Albania Travel Guide

Gjirokaster Castle Albania
Flickr / Emilio Poli

Albania, is a country in southern Europe, in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula. To its north lies Montenegro and Kosovo, to its east North Macedonia, and its south Greece. To its west lies the Adriatic and Ionian seas, across which lies Italy, only 50 miles away.

Albania is mainly mountainous country and in the north sits the heavily forested Albanian Alps, the central mountain region is generally less rugged and more densely populated. The south while still having mountains, has less trees and a more Mediterranean feel to it.  Along the Adriatic coast spreading 30 miles into the interior are the low, fertile plains of the Albanian Riviera.

Albania isolated itself from the rest of the world for most of the 20th century. However in 1991 Albania opened their borders and allowed the rest of the world in. Apart from its Riviera having some of the best beaches in Europe the country offers much more, with its Roman ruins, rippling mountains, charming towns and Ottoman past lying largely untouched.

Region map of Albania
Albania Road Trip

Albania Itinerary: Complete 2-Week Road Trip

Renting A Car In Albania

Renting a Car in Albania in 2025: All you need to know

Pulebardha Beach Albania

Best places to visit in Albania

Southwest Albania

The southwest of Albania is the country’s coastal crown jewel, stretching along the Ionian Sea and offering a mix of beach bliss and historical depth. Sarandë is a lively coastal city and major summer destination, with its waterfront lined by restaurants and bars. Just a few kilometers south lies the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where layers of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins sit surrounded by lush forest and lagoon.Gjirokastër, also UNESCO-listed, is a hilltop town known for its stone-roofed houses, cobblestone streets, and massive castle that hosts a weapons museum and folklore festival. Nearby, Libohovë and Tepelenë offer more intimate experiences of Ottoman architecture and legends tied to Ali Pasha and Albanian resistance. These towns are ideal for travelers wanting to explore deeper layers of Albanian history.From Vlorë, the coastal road climbs into the Llogara Pass, revealing one of the most scenic drives in the Balkans. The Albanian Riviera—home to Dhërmi, Jale, Himarë, and others—features secluded beaches, turquoise waters, and charming seaside villages. The southwest invites exploration at every curve, blending warm hospitality with unforgettable landscapes.
Southwest Albania
Region map of Southwest Albania
Fier Berat Gjirokastër Sarandë Përmet Ksamil

Northwest Albania

The Northwest Albania Region is one of the most culturally and geographically diverse areas of the country, offering a rich blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and vibrant communities. It is home to Albania’s second-largest city, Shkodër, which has been a center of culture and trade for centuries. The region is characterized by its dramatic landscapes, including the stunning Shkodra Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the Balkans, and the rugged Albanian Alps, known for their remote villages and pristine nature.Shkodër, the cultural capital of the north, offers visitors a glimpse into Albania’s past with landmarks such as the Rozafa Castle, which overlooks the city and lake. The region is also known for its religious diversity, with Christian and Muslim communities living side by side, reflecting Albania’s historical role as a crossroads of different cultures. In addition to its cultural heritage, the region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and kayaking, particularly in the Valbona and Theth National Parks, which showcase the best of the Albanian Alps.The northwest also includes picturesque towns like Lezhë, with its historical significance as the burial place of Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero. The Drin River flows through the region, offering fertile plains for agriculture, while the nearby Adriatic coast provides coastal towns such as Velipojë, where visitors can enjoy the quiet beaches and fresh seafood. Whether exploring the rich historical sites, embarking on outdoor adventures, or relaxing by the coast, the Northwest Albania Region has something for every traveler.
Northwest Albania
Region map of Northwest Albania
Shkodër Lezhë Rrëshen (Mirditë) Theth

Northeast Albania

The northeast is Albania at its wildest—rugged mountains, deep forests, and remote villages where time seems to pause. It’s a region steeped in traditions and home to dramatic landscapes that appeal to adventurous travelers. The Lura Lakes, hidden in the Lura National Park, offer tranquil hiking routes through glacial basins and dense beech forests, best visited in late spring and summer when the snow has melted.Tropoja and Bajram Curri serve as main entry points to the Albanian Alps and the breathtaking Valbona Valley. Trekkers come from around the world to hike the Valbona-Theth trail, which winds through high alpine passes, past waterfalls, and into some of Albania’s most scenic wilderness. In the surrounding areas, villages still follow a pastoral lifestyle, and hospitality runs deep.Peshkopi is known for its natural thermal baths and proximity to Mount Korab, Albania’s highest peak. The Dibra region, including Mati and its river valleys, is rich with legends, castles, and traditional music. Meanwhile, Kukës—set between rivers and mountains—offers history shaped by its role during the Kosovo War and is slowly growing as a base for exploring the region’s highlands.
Northeast Albania
Region map of Northeast Albania
Vlorë Krujë Kukës Peshkopi Bajram Curri Pukë

Southeast Albania

The southeastern region of Albania is a diverse blend of mountain landscapes, highland culture, and historic towns. Korça, known as the "City of Serenades," stands out with its elegant 19th-century architecture, vibrant arts scene, and deep Orthodox heritage. It’s a year-round destination: cool and cozy in winter with its Christmas markets, and lively in summer during the Korça Beer Festival. Nearby Voskopoja offers a retreat into history with ancient Orthodox churches decorated with fading frescoes.Pogradec, on the shores of Lake Ohrid, is a favorite summer getaway, offering clean beaches, fresh fish restaurants, and lakefront promenades. Just a short drive away, the twin Prespa Lakes share borders with Greece and North Macedonia, and are rich in biodiversity, ideal for birdwatching and kayaking. Kamenica and Treni bring a quieter, off-the-radar experience, with archaeological sites and peaceful village life.Further south, the region’s wild beauty continues with the Gramoz Mountains and the charming town of Përmet. Known for its hospitality and natural hot springs, Përmet is also a gateway to Lengarica Canyon, a spot for hiking, canyoning, and soaking in thermal baths beneath an old Ottoman bridge. The southeastern region offers a laid-back rhythm, inviting visitors to slow down and savor the scenery.
Southeast Albania
Region map of Southeast Albania
Korçë Lushnjë Pogradec Librazhd Tepelenë Ersekë Himarë

Central Albania

Central Albania is the heart of the country, both geographically and culturally. The region encompasses the capital city of Tirana, the country's largest urban center, which has seen significant growth and modernization in recent years. Tirana serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of Albania, with a vibrant mix of history, contemporary art, and diverse architecture. The surrounding towns, such as Durrës and Elbasan, also contribute to the region's importance, blending the old and new in both their daily life and cultural offerings.The landscape of Central Albania is varied, with flat plains along the coast, rolling hills, and rugged mountains in the interior. The region offers a mix of urban and rural experiences, from the bustling streets of Tirana to the serene beauty of towns like Kruja, known for its historical significance and the iconic Kruja Castle. Central Albania also boasts many natural attractions, such as the beaches of Durrës, the thermal baths in the village of Bënç, and hiking trails in the surrounding hills.Central Albania’s rich history stretches back to the Illyrian, Roman, and Byzantine periods, with significant archaeological sites and landmarks dotting the landscape. Durrës, with its Roman amphitheater and ancient walls, and the ancient city of Apollonia near Fier, are among the region's most important historical sites. The region is also home to a strong tradition of arts, with a growing scene of galleries, theaters, and cultural events, making it an excellent destination for both history lovers and those looking to explore Albania’s modern cultural renaissance.
Central Albania
Region map of Central Albania
Amphitheatre Of Durres Albania

Durrës Historic Walking Tour

The Famos Pyramid Which Was Built After Enver Hoxhas Dead In His Memory

Travelling back to Tirana’s Communist Past

Skenderbej Square Tirana

Tirana Historic Walking Tour

Tirana Elbasan Durrës Burrel Gramsh

Tours and Activities from Albania