1. Theth & Valbona (Accursed Mountains, Northern Albania)
Tucked in the Albanian Alps, Theth and Valbona offer traditional stone houses, alpine meadows, and scenic hiking trails. A popular trail links the two villages over a mountain pass with waterfalls and breathtaking views.
- Optimal Season: Summer to early fall (June–September). Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds; winter roads may close due to snow.
- Road Access: The paved road to Theth is accessible in summer. A 4×4 helps on narrow switchbacks and occasional rough patches.
- Key Tips: Stay overnight in guesthouses to enjoy local meals and friendly hospitality. Wear good shoes for hiking.
2. Lake Komani (Northern Albania)
Lake Komani is a reservoir set in limestone gorges. A 3-hour ferry ride across the lake is among Europe’s most scenic, surrounded by dramatic mountain views.
- Optimal Season: Late spring to early autumn (May–October). Summer offers warm days, while shoulder seasons provide mild weather.
- Road Access: The approach involves a narrow, winding road. A Jimny handles the rough patches well; vehicle ferry service is available.
- Key Tips: Book ferry tickets in advance. Bring water and snacks; consider adding a boat tour to nearby attractions like the Shala River.
3. Tirana (Central Albania)
Albania’s capital blends modern energy with a rich history. Stroll Skanderbeg Square, visit re-purposed museums, or take the cable car up Mount Dajti for panoramic views.
- Optimal Season: Year-round; spring and fall provide mild weather. Summers are hot and lively, winter is mild and less crowded.
- Road Access: Driving in Tirana can be hectic. Park on the outskirts and explore on foot or by taxi.
- Key Tips: Don’t miss museums like Bunk’Art 1 and 2. For a change of pace, visit nearby Kruja with its medieval bazaar and castle.
4. Berat (Central Albania – “City of a Thousand Windows”)
Berat is a UNESCO town of cascading Ottoman-era houses. Its two districts, Mangalem and Gorica, are divided by the Osum River and linked by the Gorica Bridge, with Berat Castle looming over the town.
- Optimal Season: Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Sept–Oct) are best. Summer is hot, and winter is mild with fewer visitors.
- Road Access: About a 2-hour drive south of Tirana on well-paved highways. Narrow, steep streets in the old quarters invite walking.
- Key Tips: Explore both districts and visit the Onufri Iconography Museum in the castle. Enjoy local wineries nearby.
5. Gjirokastër (Southern Albania – The Stone City)
Gjirokastër is a UNESCO World Heritage town known for its stone Ottoman-era houses and steep, cobbled streets. The castle crowns the town and offers sweeping views.
- Optimal Season: Late spring and early autumn are ideal. Summer is hot, and winter is mild with damp streets.
- Road Access: Reachable via national road SH4. Within the town, narrow streets are best explored on foot.
- Key Tips: Visit Gjirokastër Fortress and the old bazaar. Sample local dishes like rice balls (qifqi) at a traditional tavern.
6. Sarandë & Ksamil (Ionian Coast, Southern Albania)
Sarandë, with its palm-lined promenade, is a vibrant coastal city. Nearby Ksamil boasts white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for a seaside break and a base for exploring UNESCO sites.
- Optimal Season: Summer (June–August) is peak season; late May, June, or September offer fewer crowds and warm water.
- Road Access: Accessible via a good coastal road. Be prepared for summer traffic and tight parking.
- Key Tips: Arrive early at Ksamil beaches, and consider a short drive to the Blue Eye spring for a unique natural sight.
7. Butrint National Park (Southern Albania)
Butrint is an ancient archaeological site set in wetlands. Explore ruins that span 2,500 years, including Greek, Roman, and medieval structures, all set in a lush national park.
- Optimal Season: Spring and autumn are best for pleasant weather; summer mornings and late afternoons help avoid crowds.
- Road Access & Fees: A 30-minute drive from Sarandë on paved roads leads to the site. Entry is around 1000 Lek per person.
- Key Tips: Allocate about 2 hours. Climb up the Venetian fortress for panoramic views and bring water/snacks as shops are limited.
8. Albanian Riviera (Dhërmi, Himara & Llogara Pass)
The Albanian Riviera features azure bays backed by mountains, with notable spots like Dhërmi, Himara, and hidden beaches near Gjipe and Porto Palermo. The Llogara Pass gives excellent coastal views.
- Optimal Season: Summer (June–August) is the best time for sun and sea; early summer or September for a quieter experience.
- Road Access: The SH8 coastal road is paved and scenic. Expect winding sections and occasional rough paths to secluded beaches.
- Key Tips: Beach-hop to enjoy variety; visit Gjipe by taking a short hike if needed. Enjoy local seafood and relax at seaside cafes.
9. Korçë & Lake Ohrid Region (Southeast Albania)
Korçë, known as Albania’s cultural capital, offers Ottoman-era architecture and a lively old bazaar. Nearby, the shores of Lake Ohrid provide a peaceful retreat with scenic lakeside views.
- Optimal Season: Summer is lively; spring and fall offer milder weather. Winter is cold, with occasional snow, especially on mountain passes.
- Road Access: A scenic 3.5-hour drive from Tirana via improved highways. Local roads around Lake Ohrid are paved and easy to navigate.
- Key Tips: In Korçë, visit the museums and Panoramic Tower. In the Lake Ohrid area, enjoy walks along the shore and try local trout dishes.
10. Apollonia Archaeological Park (West-Central Albania)
Apollonia is an extensive archaeological site with ruins of an ancient Illyrian, Greek, and Roman city set amid olive groves. The site offers open spaces for peaceful exploration.
- Optimal Season: Spring is best for greenery and mild temperatures; fall offers a pleasant atmosphere. Summer can be hot.
- Road Access: About 12 km from Fier on a narrow country road that is paved. Parking is available at the entrance.
- Key Tips: Spend 1.5–2 hours exploring, visit the on-site museum, and bring water and snacks as facilities are limited.
