that is, activities. https://www.tirana.al/ offers you every piece of information you will need. The city’s numerous activities ensure there’s something for everyone.
Top 3 Activities:
Experiencing the nightlife in the Bllok area
Visiting the National Historical Museum
Exploring Bunk’Art
3 Things Known For:
A capital city with a lively atmosphere
Cultural and historical landmarks
Diverse activities and a vibrant daily life
14)- KSAMIL
One of the most beautiful beaches that dominates the Albanian Riviera is undoubtedly the wonderful beach of Ksamil. A magical place with white sand and clear amber water. This place is known for its beautiful islands, for its delicious fresh food from the sea, and especially for its lively nightlife. It is the perfect place to spend the hot summer days, and if you want to have the entire beach to yourself, we recommend visiting it in early June or mid-September. Ksamil is about 280 kilometres (174 miles) from Tirana. If you want to add some adrenaline to your vacation, try motorboats, boat rides, and other activities that the locals offer you.
Top 3 Activities:
Swimming in the clear waters
Relaxing on the white sandy beaches
Exploring the small islands nearby
Top 3 Things Known For:
Stunning bays and beaches
Crystal-clear waters
Fresh seafood and local restaurants
15)- BUTRINT
Butrint, located 280 kilometers (174 miles) from Tirana, is a place that has aroused the curiosity of thousands of tourists who are passionate about history and antiquity. Moreover, it is a site with ancient architecture that has been preserved with great care over the years, thus opening its gates for every visitor who wants to see it up close.
Butrint is an ancient Greek city of stones and rocks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, you can explore ancient ruins amidst shady forests and a serene coastal lagoon. As such, it’s an ideal destination for history enthusiasts.
Top 3 Activities:
Exploring ancient ruins
Walking through shady forests and lagoons
Learning about the history at the Butrint Museum
Top 3 Things Known For:
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Well-preserved ancient ruins
Rich historical significance and natural beauty
16)- RIVER VJOSA
The Vjosa River, about 240 kilometres (149 miles) from Tirana, is 270 kilometres long and adorned with beautiful canyons, braided river sections, and islands. For every adventurer, this river offers rafting of the second class and some parts of it even of the 3rd class, especially in the spring when the river flows are the largest.
On the way, you will see the Benja Ancient Stone Bridge and Thermal Baths at the end of Langarica Canyon. The Langarica Canyon is surrounded by the forests and mountains of Dangelli and Shqeri and joins further the Vjosa River. If you want to try this sport and don’t know where, you can check out https://www.aquamarine.al. Inside the canyon, there are many caves and thermal springs formed by sulphur waters that stream from the caves.
Top 3 Activities:
Rafting adventures
Visiting the Benja stone bridge
Relaxing in the Langarica Canyon thermal springs
Top 3 Things Known For:
Wild and untamed river beauty
Thrilling rafting experiences
Historical stone bridges and thermal springs
17)- LAKE KOMAN FERRY
This fantastic place is located 180 kilometres (112 miles) from Tirana, in the north of Albania, and it has recently become a very beautiful tourist attraction for locals and foreigners. Moreover, the trip along the lake is made by boats led by the locals, which lasts an average of 3 hours. When you arrive there, you can enjoy a few hours of beach time in the clean and calm waters that Koman offers for you. For nature lovers, the green hills here will amaze you, so it’s a good idea to take your walking shoes and enjoy a few hours of walking in this wonderful nature. Also, the shops here are limited, and the ATMs are even more limited, so be prepared.
Top 3 Activities:
Taking a scenic ferry ride
Sunbathing on the boat
Exploring the surrounding nature on foot
Top 3 Things Known For:
Stunning natural landscapes
Crystal-clear lake waters
Serene and picturesque environment
18)- APOLLONIA
Apollonia, 120 kilometres (75 miles) from Tirana, is an ancient Illyrian city with well-preserved ruins. Explore the mosaics, theatres, and pillars, and enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the historic landscape.
This very little-known place by most foreign visitors is the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia, a 2,500-year-old complex of half-buried walls, mosaics, and pillars spread across olive tree-dotted hills. The theatre and the administrative centre still retain great grandeur, and the treasure-stuffed museum is well worth a visit. Since the locals do not show the same interest in seeing it and the tourists know very little about this place, it is known as a very quiet place where you can find yourself completely alone during your visit. Most come to hear the history of this place but end up on a picnic under the shade of perennial olive trees, and the only thing they hear is the chirping of birds. Consider visiting this place if you are a history buff as one of 25 best places to visit in Albania.
Top 3 Activities:
Exploring ancient ruins and mosaics
Visiting the Archaeological Museum
Enjoying a peaceful picnic in the historic landscape
Top 3 Things Known For:
Ancient Illyrian city ruins
Well-preserved historical artefacts
Serene and scenic surroundings
19)- POGRADEC
Pogradec is one of 25 best places to visit in Albania, located in the east of Albania, to be exact, 140 kilometres (87 miles) from Tirana. It is the perfect place if you want to spend your summer holidays, especially if you are with your family. Pogradec is known for the beautiful Lake Ohrid, the depest in the Balkans, ideal for quiet and relaxing vacations.
This place is ideal for those who want some slow vacations, starting the morning with a coffee in the quiet bars in the centre of the city, then with a boat or canoe trip, as it is only done best in the lake where there are no waves and the sea is as calm as a mirror or fish in the late afternoons, and ending dinner with a long walk along the lake.
Pogradec is known for its rich folklore, and the Puppet Theatre Festival is one of the most interesting events to take place in the country. You can also visit Lin, a quiet village positioned on Lake Ohrid, and, of course, Drilon, a special place that offers scenic walks, boat rides, and the opportunity to eat in a good restaurant that offers fresh fish and other traditional foods. One other good thing to do is walk to the archaeological site on the hilltop, where you’ll get to see the mosaics of a Paleo-Christian church built in the 6th century.
Top 3 Activities:
Visiting the village of Lin
Fishing on Lake Ohrid
Exploring the Paleo-Christian church’s mosaics
Top 3 Things Known For:
Lake Ohrid’s natural beauty
Quiet and picturesque village life
Historical and cultural significance
20)- HIMARA
If you want it all in one place, here you have Himara, a place located about 220 kilometres (137 miles) from Tirana and only a few hours from Saranda. It has a magnificent beach with many activities such as boating, sea sports, excellent seafood, nightlife, pedestrian walks, a festive atmosphere, many shops for shopping, life alive with music and nightclubs, fishing, and many other activities. If you want a place to pass all your vacation days without getting bored, we totally recommend Himara.
Top 3 Activities:
Relaxing on beautiful beaches
Walking along the charming promenade
Dining at excellent local restaurants
Top 3 Things Known For:
Quiet coastal town atmosphere
Stunning beaches and clear waters
Delicious local cuisine
21)- DURRES
Duresi is a beautiful place only 35 kilometres (22 miles) from Tirana. It is known especially for its nightlife. Let’s say that every activity you are looking for in the capital can be found here, but take advantage of the opportunity to avoid the large crowd of people and the noise.
Duresi is beautiful, worth visiting in any season, and always leaves an impression. We suggest you enjoy the maximum of everything it offers except the beach, and we advise you to choose a place very close called “Lalezi Bay,” and if you want to be amazed, you should definitely go to “Cape Rodoni.” Visit the bustling port, enjoy the vibrant nightlife, and explore historical sites like Durrës Castle.
Top 3 Activities:
Visiting Durrës Castle
Exploring the bustling port
Enjoying the vibrant nightlife
Top 3 Things Known For:
A blend of beach and city life
Historical significance of ancient sites
Lively atmosphere and vibrant port
22)- KRUJA
Kruja is a small town located 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Tirana, and it is well known for its beautiful castle and the historical museum of Skanderbeg. Here, you can visit the castle, spend some time in the museum, and why not enjoy traditional food in the restaurants around it? It is close to Tirana, so it can serve as a place to be considered if you have a free weekend and you don’t know where to spend a couple of hours, thats why we have listed it on “25 best places to visit in Albania”
Top 3 Activities:
Visiting the Skanderbeg Museum
Exploring the ancient castle
Shopping in the old bazaar
Top 3 Things Known For:
Rich historical heritage
Skanderbeg Museum and Castle
Traditional crafts and local markets
23)- LLOGARA PASS
If you visit Albania in the summer, obviously your destination can be the south because there are all the most amazing beaches, and to get there, for some years Llogaraja has been used as a port of passage, although this year a second optional route has been made that shortens the distance that leads you along all of Albania’s best beaches. However, there are still many tourists who want to describe this road as offering a spectacular view, very clean air, and peace.
Along the route, you can stop to eat lunch in the restaurants of the area or buy organic honey, tea, and other things that the locals produce, and of course, to stop at the highest point where you can see the palace and a wide part of the Albanian coast. Llogara Pass is 145 kilometres (90 miles) from Tirana, and it is totally worth visiting if you plan to visit the south.
Top 3 Activities:
Driving through the scenic route
Hiking in the surrounding forests
Enjoying panoramic views of the Joni Sea
Top 3 Things Known For:
Scenic and picturesque route
Lush pine forests and clean air
Stunning views and natural beauty
24)- THE ALBANIAN ALPS
Finally, we arrive at the Albanian Alps, these wonderful giant Alps that make you realise how small we are compared to this greatness. Wear climbing shoes and comfortable clothes, obviously thick because the Alps are cold, and prepare to be amazed. As you climb higher, you forget everything that connects you to the world of work, monotony, and everyday life, which brings you closer to nature and tranquility. Moreover, here, you can enjoy only organic local food prepared by the residents, who await you with warm hospitality and invite you to sleep in their guesthouses. The valleys of these soaring mountains are filled with meadows, pastures, and lakes in vivid greens, while beautiful, traditional stone villages dot the region. Most celebrated are the three-nation Peaks of the Balkans Trail, which traverses neighbouring countries Kosovo and Montenegro.
As part of 25 best places to visit in Albania we have mention the top 5 most amazing and frequently visited spots in the Albanian Alps:
- Valbona Valley
- Theth
- Rosi Peak
- Maja Jezercë
- Lepushe
Top 3 Activities:
Hiking through lush meadows and trails
Exploring traditional stone villages
Trekking to the snow-capped peaks
Top 3 Things Known For:
Rugged and untouched wilderness
Stunning alpine landscapes
Rich cultural heritage and traditions
25)- THE ALBANIAN RIVIERA
One of the most beautiful places in Albania is attracting more tourists every year to enjoy and visit this place. It is known for the rare beaches with clear water and the fantastic energy that these places have. Here you will find everything from good music to fabulous beaches, unique towns, historic sites, fishing, nightclubs, great seafood, shopping, and everything else you might have on your bucket list before you head off on your summer vacation. The list of fantastic beaches is headed by Himara, Saranda, Dhërmi, Jal, Palase, Pasqyrat Beach, and other places like Sazani Island.
As part of 25 best places to visit in Albania we have mention the top 5 most amazing and frequently visited spots in the Albanian Riviera:
1)-Ksamil
2)-Himarë
3)-Dhermi
4)-Jale Beach
5)-Gjipe Beach
6)-Porto Palermo
7)-Borsh Beach
8)-Llaman Beach
9)-Saranda
10)-Qeparo
Top 3 Activities:
Enjoying the lively nightlife
Relaxing on beautiful beaches
Exploring coastal towns like Himara, Saranda, and Dhërmi
Top 3 Things Known For:
Vibrant summer destination
Stunning coastlines and beaches
A blend of relaxation and adventure
Albania is undoubtedly a blessed country where you can find everything that nature offers, from seas to mountains, hills, rivers, healing thermal baths, lakes, and green fields. The most beautiful of all this is that you can access all of these in a very short time, just a few hours by car. Albania is also rated as one of the cheapest places to spend your holidays in the Balkans and Europe, so if you are thinking of a place to spend your holidays, Albania would be the ideal place, so come and enjoy.
Why rent a car in Albania?
With this list of the 25 best places to visit in Albania, you can create your own itinerary. Additionally, with a rental car, you’re not tied to the schedules and routes of public transport.
Moreover, spontaneous tours are easily accessible; buses will never take you to hidden and rare places. In contrast, your rental car allows you to embark on spontaneous tours and enjoy unplanned adventures.
Comfort: Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle with climate control and also a lot of space for your luggage and travel companions.
Economical option: If you’re travelling with family or friends, renting a car can be more economical than buying multiple public transport tickets.
Safety option: Travelling in your own vehicle can feel safer than using crowded public transport, particularly in a post-pandemic world.
Renting a car is definitely crucial if you want to have a comfortable, safe, and beautiful trip, so Unlock Your Albanian Adventure Today! Book Now for Exclusive Deals on Car Rentals!
