Albania - Tirana - Sheshi Skënderbej square and the statue of the national hero and modern architecture in the background
Albania, a small country in size, but extremely rich in natural beauty, history and cultural heritage. Must-see attractions in Albania range from the crystal clear coastline, to historic cities, impressive mountain landscapes and vibrant urban areas. The country offers unique experiences for every traveler. In this guide you will find the main attractions to visit in Albania and selected destinations. Thanks to good accessibility and safe transport options, discovering Albania is easier and more enjoyable than ever before.
As one of the oldest cities in Albania and its main coastal gateway, Durrës perfectly combines history with seaside energy. Just 30 minutes from Tirana, this port city offers visitors cultural attractions and endless seaside entertainment.
Tourists can explore the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the largest in the Balkans, the Archaeological Museum, and the Byzantine Forum. A walk along the Durrës promenade at sunset reveals a mix of cafés, bars, and sea views that create the city’s relaxing atmosphere. For food lovers, there are excellent seafood restaurants such as 2 Kitarrat, Aragosta, Vertigo, and Artur Restaurant, where fresh, locally caught fish pairs perfectly with Albanian wine.
For those seeking adventure, Durrës offers plenty of water sports. Those include water skiing, parasailing, and diving during the summer months. The long sandy beaches of Plazhi i Madh and Gjiri i Lalëzit are ideal for swimming and relaxing with family.
Whether you enjoy ancient ruins, seaside clubs, or Mediterranean cuisine, Durrës is a destination you shouldn’t miss. This is where history meets the Adriatic Sea.
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Shkodra is one of the oldest and most historic cities in Albania. It is located in the north where Lake Shkodra, the Buna and Drin rivers, and the Albanian Alps meet. It is often called the cultural capital of northern Albania. This city is famous for its artistic spirit, traditional architecture, and friendly atmosphere.
Visitors can stroll through the Old Town with its colorful houses and cobblestone streets. You can visit the Marubi National Museum (the first of its kind in the Balkans ) and explore the Catholic Cathedral. You can also visit the mosque, and the Pedonal (main pedestrian street). It is filled with cafés and restaurants. Shkodra is also the main gateway to Theth and Valbona National Park, making it an ideal starting point for nature lovers heading to the Albanian Alps.
The castle is on a hill just 3 km from the city center. This is one of the most iconic places to visit in Albania. The castle dates back to the Illyrian period, the 4th century BC. It has been under Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule.
From its stone walls, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Lake Shkodra, the Drin and Buna rivers, and the surrounding landscape. Inside, you will find the ruins of old buildings, cisterns, and museums that showcase the castle’s long history.
The most famous part of Rozafa is its legend. It tells the story of a woman named Rozafa who was walled alive inside the castle to ensure its stability. Her spirit is said to still protect the city today, and the story symbolizes sacrifice and the strength of Albanian folklore.
The castle is located 3 km southwest of the city of Shkodra. You can reach it by taxi or car in just 10 minutes from the city center. For those who enjoy walking, the path takes about 30–40 minutes uphill. Opening hours are 09:00 – 19:00 (in summer) and 09:00 – 16:00 (in winter). The entrance fee is around 300 ALL (3€) for adults, with free or reduced rates for children.
Guided Tours: Local guides are available at the entrance or can be booked through tourist offices in Shkodra or at hotels. Tours usually last 1 hour and cost around 10–15 Euros, depending on the group size and language (English, Italian, or Albanian). Near the castle entrance, you can find museums, cafés, and parking areas under the main gate.
To move around the city or to go from the city to Shkodra Castle, you can order a taxi through the VrapOn Taksi App.
The ferry trips on Lake Koman are among the most beautiful journeys in Albania, in a place often called “Europe’s Hidden Fjords.” On the route that runs from Koman to Fierza, the ferry sails between narrow canyons, green-colored waters, and high mountain cliffs that look like the Norwegian Fjords. The trip takes about 2–3 hours and offers stunning views of the Albanian Alps, traditional villages, and untouched nature.
It is an experience that travelers heading to Valbona or Theth should not miss. This journey combines natural beauty with a touch of local adventure. Bring your camera — every moment on the Lake Koman Ferry feels like a real-life postcard.
Per me shume informacion lidhur me bileteta, cmimin e tyre dhe udhetimin mund te klikoni ne linqet ne faqet me poshte:
The Osumi Canyon is an impressive natural formation shaped by the Osumi River in southern Albania, near the town of Çorovodë in the Skrapar region. The canyon stretches 12–26 km in length, depending on how it is measured, with rock walls reaching up to 80 meters high.
In spring, the melting snow from the mountains fills the river and creates perfect conditions for rafting. Here you can find seasonal waterfalls, caves, and rock formations such as “The Cathedral” or “The Bride’s Hole.” The canyon’s ecosystem is rich with Mediterranean shrubs, rocky walls, and shaded areas, giving it a dramatic and scenic appearance.
No previous experience is needed, and tours usually provide all the equipment required for this activity. The guides are professional and certified.
Here are some examples of packages and costs:
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The Bënjë Thermal Baths, also known as Llixhat e Bënjës, are one of the most beautiful attractions in Albania. Located about 14 km from Përmet in southern Albania, these natural sulfur springs contain thermal water that comes from underground at temperatures ranging from 22–32°C. The site is at the entrance of the Langarica Canyon, near the historic Ottoman-era Kadiu Bridge.
The thermal baths offer a unique combination of natural beauty: surrounded by high mountains, the clear crystal waters of the Langarica River, an old Ottoman bridge, and on average six natural thermal pools. The sulfur-rich waters have a distinct smell, but this makes the experience an authentic therapeutic one. The water has medicinal properties and can help treat skin conditions, stomach and kidney problems, and rheumatic diseases.
Entrance to the thermal baths is free all year round; you only need to pay a parking fee of 200 ALL. To get there, you can take public minibuses from Përmet to Bënjë between 08:00–12:00, with return trips until 16:00. Tickets cost around 100–200 ALL. For taxis from Përmet, you can use the VrapOn Taxi app or travel by your own car. Since there are no toilets, showers, or changing rooms, you should bring: water shoes, a swimsuit, a towel, water and food, sunscreen, and a bag for trash.
In Përmet, you can find many accommodation options in hotels, guesthouses, and budget stays—search on Booking.com. Day tours from agencies usually include transportation from major cities, with prices around 2,000 ALL per person. This combines the thermal waters with visits to Përmet town and nearby attractions like Kelcyra. Many tour operators on platforms such as GetYourGuide and Viator offer organized excursions.
Located near the city of Fier, Apollonia National Park is one of the most important ancient sites in Albania. Apollonia was founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BC. It was once a flourishing city dedicated to the god Apollo. It was also a major center of culture and trade in antiquity. Visitors can explore impressive ruins, including the ancient theater. The temple, and the St. Mary’s Monastery are all surrounded by peaceful village views. Apollonia is a must-visit for those who love history and want to take a walk among the ruins of Albania’s classical past.
Inside the Apollonia Museum, visitors can discover a collection of artifacts that bring the city’s ancient history to life. The museum is housed in St. Mary’s Monastery. Inside, you can find:
If you want to go to Apollonia, you can use VrapOn Taxi App and start your journey from wherever you are to this destination. Click here for more info.
Pogradec is a peaceful city located on the shores of ‘Lake Ohrid’ in Albania. It attracts many visitors throughout the year. In this city, you can enjoy a beautiful combination of natural scenery, local richness, and warm hospitality.
Old Town – With its Ottoman and Balkan architecture. Your days will be more relaxing walking along the wide promenade by the lake. This is one of the most beautiful places in Albania for an evening stroll in the fresh air near the amphitheater.
Drilon National Park – Just a few minutes from Pogradec, this peaceful paradise is ideal for relaxation, especially in spring and summer when bigger cities are hot and noisy.
Tushemisht – Another place to visit, with a long beach that attracts tourists in summer. The village has many old houses, some centuries old, the St. Pandelimon Church, and traditional local dishes.
Lin is a small tourist village located on the shores of Lake Ohrid. In 2023, archaeologists discovered that Lin dates back 8,500 years, around 6000 BC. It makes it one of the oldest settlements in Europe. The village is known for its red-tiled houses, calm waters, and stunning panoramic views. Lin also features ancient stilt-house remains and a 6th-century Byzantine basilica.
The village is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as embroidery, sewing, and wood carving. Some of the typical dishes you can try during your stay in Lin include lake fish, especially trout. Your visit can also include activities such as nature walks, boat rides, and horseback riding.
You can experience authentic Albanian hospitality in guesthouses such as ‘House 1960’, ‘Rosa B&B’, and ‘Vila 43 Lin’, where homemade food and beautiful lake views are offered. For anyone seeking tranquility, natural beauty, history, and cultural experiences, Lin is the perfect destination.
Located 25 km from Saranda and 15 km from Gjirokastra, the Blue Eye is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts. Visitors can explore natural trails, enjoy the view from the wooden observation platform, and discover small waterfalls and picnic spots hidden among the trees.
Near the spring, there are several traditional restaurants where you can try grilled trout, fresh salads with local olive oil, homemade raki, and traditional desserts like fried dough with honey. Some of the popular restaurants include:
Although the area itself is calm and natural, those looking for nightlife can head to Saranda, just 30 minutes away. The best time to visit ‘The Blue Eye’ is from April to October, when the water’s colors shine brightest under the sun.
The Blue Eye in Saranda is one of Albania’s most stunning natural wonders — a deep, crystal-clear spring surrounded by dense forests and rich greenery. The spring reaches over 50 meters in depth, creating a spectacular blue–green color that resembles a giant natural eye, which is how it got its name.
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Located on the beautiful southern coast of Albania, Vlora is the place where the Adriatic and Ionian Seas meet. This offers visitors stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage. Vlora is known as the city where Albania declared its independence in 1912, making it a destination where history blends perfectly with nature and vibrant seaside life.
Culture lovers can visit the Independence Museum, the Muradie Mosque, and Kuzum Baba for a panoramic view of the city and the sea. Just a short trip away is the Zvernec Monastery, a peaceful 13th-century site located on a small island connected to the mainland by a wooden bridge.
Vlora’s coastline offers some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, including those along the Lungomare Promenade, Radhimë, and Orikum—perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or taking boat trips to Sazan Island and the Karaburun Peninsula.
When it comes to dining, visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at Restaurant Joni, Marina Bay, or Piceri Amore. As night falls, Vlora comes alive with beach bars, lounge bars, and live music along the promenade, making it one of Albania’s most popular summer destinations for relaxation and entertainment.
For more information about the Independence Museum: (source reference removed per instructions)
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Dhërmi is one of the most beautiful coastal villages in southern Albania, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white pebble beaches, and the calm Mediterranean charm. Set between the Ionian Sea and the mountains, it perfectly combines coastal beauty with a dramatic mountain landscape.
When visiting Dhërmi, tourists can swim and sunbathe on its stunning beaches, such as Drimades and Gjipe, some of the most beautiful in Albania. You can go hiking or take kayak trips to Gjipe Canyon, a hidden natural wonder.
Explore the old stone village of Dhërmi, with its narrow alleys, ancient churches, and panoramic views. Enjoy fresh seafood and beach bars offering unforgettable sunsets. Take short trips to nearby spots like Himara, Jale Beach, or Llogara National Park.
Dhërmi offers both adventure and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination on the Albanian Riviera.
Ksamil is one of Albania’s most famous coastal destinations, often called the “Maldives of the Mediterranean.” Located at the southernmost tip of the country, just a few minutes from the Butrint National Park, Ksamil is known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and small idyllic islands that you can reach by swimming or renting a boat.
When visiting Ksamil, you can swim or relax on its stunning beaches with crystal-clear water, perfect for snorkeling. You can rent a boat to reach the Ksamil Islands, just a few minutes from the shore. During your stay, you can also explore Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy fresh seafood at seaside restaurants with views of the island of Corfu.
Ksamil is a blend of natural beauty, history, and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Albanian Riviera. To explore Ksamil with VrapOn Taxi app click here.
Himara is another southern coastal town highly visited by both local and foreign tourists. Visitors can relax on the beaches of Livadhi, Potami, and Filikuri, each offering clear waters and great spots for swimming and other water activities.
Explore Himara Castle, located on a hill with stunning views of the Ionian coastline. You can stroll through the Old Town with its characteristic stone houses, visit nearby beaches such as Llamani, Jale, and Gjipe, and enjoy delicious dinners at seaside restaurants like Taverna Lefteri, I Love Souvlaki, or Taverna Stoli, known for fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
For nightlife, you can enjoy the beach bars and clubs in Jale or the surrounding areas. Himara offers a perfect blend of local cuisine and authentic Albanian coastal life, making it an essential stop for any trip along the Riviera.
The Karaburun Peninsula is located in the south of Albania, near Vlora, and is part of the larger protected area of the Karaburun–Sazan Marine Park. It is a wild coastline with steep cliffs, hidden bays, sea caves (including the Haxhi Alia Cave), and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
The quickest way to visit the peninsula is by taking a boat from Vlora. You will travel along the coastline, stop at one or two caves, spend some time swimming in the sea, enjoy the views, and breathe in the fresh air. For more information about ticket prices, travel schedules, and which activities are included in the daily tours, you can click one of the links below:
Sazan Island is an impressive destination located not far from the coastline of Vlora, in southern Albania.
Situated within the large protected area of the Karaburun–Sazan Marine Park, it combines natural beauty with intriguing layers of history. Once a closed military base, the island is now accessible and offers rugged landscapes, crystal-clear blue waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling, hidden beaches, and abandoned bunkers and fortifications to explore.
For more information about ticket prices, travel schedules, and which activities are included in the daily tours, you can click one of the links below:
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