When I first set foot in Albania, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I’d heard whispers of stunning coastlines, crumbling castles, and untouched mountain trails—but Albania was never the top name on travel lists. That’s exactly what drew me in. What I discovered, though, was more than just an off-the-beaten-path destination; it was a country full of warmth, wonder, and unforgettable landscapes.
Here are the eight places in Albania that completely stole my heart—and why I believe everyone should see them at least once.
1. Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat was my first real introduction to the soul of Albania, and it was love at first sight. Tucked between green hills and cut through by the serene Osum River, the city has an almost dreamlike quality—timeless, poetic, and utterly charming. As I arrived, I was immediately struck by the sight of Ottoman-era houses stacked along the hillsides, their large, symmetrical windows giving the impression that the city itself was watching me. These windows, which earned Berat the nickname “The City of a Thousand Windows,” seemed to reflect centuries of stories, quietly observing the world as it changed around them.
There’s a calming stillness to Berat. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and every detail invites you to linger. Yet, beneath that tranquility lies a depth of history and culture. Climbing the winding path up to Berat Castle—one of the oldest and most intact in the Balkans—I felt like I was walking into another era. What made the castle truly special wasn’t just its imposing stone walls or its commanding views of the valley, but the fact that people still live within its walls. Unlike most castles that feel like cold museum pieces, this one buzzes gently with daily life. You’ll see children playing, laundry hanging between old homes, and residents tending to their gardens—all framed by ancient architecture.
Inside the fortress, I discovered small Orthodox churches with fading frescoes, some over 500 years old. Though weathered, they exuded a sacred beauty that moved me deeply. Outside, the panoramic view from the castle was simply unforgettable: red-tiled rooftops stretching across the valley, framed by the distant mountains and the river glimmering below like a silver ribbon.
Back in the town, I wandered through the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, each on opposite sides of the river. Connected by a centuries-old stone bridge, these neighborhoods are a living showcase of Albanian architectural harmony. Narrow cobblestone alleys twist between whitewashed houses adorned with blooming flowers, and I often found myself stopping to admire ivy-covered walls or smile back at locals chatting on their stoops. There was a rhythm to life here—slow, soulful, and filled with warmth. Berat wasn’t just beautiful; it felt like a gentle invitation into Albania’s heart.
2. Gjirokastër – The Stone City
I thought Berat was beautiful—until I arrived in Gjirokastër. Known as the “Stone City,” this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dramatic maze of stone roofs, steep alleys, and grand Ottoman mansions perched on the hillside.
The centerpiece of the town is the Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest in the Balkans. Standing atop its ramparts, I watched clouds roll over the Drino Valley and felt a quiet reverence settle in. The town is steeped in history—both ancient and modern. It’s the birthplace of Albania’s former communist leader, Enver Hoxha, and you can still visit the Ethnographic Museum, once his home, to learn about Albanian daily life.
There’s something enchanting about Gjirokastër’s gray palette—its muted colors only make the city’s personality shine even more.
3. The Albanian Riviera – Dhërmi, Himarë & Beyond
For many, the Albanian Riviera is the country’s best-kept secret—and I can’t disagree. Imagine turquoise water as clear as glass, pebbled beaches nestled between cliffs, and sleepy villages that come alive with local charm. That’s the Riviera.
My favorite spot was Dhërmi, a beach town with a laid-back vibe. During the day, I lounged by the sea with a good book; in the evenings, I dined on grilled sea bass and homemade olive oil at tiny, family-run tavernas. I also stopped by Himarë, which felt like stepping into a Mediterranean postcard—complete with bougainvillea-lined alleys and breathtaking sunsets.
The drive along the Llogara Pass, high above the Ionian coast, was one of the most beautiful road trips I’ve ever taken. At every bend, the view grew more unreal.
4. Ksamil & Butrint – Paradise Meets Antiquity
Just south of Sarandë, near the Greek border, lies the paradise of Ksamil. Picture soft, white sand beaches and little islands just a swim or paddle away. It’s no wonder this place is often compared to the Caribbean—only without the crowds or the price tag.
What made Ksamil truly special for me was its proximity to Butrint National Park, one of the most fascinating archaeological sites I’ve ever explored. Once a Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman city, Butrint is now a moss-covered ruin where history quietly breathes through the stones. I wandered through an ancient amphitheater, mosaic floors, and Venetian towers, all while surrounded by forests and lakes. The serenity here was as memorable as the ruins themselves.
5. Theth – The Heart of the Albanian Alps
If Albania’s south is all about sun and sea, its north is a hiker’s dream. Nestled deep in the Albanian Alps, Theth is a remote village that feels like it belongs to another world. Reaching Theth was an adventure in itself—winding mountain roads, misty forests, and wild rivers.
I stayed in a cozy guesthouse where my host served fresh mountain tea and homemade bread by the fireplace. The main attraction here is the Theth to Valbona hike, one of the most scenic treks in the Balkans. Though I only did part of it, the views of jagged peaks and alpine meadows left me breathless.
I also visited the iconic Theth Church and the Blue Eye of Theth, a dazzling natural spring tucked away in the forest. If you’re searching for nature in its raw, untouched form, this is the place to go.
6. Shkodër – Culture, Lakes, and Art
Before heading to the mountains, I stopped in Shkodër, one of Albania’s oldest cities. It’s a cultural capital, filled with museums, art galleries, and an infectious creative energy. The city itself is flat and bike-friendly, so I spent hours pedaling past cafes, cathedrals, and colorful buildings.
Rozafa Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city, was a highlight. The legend behind it is both tragic and poetic, and from its heights I could see Lake Shkodër stretching into Montenegro.
What I loved most about Shkodër was its youthful spirit. Whether it was the jazz music pouring out of a back-alley bar or the street murals that brightened up crumbling walls, the city felt alive and expressive.
7. Krujë – The City of Skanderbeg
Just an hour from Tirana, Krujë was an unexpected surprise. This historic town is synonymous with Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, who led the resistance against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century.
At the Skanderbeg Museum, housed inside Krujë Castle, I got a crash course in Albanian pride and perseverance. But it was the Old Bazaar that I truly fell for—an atmospheric cobbled market street where artisans sell handwoven rugs, copper crafts, and antique treasures. It was the perfect place to find meaningful souvenirs and chat with locals.
With the castle looming overhead and views of the surrounding valleys below, Krujë felt like a gateway between Albania’s past and present.
8. Tirana – The Quirky Capital
No trip to Albania would be complete without a stop in Tirana. This is a city that refuses to be boxed in. It’s chaotic, colorful, confusing—and completely captivating.
I spent days wandering around Skanderbeg Square, exploring the National History Museum, and ducking into quirky cafes and bunkers turned art spaces. One of my favorite experiences was visiting Bunk’Art 2, a Cold War-era nuclear bunker converted into a museum about Albania’s communist past. It was eerie and emotional, but incredibly enlightening.
Tirana’s energy is electric. Murals splash across apartment buildings, and parks buzz with laughter and life. I loved sipping macchiatos on Blloku’s stylish terraces and striking up conversations with friendly locals who were more than happy to share stories, recommendations, and a rakia shot or two.
Albania may be small in size, but its diversity, soul, and beauty are immense. I arrived with curiosity and left with an overflowing heart—and more memories than I could have imagined.
From mountain trails to ancient ruins, tranquil lakes to lively cities, this country surprised me at every turn. What struck me most was the authenticity of it all: the warm welcomes, the untouched landscapes, and the sense that I was seeing a place before the crowds arrived.
So if you’re looking for a European escape that’s rich in history, bursting with nature, and light on your wallet—don’t overlook Albania.
It just might be the best trip you didn’t know you needed.
