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Albania is one of Europe's most surprising travel destinations. From the turquoise beaches of Ksamil and the rugged peaks of Theth to the historic UNESCO towns of Berat and Gjirokastër, an Albania road trip offers an incredible mix of landscapes, culture and adventure. Although Albania is growing in popularity, much of the country still feels refreshingly authentic. Beyond the famous beaches, you'll discover charming villages, family-run restaurants and breathtaking landscapes. In this guide, we share the best places to visit in Albania based on our own experience, helping you plan an unforgettable road trip.
Where is Albania located and why is it such a popular holiday destination?
Albania is located in Southeast Europe, just north of Greece and shares borders with North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro. With a coastline nearly five hundred kilometers long (stretching from the Adriatic Sea in the north to the Ionian Sea at the southern border with Greece), Albania is a wonderful destination for beach lovers. But that’s not all. The country is so diverse that it’s a wonderful vacation spot for every type of traveler. The Albanian Alps in the north are especially popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With breathtaking trails and untouched landscapes, this region is ideal for adventurous travellers. Albania is therefore the perfect destination for an unforgettable 2 to 3-week road trip through the Balkans.
The most beautiful places to visit in Albania can roughly be divided into three regions: the historic cities in the heart of the country, the rugged Albanian Alps in the north, and the sunny Albanian Riviera in the south. Add iconic natural wonders such as the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) and the ancient Lake Ohrid near Pogradec, and you have the perfect mix for an unforgettable Albania itinerary.
How to get to Albania?
The easiest and most common way to travel to Albania is by plane. Albania is well connected to many European cities, with regular direct flights to Tirana International Airport (TIA) from destinations across Europe. Several low-cost and international airlines operate flights to Albania, making it an affordable and accessible destination for a European getaway.
Flight times vary depending on your departure point, but from most major European cities, Tirana can be reached within a few hours. Return flights are often available from around €50 to €200 per person, although prices can be higher during the peak summer months.
Rent a car in Albania: the best way to enjoy your road trip
The best way to explore Albania is by car. The most beautiful places in Albania are spread across the entire country, and having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to discover hidden beaches, remote mountain villages, and authentic local spots at your own pace. Although Albania is relatively small compared to many European countries, travelling between destinations can take longer than expected. The country’s mountainous landscape, winding roads, and scenic mountain passes mean that even shorter distances often require several hours of driving.
The roads in Albania have improved significantly in recent years and are generally easy to navigate. For a first-time visit, we highly recommend renting a car to make the most of your trip. We rented our car through Sunnycars and picked it up at Tirana International Airport. It was a reliable and hassle-free experience, with full insurance coverage included in the rental price.
Does your Albania road trip start or end in Tirana and do you want to explore the capital while you’re there? Then check out our guide to what to do in Tirana during a city break. This way, you can easily combine your Albania road trip with a few days of sightseeing in the capital.
Where to stay during a trip through Albania?
One of the biggest advantages of travelling to Albania is that it is still a relatively affordable destination compared to many other European countries. Accommodation, in particular, is often much cheaper than in popular destinations such as Italy, Spain, or Greece. During a trip through Albania, you will find a wide range of accommodation options. From charming guesthouses and family-run hotels to modern apartments by the sea and stylish boutique hotels, there is something for every type of traveller and every budget.
During our own trip through Albania, we stayed in several different places, including an apartment in the coastal town of Sarandë. Although Sarandë is not necessarily the most beautiful destination in Albania, it is a very convenient base for exploring the highlights of southern Albania. From Sarandë, you can reach the famous beaches of Ksamil, as well as attractions such as The Blue Eye and Butrint National Park. Gjirokastër is also within easy reach. The town itself has a lively seaside promenade with plenty of restaurants and cafés, making it a comfortable place to stay for a few nights.
Other great places to stay while traveling through Albania are:
The best places to stay in Berat: ideal for culture and history
Unique places to stay in Gjirokastër: for an authentic experience in Albania
The most beautiful guesthouses in Theth: for nature lovers and hikers
Charming boutique hotels in Himarë: for beautiful beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere
The best hotels in Vlorë: a great mix of beach and city life
Albania's most beautiful places: 8 destinations you don't want to miss
Albania is one of the most underrated countries in Europe. From charming Ottoman towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to turquoise beaches and spectacular mountain landscapes, this Balkan country offers an incredible variety of experiences.
1. Ksamil: the most beautiful beaches in Albania
Ksamil, a seaside resort in the far south of Albania, is one of the country’s best-known destinations. With white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and small islands off the coast, it’s no wonder that Ksamil is often called the ‘Maldives of Europe’.
Over the past few years, Ksamil has grown rapidly in popularity. During the peak summer months, the beaches can become very crowded, with rows of sunbeds, beach clubs, and new developments changing the atmosphere of the area. We visited Ksamil ourselves at the end of April and found it to be a wonderful time to experience this coastal gem, as it was still peaceful and much quieter.
Although tourism is increasing quickly and construction is ongoing in parts of Ksamil, this destination still deserves a place at the top of our list of the best places to visit in Albania. The beaches are truly spectacular, with incredibly clear water and a beautiful coastline. With a rental car, you can also explore quieter beaches and hidden spots nearby.
Besides relaxing on the beach, Ksamil is also a perfect base for exploring the highlights of southern Albania. Visit the impressive Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient ruins dating back thousands of years, or take a day trip to the natural wonder of the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) and Gjirokastër.
Want to discover the best beaches and things to do in Ksamil? In our guide to the best things to do in Ksamil, Albania we share more tips, activities, and places worth visiting.
2. Berat: Albania's most beautiful historic city
During a trip through Albania, the charming town of Berat is one of the destinations you should not miss. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, Berat is one of the best-preserved Ottoman towns in the country. Few places in Europe showcase Ottoman architecture as beautifully as Berat. The town is filled with white stone houses built against the hillside, historic churches, mosques, and narrow cobblestone streets that invite you to slow down and explore.
One of the best things to do in Berat is exploring both sides of the old town: Mangalem, the historic Muslim neighbourhood, and Gorica, the Christian neighbourhood. The two areas are connected by the beautiful Gorica Bridge, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Walking through Berat, you can see how different cultures and religions have coexisted here for centuries. It is not unusual to find a mosque and a church just a few metres apart.
Make sure to visit Berat Castle, located on the hill overlooking the town. The castle is much more than just a historic ruin; it is a small village within the city walls, with ancient buildings, local restaurants, and beautiful viewpoints over Berat and the surrounding valley (Berat Old Town). For traditional Albanian cuisine and a refreshing Korça beer we recommend Temi Albanian Food.
3. Gjirokastër: A UNESCO city full of Ottoman charm
In the south of Albania, surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Drinos Valley, you will find the beautiful historic city of Gjirokastër. Known as the “Stone City” of Albania, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most atmospheric destinations in the country. Like Berat, Gjirokastër is famous for its beautifully preserved Ottoman architecture.The city is home to impressive 16th and 17th-century stone houses and steep cobblestone streets. One of the best things to do in Gjirokastër is wandering through the historic Bazaar area and browse local handicraft shops and carpet stores. For an authentic local dining experience, we recommend Gjoça Traditional. We had a wonderful meal here, with delicious Albanian dishes at a very affordable price.
A visit to Gjirokastër is not complete without exploring Gjirokastër Castle. Located on top of the hill, the castle offers spectacular views over the entire city and the surrounding valley. It is one of the most important landmarks in Albania and the second-largest castle in the country.
Admission tickets to the castle cost 400 LEK (equivalent to about €4 in 2026) and 200 LEK for the museum.
4. Blue Eye, Albania (Syri i Kaltër): a natural wonder you shouldn’t miss
After exploring the charming streets of Gjirokastër, it is time to discover one of Albania’s most famous natural wonders: the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër).
The Blue Eye is a natural spring with an incredible deep blue colour that looks almost unreal. The crystal-clear water resembles a human eye: a dark underwater cave in the centre forms the “pupil”, while the bright blue water surrounding it creates the appearance of an iris. This is where the Albanian name Syri i Kaltër, meaning “Blue Eye”, comes from.
The exact depth of the spring is still unknown, although measurements have reached more than 50 metres deep. The water rises to the surface with enormous pressure, creating a fascinating natural phenomenon. The temperature remains around 10°C throughout the year, which makes the water far too cold for swimming. However, the Blue Eye is still an unforgettable place to visit. The clarity of the water makes it feel like a giant natural aquarium. From the viewing platforms and walking paths around the spring, you can see underwater plants, rocks, fish, and tree branches beneath the surface.
5. Theth: a fairytale mountain village in the Albanian Alps
Hidden in the far north of Albania, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Albanian Alps, lies the enchanting mountain village of Theth. This remote destination is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Albania.
The region is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Some of the best hikes in Theth are the trails to Grunas Waterfall and the Blue Eye of Theth (a different Blue Eye than Syri i Kaltër in southern Albania). Both hikes take around half a day to a full day, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the scenery. Another highlight is the famous Valbona Pass Hike, where you walk from Theth to Valbona Valley through the heart of the Albanian Alps. This spectacular 6 to 8-hour hike is one of the absolute highlights of a trip through northern Albania and is part of the famous Peaks of the Balkans Trail.
A lovely place to stay in Theth is Pashko Guesthouse and restaurants we recommend are Petriti and Royal Land Hotel & Restaurant (both also hotels).
6. Valbona: a valley in the far north of Albania
In the north of Albania, hidden between impressive mountain peaks, you will find Valbona Valley National Park. This remote valley is, in our opinion, one of the most beautiful natural areas in Albania. Instead of busy boulevards and large hotels, you will find crystal-clear rivers, green forests, traditional mountain villages, and the rugged peaks of the Albanian Alps.
Valbona is especially popular among hikers and nature lovers. The most famous route in the region is the Valbona Pass Hike, which connects Valbona with the mountain village of Theth. This spectacular trail takes around 6 to 8 hours and leads you across a mountain pass with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The route is part of the famous Peaks of the Balkans Trail, a multi-day hiking route through Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo that we completed ourselves.
Read here about our personal experience on the Balkan Trail
Besides the famous mountain pass, there are also shorter walks to enjoy in Valbona Valley National Park. Follow the turquoise Valbona River, explore small mountain villages, or simply relax and enjoy the incredible views from one of the cosy guesthouses. A stay in Valbona is all about nature, simplicity, and disconnecting from the outside world.
7. Dobërdol, a remote mountain village at the tri-border region of Albania
Far from Albania’s well-known sights, you’ll find Dobërdol, a remote mountain village in the northeast of the country. This unique place lies in the border region of Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo and is surrounded by vast mountain meadows, rugged peaks, and an impressive landscape where time seems to stand still.
During the summer months, the area is mainly home to shepherds and their flocks, and you’ll spend the night in simple mountain huts with local families. It’s a unique opportunity to experience traditional mountain life in Albania.
The reason we’re including Dobërdol on this list is because of our experience during the Balkan Trail. During this multi-day hike through Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo, we crossed the border area and reached Dobërdol on foot. The views along the way were among the most impressive we experienced during the trail: endless mountain landscapes, green valleys, and almost no other travellers around.
For most travelers exploring Albania by car, Dobërdol is not very easy to reach. But for hikers and adventurers who want to experience the country’s unspoiled side, this is one of Albania’s most extraordinary places.
8. Pogradec: relax by the shores of Lake Ohrid
Near the border with North Macedonia, you will find the charming town of Pogradec. This destination is completely different from the other places mentioned in this list. Located on the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, Pogradec is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the peaceful side of Albania. The lake is known for its crystal-clear water, surrounding mountains, and beautiful sunsets that create a magical atmosphere.
A fun fact about Lake Ohrid is that it is famous for the Ohrid trout, a fish species that can only be found in this lake. In North Macedonia, fishing for Ohrid trout is prohibited because parts of the lake are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Albanian part of the lake, however, it is still possible to taste this local speciality. If you enjoy fish, ordering fresh Ohrid trout in one of the restaurants in Pogradec is definitely worth it.
Besides relaxing by the lake, there are also several cultural highlights to discover in and around Pogradec. Visit the remains of the ancient castle, explore traces of the Ottoman period, or take a trip to the nearby village of Lin. According to some archaeologists, the settlement of Lin could be one of the oldest inhabited places in Europe, with a history dating back more than 8,500 years.
Albania itinerary: a road trip through the most beautiful places in Albania
Want to discover as many highlights of Albania as possible? We recommend planning a road trip of around two weeks. This gives you enough time to experience the country’s incredible diversity, from dramatic mountain landscapes and historic UNESCO towns to the turquoise beaches of the Albanian Riviera. A popular route starts in Tirana and continues towards Theth, Berat, Gjirokastër, and Ksamil, before returning to the capital. Along the way, you will discover the best of Albania: the rugged beauty of the Albanian Alps, charming historic towns, crystal-clear rivers, and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Combine your Albania road trip with North Macedonia
If you have more time, consider combining your trip to Albania with neighbouring country North Macedonia. These two Balkan countries make a perfect combination for an adventurous road trip, with stunning nature, rich history, and fewer crowds than many other European destinations. Curious about North Macedonia? We share our favourite places to visit and our best tips for exploring the most beautiful places around Lake Ohrid.
Plan your adventure in Albania
Want to explore Albania but need help planning your route? As personal travel advisors, we help you create a trip that matches your travel style, from an adventurous road trip through the Albanian Alps to a relaxing beach holiday along the Albanian Riviera. Would you rather leave everything to us? We can create a tailor-made Albania trip, including route planning, accommodations, and travel arrangements. Start planning your unforgettable Albania adventure and request your personalised travel proposal.
Naomi van Hagen
Curious, creative and passionate about travel, I’m always on the lookout for unique destinations where culture, gastronomy and adventure come together. As a travel blogger, I share personal stories and insider tips from countries like Brazil, Greece, Indonesia, Thailand and Peru, from hidden gems and rich traditions to unforgettable culinary experiences. My blogs are based on real travel experiences and in-depth local knowledge. Ready to plan your own adventure? As a personal travel consultant, I’ll help you create a tailor-made trip that perfectly suits your travel dreams.
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