Tucked between Greece, Montenegro, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea lies one of Europe’s most underrated gems—Albania. In 2025, Albania is rapidly gaining attention as a must-visit destination for nature lovers, cultural explorers, digital nomads, and budget travelers alike. With pristine beaches, ancient ruins, Alpine villages, and warm hospitality, Albania offers a unique blend of Mediterranean beauty and Balkan charm.
This guide lists the best places to visit in Albania in 2025—perfect for planning your dream getaway.
1. Ksamil – Albania’s Tropical Paradise
Often compared to the Maldives, Ksamil is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and offshore islands. Located in southern Albania near the Greek border, Ksamil is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or renting a boat to explore the nearby islets.
Top activities:
Island hopping
Snorkeling
Sunset dining at beachfront restaurants
2. Butrint – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Just a short drive from Ksamil lies Butrint, an ancient city that dates back to the 7th century BC. This archaeological wonder is surrounded by a lush national park, making it one of the top places to visit in Albania for history lovers.
Don’t miss:
Roman amphitheater
Venetian towers
Butrint Museum
3. Tirana – The Colorful Capital
Albania’s capital Tirana is a vibrant mix of Ottoman, Fascist, and Soviet architecture combined with modern art, parks, and trendy cafés. With its bold energy and ever-changing skyline, Tirana is the cultural and political heartbeat of Albania.
Must-see places:
Skanderbeg Square
Bunk’Art museums
Pyramid of Tirana
4. Theth – Alpine Village in the Accursed Mountains
If you’re into hiking, Theth National Park is a dream come true. This remote village in the Albanian Alps offers scenic trails, traditional stone houses, and one of the best hikes in the Balkans: Theth to Valbona Pass.
Highlights:
The Blue Eye of Theth
Grunas Waterfall
Traditional guesthouses
5. Valbona Valley – Rugged Natural Beauty
Right across the mountain from Theth lies Valbona Valley, another alpine paradise filled with forests, peaks, and meadows. It’s a popular base for trekking and photography.
Ideal for:
Multi-day hikes
Wildlife watching
Remote nature retreats
6. Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat is one of the oldest towns in Albania and a UNESCO site known for its white Ottoman houses stacked on hillsides. With cobbled streets and castle ruins, it’s a living museum of Albanian culture.
Things to explore:
Berat Castle
Onufri Iconography Museum
Mangalem & Gorica neighborhoods
7. Dhermi – Hidden Coastal Treasure
Located along the Albanian Riviera, Dhermi is a small beach town with crystal-clear waters, cave beaches, and buzzing nightlife in the summer. It’s quieter than Ksamil, but equally beautiful.
Don’t miss:
Drymades Beach
Pirate’s Cave
Dhermi Monastery
8. Himara – Slow Travel Paradise
A laid-back seaside town with Greek influence, Himara is perfect for relaxing days and peaceful nights. If you want fewer crowds but stunning views, Himara is one of the best places to visit in Albania.
Activities:
Explore Livadhi Beach
Visit the old Himara Castle
Sample fresh seafood
9. Gjirokastër – Stone City of the South
Another UNESCO gem, Gjirokastër is built on a hill with stone houses, steep alleys, and a massive fortress. It’s also the birthplace of Enver Hoxha and Ismail Kadare.
Top sights:
Gjirokastër Castle
Ethnographic Museum
Ottoman bazaar
10. Saranda – Gateway to the South
Saranda is a popular port town and a base for exploring the Albanian Riviera. With ferries from Corfu, it’s one of the most accessible places to start your Albanian adventure.
Best experiences:
Lekuresi Castle views
Mirror (Pasqyra) Beach
Nightlife along the promenade
11. Llogara Pass – Scenic Drive of a Lifetime
Between Dhermi and Orikum lies Llogara Pass, a dramatic mountain road offering one of the most scenic drives in Europe. From here, you’ll see the Ionian Sea and surrounding peaks in all their glory.
12. Shkoder – Northern Cultural Capital
Located near the Montenegro border, Shkoder is a city of art, photography, and bicycles. It’s also the gateway to the Albanian Alps and Lake Shkodra.
Must-visit spots:
Rozafa Castle
Marubi Photography Museum
Lake Shkoder
13. Zvërnec Island – A Hidden Gem
Connected by a wooden bridge, Zvërnec Island is home to a 13th-century Byzantine monastery, surrounded by the Narta Lagoon. A peaceful, photogenic escape near Vlora.
14. Divjakë-Karavasta National Park – Nature Lover’s Paradise
This park houses Albania’s largest lagoon and is home to the rare Dalmatian Pelican. Kayaking through mangroves or bird-watching here is a must-do.
15. Porto Palermo – Secret Castle by the Sea
Nestled between Himara and Qeparo, Porto Palermo boasts a unique triangular fortress once used by Ali Pasha. The secluded bay is perfect for kayaking and diving.
16. Kruja – The Castle of Skanderbeg
This historic town is closely linked to Albania’s national hero, Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. Visit the Kruja Castle and traditional bazaar to get a glimpse of Albania’s medieval history.
17. Vlora – Where the Seas Meet
Vlora is where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas converge. It’s also where Albania declared independence in 1912. With its beaches, port, and cafes, Vlora is emerging as a vibrant coastal city.
18. Permet – The Thermal City
Located in southern Albania, Permet is famous for its hot springs, Byzantine bridges, and rock climbing in the nearby Lengarica Canyon.
19. Osumi Canyons – Albania’s Grand Canyon
For thrill-seekers, the Osumi Canyons near Çorovodë offer opportunities for rafting, canyoning, and cliff jumping. Visit in spring for full water levels.
20. Apollonia – Ancient Greek Ruins
Once a major Greek city, Apollonia is now a vast archaeological park filled with columns, temples, and a Byzantine monastery. It’s an excellent day trip from Fier or Vlora.
Best Time to Visit Albania
Spring (April – June): Ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (July – August): Perfect for beaches, but more crowded.
Autumn (September – October): Great weather with fewer tourists.
Winter (December – February): Snowy Alps and budget-friendly city stays.
Final Tips for Albania Travel
Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
Language: Albanian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)
Transport: Buses are cheap, but renting a car offers more freedom
Safety: Albania is generally safe for travelers
Final Thoughts: Why Albania Should Be Your Next Destination
Albania is no longer a hidden secret. With its breathtaking nature, rich history, friendly locals, and low prices, it’s becoming one of Europe’s hottest destinations in 2025.
Whether you’re drawn to sun-soaked beaches, snowy peaks, or ancient cities, you’ll find plenty of unforgettable places to visit in Albania.
