Albania is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations — but that’s changing quickly. With its mix of rugged mountains, turquoise beaches, and ancient history, it’s no surprise that more and more travelers are adding Albania to their bucket lists.
Whether you’re a beach lover, history buff or mountain explorer, here are some of the top places you should include in your Albania itinerary.
🏖️ The Best Beaches in Albania
If there’s one thing the Albanian Riviera is known for, it’s the beaches — and for good reason. With crystal-clear water, dramatic mountains as your backdrop, and a mix of quiet coves and lively beach bars, there’s something for everyone.
Dhërmi and Palasë
Start with Dhërmi and Palasë, two of the most stunning stretches of coastline. While the villages themselves are perched up in the hills, the beaches are just a short drive down — and absolutely worth it. Palasë Beach is home to Green Coast, a resort development with beachfront restaurants and loungers. Just next door, Dhërmi Beach is equally beautiful and a bit more lively — lined with beach bars, restaurants, and plenty of spots to relax or party into the evening. It’s a great place to enjoy both the sea and the social scene, especially in the summer months.
Jalë
Just a little further south is Jalë (Jale), a lively beach with bars, restaurants and beach clubs — popular among all travelers looking to combine relaxation with a good time.
Himarë
Himarë is another great base, offering a more local, slower-paced experience with multiple beaches to explore — like Livadhi, Potam, and Filikuri.
Ksamil
Last but not least, there’s Ksamil. The beaches here are often compared to the Caribbean, and the water is truly stunning — but fair warning: it gets extremely busy in the summer. If you’re visiting in the off-season, it can still be a great stop.
🏔️ Into the Mountains
Theth & Valbona
Located in the Albanian Alps, both Theth and Valbona are a dream for hikers and nature lovers. The most popular route is the Theth–Valbona hike (about 17 km), which takes you through stunning mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and traditional villages. Don’t miss the Blue Eye of Theth or the Grunas Waterfall while you’re there.
Llogara Pass
Even if you’re not hiking, you can experience Albania’s natural beauty from the Llogara Pass — a winding mountain road offering panoramic views over the Ionian Sea. There’s also a national park with trails and picnic spots.
🏛️ Cities with History and Culture
Gjirokastër
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Gjirokastër is known as the “Stone City.” Its cobblestone streets, Ottoman-style houses, and hilltop castle give it a magical atmosphere. It’s also the birthplace of Albania’s former communist dictator, Enver Hoxha — history lovers, take note!
Learn more about Gjirokaster on Lonely Planet
Butrint
Just a short drive from Ksamil, Butrint is another UNESCO site — an ancient city with layers of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins. It’s surrounded by water and forest, and you can walk through temples, an amphitheater, and a castle overlooking a lake.
See Butrint on the UNESCO site
Berat
Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is a postcard-perfect town with white Ottoman houses stacked up the hillside. Its historic neighborhoods — Mangalem and Gorica — are connected by a lovely old bridge. The hilltop castle is still inhabited and offers sweeping views of the valley below.
🌆 Don’t Skip Tirana
Tirana
Colorful, quirky, and full of surprises — Albania’s capital has changed a lot in the last two decades. Tirana is full of vibrant street art, lively cafes, and cultural spaces. The central Skanderbeg Square is a good place to start, and the Blloku neighborhood is where you’ll find the best food and nightlife.
✨ Final Thoughts
Albania has so much to offer — beaches that rival the Mediterranean’s best, dramatic mountain scenery, and towns steeped in history. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, these highlights will help you experience the country’s incredible variety.
Want more help planning your route? Check out our 7-day itinerary or our 10-day itinerary for a day-by-day guide.
