Albania: the country everyone is raving about. You’ve probably seen it all over social media this summer, and honestly, it’s not hard to see why. Albania is having its moment, and everyone wants a piece of it.
Imagine a Riviera to rival Italy, food unlike anything you’ve tasted before, and a history as fascinating as it is complex. Tucked into the south east corner of Europe, Albania shares borders with Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo and Montenegro - so you can expect that warm and welcoming Balkan hospitality. Be sure to thank the locals with a simple faleminderit (pronounced: fal-eh-min-deh-rit).
But don’t be fooled by all the hype - it’s still an under-the-radar gem, with plenty of opportunities to escape the crowds and truly immerse yourself in this Adriatic paradise.
This ultimate travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know about ticking Albania off the bucket list. Whether you’re gearing up to explore Albania on foot or soak up the rich history, we’ve got all the tips and tricks to see you on your way.
SpringThis is when Albania truly comes alive. The mountains are green, wildflowers cover the hillsides, and the weather is just right for hiking without breaking a sweat. It’s also before the summer rush, so you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy the trails, beaches and charming villages at your own pace. Our Corfu & Albania Explorer tour starts during this time for good reason; it’s the perfect mix of sunshine, fresh air and quiet paths.
SummerThe Albanian Riviera turns into the place to be. The beaches are buzzing, the bars are open late, and the sea is at its bluest. But be warned, it gets hot. Like, take-a-dip-every-hour kind of hot. If you don’t mind the crowds and high temperatures, then Summer is a great time to experience that Mediterranean holiday energy.
AutumSunny days, golden sunsets and fewer tourists make this one of the best times to visit. The weather stays comfortable, perfect for hiking, exploring the national parks or relaxing by the coast. Autumn is also perfect for hiking, as the trails are quieter and you’ll see a softer side of Albania that’s hard to beat.
WinterWinter is the slowest season in Albania. Many coastal spots close for the season, and transport can be limited, but mountain towns take on a peaceful charm. If you prefer quiet travel and don’t mind the cold, it’s a calm and authentic time to see a different side of the country.
The easiest way to reach Albania is by air. Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the country’s main hub, with regular flights from most major European cities. It’s a great option if you want to spend a night or two in the capital before or after your trip.
If you’re heading straight for the coast, Ioannina (in northern Greece) and Corfu International Airport are also popular entry points. Both provide easy access to southern Albania and the beach towns of Ksamil, Himarë and Sarandë, which are just a short drive or ferry ride away.
One of the most convenient ways to arrive is by taking the ferry from Corfu, in Greece to Sarandë, in Southern Albania. It is then an easy trip to reach Ksamil’s white-sand beaches or the laid-back coastal town of Himarë, both just a short drive away.
This ferry takes just 30 to 60 minutes and is a scenic and easy crossing. Ferries run several times a day in summer and less frequently during the cooler months, with multiple operators offering both fast and standard services. Tickets can be booked online or directly at the port in Corfu.
If you’re joining our Corfu & Albania Explorer tour, we’ll take care of the ferry and border crossing into Albania, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the sea views.
Albania’s train system isn’t the most reliable, but buses and shared minibuses (furgons) make getting around simple and budget-friendly.
You can usually find a furgon at the local bus station - just ask around and someone will point you in the right direction. They don’t run on fixed schedules and usually leave once full, so it’s best to allow extra time if you’re catching a flight or connection the same day.
It’s an authentic, slightly chaotic, but fun way to see the country (and if you’re in luck, you might just be sharing a furgon with a few local chickens).
If you’re already exploring the Balkans, Albania is an easy and rewarding country to add to your route.
You can drive in from Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia or Greece, with border crossings that are usually smooth and straightforward (just make sure to double-check your visa requirements before you go).
If you’re renting a car, check that your rental company allows cross-border travel, as some companies may require extra paperwork or insurance.
The roads can be winding, but the views are spectacular, with stunning coastlines, remote mountain passes and plenty of roadside cafes serving strong Albanian coffee.
From Ottoman towns to Cold War bunkers, history is everywhere in Albania and trust us when we say it is fascinating! From the bunkers in the capital city to the ancient ruins scattered around the countryside, there’s no shortage of history and personality to uncover. Here’s where to go to really get a feel for Albania’s past and its ever-evolving culture.
Albania’s capital is colourful, chaotic and full of character. What was once a grey communist city is now buzzing with creativity, cafe culture and quirky architecture. Check out the Blloku district for trendy bars and street art, then head to Bunk’Art, an underground museum inside a Cold War bunker. It’s part eerie, part fascinating and gives a real insight into Albania’s not-so-distant history.
Step back in time at the Butrint Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like an open-air museum surrounded by the still waters of Lake Butrint. This ancient city has seen it all: Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Venetians, each leaving their mark. Our Corfu & Albania Explorer tour will take you through crumbling amphitheatres, mosaic-covered floors and vine-wrapped ruins. It’s peaceful, scenic and one of those places where you can actually feel the layers of history around you.
Known as the City of a Thousand Windows, Berat is a UNESCO-listed gem where white Ottoman houses climb the hillside beneath an ancient fortress. Hike up to the castle for golden hour, or better yet, take the back way up the adjacent hill and you’ll have those stunning views all to yourself. This quaint little town could easily give Dubrovnik a run for its money.
Gjirokaster (pronounced Jee-ro-kah-stur) has become known as the Stone City because, well… it’s made almost entirely of stone. With steep lanes and slate rooftops overlooking the Drino Valley, the impressive fortress above town is the perfect place to take in the views. The old bazaar is packed with handmade crafts, traditional textiles and family-run taverns serving hearty Albanian food (and maybe a little raki if you’re lucky).
By now, you’ve probably realised Albania has a little bit of everything - beaches, mountains, history, and more. Our 7-day Corfu & Albania Explorer tour is the perfect way to experience it all, taking you from the Greek Islands to southern Albania with a small group of like-minded travellers. Expect plenty of hiking, sight seeing, and local bites, led by guides who actually call this place home.
Explorer RouteCorfu - Ksamil - Himarë - Corfu
Our 7-day Corfu & Albania Explorer tour is the ultimate way to experience the best of both worlds; Greek island charm and Albanian adventure. You’ll start in sunny Corfu, wandering its UNESCO-listed Old Town and hiking to secret mountain villages before crossing the Ionian Sea into southern Albania. From exploring ancient ruins in Butrint National Park to hiking through Gjipe Canyon and watching the sunset from a castle above Himarë, you’ll take in some of the best views of this coastline. You’ll also visit the famous Blue Eye spring and unwind in the laid-back coastal towns of the Albanian Riviera. Led by local guides and designed for small groups, this Albania itinerary is all about authentic experiences, epic views, and connecting with like-minded travellers.
If you’re chasing views that make your jaw drop, Albania will be sure to deliver. Think turquoise springs that look too good to be real, towering mountains that feel straight out of a fairytale, and beaches so pretty you’ll be questioning why everyone isn’t already here. The nature here is rugged, raw, and ridiculously photogenic. Here’s where to find the magic.
Tucked in the hills near Sarandë, the Blue Eye is one of Albania’s most mesmerising natural sights. Fed by an underwater cave at least 50 metres deep, the water changes from deep blue to green depending on the angle of the sun. It’s hard to believe it’s real until you see it for yourself. You can’t swim here anymore, but the viewing platform gives you a perfect front-row seat to peer in. The Blue Eye can be tricky to reach without your own transport, but if you’re joining our Corfu & Albania Explorer, we’ll take care of getting you there.
If heaven had a beach, it might just look like Ksamil. Often compared to the Maldives, this little coastal gem near the Greek border is made for swimming, snorkelling and sunbathing. The summer months can get crowded, so spring and autumn are the sweet spot for warm weather and fewer people. Our Corfu & Albania Explorer passes through here, giving you time to wander beyond the main beach and find those quieter coves.
For a more laid-back slice of the Albanian Riviera, head to Himarë (pronounced Hee-mah-ruh). It has the same clear blue water as Ksamil but with a slower pace and a more local feel. Spend your days beach hopping, hiking along coastal trails, or tucking into grilled seafood at a seaside taverna while the sun sets over the Ionian Sea. Just north of Himarë lies Gjipe Beach, a rugged slice of the Albanian Riviera that’s best explored on foot. You’ll explore these beautiful sights on our Corfu & Albania Explorer tour, and we’ll even point out some hidden coves that most travellers miss.
High up in the Albanian Alps, Theth is the kind of place that makes you forget about phone signal and remember how good it feels to just breathe. Surrounded by dramatic peaks, waterfalls and wildflower meadows, it’s a hiker’s paradise. The famous trail between Theth and Valbonë is a must for anyone who loves a challenge and breathtaking views in equal measure. It’s a long journey from the coast, so we recommend stopping in via Shkoder to get your bearings and even meet some new trail friends.
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