7 Top Attractions in Albania

Among Europe’s last hidden gems, Albania remains a country undiscovered and misunderstood by worldly travelers. But for those visiting the Balkans, Albania is a nation full of ancient history, untouched nature, and fascinating culture. From ruins dating back thousands of years to its religious diversity, Albania intrigues curious minds.

If you’re clueless about where to visit, we’ve listed some of the best sights in Albania for you. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, nature, or urban life, it’s not hard to find here. So, book your ticket and get ready to explore one of Europe’s least-visited countries.

Tirana

Tirana is the bustling heartbeat in the center of Albania. It’s the capital and largest city of Albania and has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Wander around its corridors to find remnants from the days of Ottoman and Communist rule.

Noted for its statue of national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, Skanderbeg Square is the centerpiece of Tirana. The square is designed in Neo-Renaissance style and holds many of the most famous structures in Albania. Cultural sites situated around Skanderbeg Square include the National History Museum, Opera & Ballet Theatre, Et’hem Bej Mosque, and Tirana City Hall.

Reminiscent to Albania’s communist days of the 20th century, the Pyramid of Tirana is an abandoned structure some travellers love climbing for panoramic views. Another fascinating Communist relic, Bunk’Art 2 delves into the history of the former dictatorship and secret police. And diving deeper into Albanian history, what remains of the medieval Tirana Castle is now a popular hangout with cafés and restaurants.

Albanian Riviera

If the crowds of Greece appear daunting, why not opt for the Albanian Riviera instead? While this patch of pristine coastline is the most popular getaway in Albania, it’s tame compared to European beach destinations. Known by locals as Bregu, this patch of beautiful beaches stretches from Palasë to Sarandë.

Just south of Sarandë, Ksamil is minutes from Corfu and the jewel of the Ionian Sea. For a beach and ancient ruin combo, don’t miss the Roman amphitheatre at the Butrint Archaeological Site. But for a lazy day lounging on the Ionian shores, it’s as a breeze finding a spot on Borsh Beach.

For a more secluded beach break, a canyon trek or kayak excursion takes you to the pebbled Gjipe Beach. Nature lovers also have access to Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park, Albania’s only marine reserve. The park features ancient and WWII-era vessels and alluring sea caves to explore.

The Blue Eye

Your Albanian Riviera vacation isn’t complete without a day trip to the Blue Eye. Just a 30-minute drive outside of Sarandë, the natural spring has some of the clearest water imaginable. The turquoise spring has a depth of over 50 meters, and many visitors swear it’s clear to the bottom. Even though divers have plunged that far into the Blue Eye, its true depth remains unknown.

Near the village of Muzinë, you need to rent a car or hire a driver to reach this magical location. The Blue Eye also serves as the source of the Bistricë River and flows into the Ionian Sea. Surrounded by lush forests, it’s among the most beautiful places in Albania. And although tempting, swimming is prohibited in the frigid water due to ruining the surreal clarity.

Llogara National Park

With the perfect combo of beaches, forests, and mountains, Llogara National Park is heaven for outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse terrain features the rugged Ceraunian Mountains and the sun-kissed Ionian coast. Hit the hiking paths to discover alpine meadows, coniferous forests, and sharp cliffs between the sea and mountains.

Drive the nearby Llogara Pass for unbelievable views of the alpine peaks rising above the Albanian Riviera. The winding road between Vlorë and Himarë ascends to heights over 1,000 meters and ranks among the world’s most exciting coastal drives. Just don’t forget your camera for possibly the most dramatic vista in Albania.

Theth

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the heart of the Albanian Alps. Around a 3-hour drive from Shkodër, Theth is a fairytale mountain village that serves as basecamp for trekking expeditions. Theth sits inside Theth National Park, a 26.3km² alpine paradise with endless views of limestone and dolomite peaks. Taking the road to Theth makes you feel like you’ve escaped to the Swiss Alps or the Italian Dolomites.

The Shalë River cuts through the valley and has some of the clearest water you’ll find in Albania. Hiking is the best thing to do around Theth, and several of Albania’s most picturesque hikes are within reach. The Theth to Valbonë Hike and Blue Eye Hike are two that are a must-do for any avid trekker. Closer to the village, the stone church and Kulla “Blood Feud” Tower are sights to learn about Theth’s history and culture.

Shkodër

If you’re heading into the Albanian Alps, spend a couple of days wandering the cultural sites of Shkodër. The gateway to the mountains has a history dating to the 4th Century B.C. and is one of Albania’s oldest cities. Its strategic location led to periods of Roman, Serbian, Venetian, and Ottoman rule, and many cultural sites exist today.

The top attraction to visit in Shkodër is the Rozafa Castle that sits beside the Buna and Drin rivers. Originally an Illyrian fortress, the stronghold dates to antiquity and has witnessed several notable battles. Within the castle, you’ll notice remnants of Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman occupation.

Other sights in Shkodër include the Marubi National Museum of Photography and the Shkodër History Museum. Wander the Pedonalja to witness the coexistence of churches and mosques or walk across the Ottoman-era Mesi Bridge. And for an outdoor adventure, kayak on Lake Shkodër for epic mountain vistas.

Apollonia

Given its location on the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Albania shares a similar history to Greece and Italy. But while the latter have inspired historians and archaeologists for centuries, Albania is overlooked by travelers. Ancient ruins can are scattered across the Balkan country but with far fewer crowds.

One of the fascinating sights in Albania is the ancient Greek colony city of Apollonia. Just 10 km from the Adriatic Sea, the settlement has a history dating to Corinthian colonists around 600 B.C. Apollonia would later become a Roman city where Emperor Augustus studied philosophy. The site is now an archaeological park, and its foundation and monuments are in great condition for visitors to explore the ruins.