Albania, one of Europe's most hidden gem countries, is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. The country’s warmth and hospitality, combined with its untapped charm, make it a perfect destination for those seeking adventure, serenity, and an authentic cultural experience away from the usual tourist crowds.
Albania is a captivating destination for those seeking an unforgettable, off-the-beaten-path travel experience in Europe. With its dramatic landscapes ranging from pristine beaches along the Ionian and Adriatic Seas to rugged mountain ranges and rolling hills, Albania offers nature lovers an untouched paradise. Beyond its natural beauty, the country is rich in history and culture, with ancient sites like the UNESCO-listed ruins in Berat and the charming, centuries-old town of Gjirokastër.
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🌱 Nature
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🌊 Beaches
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🏰 Old towns
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🏔️ Mountains
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🌈 Culture
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💸 Affordability
Albania’s warm, welcoming people and vibrant traditions provide a genuine and immersive experience, free from the tourist crowds that often flood more popular European destinations. Whether exploring hidden coves, hiking in the Albanian Alps, or savoring the delicious local cuisine, a trip to Albania promises adventure, authenticity, and the chance to discover one of Europe's best-kept secrets.
WHERE IS ALBANIA?
Albania is a small country located in Southeastern Europe, on the western edge of the Balkan Peninsula. It is bordered by Montenegro to the northwest, Kosovo to the north, North Macedonia to the east, and Greece to the south. To the west, Albania has a coastline along the Adriatic Sea, while to the southwest, it faces the Ionian Sea. The country's strategic location places it at the crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures, with a rich history influenced by both the Mediterranean and the Balkan region. Its proximity to Italy across the Adriatic further connects it to broader European and Mediterranean trade and cultural networks.
HOW DO I GET TO ALBANIA?
To travel from the UK to Albania, the most common and convenient option is to fly. Direct flights from major UK airports, such as London Heathrow, Gatwick, or Stansted, can take you to Albania's capital, Tirana, in about 3 to 3.5 hours. Airlines like Wizz Air, British Airways, and other budget carriers offer regular flights. Once you arrive in Tirana, you can easily travel around the country by bus, car, or domestic flights to explore Albania’s cities and scenic areas. Additionally, for those interested in more scenic routes, it's possible to drive through neighbouring countries like Greece, Montenegro or North Macedonia. We travelled across the border by bus from North Macedonia which was very easily done. You can check out our FULL guide on visiting North Macedonia here.
WHEN TO VISIT ALBANIA?
The best time to visit Albania largely depends on what kind of experience you're seeking. The peak tourist season is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm, sunny, and ideal for enjoying the country’s beautiful beaches. Temperatures can reach 30°C or higher, making it perfect for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and sightseeing. However, this is also when popular destinations can get crowded. For a more relaxed experience, the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months are excellent choices, offering mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and lush landscapes.
HOW TO GET AROUND ALBANIA?
Getting around Albania is relatively easy, and there are several options to suit different types of travellers. We would definitely recommend option one.
1. Rent a Car
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Renting a vehicle is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country, especially for those wanting to visit remote towns, beaches, and national parks at their own pace. The road network is generally in good condition, particularly in major cities and along the coast, though some rural areas can have narrow or winding roads.
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We would recommend renting a car with EasyDrive Albania. The main office is in central Tirana and from our experience were very professional and helpful with a good level of english.
2. By Bus
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Buses are a popular and affordable means of transport, with regular routes connecting major cities like Tirana, Vlorë, and Shkodra, as well as smaller towns. However, bus schedules can be less reliable, especially in more remote areas. There are many buses and you do not need to book these in advance.
IS IT SAFE TO VISIT ALBANIA?
Albania is generally considered a safe destination to visit, with low levels of violent crime and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists. The country has seen a significant increase in tourism in recent years, and the Albanian government has made efforts to improve infrastructure and safety for visitors. While petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in busy areas like markets or tourist hotspots, it is not a widespread concern. Overall, Albania is a safe and hospitable destination, with many visitors enjoying their time without any security issues. However, as with any trip, it's advisable to stay informed about any local developments or travel advisories. From our own personal experiences, we can confidently say that we did not feel unsafe at all in any of the places we visited in Albania.
WHAT IS THE CURRENCY?
The currency in Albania is the lek. ATMs are widely available in larger cities and tourist areas, and most businesses in Albania accept cash payments in lek, though some may also accept euros, especially in tourist hotspots. However, we would recommend to use lek for most transactions to avoid unfavourable exchange rates.
TOP TIP!
We would highly recommend downloading an E-Sim prior to arriving. This means you will have signal and data as soon as you arrive which is extremely useful. We would recommend purchasing an E-Sim through Airalo, they offer the best service at the cheapest prices. You can purchase an E-Sim here.
HOW LONG SHOULD I SPEND IN ALBANIA?
To explore the main highlights of Albania, a trip of 8 to 10 days is generally recommended. This allows enough time to experience the country's diverse landscapes, historical sites, and coastal beauty at a leisurely pace. However, you could easily spend 10 - 14 days in this country and not get bored, so time permitting, we would definitely suggest staying just a little bit longer.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY
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Tirana:1/2 days
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Berat: 2/3 days
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Gjirokaster: 1 day
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Himarë: 5/6 days
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Shkoder: 1/2 days
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Tirana: Return back
Our travel guide is based on our personal preferences. The Albanian Riviera is made up of several different towns, some charming and some.. not so charming. However, despite the array of towns along the Albanian Riviera, we found that Himarë, with its more laid-back and less touristy atmosphere, offered the perfect base for our stay, allowing us to explore the stunning coastline by car while enjoying a quieter, more authentic experience. We will cover the other towns where you can stay in our guide below. If you would prefer to spend a few nights in other locations then you could follow our alternative itinerary below.
ALTERNATIVE ITINERARY
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Tirana: 1/2 days
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Berat: 2 days
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Gjirokaster: 1 day
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Saranda: 1 day
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Himarë: 2 days
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Dhermi: 1 day
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Shkoder: 1 days
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Tirana: Return back
Starting an Albania road trip in Tirana, the country’s lively capital, is the perfect way to dive straight into the energy and spirit of the nation. As Albania’s largest city, Tirana offers a dynamic mix of history, culture, and modern flair, making it an exciting jumping-off point for your adventure. The city is compact enough to explore in a day or two, with plenty of must-see spots and great traditional cuisine. Here are some of the best things to see and do in Tirana depending on how much time you have:
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Skanderbeg Square: The heart of the city, surrounded by important landmarks like the National History Museum, the Skanderbeg monument and the Clock Tower.
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Bunk'Art 1: A fascinating Cold War-era bunker turned museum, offering insights into Albania's communist past and the country’s history of isolation.
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Dajti Mountain National Park: Take a cable car up to the top for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape
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The Pyramid of Tirana: An iconic, though somewhat mysterious, structure originally built as a museum dedicated to the late dictator Enver Hoxha. Now, it's a popular spot for urban explorers.
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Blokku District: Once a restricted area for the communist elite, this vibrant neighborhood is now filled with trendy cafes, bars, and art galleries, perfect for experiencing Tirana's lively atmosphere.
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Tirana’s Grand Park: A peaceful retreat with lakes, walking paths, and the Artificial Lake, ideal for relaxing or a scenic afternoon stroll.
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Eat at Oda Restaurant: Offers an authentic taste of traditional Albanian cuisine, with rustic decor and a cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to enjoy hearty dishes. We went here twice during our short time in Tirana and it was some of the best food we had in the whole of Albania.
WHAT TO DO IN BERAT
Berat, often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Windows," is one of Albania's most picturesque and historic destinations, offering a unique blend of Ottoman architecture, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. Located in central Albania, along the Osum River, Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved historic district, where whitewashed houses with large, arched windows cascade down the slopes of a hill beneath the ancient Berat Castle. The town is a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, with winding cobblestone streets, charming neighborhoods like Mangalem and Gorica, and a backdrop of the stunning Tomorr Mountain
EXPLORE THE MANGALEM DISTRICT OF BERAT
Stroll through Berat’s iconic Mangalem neighborhood, known for its white Ottoman-era houses with large windows that seem to cascade down the hillside. It’s the perfect place to soak in the town’s historic atmosphere. This area is often referred to as the "heart" of Berat. Mangalem is steeped in history, with many of its buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, creating a unique atmosphere that transports visitors back in time. There’s plenty to do in Mangalem, whether you’re interested in exploring the winding streets, admiring the traditional architecture, or soaking in the local culture. The district is home to several important landmarks, including the Lead Mosque and the Bachelor’s Mosque, both of which showcase the rich Ottoman influence in the area. You can also visit the Onufri Museum, located in the Saint Mary’s Church inside the Berat Castle, just a short walk up the hill. But Mangalem is not just about history, it’s also a vibrant area for food, drink, and entertainment. The neighbourhood is lined with traditional Albanian restaurants serving local specialties such as tava e kosit (lamb with yogurt) and byrek (savoury pastries), giving you a real taste of Berat’s culinary heritage. After a delicious meal, you can enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and cafes scattered throughout the district, offering both locals and visitors a lively atmosphere.
VISIT BERAT CASTLE
Visiting Berat Castle is a highlight of any trip to Berat, offering not only a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history but also some of the best panoramic views in Albania. The castle is located on a hilltop above the town, and it’s easily accessible by foot from the town centre, though the climb can be steep in places. If you prefer, you can also take a short drive up to the entrance.
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Walking: Start from Mangalem, the historic district, and head towards the castle hill. The walk is a bit uphill, but it's a scenic route with stunning views of the town and surrounding areas. It takes about 20-30 minutes to reach the castle gates on foot.
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Entrance Fee: there is an entrance fee to access the castle, which typically costs around 300-500 Lekë (about £3-£5), depending on the season and any special events.
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Exploring the Castle: Once inside, you’ll have access to several key areas, including the Castle Walls, the Onufri Museum, and multiple churches, mosques, and watchtowers. Take your time exploring the various sections of the castle, which have been well-preserved and offer a sense of what life might have been like centuries ago.
GO WINE TASTING
Wine tasting in Berat, Albania, was one of the highlights of our road trip, and we couldn't have chosen a better spot than Cobo Winery. You can book by messaging them on Instagram or on WhatsApp here +355 67 407 0562. The family winery is located within a very picturesque setting, surrounded by rolling vineyards, created the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable afternoon. It was a peaceful and delightful way to spend the afternoon in one of Albania's most charming regions. As we arrived, we were greeted by a very welcoming member of the family guided us through the vineyard, explaining the history of the winery and the art of producing wine in this beautiful part of Albania. The wine tasting itself was exceptional, with a carefully curated selection of local wines that ranged from crisp whites to full-bodied reds. Paired with delicious homemade cheese, olives and freshly baked bread. It was an idyllic setting to relax, savor the wines, and immerse ourselves in the local culture.
WHERE TO STAY IN BERAT
Known for its rustic charm and traditional ambiance, Hotel Tradita e Beratit is a standout choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local culture. The hotel’s design reflects Berat’s historical character, offering both comfort and authenticity. Guests can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant, including local specialties like the famous dish "Tradata e Berat". Its location provides easy access to the old town and offers a peaceful atmosphere. We spent two nights here and couldn't recommend it enough. For the price (57 EUR per night), the rooms were very spacious and traditionally decorated with air conditioning which was very needed. Overall the food was stunning and the breakfast in particular was very enjoyable which was included in the price. You can book here or WhatsApp them to book on +355 68 223 3339.
WHERE TO EAT IN BERAT
Berat offers a variety of excellent dining options where you can savor local flavors and traditional Albanian dishes. Here are some of the best places to eat:
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Lily's Food Kitchen:
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A cozy and local eatery that serves a great mix of local and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Known for using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, it’s a favourite for both traditional meals and creative twists on Albanian cuisine. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the food presentation is top-notch.
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- Eni Traditional Food:
- A well-loved spot in Berat, Eni Restaurant offers a fantastic mix of Albanian and Mediterranean dishes, all prepared with fresh ingredients. The laid-back atmosphere and excellent service make it a great choice for a relaxing meal, and the variety of local and regional dishes, including their fresh seafood, makes it a standout.
- Tradita e Beratit:
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Offering a variety of different local platers, Tradita e Beratit is a traditional and hearty hotel and restaurant offering dishes that embody the flavours of the Berat region.
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Gjirokastër, often referred to as the "City of Stone," is a UNESCO World Heritage site that captivates you with its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, charming cobbled streets, and stunning hillside views. Nestled in the south of Albania, this historical town feels like stepping back in time, with its iconic stone houses, ancient castles, and narrow alleys that weave through the old town. The centrepiece of Gjirokastër is the imposing Gjirokastër Castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley and river. As you explore, you'll also discover the town’s vibrant bazaars, local eateries serving traditional Albanian cuisine, such as borëk, as well as fascinating museums that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you're wandering through the old town’s maze-like streets or enjoying a peaceful moment in one of the town's lovely cafes, Gjirokastër provides a beautiful mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination on any Albanian itinerary. There are plenty of accommodation choices here from hostels to guest houses if you wanted to spend the night. We only stopped off here on route to Himarë from Berat and spent a few hours here, which we felt was ample time to explore and experience the highlights.
WHAT TO DO IN HIMARË
As mentioned in our suggested itinerary, we opted to base ourselves in Himarë for the week to explore and the amazing beaches, as well as visit the other nearby towns along the Albanian Riviera by car. However, you could spend 2 nights here, and split the rest of your time between places such as Ksamil, Sarandë or Vlorë. You will find some information about all of these places in the following section. Himarë is a picturesque little town nestled along the stunning Albanian Riviera, offering a serene escape with its crystal-clear waters, charming old town, and laid-back atmosphere. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, this coastal gem boasts some of the most beautiful and uncrowded beaches in Albania. The town itself is a delightful blend of history and modernity, with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional whitewashed houses, and the impressive Himarë Castle offering panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and cafes here for you to enjoy delicious local cuisine, such as seafood, or it's close enough to other little towns such a Dhermi or Qeparo, which means you have the option to venture off to other areas to explore the food they have to offer. We thoroughly enjoyed our time in Himarë. At first, we did question whether or not 6 days was too much time here, however, by the end of the week we were wishing we could have stayed even longer.
VISIT THE PRISTINE BEACHES OF THE ALBANIAN RIVIERA
The Albanian Riviera boasts an abundance of breathtaking and unspoiled beaches, making it a paradise for every kind of traveler. The majority of these beaches are all easily accessible by car from Himarë, or any of the other towns along the riviera. There are too many beaches to list them all, however, here are a few of our favourite, and why;
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Gjiri i Aquarium (aquarium beach): The perfect hidden gem, renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and tranquil, cove-like setting that feels like a natural aquarium. We visited this stunning beach several times and it never felt too busy. This beach is easy to find by using google maps or mapsme, there is a short walk to the beach once you have parked your car.
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Gjipe Beach: Gjipe is a secluded gem surrounded by dramatic cliffs and a stunning canyon. This beach is slightly less accessible, as it requires a a 30-minute hike or boat to get to. However, its untouched beauty and turquoise waters make it a must-visit.
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Gjiri i Gramës (Grama Bay): This off the beaten path beach is only accessible only by boat or a challenging 2-4 hour hike. This remote bay is surrounded by rugged cliffs and features ancient inscriptions on the rocks. Perfect for a day of adventurers.
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Gjiri i Filikurit: Located a short drive from Himarë, this stunning beach (more on this below), is a secluded paradise accessible only by boat or a steep abseil/hike down. Not for the faint hearted, however, Gjiri i Filikurit offers unspoiled beauty and serene turquoise waters. When we visited we had the entire beach to ourselves for several hours, we would definitely recommend coming early and experiencing the true beauty of this beach for yourself.
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Jale Beach: A vibrant beach, with crystal clear waters - popular with younger crowds, offering lively beach bars, watersports, and nightlife.
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Llamani Beach: Located just off the side of the road, near Himarë, Llamani is a picturesque retreat known for its vibrant turquoise waters, pebbled shore, and tranquil ambiance surrounded by lush hills. Here you must pay for a sun bed, you'll also find bars and restaurants.
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Porto Palermo Bay: Home to a small beach near Ali Pasha Castle, this spot is great for history lovers and those seeking a quieter place to swim.
EXPLORE THE ALBANIAN RIVIERA BY CAR
The stretch of coastline along the Albanian Riviera is filled with charming towns, stunning beaches, and a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for vibrant nightlife, secluded coves, or traditional villages, the Riviera has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the towns along this breathtaking coastline and our opinions on whether you should explore them (We have not included Himarë in the below as we have already covered it in the above paragraphs):
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Dhërmi:
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Positives: Dhërmi is a stunning coastal village that effortlessly blends natural beauty with charm. Nestled between the Ionian Sea and rugged mountains, its crystal-clear waters and picturesque beaches, like Drymades Beach, make it a serene escape. The village’s cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses, and vibrant greenery create a peaceful, almost timeless atmosphere. Dhermi offers a perfect mix of relaxation and authentic Albanian charm. Visit the beautiful Zoe Hora hotel, located at the top of Dhërmi which feature a luxury infinity pool overlooking the town and the coastline beneath.
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Negatives: Overall, Dhërmi is a great town to visit or base yourself for a few days, here you'll find fewer bars and restaurants.
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Ksamil:
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Positives: Also known as "The Maldives of Europe", Ksamil boasts pristine beaches and turquoise waters lined with "Bali" style beach clubs and bars for visitors to enjoy the famous Albanian sunsets.
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Negatives: We had high hopes for Ksamil, but unfortunately, our experience was far from enjoyable, and we wouldn't recommend it to anyone based off our personal experience. The town felt overly touristy, dirty, and tacky, with little charm. The beaches were packed with tourists, leaving no space to relax or lie down. The shorelines were filled with people trying to capture the ideal shot, which only added to the overcrowded and chaotic vibe. To make matters worse, the noise and music from the beach bars were overwhelmingly loud, making it feel more like we were at a nightclub than a peaceful beach destination. Overall, Ksamil felt far from the idyllic getaway we had initially pictured, and we left after only an hour of being there.
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Sarandë:
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Positives: The gateway to the Albanian Riviera, Sarandë is a lively seaside town known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning views of Corfu. If you decide to spend a few nights here there is certainly not a lack of things to do and see, such as; explore Lekursi Castle for panoramic views of the town, visit the Butrint National Park as well as the famous Blue Eye Spring. Sarandë is perfect for those seeking a mix of tourist attractions, history, and lively city vibes.
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Negatives: We visited Sarandë for the day, however, we did not particular enjoy the atmosphere here. We found Sarandë to be much more built-up, touristy, and busy compared to Himarë, with crowded beaches and fewer off-the-beaten-path places to explore, making it feel less authentic and more commercialised.
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Qeparo:
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Positives: A picturesque village with two distinct parts: "Upper Qeparo", the old village perched on a hill and "Lower Qeparo", the newer, trendier coastal area. Here you can walk through the cobbled streets of Old Qeparo for stunning views and traditional stone houses and also relax at Qeparo Beach, a quiet alternative to the busier beaches along the Riviera.
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Negatives: While Qeparo, offers a picturesque and peaceful escape, there are a few potential downsides to consider when visiting or staying there, its limited infrastructure, steep terrain and slower pace may not be suitable for everyone.
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ABSEIL DOWN TO THE SECRET BEACH OF GJIRI I FILIKURIT
Tucked away on the stunning Albanian Riviera, Gjiri i Filikurit is a hidden gem that promises tranquility and natural beauty. Accessible only by boat or a steep descend down to the pebblestone beach, this secluded bay offers a peaceful escape from the bustling crowds of more tourist-heavy destinations. Only a short drive from Himarë, the crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for a refreshing swim, while the surrounding cliffs and greenery create a serene, untouched atmosphere. With its remote location, Gjiri i Filikurit remains largely undisturbed, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet day surrounded by nature. For adventurous travellers, this hidden bay is a must-visit, offering a true taste of Albania's unspoiled coastline. The bay is very easy to find, and you can find the location on Google maps or Mapsme. You will need to walk through the undergrowth towards the edge of the cliff in order to find the start of the descent (you will know when you are in the right spot as the is a white rope attached to the top of the cliff to aid your descent down to the beach). This beach was one of our favourite memories from our time in Albania. We arrived around 9am and had the entire beach to ourselves until around 11am. The bay started to fill up slightly more with one or two boats from around midday onwards. This is the perfect spot to pack a book and some sandwiches and spend the day, we couldn't recommend enough.
ENJOY THE ALBANIAN SUNSETS
The sunsets along the Albanian Riviera are nothing short of breathtaking, with Himarë Beach offering some of the most spectacular views. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a vibrant canvas of orange, pink, and purple hues, reflecting off the tranquil waters of the Ionian Sea. The peaceful atmosphere and stunning scenery make it the perfect spot to relax and watch the day come to a beautiful end. There are plenty of beach bars here where you can grab a beer and play some card games as you enjoy the views.
DRIVE ALONG THE LLOGARA PASS
After your week spent exploring the Albanian Riviera, it's time to move onwards and away from the coastline. To do this, you will need to take the famous The Llogara Pass. The Llogara Pass offers one of the most stunning drives along the Albanian Riviera, taking you through winding roads that climb dramatically from the coast to the mountains. As you ascend, the landscape transforms, with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea unfolding below and lush, forested hills rising around you. The journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring, with each turn revealing a new breathtaking view in front of you. The pass itself, perched high above the coastline, provides an exhilarating experience, where the contrast between the vibrant blue sea and the green mountains creates a picture-perfect scene. From here, you will have the option to either carry on towards the last stop on our itinerary, Shkodër, or head back towards Tirana or onto the Albanian Alps. It takes approximately 4 hours to reach Shkodër from The Llogara Pass, or a 3 hour drive back to Tirana. There is another potential stop along the way which is the charming little town of Krujë, however, we didn't have time to visit here.
WHAT TO DO IN SHKODËR
Shkodër, located in the north of Albania, is one of the country’s oldest and most vibrant cities, rich in history and natural beauty. Situated near the stunning Lake Shkodra, the largest lake in the Balkans, the city offers spectacular views and opportunities for outdoor activities like boating and hiking. Shkodër is also home to important cultural landmarks such as the Rozafa Castle, which overlooks the town and provides a glimpse into the city’s ancient past, as well as the Historical Museum of Shkodër, which showcases the region’s diverse cultural heritage. The city is known for its lively atmosphere, with bustling markets, cafes, and restaurants serving delicious traditional Albanian dishes. As the final stop on the Albanian road trip, Shkodër will leave you with a blend of history, nature, and vibrant local life; definitely an essential stop for anyone looking to explore the lesser-known gems of Albania.
ROZAFA CASTLE
Visiting Rozafa Castle in Shkodër is a must for anyone exploring the city’s rich history and stunning views. Perched high on a hill overlooking the town and Lake Shkodra, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Steeped in legend and centuries of history, Rozafa Castle dates back to Illyrian times and has served as a strategic stronghold throughout various periods. As you wander through its ancient walls, you’ll uncover fascinating ruins, including remnants of old fortifications, towers, and a small museum that provides insight into the castle’s past. The combination of historical significance and scenic beauty makes Rozafa Castle a captivating stop during your visit to Shkodër.
VISIT THE MESI STONE BRIDGE
The Mesi Stone Bridge near Shkodër is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape into nature and history. Built in the 18th century, this well-preserved Ottoman bridge spans the Kir River and is a stunning example of traditional Albanian architecture. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene landscape, the bridge creates a picturesque scene that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a photo opportunity or even a swim. We didn't bring our swim gear when visiting as we weren't aware of this, however, many of the locals and children were taking a dip under bridge in the crystal clear pools. The quiet ambiance and historical charm of the Mesi Stone Bridge make it an ideal spot to relax and take in the beauty of the region.
LAKE SKADAR
Lake Skadar, shared by Albania and Montenegro, is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in the Balkans, offering a tranquil escape just outside Shkoder. The lake’s crystal-clear waters are surrounded by picturesque mountains, lush wetlands, and charming villages, making it a perfect destination to spend the day. Here you can enjoy boat tours to explore the lake’s many islands, observe diverse birdlife in the protected wetlands, or simply relax by the water's edge. Whether you're hiking, birdwatching, or enjoying a peaceful boat ride, Lake Skadar offers a serene and unforgettable experience amidst stunning natural beauty.
WHERE TO STAY IN SHKODËR
There are many different types of accommodation choices available in Shkodër, offering a unique experience, whether you're seeking a more traditional, nature-filled getaway or a luxurious, modern hotel stay. Some of the best places to stay are:
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Hotel Tradita:
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A charming, traditional hotel offering a cozy, rustic atmosphere and a perfect blend of comfort and local culture. Located near the city center, it’s ideal for exploring Shkodër's historic sites, including Rozafa Castle and the pedestrianized main square. The hotel also offers a fantastic restaurant serving traditional Albanian cuisine, adding to the authentic experience.
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Hotel Colosseo:
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A modern and upscale option, Hotel Colosseo offers comfortable rooms with contemporary amenities and great service. It's located a bit outside the city center, providing a quieter atmosphere with a luxurious feel. The hotel also features a restaurant, bar, and a large outdoor pool, making it a good choice for those seeking a more relaxed, resort-style stay.
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Shkodra Lake Resort:
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For those who prefer to be closer to nature, Shkodra Lake Resort is a great option. Situated near Lake Skadar, the resort offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful lake views.
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Embarking on a road trip through Albania was an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most hidden gems. Albania makes it easily into one of our top 5 destinations and we cannot wait to go back! From the rugged beauty of the Albanian Riviera with its pristine beaches to the historical treasures of cities, Albania’s diversity and charm continuously amazed us. We explored breathtaking landscapes, hiked along the coastline to the most amazing and secluded beaches, and discovered ancient castles and bunkers at every turn, vibrant towns, and welcoming locals along the way. The stunning natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, all made Albania the perfect destination! This road trip itinerary unveiled the best of Albania, leaving us with so many amazing memories. Whether you're seeking hidden beaches, historic sites, or simply an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Albania offers it all!