2025 Albania Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

Who says budget travel in Europe isn’t possible? Albania proves otherwise — it’s incredibly wallet-friendly, with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, warm hospitality, and delicious local food. But what makes it even more affordable? When your flight gets delayed — and you get compensated under EU261 flight compensation! Here’s a breakdown of my 4D3N trip to Tirana 🇦🇱: ✈️ Roundtrip Flight (Wizz Air): £26 🍽️ Meals (3 per day): £70 🗺️ Local Tours: £80 🏨 Accommodation: £30 🚌 Transport & Miscellaneous: £20 💸 Total Expenses: £226 Thanks to flight delay compensation of £340, I actually made a profit of £114 😎 Traveling isn’t just for the wealthy — with the right strategy, you can explore the world comfortably on a budget. And best of all, the memories you make? Priceless. Do you think travelling is a for the rich only? Let me know your thoughts by commenting below 👇 #WeekendGetaway #100usdchallenge

Ultimate Balkan Peninsula Travel Guide covering Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania, blending luxury experiences with in-depth exploration. Budget references included at the end. --- **Trip Highlights** **🏰 Cultural Epic Route** **Mostar** (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Exclusive early-morning photography rights at the Old Bridge, experience Ottoman-era coppersmith workshops **Sarajevo** (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Private guided tour near Latin Bridge uncovering WWI history, VIP explanation at the War Tunnel Museum **Bay of Kotor** (Montenegro): Midnight climb to the city walls for stargazing, private yacht exploration of the Blue Cave **🌿 Natural Wonders Chapter** **Durmitor National Park** (Montenegro): Helicopter aerial view of Black Lake, stay in forest treehouse hotels **Perast** (Montenegro): Chartered boat to Our Lady of the Rocks Island, exclusive access to the 16th-century church **🍷 Gourmet Luxury List** **Novi Sad** (Serbia): Century-old cellar tasting at Petrus Winery, Michelin-recommended Project 72 by the Danube **Zemun** (Serbia): Private dining at Saran Restaurant, savoring premium Danube sturgeon caviar --- **Top Accommodation Picks** 1. **Kotor, Montenegro** - **One&Only Portonovi** • The only six-star resort on the Adriatic, featuring private beaches + ESPA Spa • Reference rate: €1,500/night 2. **Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina** - **Hotel Mepas** • Infinity pool suspended over the Neretva River Canyon, executive suites with Old Bridge viewing terraces • Reference rate: €700/night 3. **Belgrade, Serbia** - **Square Nine Hotel** • Member of Relais & Châteaux, rooftop lounge overlooking Saint Sava Temple • Reference rate: €900/night --- **Exclusive Experience List** - **Sarajevo**: Intimate "Coffee & Stories" dinner hosted by Bosnian War survivors (€150/person) - **Budva Old Town**: Hire an archaeologist for a guided tour of 15th-century Venetian walls (€300/3 hours) - **Albania**: Jeep expedition through Theth to Valbona's hidden trails, picnic with freshly made shepherd’s cheese --- **Aesthetic Moments Guide** **🌅 Best Photography Spots** • Silhouette of divers at Mostar Old Bridge (daily at 14:00 in summer) • Morning mist over Perast’s twin islands (arrive at western reefs by 5:30) • "Tears of Tara River" waterfall in Durmitor National Park (best at noon when sunlight pierces the water curtain) **🎨 Artistic Easter Eggs** • "Invisible Sculpture" at Novi Sad’s Liberty Square: Touch bronze poetry plates to trigger light installations • Kotor Bay’s Shipwreck Bar: A 1940s warship wreck transformed into an underwater bar --- **One-Week Budget Reference (Luxury Edition)** | Category | Cost (EUR) | Details | |---------------------|-------------|------------------------------| | Round-trip Int’l Flights | 2,500 | Business class direct to Belgrade/Dubrovnik | | 7 Nights Luxury Hotels | 7,000 | Includes signature suites & butler service | | Private Transfers/Helicopter | 3,500 | Cross-border Mercedes V-Class + Kotor Bay helicopter tour | | Michelin & Private Dining | 1,800 | Winery VIP tastings + live seafood cooking at fish markets | | Exclusive Guides & Experiences | 2,000 | Includes war historians/artists as companions | | **Total** | **17,000** | Better value for two travelers | --- **Pro Tips** 1. Border Optimization: Travel counterclockwise from Belgrade to avoid Montenegro-Albania land border congestion 2. Seasonal Key: Visit in May or September to avoid crowds and enjoy lavender/grape harvest seasons 3. Hidden Perk: American Express Black Card holders can request special underground concerts at Lipa Cave, Montenegro For customized daily itineraries or special requests (e.g., castle proposals, film location tours), in-depth planning services are available. This land’s beauty lies in its untamed romance and profound history—may you encounter moments more captivating than *Lonely Planet*’s pages.

Ever dreamed of exploring a country where history, nature, and culture collide — without the tourist crowds? Albania surprised me in the best possible way, and here is the 7-day itinerary that helped me see the absolute best of it. Bookmark this for your next Balkan adventure! 📍 Day 1: Tirana – The Quirky Capital Start in Tirana, Albania’s vibrant heart. 🛬 Land at Tirana International Airport (TIA). ✨ Must-sees: BunkArt 2 for Cold War vibes Skanderbeg Square for local life New Bazaar for souvenirs & local food 🍴 Food Tip: Try Tavë Kosi, Albania’s signature lamb dish. 💡 Pro Tip: Tirana’s cafes rival those of Paris — do not skip a coffee break! 📍 Day 2: Shkoder – Northern Gateway Just 1.5h drive from Tirana, Shkoder is artistic, chill, and close to nature. 🎨 Explore the Marubi Photography Museum 🏰 Climb to Rozafa Castle at sunset 🚲 Rent a bike and cycle around Lake Shkoder 🏡 I stayed in a local guesthouse — warm hosts and homemade breakfast! 📍 Day 3: Kruje – Medieval Charm A short detour to Kruje is worth it for history lovers. 🛍 Wander through the Ottoman-style bazaar 🏰 Visit the Skanderbeg Museum & Castle 📸 Incredible views of the valley below 💡 Kruje is a great spot for handcrafted souvenirs like traditional rugs and copperware. 📍 Day 4: Berat – City of a Thousand Windows Drive south to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 🏘️ Explore the white Ottoman houses stacked on the hillside 🏰 Visit Berat Castle (locals still live inside!) 🍷 Wine tasting at a local winery like Cobo Winery 💤 Tip: Sleep inside the old Mangalem Quarter for an unforgettable night. 📍 Day 5: Gjirokaster – Stone City & Legends Another UNESCO gem! 🏠 Visit Enver Hoxha’s House and Skenduli House for traditional interiors 🎭 The castle houses a weapons museum & even a Cold War-era prison 🌄 The architecture is stunning — bring walking shoes! 📍 Day 6: Blue Eye & Sarandë – Nature & Coastline Start your day with a stop at the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër) — surreal turquoise water you have to see to believe. Then head to Sarandë, Albania’s southern beach town. 🏖️ Walk the promenade, enjoy fresh seafood, and catch the sunset! 📸 Best light for photos at the Blue Eye? Before 11 AM! 📍 Day 7: Ksamil – The Albanian Maldives Finish with a bang in Ksamil, 20 minutes from Sarandë. 🏝️ Crystal-clear beaches with white sand and islands you can swim to! 🚤 Rent a kayak or boat for the best views 🌅 Have a drink with a sunset view over the Ionian Sea 💡 Visit in shoulder season (May or September) for fewer crowds and warm waters. ✅ What I Wish I Knew Before Going: Card payment is not common — carry cash (LEK) Roads can be narrow and winding — drive carefully or hire a driver Albanian hospitality is REAL — you’ll often be treated like family

This unpopular European country Prices are 1/3 of Italy but the scenery is not inferior to Greece Chinese passports are directly in vain! ✈️ Transportation Guide: ▪️No Schengen Sign: Luton, London → Tirana (2h) ▪️With Schengen visa: Corfu, Greece → Salanda (1h boat ride) ⚠️Airport Warning: Tirana Airport is small like a passenger terminal 🌊Three must-visit places: 1️⃣Ksamil Beach 💎Jelly Sea Plain Replacement Santorini 🚣‍♀️ Pedal boat 10 euros/hour (remember to bargain) 2️⃣ Ginocastle 🏰Stone City + Millennium Castle 📸 Ottoman architecture from "Thousand and Away" 3️⃣Theth National Park ⛰️ ``Alpine Eastern European Minutes'' 💦Blue Eye Spring (Hiking Lovers Paradise) 💰 Price Shock Record: ▪️ Seafood feast 15 euros full to cry ▪️Four-star hotel 50 euros/night ▪️ Coffee 1.5 euros and what bike 🚗 Traffic Blood and Tears History: ▪️Bus system = no system ▪️ Rent a car and drive yourself (more mountain roads) ▪️Tirana → Salanda recommends taking the night bus ⚠️Safety Guide: ▪️Asian faces will be noticed (pure curiosity) ▪️ Girls are recommended to go together ▪️Avoid remote alleys (less street lights) 💡 Trivia: 1️⃣ You can wear short sleeves in December (Mediterranean climate is great) 2️⃣ Hocha's former residence has Chinese explanation 3️⃣ Locals do not accept coins (prepare notes)

Why should you visit Ksamil in the summer of 2025?!☀️🏖️🌊 Located in southern Albania, Ksamil is a gem of the Albanian Riviera and an ideal summer destination. Here are some reasons to visit Ksamil in the summer: 1. Enchanting beaches Ksamil is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often compared to tropical destinations. The small islands near the coast are easily accessible by boat or swimming, offering a tranquil getaway. 2. Relaxed atmosphere Unlike some overcrowded Mediterranean hotspots, Ksamil retains a more laid-back vibe. It's a great place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of major tourist centers. 3. Fresh seafood and traditional cuisine Ksamil's restaurants serve delicious, fresh seafood and Albanian specialties like byrek and Tave Kosi. Dining by the sea adds to the charm. 4. Proximity to Butrint National Park Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short drive from Ksamil. The park combines ancient ruins, natural beauty, and fascinating history, making it a perfect day trip destination. 5. Affordable paradise Ksamil offers an affordable alternative to other Mediterranean destinations. You can enjoy high-quality services and experiences at a fraction of the cost. 6. Perfect for water activities Summer is ideal for activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The calm and warm Ionian Sea is perfect for exploration. 7. Stunning sunsets Ksamil's sunsets are magical, with vibrant colors reflecting on the clear waters. You can enjoy them at a beach bar or while dining al fresco. 8. Convenient location Ksamil is close to other popular destinations like Saranda and Corfu (accessible by ferry), making it easy to explore the region. Visiting Ksamil in the summer allows you to fully experience its beauty and charm, ensuring you have an unforgettable trip!

It was a trip to Tirana, Albania 🇦🇱 We arrived in Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, excited to explore its mix of history, culture, and unique modern charm 🙌 Our first stop was Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city. The large open space, surrounded by impressive landmarks like the National History Museum with its striking mosaic and the Et’hem Bey Mosque, offered us the perfect opportunity to capture some iconic shots 📸 The morning light here is absolutely beautiful, with the square bustling with locals going about their day ✨ 📍Skanderbeg Square, Tirana, Albania We then explored Mount Dajti National Park. To reach the summit, we took the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car 🚠 The panoramic views of Tirana from the top were simply breathtaking, especially around midday when the sun ☀️ highlights the surrounding mountains ⛰️ and the sprawling city below. We captured the best photos here, a must-visit for anyone who enjoys stunning nature views paired with urban landscapes. 📍Dajti Ekspres, Rruga e Dajti, Tirana, Albania We also made our way to the colorful Blloku District, an area once restricted to communist officials but now one of the most lively parts of the city. We wandered the trendy streets lined with cafes ☕️ boutiques, and murals. The vibrant colors and artistic vibe made it a perfect spot for photos 📸 especially in the late afternoon when the light casts a warm glow on the buildings. ✨ We even stumbled upon some hidden gems, like small art galleries and quirky cafes☕️ 📍Blloku, Tirana, Albania We also visited the Pyramid of Tirana, an intriguing structure that was originally built as a museum dedicated to Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former communist leader. Though it’s now in a state of decay, the pyramid remains a fascinating subject for photography 📸 especially during the golden hour when the light casts dramatic shadows across its surface. I would recommend exploring this site if you’re interested in history and quirky landmarks 🙌 📍Pyramid of Tirana, Rruga e Dajti, Tirana, Albania Tirana is a city full of life, contrasts, and beauty , a perfect blend of history, nature, and modernity that makes it an excellent destination for photography. I would highly recommend visiting the city for anyone looking to capture a unique side of Albania 🙌🙌🙌 #europetrip #vacation #travel

Albania is an incredible country, so easy to travel to many places by bus! I stayed at Bearded Dad Hostel, the best hostel I have ever stayed at and made so many new friends. Many days trips are organized by the hostels, so keep an eye out of that! Seeing of the eyes, I went to Blue Eye at the mountains of Theth in Skoder, that was a beautiful time. A little cold for this time of the year, but so worth it! You can celebrate finishing the hike with a classic shot of Raki ! #albania #tirana #skoder #localguides #trip #instatravel

The Declaration of Independence or the Declaration of Independence is the declaration of independence of the Albanian Vilayets from the Ottoman Empire. Albania declared itself independent in Vlora on November 28, 1912 by Ismail Qemali. The declaration of independence was attended by 83 delegates from all Albanian territories. Immediately after the declaration of independence, the Assembly of Vlora formed the first government of Independent Albania led by Ismail Qemali and the Elders. The international recognition of independence and the demarcation of Albania's borders took place a year later at the Conference of Ambassadors in London, whose decision was the declaration of sovereign Albanian Independence by the Ottoman Empire under the supervision of the International Commission of Control and leaving half of the territories the newly formed state outside its administrative borders, because the Albanian nation was endangered by neighboring countries because it had a great geographical and strategic value. Albanians were as interested as the other oppressed peoples of the Balkans in liberating themselves from the Ottoman yoke. Their representatives tried to ally themselves with their neighbors in the joint anti-Russian war, but these attempts failed due to the fault of the leaders of the Balkan Alliance, who did not want to have the Albanians as equal parties in this alliance. because they had agreed among themselves on the partition of Albania. Therefore, the Albanians did not enter into an alliance, the leaders of which intended to use them as meat for dogs in the war against the Ottoman Empire. The participation of Albanians in this alliance, without officially recognizing their rights, would be a suicide.👐 #mynovgetaway #thanksgiving #mynovgetaway#thanksgiving

#tripaway Thethi is located about 70 km from Shkodra, in the heart of the Albanian Alps. For its climatic and biodiversity values, Thethi has been declared a National Park, which is also part of the joint project of the "Peace Park", which includes a cross-border region of "Namuna Mountains" between three countries: Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. The surface of the national park includes an area of ​​2 630 hectares and lies at an altitude of 600 - 2 570 meters above sea level. Here there is a dense cover of trees where 90% is represented by dense beech forests, but also maple, ash, hornbeam, etc. The fauna of the park consists of 50 species of birds, 10 species of reptiles and 8 species of amphibians. There are also different species of woodpeckers, golden eagles, alpine salamanders, as well as a variety of colorful butterflies. In the waters of the river Shale that meanders in the middle of Thethi, there is also marble trout. Thethi has the appearance of a basin 800 meters above sea level. It is located between a crown of steep peaks, such as: Radohima, Arap Peak, Alise Peak, which stand out for the rare beauties throughout the Alps. The Shala River flows through the village, with its abundant, fast-flowing water, crystal clear and ice-cold. Cataracts and waterfalls descend from the mountains noisily and furiously. #visitalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Mirdita, one of the most virgin and beautiful provinces in Albania, with all-round above-ground and underground resources, with enviable mountain springs and climate, with rich flora and fauna, invites and welcomes friends, as it knows how to wait. The Durrës-Morinë highway, about 70 km of which cross the territory of Mirdita, is also a chance that creates opportunities for the use of mountain tourist resources that Mirdita has. Also the numerous works of art, give rare beauty to the whole valley of the Little Fan that traverses it. The relief of this area in the whole geographical belt, from the mountains of Kaçinar, Munella, Zepa, Bjeshkët e Oroshit, Valmor, Kroi i Bardhë to the top of Kunora, is distinguished for a diverse development of karst processes. The most special is the Uraka Stream Valley (a tributary of the Mat River), on the slopes of which are some of the most important caves. There are dozens of caves in this belt, each more interesting than the other and very complicated. Archaeological finds belonging to the Neolithic period have been discovered by chance by non-specialists in the Mercury cave, but unfortunately these findings have not aroused interest among specialists in the field. The exception is the Kusia cave of Ndue Gjoni between Mërkurth and Kurbnesh, on the left of the Uraka Stream, which was discovered and studied in 1994 by a group of Roman speleologists, together with Albanian speleologists. The study is not yet complete. According to researchers, the cave has great scientific, cultural, didactic and tourist values. It has therefore been declared a natural monument. #visitalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Albanian alps One of the most attractive and fascinating territories of the Albanian territories with many natural beauties and great tourist assets, are the Albanian Alps. One of the most attractive and fascinating territories of the Albanian territories with many natural beauties and great tourist assets, are the Albanian Alps. Represented by a mountainous relief with many contrasts, crossed by river valleys with crystal clear waters, gorges and mountain passes to intrigue you to continue exploring nature, with a rich vegetation, the Albanian Alps represent a gem of values unique for Albania even in the world. The Alps resemble a dome with a high peak Jezerca 2694 m from which emerge in the form of rays mountain ranges with sharp peaks and steep slopes. There is no way not to attract the attention of visitors the numerous karst, glacial, fluvial forms etc. with a mystical beauty where nature has compromised with itself and with man. The mountain peaks in this territory seem to reach the sky. Their stunning beauty is reflected in the clear waters of rivers such as Shala, Valbona, Curraj, Cemi, Moraça, etc. as well as in such glacial lakes as those of Peja, Jezerca, Dobërdol, Sylbica etc. offer a fabulous tranquility and an adrenaline level which changes in every moment you enjoy the many beauties of this space. Mountains such as Radohima, Iron Peak, Arabian Peak, Shkelzen Peak, etc. serve as triangulation points, offering a different panorama which tempts the adventurous spirit of every visitor to see the natural beauties around them. To this very rich natural offer which can be used for tourist purposes is added the diversity of flora and fauna. The four floors of vegetation and the edaphic conditions as similar as they are different in this space have conditioned the existence of a series of endemic plants and animals which are not only of study interest but also enrich its tourist decoration. #visitalbania #beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway If you are planning to visit not very famous, special and unique places, Albania with its beauties will leave you speechless. Numerous European and world tourism portals talk about this "secret" country of Europe that is best preserved and that boasts of the beauties that nature has forgiven. With its many natural monuments, it is the ideal destination for everyone, not only for foreign tourists, but also for the Albanians themselves who want to know their country in all dimensions. And this has been best revealed by special tourist guides, as well as nature and photography enthusiasts. Followed by the passion for photography, but also by the desire to know more about Albania, they remain a unique guide. Afrim Tahiraj for more than two years on his social networks brings images of an Albania that adds to the desire to be the next visitor tomorrow. Below we present the 15 photos that IntoAlbania has chosen for you. #visitalbania #beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Home to one of the most beautiful national parks in Albania, Lura National Park, the Dibra region is rich in natural beauty, mountainous landscapes, glacial lakes, countless rivers, and dense forests. Lura’s majestic beauty has been praised by the likes of Edith Durham while the great Albanian poet Gjergj Fishta has said “He who has not seen Lura, has not seen Albania.” Still, to be discovered, the region’s unadulterated nature hides natural thermal springs, surrounded by pines, along with the high altitudes of its mountainous terrain. These mineral-rich waters are some of the most amazing natural wonders in the country, beautiful to behold, and providers of serious health benefits. Albania owes much of its famous culinary delights to Dibra’s indelible traditional cuisine, most notably including the buttery jufka, Albania’s own version of tagliatelle, and sheqerpare, a rich and scrumptious dessert. #visitalbania#beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway For years, Shengjin has been at the top of the preferences for local and foreign vacationers. All this from the good work that has been done in urban development and systematization, cleaning the beaches, improving the infrastructure, services for tourists, etc. The city of Shengjin, with its beaches and lagoons, quality hotels and restaurants and entertainment facilities are the main destination for vacationers. The Virginity of the Cast Sand 1.0 THE SAND THREE The beach of the Cast Sand in Shengjin, is one of the most beautiful areas to spend the summer holidays and is considered by the locals as an "Adriatic oasis". This environment starts from Guri i Marka Nikës to Guri i Camës. It has a length of 3 kilometers. It starts with a small sand dune (sand dune) that reaches a height of 2-3 meters, followed by a Mediterranean pine forest. They create a green belt at a length of 500 meters. Further, the pine belt is interrupted. In the form of a pyramidal site are the dunes that go up to 5 meters, where the mountain slope in a large area is "covered". The highest dune reaches from 80 meters to 100 meters, located on the western slope of the hills of Mount Rrenc. This is a wonderful place, with somewhat coarse, clean sand, untouched by human hand. Here besides the sea and the sun, you can also enjoy the relaxing landscape, the blue sea in the spaces up to Cape Rodon. In this environment for the summer season serves a cafe-restaurant. The road to Rana e Hedhun (Thrown Sand) is: Shengjin-Navy road-former military anti-aircraft unit in the northwestern direction along the Rrenc mountain. The extension of the road leads to Velipoja-Shkodra Beach. #visitalbania#beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Tropoja is a typical mountainous area. As a united part of the Albanian Alps, the largest area for the area of ​​its district is higher. The average altitude of the district of Tropoja is among the highest in Albania - 1105 m above sea level. The characteristic features of poor relief are: Shkëlzen - Kollatë ridge, which lies between the Valbona valley and the Tropoja pit, which is over 2000 m high, surrounded by sharp swords. Other auxiliary parts of the ridge are: Shkelzen Peak (2407 m), Radesha Mountain (2314 m), Gashi River Valley and Kollata Block. The Jezerca block, which lies in the center of the Albanian Alps, is surrounded by pits, valleys and deep valleys. In addition to the peak of Jezerca (2694 m), which is the second highest peak in Albania, there are 35 other peaks with an altitude of over 2200 m in the district school. Glacial valleys and karst pits predominate, where vegetation is sufficient. Gashi Highlands, which is composed of igneous rocks and is distinguished for its rugged terrain and other glacial lakes, forests and alpine pastures. Among the main necks in Tropoja are: Neck of Prush, Vranica, Bor, Morina and Valbona. Their district valleys are: Valbona Valley, Gashi Valley, Sylbica (Tropoja) Valley, Bardhë River Valley and Curraj Valley. Other additional units to facilitate in the district of Tropoja are: Sylbica Plateau, Dobërdol Plateau, Markofçe Plateau, Upper Curraj Plateau, Tplan Plateau and Bytyç Plateau. Valbona Valley is one of the unique wonders of Albanian alpine nature. This valley is located in the northernmost part of the country east of the mountain massif of the Alps that includes the district of Tropoja. Valbona Valley starts from Qafa e Valbona in the west and ends in the Drini valley in the southwest, very close to the dam of the Fierza hydropower plant. Its length from the Valbona Pass to the Drin River is 50.6 kilometers. Valbona Valley is the most visited tourist area in the district of Tropoja, even one of the

#hellohalloween In Gjirokastër County, Gjirokastër continues to charm with its quiet strength and timeless beauty. Exploring deeper, the stone architecture feels even more impressive, with each narrow path leading to another stunning view of the valley below. The Ethnographic Museum, housed in the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, offers a fascinating glimpse into local life and traditions. Cafes tucked between old houses invite you to pause and watch the world move at a slower pace. The blend of culture, history, and daily life feels seamless here. From local dishes like qifqi to the friendly smiles of residents, every detail adds warmth to the cool mountain air. By nightfall, as lights shimmer over the cobblestones, Gjirokastër feels like a secret kept safe for centuries, quietly waiting to be rediscovered again and again.

#hellohalloween Gjirokastër in Gjirokastër County is a city that feels like stepping into a story carved from stone. The old town’s cobbled lanes twist past slate-roofed houses, each one perched carefully on the hillside. The Gjirokastër Castle dominates the skyline, offering sweeping views of the Drino Valley and whispering tales of the city’s layered past. Wandering through the bazaar, you catch the scent of coffee roasting and hear craftsmen chatting in small workshops. The mix of Ottoman charm and quiet Balkan rhythm makes it easy to linger. Evenings are magical when the sun glows on the grey stone walls and the town softens into a golden calm. Gjirokastër is not just a destination but a living museum, filled with warmth, history, and an unhurried beauty that makes you want to stay a little longer.

#hellohalloween Gjipe, located in Vlorë County, Albania, is a true hidden treasure along the Albanian Riviera. Reached by a short hike or boat, this secluded beach sits where the dramatic Gjipe Canyon meets the turquoise Ionian Sea. The combination of towering cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and soft pebbles creates a picture-perfect escape far from the crowds. The beach has a wild, untouched charm, with only a few tents and a small beach café blending into the natural surroundings. Visitors can swim, kayak into the canyon, or simply relax under the warm Mediterranean sun. The lack of large resorts or noise makes Gjipe an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and raw beauty. It feels like stepping into a different world where nature takes center stage and time slows down effortlessly.

Albania's famous hiking route "The Accursed Mountains" This is a must-visit and highly recommended spot if you're traveling to Albania✨ Enjoy the fresh air and immerse yourself in nature🍁⛰️ Route: Valbona → Theth Distance: Approximately 12km Duration: Around 7 hours including breaks I visited in late October 2024. Since it was the end of the season, I was worried there might be fewer hikers and colder weather, but that wasn't the case. Walking while enjoying the autumn foliage made me feel it was actually the best season. ⚠️ The cabins can get quite chilly in the mornings and evenings, so make sure to dress warmly!

Albania is one of Europe’s most affordable and underrated destinations, offering incredible landscapes that range from turquoise beaches to rugged mountain trails. Along the Ionian coast, places like Sarandë, Ksamil, and Himarë rival the Greek islands — but at a fraction of the price. Inland, the towns of Gjirokastër and Berat reveal centuries of history through stone houses, fortresses, and quiet cobblestoned streets. Travelers can enjoy fresh Mediterranean food, warm hospitality, and scenic bus rides without breaking the budget. Albania feels raw and authentic, a place where nature, history, and everyday life meet in a truly affordable adventure. #Albania #BudgetTravel #BalkanAdventure #HiddenGems #IonianCoast #AffordableEurope #TravelSmart #CulturalJourney #europeonbudget

#hellohalloween Berat in Berat County, Albania, is one of those places that instantly wins your heart. Known for its white stone houses stacked up the hillside, it truly lives up to its nickname, the City of a Thousand Windows. The old quarters of Mangalem and Gorica are filled with narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and the sound of daily life echoing through the walls. The Berat Castle on the hill offers breathtaking views of the Osum River and the town below, making it perfect for a slow afternoon walk. Locals are warm and welcoming, and there is a peaceful rhythm to life here that feels genuine. Whether you explore ancient churches or sip coffee by the river, Berat gives a glimpse into Albania’s rich history and gentle beauty.

#hellohalloween Gjirokaster in Gjirokaster County, Albania, is a hillside city that feels like a journey into another time. Its cobbled streets, old stone houses, and steep alleys give it a charm that is both authentic and unforgettable. The massive castle overlooking the city offers stunning views and a real sense of the region’s history, filled with stories of empires and resilience. Wandering through the old bazaar, you find local crafts, woven rugs, and the welcoming spirit of the people. The city’s architecture reflects both Ottoman and Albanian influences, creating a unique mix of styles that feels timeless. Whether you explore its museums or simply enjoy the views from a café terrace, Gjirokaster captures the essence of Albania’s cultural heart with its mix of history, warmth, and quiet beauty.

#hellohalloween Apollonia in Fier County, Albania, is a fascinating archaeological site that takes you deep into the country’s ancient past. Set among peaceful hills near the village of Pojan, the ruins feel both majestic and serene. Walking through the remains of temples, columns, and stone pathways gives you a real sense of what life might have been like in this once thriving Greek and Roman city. The small museum nearby adds depth to the experience, displaying beautiful artifacts uncovered from the site. The views over the surrounding landscape are wide and calm, making it easy to imagine ancient philosophers studying here. Apollonia is not crowded, which makes it perfect for quiet exploration. It is a place where history feels alive and nature adds its own timeless beauty to the story.

#hellohalloween Durrës in Durrës County, Albania, is a coastal city that beautifully blends ancient charm with a laid back seaside vibe. It is one of those places where you can walk along the beach in the morning and explore Roman ruins in the afternoon. The old amphitheater in the heart of the city is a must see, offering a glimpse into Durrës’s long and fascinating history. The waterfront promenade is perfect for a relaxed stroll, especially at sunset when the sea glows with golden light. Cafes and seafood restaurants line the shore, creating an easygoing atmosphere that makes you want to linger. Durrës feels both vibrant and timeless, a place where history, culture, and the calm rhythm of the sea come together in the most natural way.

#hellohalloween Albania is a country that feels like a hidden treasure waiting to be explored. Centered around Tirana Province, it offers an amazing mix of mountains, beaches, and lively cities. The capital Tirana is full of energy, with colorful buildings, busy cafés, and a youthful vibe that makes every walk interesting. Along the coast, places like Durrës and Sarandë welcome visitors with golden beaches and the clear waters of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. Inland, the mountains provide dramatic landscapes, perfect for hiking and discovering traditional villages. Albania also has a deep history, with castles, Roman ruins, and Ottoman influences seen everywhere. What makes the country truly special is its warm hospitality. Albania combines natural beauty, culture, and friendliness in a way that feels authentic and unforgettable.

Explore Albania, a small European country filled with unexpected charm. Enjoy stunning natural beauty, storied ancient cities, and an unrivaled coastline. If you're looking for a unique experience, give Albania a try. You'll fall in love from day one. 🕌 Start in the capital, Tirana, a vibrant city teeming with art and life. Stroll along Skanderbeg Square, visit the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and ride the Dajti Express cable car for bird's-eye views. Stop at a warm and welcoming European-style cafe. 🌊 Continue to Ksamil, a seaside town known as the "Maldives of Europe." With its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and small islands, it's perfect for a relaxing boat trip and stunning photos for social media. 🏞 Shkodra, a charming northern city with a rustic European feel, offers views of Lake Shkodra and the hilltop Rozafa Castle. Learn about the legends of love and sacrifice embedded in the castle's stone walls. 🏛 Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site “The City of a Thousand Windows,” with its distinctive rows of whitewashed houses nestled on the hillsides. Stroll through the old town and admire churches and museums that tell profound religious and cultural stories. 🌅 “Saranda,” a vibrant coastal city, is perfect for relaxing by the sea, watching the sunset at Lekursi Castle, and savoring fresh seafood and fragrant local wines. 🏺 “Apollonia,” an ancient city that flourished during the Greco-Roman era. Admire the timeless remains of temples, columns, and an open-air theater, perfect for history and archaeology enthusiasts. 🏘 Finally, head to “Gjirokastër,” a UNESCO World Heritage-listed stone town with its gray stone houses and narrow streets that transport you back to the Ottoman era. Visit Gjirokastër Castle and the museum, which served as the birthplace of Albania’s former leaders. ✨ Albania is a country brimming with diversity, combining nature, culture, and warm people. It’s the perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique and memorable European experience. #AlbaniaTrip #TiranaKsamilBerat #HiddenGemsEurope #ProfessionalTravel #EuropeUnseen #AlbaniaDiaries

my Albania trip