Must-Visit Cities
Tirana
The vibrant capital city, known for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and mix of Ottoman, Italian, and communist architecture. Visit Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and enjoy the bustling nightlife.
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Saranda
A stunning coastal city on the Ionian Sea, perfect for beach lovers. Known as the "Gateway to the Albanian Riviera," it offers beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and proximity to ancient ruins.
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Berat
The "City of a Thousand Windows," a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Famous for its Ottoman-era architecture with white houses climbing the hillside, creating a breathtaking panorama.
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Gjirokastër
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "City of Stone." Its cobblestone streets, stone houses, and impressive castle make it a photographer's paradise.
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Shkodër
One of Albania's oldest cities, located near Lake Shkodra. Rich in history and culture, it's known for Rozafa Castle, the historic center, and its proximity to the Albanian Alps.
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Vlorë
A coastal city where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. It's the city where Albanian independence was declared and offers beautiful beaches, historical sites, and great seafood.
Read more →Historical Places
Butrint National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient ruins from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Located near Saranda, it's one of the most important archaeological sites in the Balkans.
Rozafa Castle (Shkodër)
An impressive medieval fortress with stunning views of Lake Shkodra and the surrounding mountains. The castle has a rich history dating back to Illyrian times.
Berat Castle
One of the largest castles in Albania, housing a medieval citadel with Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and traditional houses. It's still inhabited today!
Gjirokastër Castle
A massive stone fortress overlooking the city. It houses the National Arms Museum and offers spectacular views of the Drino Valley.
Apollonia Archaeological Park
An ancient Greek colony founded in 588 BCE. The ruins include a theater, temples, and a beautiful Byzantine monastery with an impressive mosaic floor.
Krujë Castle
The historic stronghold of Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg. Located just outside Tirana, it houses the Skanderbeg Museum and offers panoramic views.
Restaurants & Cafes
Restaurants
Mulliri i Vjetër (Tirana)
Traditional Albanian cuisine in a charming old mill setting. Try the tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and byrek.
Restorant Tradicional Gjirokaster
Authentic Albanian dishes with a focus on regional specialties. Excellent qofte (meatballs) and fresh salads.
Fish Restaurant Marina (Saranda)
Fresh seafood with stunning sea views. Known for grilled fish and seafood risotto.
Restorant Antigoni (Berat)
Traditional cuisine served in a beautiful traditional house. Don't miss the local wine and homemade desserts.
Era Restaurant (Tirana)
Modern Albanian cuisine with a creative twist. Great for experiencing traditional flavors with contemporary presentation.
Restorant Tradicional Vlorë
Coastal cuisine featuring fresh fish, seafood pasta, and traditional Albanian dishes. Beautiful terrace overlooking the sea.
Cafes
Komiteti Kafe Muzeum (Tirana)
Unique cafe-museum with communist-era memorabilia. Great coffee and raki selection in an atmospheric setting.
Colonial Café (Tirana)
Stylish cafe in the heart of the city, perfect for people-watching. Excellent coffee and pastries.
Blue Eye Café (Saranda)
Beachside cafe with stunning views. Perfect spot for coffee, cocktails, and sunset watching.
Bobo Café (Berat)
Charming cafe with terrace views of the old town. Great Turkish coffee and traditional Albanian pastries.
Kafe Flora (Gjirokastër)
Cozy stone cafe in the old town. Authentic atmosphere with excellent coffee and local sweets.
Mulliri i Vjetër Café (Multiple locations)
Popular chain of cafes throughout Albania. Great coffee, cakes, and atmosphere for working or relaxing.
1 Week Itinerary in Albania
Tirana - Arrival & Exploration
- Arrive in Tirana, Albania's capital
- Check into your hotel in the city center
- Explore Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum
- Walk through the Blloku district (former communist elite area)
- Enjoy dinner at Mulliri i Vjetër
- Evening: Experience Tirana's vibrant nightlife
Tirana to Berat
- Morning: Drive to Berat (2 hours from Tirana)
- Explore the "City of a Thousand Windows"
- Visit Berat Castle and the Onufri Museum
- Walk through the Mangalem and Gorica quarters
- Lunch at Restorant Antigoni
- Evening: Stay overnight in a traditional guesthouse
Berat to Gjirokastër
- Morning: Drive to Gjirokastër (2.5 hours)
- Visit Gjirokastër Castle and the National Arms Museum
- Explore the Old Bazaar and traditional stone houses
- Lunch at Restorant Tradicional Gjirokaster
- Visit the Ethnographic Museum (Zekate House)
- Evening: Coffee at Kafe Flora, overnight in Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër to Saranda
- Morning: Scenic drive to Saranda (1.5 hours)
- Visit Butrint National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Explore ancient ruins from multiple civilizations
- Afternoon: Relax at one of Saranda's beaches
- Dinner at Fish Restaurant Marina
- Evening: Stroll along the Saranda promenade
Saranda & Albanian Riviera
- Morning: Visit the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) natural spring
- Drive along the stunning Albanian Riviera coastline
- Stop at Ksamil beaches (if time permits)
- Lunch at a beachside restaurant
- Afternoon: More beach time or boat trip
- Evening: Sunset drinks at Blue Eye Café
Saranda to Vlorë
- Morning: Drive to Vlorë (2 hours)
- Visit the Independence Monument and Museum
- Explore the historic center
- Lunch at a traditional restaurant
- Afternoon: Beach time at Vlorë or nearby Radhima Beach
- Visit Apollonia Archaeological Park (30 min drive)
- Evening: Seafood dinner in Vlorë
Vlorë to Tirana & Departure
- Morning: Drive back to Tirana (1.5 hours)
- Visit Krujë Castle and Skanderbeg Museum (30 min from Tirana)
- Last-minute souvenir shopping at the Old Bazaar in Krujë
- Return to Tirana for final meal at Era Restaurant
- Afternoon: Visit any missed sights or relax
- Evening: Departure or extend your stay
Travel Tips: Rent a car for maximum flexibility. Albanian roads have improved significantly, but some mountain roads can be challenging. Consider hiring a local guide for historical sites. The best time to visit is May-September for beach weather, or April-October for city exploration.