Albania is more than a summer beach destination. From Tirana's cafés and museums to Ottoman mountain towns, the country rewards travelers who leave the main route and explore slowly.
Tirana: The Best Starting Point
Spend time around Skanderbeg Square, Blloku, the New Bazaar and Dajti Mountain. Tirana is compact, lively and a useful base for day trips across central Albania.
Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
Walk the Mangalem and Gorica neighborhoods, climb to Berat Castle and stay for sunset over the Osum River. Berat is one of Albania's most rewarding historic cities.
Gjirokastër and Përmet: Stone Towns and Slow Travel
Gjirokastër's stone rooftops and castle make it a standout cultural stop. Nearby Përmet offers hot springs, mountain scenery and a quieter taste of southern Albania.
Shkodër, Theth and the Northern Alps
Use Shkodër as a gateway to Lake Shkodër and the Albanian Alps. Theth is ideal for hiking, dramatic valleys and traditional guesthouses—check weather and transport before setting out.
Albanian Riviera: Beyond Ksamil
Ksamil is popular for its beaches, while Himarë, Qeparo, Borsh and the Llogara Pass offer different scenery and a slower coastal experience. Travel early in peak summer for easier parking and quieter coves.
Hidden Gems Worth Adding to Your Route
- Koman Lake for a dramatic ferry journey through the mountains.
- Voskopoja for churches, forests and peaceful mountain air.
- The Blue Eye near Sarandë for a short nature stop.
- Nartë Lagoon and Zvërnec for wetlands and a quieter coast.
- Llogara National Park for views between the mountains and sea.
Stay Connected While Exploring Albania
Mountain roads, maps, accommodation messages and translation apps all work better with mobile data. Buy an Albania eSIM from XEXesim before departure and receive the QR code by email so you can connect as soon as you arrive.