Albania

Travel Info about Albania

Ksamil Beach, Ksamil

Fun Facts about Albania

• Albania is home to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Berat and Gjirokastër, known for their historical architecture.
• The country has a unique tradition called “Besa,” which represents a code of honor and hospitality.
• Albania features the breathtaking Albanian Riviera, known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. This area is commonly described as the Maldives of Europe.
• The ancient city of Butrint is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean and offers a beautiful look into Europes past.
• Albania has one of the highest numbers of bunkers per capita in the world, a remnant of its communist past.

Albanian Culture

• When you visit Albania, you will find it is very much a country in touch with its cultural heritage and traditions. It is rapidly becoming more popular with tourists and busy areas are starting to cater more towards tourism.
• Albanian culture values tradition, art, and family, with a strong emphasis on festivals and community gatherings.
• Albanian is not an easy language. However, you should try to learn some greetings. For example, it’s polite to say “Mirëdita” (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants, “Faleminderit” means thank you, and “Mirupafshim” means goodbye. Also, a polite greeting might include a handshake. Be aware, Albanian customs may lead people to stand closer than you are used to. Also, there is a huge focus on respect to family and elders, so be polite!
• When you visit, don’t miss the traditional Albanian cuisine. Firstly, you should try Byrek (a savoury pastry filled with cheese, meat, or spinach) and Tave Kosi (baked lamb with yogurt). For a traditional dessert, indulge in Baklava, as well as exploring the country’s delightful array of cheeses and wines.
• Albania is predominantly Muslim, with a significant Christian minority, so you’ll find beautiful mosques and churches throughout the country.

The Old Town of Gjirokaster

Budgeting in Albania

Travel and Transport

• To visit Albania is quite straightforward. Tirana International Airport offers frequent flights to and from major European cities. As Albania is recently becoming more popular, you may find that your local airport does not fly direct. Equally, flights will start to be more frequent and widespread as popularity grows. If you are visiting the south of Albania, another option is to fly to Corfu and get a short ferry over to Saranda. This is probably the better option rather than spending 5 hours on a bus from Tirana.
• Make sure you book the cheapest flights for your next trip by using my expert guide here and use the code BLOG to get 25% off the marked price.
• For travelling around the country, Albania’s bus system connects major cities and regions. Tirana’s bus systems are efficient for exploring the capital. Buses are used much more than trains. The train network is only around 450km of single track lines. Car rentals and ride-sharing services are also available.

Saranda Beach, Saranda

Seasons/ When to Visit

When you visit Albania, you will need to choose your travel dates wisely depending on the experience you desire. Major cities and beach destinations in Albania will be VERY busy in the summer months due to the good weather and growing popularity; however, the winter months bring the offer of attractive ski resorts in the mountains.

Spring in Albania (March to May)

• In Albania, spring is a season of renewal and beauty. The countryside comes to life with blooming wildflowers, green hills, and mild weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures like hiking in the Albanian Alps or exploring ancient ruins such as Butrint and Gjirokastër. The crowds are smaller, offering a peaceful atmosphere in popular destinations like Berat and Tirana. Temperatures are comfortable, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying Albania’s natural beauty.

Summer in Albania (June to August)

• Albania’s summer is hot and bustling, especially along its stunning Riviera. Coastal towns like Saranda and Ksamil come alive with beachgoers enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. This is the busiest season, with lively seaside resorts and a festive atmosphere. Inland cities like Tirana and Shkodra are also vibrant, though the heat can be intense. Summer is ideal for beach lovers and those seeking a lively cultural scene. From mid July to Mid August is the busiest time for tourism in Albania.

Autumn in Albania (September to November)

• Autumn in Albania brings cooler temperatures and a quieter, more relaxed vibe. The forests and countryside turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a fantastic time for nature lovers. Tourist crowds thin out, giving travellers a more peaceful experience in cities and historic sites. Albania’s wine regions, like Permet, are especially inviting, with harvest season in full swing.

Winter in Albania (December to February):

• Winter in Albania offers a completely different experience, especially in the mountains. Ski resorts like Dardha and Boga attract winter sports enthusiasts, while the cities, including Tirana, are quieter. Albania’s festive Christmas markets bring charm to the colder months, and the coastal areas offer a more tranquil atmosphere for off-season travellers. While snow blankets the mountains, the lower areas remain relatively mild, making it a diverse season to explore.

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Areas to Stay/Visit in Albania

When you visit Albania you will find a wealth of destinations to explore, depending on your desired experience and the time of year.

Tirana

• The capital is perfect for those seeking vibrant city life. Stay in Blloku, the stylish district, with lively cafes, bars, and restaurants, or near Skanderbeg Square to be close to cultural landmarks like the National History Museum and Et’hem Bey Mosque.

Berat

• Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Ottoman architecture. Stay in the Mangalem or Gorica quarters to experience traditional homes, cobblestone streets, and stunning views.

Gjirokastër

• This historical town, another UNESCO site, offers stone-built houses and fortress views. Stay in the Old Town to explore medieval alleys, visit the Gjirokastër Castle, and enjoy a serene atmosphere with boutique hotels housed in historic buildings.

Saranda

• For a beach vacation, Saranda is the gateway to the Albanian Riviera. Stay along the Ionian coast to enjoy crystal-clear waters, lively promenades, and day trips to Butrint, a UNESCO archaeological site.

Dhermi

• A quieter coastal destination, Dhermi offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. Stay in beachfront hotels or guesthouses perched on the hills with breathtaking sea views.

Theth

• In the Albanian Alps, Theth is perfect for nature lovers. Stay in traditional guesthouses and explore rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and waterfalls in Theth National Park.

Ksamil

• Located near Saranda, Ksamil boasts some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches and is a short boat ride from Ksamil Islands. Stay in beachfront accommodations for a peaceful, family-friendly retreat. Ksamil is probably the most instagrammed place in the country and is the heart of the Albanian Riviera, or the ‘Maldives of Europe’.

Shkodra

• Known for its cultural heritage, Shkodra is a gateway to the Albanian Alps. Stay near Rozafa Castle for stunning lake views or close to Lake Shkodra for outdoor activities like cycling and kayaking.

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Butrint UNESCO Heritage Site

Things to Do

Albania offers a diverse array of experiences, from pristine beaches to historical treasures and stunning natural landscapes.

• Start with the Albanian Riviera, a stretch of the Ionian coastline with crystal-clear waters, secluded coves, and lively beach towns like Saranda and Ksamil.
• Also, when you’re in this area, don’t forget the incredible Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër). Marvel at this natural spring with its mesmerizing blue waters, located near Saranda.
• For history lovers, the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases ruins from Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations.
• Don’t miss Gjirokastër and Berat, two enchanting cities known for their Ottoman-era architecture and UNESCO status. Berat’s Castle and Gjirokastër’s fortress offer incredible views and a step back in time.
• Albania’s capital, Tirana, is vibrant and modern, with a thriving arts scene, colorful buildings, and historical landmarks like Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum. Explore the nearby Bovilla Lake or take a cable car up Mount Dajti for panoramic views.
• For adventure, you can head to the Albanian Alps in the north, where the Valbona Valley offers spectacular hiking trails through rugged landscapes.
• In the south, Llogara Pass presents breathtaking views and leads into the stunning Riviera.
• Finally, visit Lake Ohrid, a tranquil spot on the eastern border, perfect for nature lovers, bird watchers, and those seeking peace. Albania’s rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty make it a captivating destination for any traveler.

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