ALBANIA

Albania is Europe’s last unturned stone and one of the most rapidly evolving destinations on the continent. Rich in history, culture, and rugged natural beauty, Albania has been under a myriad of influences throughout its history but has preserved its traditions and distinct identity admirably. This small country boasts a very rich history, with influences stemming from many different communities, including Macedonian Greeks and Illyrians, Romans, and Byzantines.

The country is full of surprises; for example, ancient sites like Butrint National Park remain virtually unchanged since they were constructed thousands of years ago. The Llogara Pass, one of the highest paved roads in Europe, offers stunning bird’s-eye views of the white powdery beaches of the Ionian coast.

TOURS INCLUDING ALBANIA

Did you know

that Albania has 13 small islands and only two of them are more than 1 square kilometre?

Get to know places

Tirana

The never-sleeping city of Tirana is the capital city of Albania, as well as its largest city. Situated on the banks of the Lana river, Tirana has outstanding architecture, wide boulevards, parks, shops, and cafés. The heart of Tirana is Skanderbeg Square.

Shkodër

It is one of the oldest towns in Europe, unique for its narrow streets, stone walls, and ancient houses. Surrounded by pristine nature, a national park, and Lake Skadar, the largest lake in Southern Europe, Shkodër has played an important geopolitical role throughout Albanian history.

Berat

Berat is the pride of Albanian architecture under UNESCO protection, combining both Eastern and Western cultures, traditions, and images. This treasury of the history of Albania, with its arched Gorica Bridge, Byzantine Church of Saint Michael, and Ottoman monuments such as the Red Mosque, presents traces of the diverse cultures and traditions that once passed through this monumental ‘town of a thousand windows’.

  • Capital:Tirana
  • Population:2,886,026 inhabitants
  • Airports:Tirana International Airport TIA
  • Currency:Lek (ALL)
  • International dialling code:+355
  • Time: Central European Time GMT + 1, in summer GMT + 2
Explore the Authentic

What to do in Albania

Bunk'Art Museum

Originally built as underground bunkers, the Bunk’Art museum now serves as a symbol of the political history of Albania. Separated into two museums, each represents one significant part of the history of Shqipëria.

Albanian Alps (Prokletije) Hiking

The famous Valbona Pass, connecting these valleys, provides beautiful views of the mountains all around, making this area a true hiking heaven.

Gjirokastra

The old town, perched on the eastern slope of Wide Mountain, is made almost entirely out of stone and has an ancient feel to it.

With more than 300 sunny days a year, the Albanian Riviera is a strong competitor among year-round tourist destinations in Europe, offering a network of hidden beaches tucked into scenic hills. Rustic mountain villages and narrow high passes lead into the Albanian Alps, also known as “Albania’s Switzerland.”

INSPIRATION

More stories and tips on traveling throughout the Balkans

Skywalk Biokovo Mountain

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Tara River Canyon with rafting

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