Exploring the Hidden Gems of Albania: 15 Must-Visit Destinations

Katsuto Jyumonji

12 months ago

houses near body of water during daytime

Albania is an up-and-coming tourist destination in Europe. With beautiful beaches, historic cities, incredible natural sights, and rich culture, Albania has so much to offer visitors. Here are the 15 best places you must visit when traveling to Albania.

1. Berat

Berat is known as the town of a thousand windows due to the many Ottoman-style windows dotting its white hillside houses. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a beautifully preserved castle, Onufri National Museum, historic churches, and lovely cobblestone streets to wander.

2. Butrint National Park

This sprawling national park contains the ruins of the ancient city of Butrint, theaters, temples, a baptistery, and more set in a scenic landscape full of trees, lakes, and Mediterranean vegetation. Don’t miss this look into Albania’s history and culture.

3. Lëkurësi Castle

Perched dramatically on a mountainside overlooking Sarandë bay, the 15th century Lëkurësi Castle provides spectacular views over the Ionian coastline. The scenic hike up to explore it is a highlight for many visitors.

4. Theth National Park

Known for its rugged natural beauty and traditional way of life, Theth National Park offers lovely hikes past waterfalls, mountain peaks, valleys, and quaint stone villages where a unique isolation has preserved historic traditions.

5. Krujë

This historic Ottoman town is home to Skanderbeg Museum in Krujë Castle, ethnographic museums showcasing Albanian heritage and culture, and panoramic views over the countryside from its mountaintop perch. It brings Albania’s national hero and history to life.

6. Gjirokastër

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this beautifully preserved Ottoman town is set on a mountainside with views over the Drinos valley. Explore its castle, mosques, characteristic houses, and the childhood home of former communist leader Enver Hoxha for a look into the past.

7. Blue Eye Spring

This vibrant blue pool surrounded by lush forest is fed by an underwater spring. Swim in its refreshing opaque blue waters or admire it from walking paths along its perimeter. Located in Muzinë e Vlorës near Sarandë, it’s a one-of-a-kind natural site.

8. Llogara Pass

Travel the Llogara Pass for an unforgettable drive overlooking the turquoise Ionian Sea, forested peaks, and terraced hillsides. Stop at scenic pull offs like Duk Gjonit or hike through the nature park’s array of flowers and wildlife at over 1,000 meters above sea level.

9. Apollonia

One of the largest ancient Greek cities in the region, Apollonia flourished for over a thousand years before its abandonment in the 3rd century AD. Explore its impressive ruins, monuments, and museum exhibits for insights into this influential ancient civilization.

10. Rozafa Castle

With beginnings from Illyrian and Roman times, this historic castle near Shkodër encapsulates the strategic importance and long history of the site beginning from antiquity through the Venetian and Ottoman occupations. Take in splendid views over Lake Shkodra too.

11. Buthrotum Archaeological Site

These remains of an ancient Greek and later Roman city include temples, a theatre, agora, Roman baths, basilica, and mosaics. Located directly on the sea across from Corfu, Greece, Buthrotum offers a well-preserved look into the past in a beautiful seaside setting.

12. Petrelë Castle

Rising dramatically on a rocky hill near Tirana, Petrelë Castle dates back to antiquity. Walk within its medieval stone walls and towers for gorgeous views over the Erzen Valley. A small museum exhibits artifacts found on site providing context into its history as well.

13. Mount Dajt National Park

Only 25km from Tirana, beautiful Mount Dajt National Park has activities year-round from hiking, mountain biking, and picnicking during warmer months to skiing its slopes during winter. Breathtaking vistas over Tirana valley, lush forest, and fresh mountain air await.

14. Sarandë

This lively coastal town has pristine beaches, seafront promenades lined with restaurants, vibrant nightlife, ferry access to Corfu, Greece, and close proximity to ruins like Butrint. Spend some time relaxing at the beach, admiring sunsets over the Ionian Sea, and enjoying tasty fresh seafood.

15. Shkodra

Set on Lake Shkodra with views of the lake and surrounding mountains, Shkodra has a beautiful pedestrian city center perfect for strolling. Marvel at its castle, historical Rozafa neighborhood, museums, cathedral, mosque, and historic stone bridge for a taste of Albanian heritage.

Conclusion

With ancient historic sites, castles, stunning natural scenery ideal for hiking and skiing, a beautiful Adriatic coastline, and culturally rich cities, Albania offers an array of places and sights that should top any traveler’s list.