Must-See Tourist Sites In Albania

Published on October 1, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Albania, the Balkans’ hidden gem, is brimming with natural and cultural wonders just waiting to be discovered. From the pristine beaches of the Albanian Riviera to the majestic mountains of the Albanian Alps, and through UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic cities, this country offers surprising diversity for travelers seeking authenticity. Embark on a fascinating journey through Albania’s must-see sites, where tradition and modernity harmoniously coexist.

Albania’s Coastal Pearls: Between Turquoise Sea and Steep Mountains

The Albanian Riviera, stretching along the Ionian Sea, is a true paradise for beach lovers and those seeking breathtaking landscapes. Ksamil, often nicknamed the “Maldives of Europe,” will charm you with its crystal-clear waters and small islands accessible by swimming. Further north, Dhërmi offers a unique combination of pebble beaches and steep mountains plunging into the sea.

For history and culture enthusiasts, Saranda is an essential stop. This lively coastal city serves as the perfect starting point to explore the Butrint archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage site. There, you’ll discover Greek, Roman, and Venetian ruins in an exceptional natural setting.

• Some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches
• A coastline still preserved from mass tourism
• A unique combination of sea and mountain

• Influx of tourists during peak season (July-August)
• Tourist infrastructure sometimes limited in certain areas

Historical Gems: A Journey Through Time

Albania possesses an exceptionally rich historical and cultural heritage, bearing witness to its tumultuous past. Berat, nicknamed the “City of a Thousand Windows,” will charm you with its unique Ottoman architecture. Its white houses climbing the hillside, crowned by an imposing fortress, offer a striking spectacle. Not far away, Gjirokastër, the birthplace of writer Ismail Kadaré, will immerse you in the mysterious atmosphere of its cobblestone streets and fortified homes.

In the north of the country, don’t miss Shkodër, one of Europe’s oldest cities. Its Rozafa Castle, perched on a hill, offers a breathtaking view of the city and the largest lake in the Balkans. It’s also the perfect starting point to explore the magnificent Albanian Alps.

• Exceptionally well-preserved UNESCO sites
• Immersion in the rich and complex history of the Balkans
• Human-scale cities perfect for strolling

• Some sites can be difficult to access without a vehicle
• Lack of information in foreign languages in some museums

Tirana: The Beating Heart of Modern Albania

The Albanian capital, Tirana, embodies the country’s renewal and dynamism. This constantly evolving city surprises with its mix of communist architecture, Ottoman buildings, and ultramodern constructions. The recently renovated Skanderbeg Square is the city’s nerve center, surrounded by iconic monuments such as the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the National History Museum.

Don’t miss the trendy Blloku neighborhood, once reserved for the communist elite, now a hub of Tirana’s nightlife and cultural scene. For a unique experience, visit Bunk’Art, a former anti-nuclear bunker transformed into a contemporary art museum and cultural center.

• A dynamic city undergoing rapid transformation
• A burgeoning cultural and culinary scene
• Fascinating museums tracing the country’s complex history

• Heavy and sometimes chaotic traffic
• Air pollution, especially in winter

Natural Treasures: Between Sea and Mountain

Albania boasts breathtakingly diverse landscapes, from the beaches of the Ionian Sea to the snow-capped peaks of the Albanian Alps. Theth National Park, nestled in the heart of the northern mountains, offers spectacular hikes through deep gorges, crystal-clear waterfalls, and isolated traditional villages. The neighboring Valbona Valley is a paradise for wilderness and adventure enthusiasts.

Further south, Llogara National Park offers a striking contrast between sea and mountain. The winding road that crosses it provides breathtaking panoramas of the Albanian Riviera. For a unique experience, don’t miss the Blue Eye, a karst spring with intensely blue waters, located near Saranda.

• Varied and preserved landscapes
• Numerous opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities
• Rich and diverse wildlife and flora

• Some areas are difficult to access without an off-road vehicle
• Limited tourist infrastructure in the most remote regions

How to Get to Albania: Transportation Options

Albania is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to improvements in its transportation infrastructure. Tirana International Airport is the country’s main gateway, served by many European airlines. Direct flights are available from several major European cities, including Paris, London, and Rome.

For those who prefer land travel, Albania is accessible by bus from neighboring countries like Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Greece. Sea connections are also an interesting option, with ferries regularly linking Italy to the ports of Durrës and Vlora.

Once there, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the country with complete freedom. However, be prepared to face sometimes poor road conditions and unpredictable local driving. Intercity buses and minibuses (furgons) are an economical alternative for traveling between major cities.

• Direct flights from many European cities
• Bus and minibus network covering most of the country
• Affordable car rental

• Limited and outdated railway network
• Variable road conditions, especially in rural areas
• Sometimes insufficient signage

Where to Stay in Albania: Options for Every Budget

Albania offers a wide variety of accommodations for all tastes and budgets. In major cities like Tirana, Durrës, or Saranda, you’ll find a broad selection of modern hotels, ranging from comfortable 3-star establishments to luxury hotels. Prices generally remain very competitive compared to other European destinations.

For a more authentic experience, opt for family-run guesthouses, particularly numerous in historic cities like Berat or Gjirokastër. These accommodations often offer warm hospitality and the opportunity to taste local cuisine.

On the coast, options range from all-inclusive hotel complexes to small family-run seaside pensions. In mountainous regions, shelters and campsites offer total immersion in Albanian nature.

• Wide choice of accommodations for all budgets
• Generally very competitive prices
• Legendary Albanian hospitality

• High demand during peak season on the coast, booking recommended
• Variable quality in unrated establishments
• Sometimes limited infrastructure in rural areas

Albania, a Destination on the Rise

Albania has experienced spectacular tourism growth in recent years, attracting more and more visitors captivated by its natural and cultural treasures. According to the latest statistics, the tourism sector grew by 8% in 2024 compared to the previous year, contributing 26% to the country’s GDP. This positive trend is partly explained by strong demand during the summer months, stimulating the local economy and businesses in the sector.

Despite this rapid growth, Albania remains a destination relatively preserved from mass tourism, offering an authentic experience to its visitors. Albanian authorities are striving to develop sustainable tourism, emphasizing the preservation of the country’s natural and cultural heritage.

• A destination still less crowded compared to other Mediterranean countries
• Excellent value for money
• A deeply rooted culture of hospitality

• Tourist infrastructure under development, sometimes insufficient
• Risk of overcrowding at certain sites during peak season

Albania, with its varied landscapes, rich historical heritage, and legendary hospitality, stands out as an essential destination for travelers seeking authenticity. Whether you’re a fan of paradise beaches, mountain hikes, or cultural discoveries, this Balkan country will surprise and charm you. Don’t wait any longer to discover this hidden gem of Europe, before the secret gets out!