Top 10 Things To Do In Albania And Where To Stay
Discover the ultimate list of things to do in Albania, featuring breathtaking landscapes, unique attractions, lively cities, and the best places to stay.
Albania, a country that is rich in history, with breathtaking scenery spanning from top to bottom, has somehow remained relatively off the radar. From historic cities to UNESCO World Heritage sites, and pristine beaches to rugged mountains, there are so many things to do in Albania thats suits all kinds of travellers. And the cherry on top? It offers excellent value for money.
Emma Mullan, a full-time creator with a passion for travel, spent 3 weeks there in Summer 2022 and kindly agreed to share her top tips for visiting Albania with me. I love Emma’s travel content, especially her stories on Albania, and more recently, the time she spent a week in the Arctic Circle in a campervan! Check out her Instagram and you will see why.
Albania lacks some amenities and services compared to other European destinations. But, by embracing all that Albania has to offer, you’re in for an incredible adventure with, in Emma’s opinion, the friendliest people in Europe! And, get there sooner than later, because Albania is often identified as the Maldives of Europe, so there’s no doubt that soon this gem of a country will soon be VERY popular!
How to get to Albania from Dublin
Ryanair has just announced a brand new direct route from Dublin to Tirana, the capital of Albania. Flights will begin on 2nd April, 2026, and operate twice weekly, departing on Mondays and Thursdays. Note that Tirana is about a 4-hour drive from the popular coastal towns of Ksamil and Sarandë.
A great way to get to the Albanian Riviera is to take a direct flight to the Greek island of Corfu (available with Aer Lingus, Ryanair and TUI from Dublin, and Ryanair from Shannon), and then take a 30 minute speedboat or 70 minute Ferry ride from Corfu town to Sarandë, and start your Albanian adventure from there. Perfect if you just want to explore the Albanian coast.
You can find a link to the ferry services here.
Search flights hereHow to get around Albania
Without a doubt, the best way to get around Albania is with a car. In fact, I’d be confident to say that this is very much a road-trip destination! Public transportation is extremely unreliable and might not get you exactly where you want to go. With a car, you can easily access beautiful destinations that are off-the beaten path and truthfully, we would have been lost without a car.
TOP TIPS: It’s important to book car hire in Albania in advance so that you can choose something that suits your budget. Last minute booking will leave you with limited options, and usually higher priced cars! Make sure you have an international drivers licence.
Search Car hireTop 10 things to do in Albania
With a quick google search of Albania, there’s no doubt you will see images of pristine beaches and will be heavily influenced to visit the south. And while this part of the country is undoubtedly stunning and shouldn’t be missed, Albania has SO much more to offer. Here’s my Top 10 things to do in Albania from North to South.
1. Albanian Alps
One of my greatest regrets when visiting Albania was not dedicating more time to Northern Albania , which in my opinion, is the most beautiful of all. The Albanian alps are simply breathtaking and renting a car to journey through this spectacular landscape should be high on your list of things to do in Albania. Head to Shkoder and start your journey from there.
If you love to hike, then the Theth to Valbona hike is a must see in Albania and something I regrettably found out about too late. This challenging village to village hike typically takes around six to eight hours to complete, depending on your pace and stops along the way. So it’s definitely something to look into if you’re planning to head North. Several people we met gave this their highest recommendation.
Another spot to add to the list when visiting this region is the stunning Komani Lake. I’d highly recommend booking this experience through a company, because getting here alone can be slightly chaotic to say the least! A friend of mine booked her experience through KomaniLakeFerry.com and had a great experience. Keep an eye on the weather and consider rescheduling if the weather is bad.
Don’t miss out on some of the stunning waterfalls too. Grunas waterfall was a stunning one we came across.
2. Kisha e Thethit in Theth National Park
The iconic Kisha e Thethit (the Church of Theth) is a must on your Albania itinerary. The Church was built in 1892, and legend has it that villagers settled here in order to worship the Christian faith undisturbed, surrounded by the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. No photographs can do this place justice. The natural beauty and serenity can only be experienced in real life!
There are a number of accommodation and restaurant options available in Theth National Park should you wish to stay here, and it also makes for the perfect starting point if you’re taking on the Theth to Valbona hike.
While I regretfully didn’t stay here due to time constraints, I’ve listed some top accommodation picks at the bottom of this article that I would have added to my list.
TOP TIP: Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and water as you might be exposed to a lot of sun in this area while walking – and DON’T forget to take your camera with you – you’ll get the best photos of your entire trip (and life) here!
3. Explore the capital city of Tirana
Make sure to give Albania’s capital city Tirana a day or two of your time. For a small city, it has a lot of character, as well as a bustling cafe and restaurant scene. I’d highly recommend wandering around the Blloku area to enjoy the shops and cafes. And definitely check out the New Bazaar. If you’re looking for traditional Albanian cuisine, Oda restaurant is a must. But make sure to book it in advance, as it is very popular.
Head to the Skanderbeg square and go to the National History Museum. The museum’s collections cover various periods of Albanian history, from ancient times to the present day. Entry into the National History Museum is less than €5.
Also don’t miss out on visiting at least one of the series of Bunk’Art museums. These museums are situated within massive concrete bunkers that were built during the communist regime, but many of them remained unused after the fall of communism in the early 1990s.
Some other places worth visiting while in Tirana include the Dajti Ekspres cable car for panoramic views of the city, and check out the newly renovated Pyramid of Tirana.
I’d recommend staying in this centrally located apartment which can be found on Booking.com. I’d also highly recommend Ebel boutique hotel which is located beside the bus station if you plan on travelling to Montenegro and need to be at the bus station nice and early!
TOP TIP: If you’re looking for some incredible cocktails, head to Colonial Cocktails Academy. It’s the best cocktail bar I’ve been to on my travels so far.
Read: 20 Cheap European City Breaks for an Affordable Getaway
4. Berat
When it comes to Albania tourist attractions, The UNESCO World Heritage site of Berat is on most visitors lists. Make sure to give yourself at least 2-3 days to take in all that this place has to offer. Located in central Albania along the Osum river, Berat is known as “The City of a Thousand Windows” due the numerous windows in its traditional houses that line the hillside.
One of the best things to do in Berat is to visit the hilltop castle which overlooks the city and offers incredible panoramic views. The castle dates back to 4 BC and up here you’ll find Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques and traditional Albanian houses which have residents to this day.
You can also book a unique cooking class inside Berat Castle, see more here:
Cooking ClassI couldn’t recommend Hotel Guva Mangalem more. This was centrally located, spotless and had spacious rooms and a delicious Albanian breakfast. The peaceful rooftop terrace had incredible views over Berat also. However, bear in mind that this hotel is situated uphill and you must go up some winding and narrow streets to get here, so it is not suitable for everyone. It is incredible value for money – We paid just €30 per night, including a delicious Albanian breakfast!
View HotelOne of the top things to do in Albania is book a wine tasting tour, and I found a top rated tour that leaves from Berat and costs just €60.
View Wine TourTOP TIP: Don’t miss out on one of the most memorable meals of your life at Home-made Food Lili, situated right next door to Hotel Guva Mangalem. This is a once in a lifetime experience in the home of an Albanian family with just 6 tables.
Your meal is sure to turn into a party with all the other guests and here you will experience Albanian hospitality like no other. Make sure to book in advance because the places are extremely limited.
5. Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster is another UNESCO World Heritage city located in Southern Albania. This is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe that I have ever been to, and can be visited over 1-2 days.
If you’re short on time, a day trip is worthwhile, but I’d recommend at least an overnight stay to take in all the charm that Gjirokaster has to offer. AND, you’ll find some of the best value accommodation of your life! Often referred to as the “The City of Stone”, Gjirokaster has an incredible hilltop castle with breathtaking views over the city and the surrounding countryside.
Make sure to also head to Zekate House which is thought to be the best surviving example of an Ottoman tower house in Gjirokaster. Here you will be able to explore the stunning rooms of this mansion that belonged to the wealthy Zekate family, who played a significant role in the economic and social life of Gjirokastër during the Ottoman period. I’d highly recommend booking a walking tour with a local guide.
View Walking TourGjirokastër’s old town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, traditional houses, beautiful shops, cafes and restaurants and the city serves as a great place to visit the famous Blue Eye which is just 35 minutes away and next up on the list!
I’d highly recommend staying at The Old Town Clock which is centrally located, spotless, spacious and excellent value for money at around €25 per night in peak season.
6. The Blue Eye (Syri i kaltër)
The Blue Eye is a main attraction in Albania, extremely popular with tourists. A visit takes just 2–3 hours and is well worth it for the stunning natural monument and its beautiful surroundings.
The Blue Eye gets its name because of the beautiful turquoise water that is incredibly deep. This natural spring has a depth of more than 50 metres and is really beautiful to witness! When you visit, you might see some people swimming in the Blue Eye, although there are many signs saying this is not allowed due to strong currents and the depth of the water. You can explore the surrounding forest and picnic areas and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.
TOP TIP: Pack your own lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic areas. This way you can avoid tourist prices and crowds at the on-site cafe.
You can make your own way if you have a car or take a taxi. It’s also possible to go as part of a half day tour which you can find here.
It costs 50 LEK (approx 40c) per person to enter. The car park costs around 100 LEK (80c)
7. Sarande and the Monastery of 40 Saints
Sarandë in southern Albania is a seaside town known for its vibrant atmosphere and sandy beaches. You can stroll along the waterfront promenade and enjoy some delicious fresh seafood under the palm trees.
The city of Sarande itself is quite built up and due to its growing popularity and need to cater for more tourists, there is ongoing construction of hotels and residential buildings. I would suggest taking a short drive outside of the main city of Sarande in search of the best beaches in Albania that will be a little quieter and more picturesque than those in the main town.
However, it’s important to be aware that this region is one of Albania’s most popular along the Riviera and it’s difficult to find a beach that isn’t crowded during the peak summer months.
If you choose to stay in Sarande, it is a great base for day trips in Albania, I have some linked here:
View Day TripsWhile in the city, I would highly recommend a trip to the Monastery of 40 Saints. This ancient monastery which can be reached by car, dates back to the 6th century AD, and overlooks the city with magnificent views. Legend says that the monastery was constructed in honour of forty Christians who were killed during the Roman persecution. Be warned though, this place is very creepy and not for the faint hearted!
8. Ksamil and Butrint National Park
When researching the Albanian Riviera, you’re likely to be met with photos of Ksamil beach, often described as “the Maldives of Europe”. Ksamil is an extremely popular summer destination for Albanians and is increasing in popularity for people from all over the world. I think it’s really important to note that what you see on Instagram is not exactly what you get here. Let me explain…
There are some truly stunning beaches in Ksamil but to have the “Maldives” experience, you need to be prepared to pay. All beaches in Ksamil were privatised during our visit in 2022 and if you want to relax in the most stunning spots, you need to be prepared to pay up to €30 per person at a beach bar for a sun bed and higher prices for food and drinks.
Ksamil is extremely crowded in the peak summer months, so it’s also important to arrive VERY early to grab your spot. But if you have a bit of extra cash to splash, then it’s certainly worthwhile.
While I would absolutely recommend spending a few nights in Ksamil, I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was slightly disappointed. The incredible scenery is often spoiled by floating bouncy castles and pedal cars scattered all over and I felt that what I saw on Instagram didn’t reflect the full reality of the destination.
Ok, now that we have the negatives out of the way, it’s time to discuss the positives and there are so many that make Ksamil a must see in Albania.
The bar and restaurant scene is incredible and you will quite literally be spoiled for choice on where to eat and drink. Ksamil is so lively and has a true “holiday vibe” with something for absolutely anyone. There are accommodation options to suit everyone, from the luxury traveller to backpacker athough l I’d highly recommend Villa Xristos Kalageros.
And there are some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania if you wander a little further from the famous “Instagram” locations. A personal favourite was Plaza Agosto, where we returned every single day to relax, eat and drink. I’d highly recommend purchasing your sun lounger at Beach Bar and Grill Reni Risi. The prices were very reasonable, the views were stunning and the food was amazing!
One of the best things we did in Ksamil was the Tongo Island Boat trip and BBQ. A speed boat transports you to the most incredible spots close to Ksamil, with plenty of time to jump into the sea and swim.
The final spot is Tongo Island where you can enjoy the stunning private beach with just a few others. Here you will be served a delicious lunch with fish, vegetables, cheese, fruit, beer, soft drinks and water before returning to Ksamil at sunset. This tour must be booked in person at the tour office in Ksamil.
9. Himare and Lambjano Bay
A personal favourite spot was the beach town of Himare, in particular Potami beach. This town was definitely a little less developed and more laid back and less crowded than Ksamil and Sarande, with plenty of great spots to eat and drink during the day and into the evening.
The water at Potami beach was crystal clear, and unlike Ksamil, it’s possible to lay down your own umbrella and towel, without having to purchase a sun lounger. I’d highly recommend eating at Grill Rondo Potam and UMI sushi & cocktail bar.
From Himare, a visit to Lambjano Bay is an absolute MUST. This is without a doubt one of the most stunning little beaches I have ever set foot on. The beach is located between Llamani beach and Porto Palermo and is a little bit tricky to find so you may need to ask for help from some friendly locals.
Your best bet is to park beside Palermiti Luxury Rooms Resort and just off the main road, take a left and follow the gravel track. It takes about 20 minutes to reach the beach but it is completely worth it. Just remember to bring a towel, umbrella and snacks as this is a wild beach and there are no facilities available.
TOP TIP: After Lambjano Bay, head to the beautiful Castle of Porto Palermo which is just a short drive away. Dating back to the early 19th century, this historical gem offers beautiful views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding landscapes.
10. Drive the Llogora Pass
The Llogara Pass is known to be one of Europe’s most spectacular drives and shouldn’t be missed on your Albania trip! You’ll drive through the Ceraunian Mountains and the scenic route boasts panoramic views of the Ionian Sea.
The winding road through the Llogara pass is an exciting drive and there are so many incredible lookout points along the way, and you won’t be disappointed if you stay for sunset!
If you’re brave enough, you can do a paraglide from the top of Llogara pass, right down to one of the stunning beaches below. You can book your paragliding experience here:
View ParaglidingWhere to stay in Albania – City, Mountains and Beach
Tirana – Vibrant and quirky capital city
Ebel boutique hotel ****
The 4 star Ebel Boutique Hotel in Tirana is conveniently located near top attractions, including Skanderbeg Square (a 17-minute walk) and Et’hem Bey Mosque (2 km). Guests can enjoy a sun terrace, on-site restaurant, and bar. The hotel boasts fantastic reviews with a 9.3 rating on Booking.com.
Hotel Boutique Vila 135 in Tirana is just a short walk from Skanderbeg Square and close to major attractions such as the National History Museum and Et’hem Bey Mosque. The hotel offers inviting spaces including a terrace, bar, and private balconies. Guests can also enjoy premium amenities such as a fitness centre, sauna, and spa, making it an ideal choice for both relaxation and leisure.
Theth National Park – Traditional mountain village in the Albanian Alps
Molla Guest House is set in a historic building in Theth, just 740 m from Theth National Park. Scoring an excellent 9.7 rating on Booking.com, guests love the warm hospitality and charming setting. The property offers room service, a picnic area, an outdoor fireplace, and a children’s playground. Visitors can also enjoy nearby activities such as hiking the famous Grunas Waterfall trail, one of Theth’s most scenic routes.
Villa Gjeçaj Guesthouse and Restaurant
Villa Gjecaj is a family-run guesthouse in the heart of Thethi, set within Theth National Park. Combining a traditional stone house with a modern building, it offers simply furnished rooms, a spacious garden, and an outdoor kitchen with a traditional oven and barbecue. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails to Valbona, Vermoshi, and the Thethi Waterfall (3.5 km away), one of the most beautiful spots in the Albanian Alps.
Berat – UNESCO-listed picturesque city
The 3-star Guva Mangalem Hotel Restaurant features an à la carte restaurant serving Albanian and Italian specialties, with views over the historic Gorica neighborhood. Guests can also relax at the hotel’s bar. The property is conveniently located just 1km from Berat Castle and only 200m from the Osum River, while a local bus stop is 500 m away. For nearby activities, visitors can enjoy rafting on the Osum River canyons, one of the region’s most exciting outdoor experiences.
Hotel Osumi ***
Hotel Boutique Osumi in Berat is set in a historic building, creating a unique and charming stay. Guests can relax on the terrace, enjoy mountain views from the balcony, or unwind in the lounge. With an excellent 9.3 rating on Booking.com, the hotel is a guest favorite. Nearby, visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Mangalem and Gorica quarters or hike up to Berat Castle for panoramic views of the city.
Gjirokaster – Mystical UNESCO-listed stone town
The Stone Sky Hotel in Gjirokastër features a terrace with outdoor seating, a relaxing hot tub, and convenient on-site parking. Highly rated with a 9.6 on Booking.com, it’s a top choice for travellers. Just 43 km away lies Zaravina Lake, known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic mountain backdrop, perfect for a day trip. Guests can also explore Gjirokastër Castle and the Old Bazaar, both nearby cultural highlights.
Rose Garden Hotel in Gjirokastër features a sun terrace, garden, bar, and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool. Additional amenities include a coffee shop, outdoor seating, a picnic area, and free on-site parking. Guests can easily explore the city’s historic castles and landmarks, making it a great base for sightseeing.
Sarandë – Bustling seaside resort town
Looking for a luxury stay close to the ferry port? The Andon Lapa Hotel & Spa is just 900 meters away, so you can start your holiday the moment you arrive. Guests can unwind at the on-site bar, relax on the private beach, take a dip in one of the two pools, or indulge in the hotel’s beautiful spa.
San Angelo Luxury Resort & Spa – Adults Only *****
San Angelo Luxury Resort & Spa in Sarandë boasts its own private beach and direct access to the waterfront. Guests can relax on the terrace or by the seasonal outdoor pool while taking in breathtaking sea views. The resort also offers a contemporary restaurant serving Mediterranean, Asian, and European dishes and a stylish bar service classic cocktails. One glance at the photos is enough to make you want to book a stay.
Hotel Agimi ****
Just a 1-minute walk from a beautiful Beach, Hotel Agimi in Sarandë is known for its swimming pool with amazing view, delicious breakfast, and attentive staff. The hotel features a pool, a sun terrace, and an on-site restaurant. Guests can also enjoy the bar and outdoor seating area, while a continental buffet breakfast is served daily to kick-start your day
Ksamil – Exclusive, high-end beach escape
Area Hotel ****
Nestled just a 5-minute stroll from Ksamil Beach, Area Hotel offers a modern and welcoming atmosphere for travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool or enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar. The hotel’s sun terrace provides a perfect spot to relax, while the on-site restaurant serves up some delightful meals With free private parking and attentive staff, Area Hotel ensures a pleasant stay for all visitors.
Hotel Mira Mare ****
Just 270 meters from the beach, Hotel Mira Mare in Ksamil is 3.5 km from Butrint National Park. This 4-star hotel offers comfortable accommodations with stunning sea views. Guests can enjoy free private parking on site and a small shared pool with the sister hotel, while the sea is only a short walk away.
Ori Mare ****
Looking for a hotel with unforgettable sunset views? Then Ori Mare Hotel is the one! Ksamil Beach is just a 7-minute walk away, and nearby attractions include Lake Butrint and Ksamil Castle. Guests can relax in the garden, on the terrace, or by the seasonal outdoor pool. The hotel also features a bar, coffee shop, and pool bar, with free on-site private parking. Ideal for families, it offers spacious family rooms and boasts excellent reviews on TripAdvisor.
Himarë – Charming, laidback coastal retreat
Nestled in the serene Porto Palermo area, Palermiti Luxury Rooms offers guests a peaceful escape with a range of amenities designed for relaxation and recreation. The complex features a seasonal outdoor pool with panoramic views, a lush garden, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean and local cuisines. Guests can unwind at the bar, enjoy water sports facilities, or take advantage of the barbecue area. Free private parking is available on-site, ensuring convenience for all visitors.
Geo and Art Boutique Hotel ****
Just a short stroll from Spille Beach, Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himarë offers stunning sea and city views. Nearby attractions include Himarë Castle and the Himarë Museum. This four-star hotel combines comfort with a prime location in Himarë and features a lounge, coffee shop, and outdoor seating area for guests to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Miamar Luxury Hotel & Spa *****
Miamar Luxury Hotel & Spa is a five-star beachfront retreat with its own private beach, located on Livadhi Beach, just 5 km from Himarë. The hotel features two outdoor swimming pools, a sun terrace with loungers and umbrellas, and easy access to cycling and water sports. Himarë Castle is only 3 km away, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and exploration.
Top Tips for Visiting Albania
- Make sure you have a drivers licence or travel with someone who does. The best way to get around is with a car.
- Be prepared to pay for everything in CASH (this has possibly changed but in 2022, we were hardly ever able to use card to pay).
- Use Credins ATM’s to avoid high fees.
- Pack a rainjacket – the weather is very changeable even in summer and especially in the North in the mountains
- Be prepared to pay up to €30 for a sunbed in popular areas like Ksamil (and be prepared for it to be crowded in summer)
- Learn a few basic Albanian phrases – Locals really appreciate it. Even just “Faleminderit” (thank you) or “Përshëndetje” (hello) goes a long way.
- Beach towns are seasonal – In July and August they’re lively and crowded, but in the off-season many hotels and restaurants close.
- Water is generally safe in the north, but bottled water is recommended elsewhere – Especially in the south/coastal regions.
- Buy an E-sim or local SIM card for cheap data – Vodafone Albania or One Telecom offer good coverage, even in rural areas.
- Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated – Rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is considered generous.
I hope this travel guide to Albania will inspire you to take a trip there soon, and a big thanks to Emma Mullan for sharing her top things to do in Albania with me.
Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional charge to you. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices, hotels and attractions are subject to change.
