Best Tourist Places to Visit in Albania

Introduction

Albania is a beautiful country located in Southeast Europe. It is known for its stunning coastline, rich history, and vibrant culture. Despite being a lesser-known travel destination, Albania offers a unique and authentic experience for visitors. In this article, we will discuss some of the best tourist places to visit in Albania and the best time to visit them.

Tirana

Tirana is the capital of Albania and the country's largest city. It is a vibrant and lively city, full of energy and cultural richness. The city has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with new cafes, restaurants, and bars opening up. The city center is pedestrianized and is perfect for strolling around and soaking up the atmosphere.

One of the must-see attractions in Tirana is Skanderbeg Square. It is the heart of the city and is home to the National Museum of History, the Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the Opera and Ballet Theatre. The museum is a great place to learn about Albania's rich history, while the mosque is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture. The theater hosts regular performances and is a great place to catch a show.

Another great place to visit in Tirana is the Blloku neighborhood. It used to be the exclusive neighborhood of the Communist Party elite, but now it is a trendy area full of cafes, restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to hang out and people-watch.

The best time to visit Tirana is from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with activity. The temperatures during these months are warm and pleasant, with average highs ranging from 23°C (73°F) in May to 28°C (82°F) in July and August.

Berat

Berat is a picturesque town located in the south of Albania. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its Ottoman-era architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The town is also known as the "town of a thousand windows" due to the numerous windows that adorn the buildings.

One of the must-see attractions in Berat is the castle. It is perched on a hill overlooking the town and is a great place to explore. Visitors can wander through the castle's narrow streets and visit the Onufri Museum, which houses a collection of religious art.

Another great place to visit in Berat is the Mangalem neighborhood. It is located on the other side of the river from the castle and is home to some of the town's most beautiful Ottoman-era houses. The neighborhood is a great place to stroll around and take in the atmosphere.

The best time to visit Berat is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, the temperatures are comfortable, with average highs ranging from 25°C (77°F) in May to 30°C (86°F) in July and August.

Gjirokastra

Gjirokastra is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a well-preserved Ottoman town. It is located in the south of Albania and is known for its cobbled streets, traditional architecture, and stunning views of the surrounding hills. The town is also famous for producing many famous writers and poets.

One of the must-see attractions in Gjirokastra is the castle. It is perched on a hill overlooking the town and is a great place to explore. Visitors can wander through the castle's narrow streets and visit the museum, which houses a collection of weapons and armor.

Another great place to visit in Gjirokastra is the old bazaar. It is located in the heart of the town and is home to a variety of shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. The bazaar is also a great place to sample some of the local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as qifqi, a type of meatball made with rice and herbs.

The best time to visit Gjirokastra is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. During these months, the temperatures are comfortable, with average highs ranging from 25°C (77°F) in May to 30°C (86°F) in July and August.

Saranda

Saranda is a coastal town located in the south of Albania, overlooking the Ionian Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. The town is also a great base for exploring some of the nearby attractions, including the ancient city of Butrint and the Blue Eye spring.

One of the must-see attractions in Saranda is the promenade. It stretches along the seafront and is lined with bars, restaurants, and cafes. It is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the sea views.

Another great place to visit in Saranda is the Lekursi Castle. It is located on a hill overlooking the town and offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the surrounding mountains. The castle has been converted into a restaurant and is a great place to enjoy a meal while taking in the views.

The best time to visit Saranda is from June to September when the weather is warm, and the sea is perfect for swimming. During these months, the temperatures are comfortable, with average highs ranging from 26°C (79°F) in June to 30°C (86°F) in July and August.

Kruja

Kruja is a historic town located in the central part of Albania, near the capital Tirana. It is known for its castle, which was the birthplace of Albania's national hero, Skanderbeg. The town is also home to a traditional bazaar and a museum dedicated to Skanderbeg.

One of the must-see attractions in Kruja is the castle. It is perched on a hill overlooking the town and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore the castle's towers and walls and learn about the town's history.

Another great place to visit in Kruja is the traditional bazaar. It is located in the heart of the town and is home to a variety of shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. Visitors can also sample some of the local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as fërgesë, a type of baked dish made with peppers, tomatoes, and cheese.

The best time to visit Kruja is from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and the town is bustling with activity. During these months, the temperatures are warm and pleasant, with average highs ranging from 23°C (73°F) in May to 28°C (82°F) in July and August.

Adventures to do at Albania

Hiking in the Albanian Alps: Albania's northern region is home to the Albanian Alps, which offer some of the most stunning scenery in the country. Hiking in the Albanian Alps is an unforgettable adventure that you won't want to miss.

Rafting in the Vjosa River: The Vjosa River is one of the last wild rivers in Europe and is a popular destination for white-water rafting. Rafting down the Vjosa River is an exciting adventure that will give you a unique perspective of Albania's stunning natural beauty.

Biking through the countryside: Albania has a beautiful countryside with small villages, winding roads, and stunning scenery. Rent a bike and explore the countryside at your own pace. There are several biking tours that you can join if you prefer to have a guide.

Paragliding in the Albanian Riviera: The Albanian Riviera has some of the most stunning coastline in Europe. Paragliding is a popular activity in this region and gives you a unique perspective of the coastline and the sea.

Scuba diving in the Ionian Sea: The Ionian Sea is home to some of the best diving spots in Albania. The clear waters and diverse marine life make scuba diving an exciting adventure.

Rock climbing in the Thethi National Park: The Thethi National Park is a beautiful park in northern Albania and offers some of the best rock climbing opportunities in the country. The park has several routes for climbers of all levels.

Skiing in the Albanian Alps: Albania's northern region is home to several ski resorts that offer excellent skiing opportunities. Skiing in the Albanian Alps is a great adventure for skiers of all levels.

Conclusion

Albania is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It offers a unique and authentic travel experience for visitors. The best time to visit Albania is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny. Some of the best tourist places to visit in Albania include Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastra, Saranda, and Kruja. These places offer a variety of attractions, including historic castles, traditional bazaars, beautiful beaches, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply want to relax on the beach, Albania has something for everyone.