Hello everyone, and a warm welcome to our ultimate Albania travel guide! Get ready for an epic trip to Albania because it’s one of our personal must-visit spots and it just has to be on your 2024 summer bucket list. Albania might not be that hidden gem anymore but don’t worry, you’re still ahead of the crowd if you plan your visit this year.
If you haven’t seen it yet, Albania is absolutely stunning – imagine a mix of Greece, Italy, and Croatia, but with even friendlier locals and more affordable prices! The mountains will leave you speechless, the Mediterranean beaches are breathtaking, and the food is simply to die for. On top of all that, Albania has a rich history, diverse culture, and a unique blend of Ottoman Empire and Italian influences.
Having explored Albania in 2023, we can say it was an unforgettable journey. Now, we’re excited to share our tips with you so you can start on your own incredible Albania trip!
- Albania Travel Guide – Quick Facts & Tips
- Albania Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – Best Places to Visit in Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – Costs of Traveling in Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – How to Get Around in Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – What to Pack for Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – How Much Time You Need in Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – Best Time to Visit Albania
- Albania Travel Guide – Best Places to Stay in Albania
- The Best Albania Travel Guide 2024 – Final Words
Albania Travel Guide – Quick Facts & Tips
Language
Firstly, the official language is Albanian, but you’ll be pleasantly surprised to discover that many locals, especially in tourist spots and among the younger crowd, speak English very well. It’s always a good idea to pick up a few basic Albanian phrases – a simple “Faleminderit” (thank you) can make a big difference!
Currency
Albania’s currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL). While you’ll find plenty of ATMs in bigger cities and touristy spots, cash still rules. Plus, ATMs hit you with hefty fees when you withdraw. The only fee-free option we found was with Credins Bank in Tirana. So, if you’re okay with carrying a bit more cash (Albanian Lek), stacking up in Tirana is a smart move.
Plugs & Adapters
The standard voltage in Albania is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. The plugs and sockets are Type C and F, so make sure to bring a universal adapter if you’re coming from outside of Europe.
Safety
Albania is truly one of the safest countries I’ve visited. Or at least where I’ve felt the safest. The locals here are incredibly friendly and always ready to assist. Just like anywhere else, using common sense and being aware of your surroundings is key, but I’ve never felt uneasy no matter where I wandered.
Albania Travel Guide – Best Things to do in Albania
When Albania is so close to Greece in the Mediterranean Sea, it’s no surprise that there’s a ton of cool and fun stuff to do in Albania, especially in summer. From hiking to enjoying the beautiful beaches, Albania truly has the potential to be your number one European summer destination.
1. Take a Boat Trip
First up, consider taking a boat trip along the Albanian Riviera. It’s one of the most stunning stretches of beaches and cliffs you can imagine, and what makes it even better is that it’s not as pricey or crowded as Italy or Greece. A boat trip here can be quite affordable and a lot of fun, thanks to the variety of beaches to explore, some of which are only accessible by boat. For a great boat charter, head down south to Sarande. Look into booking with Ajla Boat in advance; they offer sunset cruises and snorkeling trips all around the Albanian Riviera.
2. Hike from Theth to Valbona
When we explored Albania, one of our go-to activities was hiking. Yes, you heard it right, hiking is a big deal in Albania, especially in the north. Valbona and Theth stand out as two national parks in the Albanian Alps, and trekking from one to the other offers an incredible way to soak in the country’s natural beauty. The hike typically spans 6-8 hours, treating you to breathtaking views of the accursed mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and charming villages along the route. Don’t forget to pack plenty of water, snacks, and comfy shoes for the journey. This hike is just perfect for nature lovers!
Click here to check out our full guide on the Theth to Valbona hike!
3. Try all the Yummy Food
Alright folks, listen up, things are getting real here. The food in Albania is absolutely amazing. We highly recommend diving into the local cuisine as much as you can. From mouthwatering seafood straight from the Mediterranean to hearty mountain dishes and delicious pastries, Albania caters to every taste.
Don’t miss out on these must-have dishes: Byrek – a tasty pastry stuffed with meat or cheese, and Fergese – a mix of peppers, tomatoes, and cheese. And don’t forget to enjoy some local raki or wine alongside. Just a heads-up, the wine is super affordable here; every time we went for dinner, we got a whole bottle for around $5.
4. Explore the Blue Eye
If you’re up for something a bit different from the usual beach scene and stunning turquoise waters, make sure to swing by the famous Blue Eye of Albania. This natural water spring is such a cool little spot, with the water having some of the most breathtaking colors and natural beauty you’ll ever see. It’s just a short drive away from Ksamil, so you can hop on a bus or take a leisurely drive there yourself. Arrive early though, as it tends to get pretty crowded, especially during mid-summer!
5. Discover Albania’s History & Culture
Albania is full of impressive places and beautiful architecture. It’s a shame if you’re not even trying to learn a bit about the local history and culture. The history here is hugely influenced by the Ottoman Empire and Italian vibes, which you can spot in the ancient ruins, mosques, and churches scattered around. Our favorites were definitely Berat and Gjirokastra, both with UNESCO World Heritage status. You also shouldn’t miss Butrint National Park with its ancient Greek ruins—it’s close to Ksamil, an easy day trip for you!
Tirana, the capital, is a fantastic place to dive into Albania’s history and culture. I highly recommend taking a free walking tour through the city center. The free walking tours are excellent, and with a $5-$10 tip, you’re supporting locals while gaining valuable insights into the city.
Albania Travel Guide – Best Places to Visit in Albania
When we explored Albania, we were short on time, so we really focused on a few key spots instead of rushing through many places. Following our road trip, here are the top must-visit spots in Albania that you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
1. Himare
Himare is probably our favorite spot in the whole of Albania. It’s a small coastal town with some of the most stunning beaches we’ve ever seen. The vibe here is super chill, and it never felt too crowded, even in peak season. We loved hiking (it’s really more of a climb) down to Filikuri Beach, a secluded little beach near Himare. Alternatively, you can opt to rent a kayak and paddle your way over.
2. Sarande
Sarande is another coastal town that’s a bit bigger than Himare, but a great base for exploring the Albanian Riviera. You can easily head down to Himare for a day or two from Sarande, but what’s really cool is that you can hop on the ferry to Korfu, and boom, you’re in Greece. We did this for a weekend and it was hands down one of the highlights of our trip.
3. Berat
Let’s switch gears from the coast and delve into some history and culture. Berat, known as “the city of a thousand windows” and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands out as our top pick for that! This charming and distinct little town boasts beautiful architecture and welcoming locals eager to share their insights about Berat’s history. Make sure to try the local food and wine offerings while you’re here; the quality you get for your money is unbeatable.
4. Shkoder
Up in the north of Albania, near the Albanian Alps, lies Shkoder, which was definitely another base for exploration for us and also the gateway to northern Albania. You can easily rent a room at a guesthouse or hotel here and then kick off your adventure in the region. From here, you can check out Komani Lake and tackle the Theth to Valbona hike. The town itself is super cute with tons of awesome restaurants and bars.
Click here to check out our full guide on where to stay in Shkoder
5. Ksamil
I know, I know, Ksamil is super overrun by tourists, but we just couldn’t resist the call of those gorgeous beaches. The beaches might be packed with people, but they’re also insanely beautiful with some of the clearest water we’ve ever seen. Plus, the town is really small and walkable compared to other popular spots like Sarande or Vlora. It’s also a great base to explore Albania’s southern coast and visit nearby attractions like Butrint National Park.
Click here to check out our full guide on where to stay in Ksamil
Albania Travel Guide – Costs of Traveling in Albania
After tallying up our expenses from our road trip through Albania, we can confidently say that it falls on the more budget-friendly side of European countries. While it may be pricier compared to many non-European destinations, when you stack it against its neighboring countries like Greece and Montenegro, Albania is remarkably affordable, offering great value for your money. To give you a glimpse of what your expenses might look like, we’ve laid out the costs for key aspects of our stay here in our Albania Travel Guide.
Accommodation:
As in most countries, accommodation costs will vary depending on your preferences and budget. I know there are definitely folks who will travel more on a shoestring budget than we do, and there are those who will travel more bougie, but I reckon we’re pretty much set on a mid-range budget, sometimes even leaning towards the low-budget side. Our accommodation usually runs around 35-45 Euros per night, with some exceptions based on location and amenities. We’ve stayed in a mix of hostels, guesthouses, and Airbnbs, all of which were pretty cozy and comfortable.
Food:
Oh boy, the food! As we mentioned earlier, Albania has delicious food at very affordable prices. On average, we would spend around $10-15 per person for a meal, including drinks. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can easily find street food and local eateries where you could get a filling meal for around $2-5 per person.
Transportation:
As we traveled by car, our expenses for transportation were mainly fuel costs. But if you’re not planning on renting a car, public transportation in Albania is surprisingly efficient and affordable. Buses are the main mode of transport, with fares ranging from $1-5 depending on the distance. Our rental car was also super affordable and we only spent around $30 a day which I thought was insanely cheap for a rental! Oh, and one more thing, when you’re in Tirana, check out Lux Taxi – it’s like a more affordable version of Uber.
Activities:
One of the best things about Albania is that most activities and sightseeing spots are either free or extremely affordable. For example, entrance to Butrint National Park was only $10 per person, and hiking in Theth and Valbona was completely free. Of course, some activities like water sports or guided tours may cost a bit more, but overall we found that we were able to do a lot without breaking the bank.
Overall, we spent around $45-50 per day on average during our time in Albania. Of course, this may vary depending on your travel style and preferences, but we hope this gives you an idea of what to expect when planning your trip to Albania.
Albania Travel Guide – How to Get Around in Albania
Getting around in Albania is a topic we’re pretty passionate about – our strong opinion: go for the rental car!
You might wonder why we’re so keen to talk about rental cars in this Albania Travel Guide. To put it simply, rental cars are super affordable, and Albania’s public transport is not the best. Still, we want to share all our info in case you opt for public transport over a rental car.
Rental Car:
When you arrive in Albania, you’ll probably find yourself in Tirana, the capital, which is the perfect place to grab your rental wheels, either at the airport or downtown. You’ve got your usual suspects like Sixt or Avis, but there are also plenty of local car rental joints with top-notch service and killer deals. We decided to go with Eurocar Rentals, and those guys were awesome – no hiccups at all. We spent about $25 a day, but I noticed that during the shoulder season, you can snag a rental for as low as $15 a day, and that still blows my mind that you can get a rental car for this cheap!
Once you’ve got your wheels, it’s time to hit the road. Having a car really pays off because you’re your boss – go wherever, whenever. It made such a huge difference to our whole experience, and maybe we wouldn’t have enjoyed our time as much if we didn’t have the car. We had such a great time cruising through northern Albania at our own pace. Down south, we discovered numerous hidden beaches away from the tourist crowds just by taking a short drive out of town. Our experience with the rental car was absolutely top-notch, a solid 10 out of 10!
Public Transport:
Public transport in Albania is definitely something the country will have to work on to accommodate the increasing number of tourists in recent years. While there is a functioning public transport system, there is certainly room for improvement.
In towns like Berat or Sarande, not having a car is perfectly fine. Walking is convenient, there are public buses available, and taxis are quite affordable. So, if you’re not planning extensive exploration, skipping the rental car won’t be a deal-breaker. However, if you intend to visit other parts of Albania and explore different cities, public transport might make things just a little too inconvenient.
Although there are connections between major cities and tourist spots, buses may have limited schedules, lack air conditioning, get overcrowded, and you might even find yourself sitting on a plastic stool in the aisle (as we did). Seasoned backpackers won’t mind these inconveniences, but if you seek a more relaxed European summer trip, renting a car is the way to go.
Albania Travel Guide – What to Pack for Albania
When you’re getting ready for a trip to Albania, what to pack honestly depends on what you’re planning to do while you’re there. Albania has different climates depending on where you are, so make sure you’re ready for whatever comes your way. Up in the north, the Albanian Alps can get a bit chilly with higher elevations, so pack some layers, especially if you’re thinking of hitting the trails. If you’re heading there in the off-season or even in winter, be prepared for snow and some seriously cold temps up in the north.
On the other side, the South and the Albanian Riviera are a whole different story! If you’re visiting during the summer months, load up on sunscreen and beach gear because it can hit up to 40 degrees Celsius. Also, remember that some items might be hard to come by in Albania, so bring along any special meds or toiletries you might need.
But let’s get more specific with some essential items that we think you shouldn’t forget when packing for Albania:
- Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll definitely need these, especially if you plan on exploring the cities or going for hikes.
- Swimsuit: The beaches in Albania are stunning and definitely worth a visit!
- Light clothing: For the summer months, pack light and breathable clothes to keep yourself cool.
- Rain jacket or umbrella: Depending on when and where you’re traveling, it’s always good to be prepared for some unexpected rain.
- Adapter: Albania uses European-style plugs, so make sure to bring an adapter if you need one.
- Portable charger/power bank: If you plan on being out all day, this will definitely come in handy for keeping your devices charged.
- Insect repellent: Especially if you’re planning on camping or spending a lot of time outdoors, insect repellent is a must.
- First aid kit: It’s always good to have some basic medical supplies on hand in case of emergencies.
- Cash: While some places do accept credit cards, most transactions in Albania are still done in cash. Make sure to have enough cash on hand for your trip.
Albania Travel Guide – How Much Time You Need in Albania
How much time do I need in Albania? This question comes up quite often, and in this Albania Travel Guide we’re here to provide some answers.
Depending on what you want to do and where you want to go, Albania is a relatively compact country. You could take it slow and spend a few months here, or enjoy a typical 2-3 week vacation and still have a great time.
We personally spent nearly a month in Albania, which we found to be an amazing stretch, but we get it – most folks might only have a couple of weeks for their summer break. That’s why we’ve put together a 2-week itinerary for Albania that we think hits the sweet spot. It offers a taste of everything, but hey, feel free to mix it up to suit your style.
FYI: If you want to see our full 2-week Albania Itinerary click here
If you’re still worried about not having enough time for all the things you want to do, we’ve got your back with some top tips to maximize your Albanian adventure:
- Renting a car beats public transportation any day! It saves time and adds flexibility to your adventures.
- Start with your top must-see spots and activities. List out your absolute favorites that you feel like you can’t miss and then plan your trip around them.
- Pick either north or south. If you’re all about the beach life, focus more on sandy shores than mountain hikes.
- Opt for the shoulder season (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds and still awesome weather.
- Early birds get the best spots! Whether it’s a beach day in Ksamil, the ferry to Korfu, or a hike from Theth to Valbona, beat the rush for a smoother and also quicker experience.
- Join local tours for hassle-free planning and a guaranteed good time. We’re usually not the biggest fan of pre-booked and organized tours, but it definitely saves you time and the stress of planning. It’s the key to a well-structured day full of fun!
Albania Travel Guide – Best Time to Visit Albania
I won’t give you a month-by-month in this Albania travel guide because I think that might be a bit much, but Albania’s different seasons offer unique experiences. Summer (June-August) is the obvious choice for many with its hot weather and stunning beaches – totally understandable. However, Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-October), which essentially make up the shoulder season in Albania, have their own charms (which I’m a big fan of). Then there’s the off-season, winter (November – February), with its own surprises but let’s get a little more into it all:
Summer (June-August)
Let’s kick off with the obvious choice – Summer in Albania! It’s arguably the best time for a full-on beach vacation with scorching hot days reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. If that’s your vibe, then summer is your jam because the water in Albania tends to be a tad chilly, making a beach getaway during the heatwave just perfect. But hey, summer also means it’s party time in Albania, especially in Ksamil. 2023 was already buzzing with crowds, so I bet 2024 will be an even bigger fiesta. So, my tip – snag a resort or hotel with private beach access to at least get some tranquility and privacy in the hustle and bustle. On the flip side, if you are all about hiking and sightseeing, the high temperatures and tourist hordes can make it a bit of a challenge.
Spring (March-May)
I’m a big fan of visiting Albania in the spring. It’s like the country wakes up with a burst of energy and colors. This time of year has plenty of perks. If you’re into hiking and exploring, the milder temperatures around 25 degrees Celsius are much more pleasant. Trust me, the milder climate will make your experience so much better, especially on the Theth to Valbona hike or exploring cities like Berat and Gjirokaster. You’ll likely avoid the summer vacation crowds, and Albania is more affordable this time of year with better deals on hotels and car rentals.
Autumn (September-October)
Similar to spring, autumn is a great time to visit Albania as the weather begins to cool down and the tourist crowds start to disappear. It’s still warm enough for beach days but also pleasant for exploring cities or hiking in the mountains. Plus, it’s harvest season, so you can really enjoy some of the freshest and most delicious produce all around the country. It’s also a great time to catch cultural events and festivals, including the popular Tirana International Film Festival.
Winter (November-February)
Alright, last but not least is Winter in Albania! It’s a hidden gem you might not have considered. The winter season there is packed with surprises and stunning beauty. If you’re dreaming of a white Christmas in Europe minus the usual holiday chaos, and you fancy some skiing without breaking the bank, Albania is the spot for you. Many areas in the country get heavy snowfall, and Albania even boasts a ski resort called Bigell Dardhe. While it only has two lifts, they also offer Heliski Albania, an off-piste skiing adventure guided by experts that takes you to untouched powder via helicopter!
Albania Travel Guide – Best Places to Stay in Albania
While Albania is still developing its hotel and hostel options, the country offers plenty of fantastic places to stay. Here are a few standout spots we love – make sure to check them out if you can arrange it:
Rea Boutique Hotel
Located right on the beach in Himare, the Rea Boutique Hotel is just perfect for a beachy getaway. It has a modern design, private balconies, and a rooftop terrace with breathtaking views, it’s the ultimate spot to chill out after a day by the ocean. Some of the private rooms even feature a freestanding spa on their balcony with jaw-dropping bay views that are absolutely mind-blowing and feel extra special.
Check for availability & rates
Santa Oliva Suites
For the most spectacular views in Albania (yes, we’re serious), Santa Oliva Suites is the top pick. Nestled on a hill near Ksamil, this charming Mediterranean-style hotel offers a stunning terrace with breathtaking views of the entire Albanian Riviera. While the rooms may not be the most modern, they are cozy and clean, and overall, the experience is just great.
Check for availability & rates
Hotel Loredano
This one was a delightful surprise. Situated in the heart of Shkoder in northern Albania, Hotel Loredano has such a unique charm that makes it one of the loveliest hotels we’ve visited. The design strikes a perfect balance between traditional and modern. If you find yourself in Shkoder, definitely consider staying here—besides, the breakfast is absolutely superb.
Check for availability & rates
The Best Albania Travel Guide 2024 – Final Words
All in all, we truly believe visiting Albania is an amazing experience to consider adding to your European bucket list for 2024. The country offers a diverse range of experiences, from its picturesque mountains and hiking trails in the north to its historic cities and stunning coastlines boasting white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters.
There’s another side to the story, with Albania feeling slightly unprepared for the current influx of tourists (which is not the country’s fault), leading to some discomfort. The roads may not be spacious enough to handle the traffic, hotels might not always be in pristine condition, and beaches can get overcrowded with sunbeds.
Just a friendly reminder not to compare Albania to Greece or Italy yet. It’s still a work in progress. However, if you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, exploring somewhere new that most of your friends and family haven’t ventured to, and craving a unique vacation experience, then Albania is the place for you.
So, wrapping up this Albania Travel Guide, we genuinely hope you consider venturing to this beautiful Balkan country soon. Happy travels!
