10 Amazing Places to Visit in Albania

Albania has quietly become one of Europe’s most exciting destinations. Arrive by ferry from Italy and you’ll discover a country of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, spectacular mountains, beautiful beaches and fascinating history, all linked by scenic roads that make it perfect for a tailor-made overland holiday.

Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities, relaxing on the Albanian Riviera or uncovering ancient archaeological sites, Albania offers an incredible variety of experiences in a relatively compact country. Here are ten of our favourite places to visit.

1. Berat

Known as the ‘City of a Thousand Windows‘, Berat is one of Albania’s most beautiful towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. White Ottoman houses climb the hillside beneath an impressive hilltop castle that has been continuously inhabited for centuries.

Why you’ll love it

• Berat Castle and ancient churches
• Characterful Ottoman architecture
• Excellent local wineries and traditional restaurants
• Walking through the historic Mangalem Quarter

How to include it on your holiday

Berat is an ideal stop between Durrës and the Vlorë on the Albanian Riviera, or can easily be visited as a day trip from Tirana, Durres or Sarandë. 

2. Gjirokastër

Another UNESCO-listed treasure, Gjirokastër is famous for its distinctive stone-roofed houses jostling along the hillside beneath one of the Balkans’ finest castles.

Why you’ll love it

• Gjirokastër Castle and its panoramic views
• Beautiful Ottoman-era architecture
• Fascinating museums and local history
• Atmospheric cobbled streets

How to include it on your holiday

Gjirokastër is within easy reach of the Albanian Riviera with a good choice of hotels or you can take a day trip from Sarandë.

3. Tirana

Albania’s colourful capital has reinvented itself into one of Europe’s most vibrant city breaks, with lively cafés, fascinating museums and a thriving food scene.

Why you’ll love it

• Skanderbeg Square
• The Bunk’Art museums
• Dajti Mountain cable car
• Stylish cafés, bars and restaurants

How to include it on your holiday

Tirana makes an excellent introduction to Albania and pairs well with Berat or Krujë before heading south.

4. The Albanian Riviera

Stretching along the Ionian coast, the Albanian Riviera offers crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountains and charming seaside towns such as Himarë and Dhërmi.

Why you’ll love it

• Beautiful beaches
• Relaxed coastal atmosphere
• Fresh seafood restaurants
• Stunning coastal scenery

How to include it on your holiday

Spend several nights on the Riviera to unwind before or after exploring Albania’s historic towns. You can also take a quick ferry across to Corfu from Sarandë.

5. Butrint National Park

One of the Balkans’ most important archaeological sites, Butrint brings together Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian history in a beautiful lakeside setting.

Why you’ll love it

• UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Remarkably preserved ancient ruins
• Roman theatre and temples
• Peaceful natural surroundings

How to include it on your holiday

Butrint is an easy day trip from Sarandë and is often combined with a visit to the nearby Blue Eye.

6. Lake Ohrid and Pogradec

On Albania’s eastern border is one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. Pogradec offers a peaceful lakeside atmosphere and wonderful views across Lake Ohrid.

Why you’ll love it

• Beautiful lakeside promenade
• Traditional Albanian restaurants
• Historic churches and monasteries nearby
• Easy access to North Macedonia

How to include it on your holiday

Pogradec is 2 hours’ drive from Tirana – so perfect for a day trip and around 3.5 hours by road from North Macedonian capital, Skopje. 

7. Shkodër

One of Albania’s oldest cities, Shkodër blends history, culture and a laid-back atmosphere, all watched over by the impressive Rozafa Castle.

Why you’ll love it

• Rozafa Castle
• Attractive pedestrian centre
• Cycling-friendly streets
• Views towards the Albanian Alps

How to include it on your holiday

Shkodër is the perfect first or last stop when travelling between Albania and Montenegro. You can also take private day trips into Montenegro from here – or include this destination as a day trip from Tirana.

8. Komani Lake and the Shala River

Hidden among the dramatic mountains of northern Albania, Komani Lake has become one of the country’s most spectacular natural attractions. A ferry journey across the emerald waters reveals steep cliffs and secluded valleys, while the crystal-clear Shala River has earned the nickname ‘Thailand of Albania’ for its astonishing turquoise water.

Why you’ll love it

• One of Europe’s most scenic ferry journeys
• The crystal-clear waters of the Shala River
• Dramatic mountain scenery
• A chance to experience Albania’s wild northern landscapes

How to include it on your holiday

Komani Lake and the Shala River make an unforgettable full-day excursion from Shkodër, offering a completely different side to Albania from the country’s historic towns and Mediterranean coastline.

9. Krujë

The mountain town of Krujë is closely linked with Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, and is one of the country’s best places to experience traditional Albanian culture.

Why you’ll love it

• Medieval castle
• Historic bazaar
• Skanderbeg Museum
• Mountain views

How to include it on your holiday

Krujë is an easy day trip from Tirana or can be included as a stop between Tirana and Shkodër.

10. Llogara Pass and Llogara National Park

Where mountains plunge dramatically into the Ionian Sea, Llogara National Park offers some of the finest scenery in Albania. The winding mountain pass reveals breathtaking coastal panoramas around every corner.

Why you’ll love it

• Spectacular mountain and sea views
• Scenic drives through the national park
• Walking trails and fresh mountain air
• One of Albania’s most memorable viewpoints

How to include it on your holiday

Llogara National Park is easily included when travelling along the Albanian Riviera, adding one of the country’s most spectacular scenic highlights to your journey.

Ready to discover Albania?

From UNESCO-listed towns and Roman ruins to turquoise springs and beautiful beaches, Albania is one of Europe’s most rewarding destinations to explore. Every Tailor Made Rail holiday is individually designed, so whether you’re arriving by ferry from Italy or combining Albania with neighbouring countries, we’ll help create an itinerary that’s perfect for you.