Unsung Beautiful Places of Albania

Albanian Riviera

It is perhaps one of the most popular destinations in the country. The Riviera is famous for the international music festivals like Turtle Fest. Moreover, night clubs; including Folie Marine in the Jale beach and the Havana Beach Club, attract a large number of people across Europe. The town of Himara is Riviera’s best tourist destination. Porto Palermo Beach, Filikuri Beach and Llamani Beach are full of sandy stretches and perfect for a romantic walk, whereas Drymades Beach offers adventurous sports.

Tirana

Being Albania’s capital city, most tourists start their journey from here. This city features 18th century mosque with eloquent architecture. Tirana’s people are very friendly. The city is very affordable and offers excellent food and drinks. Skanderbeg Square is the most important place in Tirana. And it is here where you can find the National Historical Museum. The square is named after the National Hero, Skanderbeg, whose statue can be found right in the heart of the city.

Llogara Pass

When you are up for a long drive, Llogara Pass offers a spectacular view. Situated in the heart of the Llogara National Park, the concrete road stretches to over thousand metres above the sea level. While taking the drive, you can witness stunning sights. You can take a short break and visit the National Park that is home to Golden Eagle, Fallow Deer and European Wild Cat.

Berat

Situated in the middle of Albania, Berat is the oldest town of the country. It boasts of a perfect blend of Albanian and Ottoman architecture and is often known as the City of a Thousand Windows. Its major tourist site is Kalaja, a great historical castle. Being one of the most important cities of the then Ottoman Empire, this city is listed as one of the Unesco World Heritage Sites. Presently, it is home to almost hundreds of people. Mangelam Quarter and the Church of St. Mary are two of the must-see sights here.

Saranda

This town has gone through a great deal of development in the past twenty years. It features some unforgettable beaches. Lekursi Castle is the best place to visit when you are in Saranda. The stunning sunset is worth watching. Also, you can take a short trip to the Ionian Sea.

Gjirokastra

This is a Unesco city with unique Ottoman architecture everywhere. The houses are built like small castles, featuring a military museum as well as art gallery. In every five years, a folklore festival takes place here. The last one was held in 2015. So, now you know when to visit this place. Besides, roaming around the old Ottoman bazaar in Gjirokastra, should be one of the priorities for the tourists. This city is the birthplace of the famous author Ismail Kadar. You can have a look at his home, which is now converted into a museum.

Kruja

It is just a short trip away from Tirana and a must-visit destination. Kruja has the national ethnographic museum. Also, it is home to the world-renowned Skanderbeg museum. It is said that the Albanian hero, Skanderbeg defended the country from this fortress. Similarly, the castle provides a panoramic view of the Adriatic Sea. Qafe Shtama and Sari Saltik tombs are also situated close to Kruja.

Theth

Nestled in the Albanian Alps, it has a designated area of great natural beauty. The National Park with Grunas Waterfall is quite popular. Besides, the Boga, Razma and Thethi mountain peaks offer an unforgettable experience to the visitors.

So, if you are planning a vacation in Albania, you know where to visit. You can make the bookings online or simply contact a tour operator who will arrange everything for you.