9 of the best things to do in Albania

For years, Albania was unknown to the world. Now, this Balkan nation of UNESCO-recognised towns, archaeological ruins, nature-filled national parks and secret beaches is getting the recognition it deserves.

Before its popularity skyrockets, there’s still time to visit Albania without the crowds and get to experience is authentic cultural and natural highlights. Here, we list some of our favourite things to do…

Part of Divjakë Karavasta National Park, Karavasta Lagoon is the largest in Albania at 42 sq km and surrounded by woodlands, marshes, sand, with its western side lining the Mediterranean sea. It’s also an important breeding ground for the endangered curly pelican, which can be seen nesting on one of the lagoon’s islands in the early months of the year. That said, they can be spotted year-round scattered around the island, too. Wake up early to visit one of the viewing platforms over the lagoon and bring your binoculars to look out for not just pelicans, but flamingos, kingfishers, egrets and other species in the morning light. Alternatively, in the daytime, you can explore the lagoon by boat, bike (or e-bike) or admire 360 degree views of the national park from above when climbing up its 30-metre high watchtower, located next to the visitor centre.

Named the ‘Town of a thousand windows’ – due do the architectural spectacle of the town when stood beside the Osum River – Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Tomorr Mountains. Although its history dates to 300 BC, the town’s white stone buildings are distinctively Ottoman. Berat’s 13^th-century castle also encompasses many Byzantine churches and mosque ruins. You’ll be transported back in time by wandering its cobbled alleys, but to gain a firm grasp on the town’s history, head to its National Ethnographic Museum located within a preserved traditional home.

At first glance, Tirana might not look like the most exciting city, but when you begin exploring its streets you’ll soon notice it’s full of vibrant colours. Many former socialist buildings are now decorated in bright paint and murals, making wandering the city become a treasure hunt for art. In the heart of Tirana is Skanderbeg Square, a large plaza surrounded by restaurants and bars as well as cultural attractions, such as the 1822-built clock tower (which you can climb to the top of) and the National History Museum of Albania. For more history on Albania’s recent past, the nearby Bunk’Art2 Museum delves into the nation’s time under communist rule, situated within one of the city’s many bunkers constructed under orders of dictator Enver Hoxa. Don’t forget to visit one of the city’s restaurants serving traditional dishes such as byrek (a pie) and tarator (a cold soup).

Along the southwestern coast of Albania is the Bay of Vlorë, much of which is encompassed within a protected national park. The bay is home to animal species including dolphins, turtles and the rare Mediterranean monk seal, but it’s also filled with hidden beaches and coves most accessible by boat. Hire a boat yourself to explore these secret pockets of the national park at your own leisure, including the magical blue waters of Haxhi Ali Cave located at the end of Karaburun Peninsula. You’ll also likely be able to find a secluded beach to enjoy all to yourself, where you can set up camp for an afternoon of relaxation and sea swimming.

In northern Albania, the piercing peaks of the Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps) transform the landscape into a hiking lover’s paradise. One of the most popular trails is the Valbona Pass, a 15km challenging route between the villages of Valbona and Thethi. Walking along rugged terrain, you’ll pass through wooded areas, meadows, and trek alonside the Valbona River. Although the hike takes 6-8 hours and can be completed within a day, there’s opportunities to slow it down and stay in guesthouses along the way. For a slightly more demanding hike to Theth, hikes from Shala River take approximately four days to trek through valleys and gorges, with chestnut groves and ancient settlements to spy en route.

The Vjosa River was once under threat due to the proposal of dams. Now, the last wild river in Europe has become a national park, ensuring the long-lasting protection of this natural landscape. It’s home to more than 1,000 species of flora and fauna, including otters and vultures, as well encompassing important cultural heritage, as people have occupied the banks of the river for thousands of years. For adventurers, one of the best ways to experience the untamed waterway – which flows 272km from northern Greece into southern Albania – is by raft or kayak. Choose to tackle some adrenaline-pumping Grade III rapids, or take in the surrounding landscapes by paddling more serene waters.

Sitting at the base of the Bay of Vlorë is the little-visited archaeological site of Orikum. The ancient settlement was developed by the Greeks in the 5^th century BC before being captured by Julius Ceaser in 48 BC. The site tells the story of this strategic port through its ruins, where fountains, churches and theatres once stood. Due to its location within a military zone, visitors should book on a guided tour to ensure entrance to the site. Further south in Vlorë County, Butrint National Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where various empires once ruled, from the Romans to the Ottomans. The Roman amphitheatre here is one of the best preserved in Europe.

Experience the authentic heart of Albania by staying in one of the country’s farm stays or guesthouses (known as bujtinas), mostly found in mountain locations. In Tragjas, Vlorë County, Sofo and Dhurata host guests for lunch and dinner, cooking up their own produce along with homemade raki, and their accomodation in stone-built huts. Up in the north, Neomalsore Agrotourism is located in a stunning, isolated spot along Lake Komani, and can only be reached by a 70-minute boat ride. As part of the agritourism experience, visitors are often immersed in the traditional ways of life in these remote corners of Albania.

Albania is a recent revelation to travellers when it comes to sand and sea. With similar offerings to the Greek Islands – but far from the same volume of crowds – the Albanian Riviera offers a coastline speckled with pretty beaches that are gently lapped by the waves of the Ionian Sea. Near Buntrint, Ksamil is a mini archipelago of forested islands, with sparkling coves and lagoons. Below the clifftop town of Dhërmi with whitewashed houses is a beautiful pebbled beach of the same name. For those after more adventure, you need to hike around 30 minutes to get to Gjipe beach, a small, stoney inlet backed by shrubs that sees fewer people due of the extra efforts to get there. These are just a handful of suggestions – there are hundreds more beaches to be discovered along Albania’s 300km coastline.

The author was supported by Intrepid Travel on their Albania Expedition trip.