World Of Wanderlust

Welcome to a land where history intertwines with stunning landscapes and the hospitality is as pure as its crystal-clear rivers. Albania stands out with its beautiful Balkan Sea coastlines. Get ready to be amazed by its picturesque beaches, ancient architectures, and the serene allure of its charming towns. In this blog, we’ll explore the top places to visit in Albania. So, grab your passport and embark on an adventure to this under-the-radar European gem!

### Best Places to Visit in Albania – Overview

– Berat
– Tirana
– Durres
– Sarande
– Ksamil
– Himare
– Butrint
– Gjirokaster
– Shkodra

### Berat
Enveloped by lush mountains and rolling hills, Berat is simply magical. Known as the ‘Town of a Thousand Windows,’ it captivates visitors with its myriad windows perched on hillside buildings. Its enchanting Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, including the impressive Berat Castle atop a hill, adds to its charm.

Take a walk around Berat to soak in its dreamy ambiance. Wander through the hillside buildings and admire their staircase-like formation. Visit the Holy Trinity Church for spectacular views and intriguing Ottoman-influenced architecture. Step into the National Ethnographic Museum, designed like an 18th-century bazaar, to experience a different world. If you enjoy wine, don’t miss the local winery tours, as Berat is renowned for its wine production.

### Tirana
As the capital of Albania, Tirana is an essential visit. The city boasts a lively atmosphere with sophisticated public spaces and trendy art galleries that spark creativity among the youth. Bars, cafes, and restaurants hum with lively conversations and thrilling events. Tirana beautifully balances its modern vibe with rich historical elements, featuring buildings with distinctive Ottoman and Italian architecture.

Immerse yourself in Tirana’s vibrant energy. Explore the National Historical Museum and House of Leaves, and don’t miss the unique BUNK’ART, a former government bunker now hosting fascinating art installations. Wrap up your day with a night out in the city’s dynamic nightlife spots.

### Durres
Beach days are a must in Albania, and Durres is the perfect place for it. This coastal town is blessed with golden sandy beaches, a sparkling aquamarine sea, and a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Durres attracts many tourists, especially in summer, who come to bask on the sun-kissed shores and sip cold cocktails.

Durres is also rich in history. Visit the Roman Amphitheater, which impresses with its 15,000-seat capacity and Roman origins. The Durres Castle, dating back to the 4th century, offers a glimpse into the town’s medieval past.

### Sarande
Sarande offers a picturesque blend of verdant olive groves, stunning beaches, and a breathtaking blue-turquoise sea. Nestled on the Ionian Sea shores, this town is ideal for a perfect summer getaway. Enjoy amazing beach days, relaxing evenings in seaside cafes, and the laid-back atmosphere of this friendly town.

Sarande is famous for its tranquil beaches and clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also steeped in history, featuring Butrint, an ancient Greek city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town also has ancient synagogues, museums, and centuries-old castles that enrich its cultural landscape.

### Ksamil
Located in the Albanian Riviera, Ksamil is another top beach destination in Albania. This beautiful village boasts crystal-clear waters, perfect beaches, and stunning islets. It’s a popular spot during the summer, with tourists flocking to its powdery shores and turquoise sea.

Ksamil rivals the best of Greece with its picture-perfect beaches and pleasant Mediterranean vibe. The locals are welcoming, and the destination is budget-friendly, making it an affordable yet fantastic travel spot.

### Himare
Himare is a secluded yet captivating beach town on Albania’s southern coast. It offers beautiful beaches, a picturesque turquoise sea, and abundant sunshine. The town is also home to centuries-old bunkers, well-preserved monasteries, and charming ancient churches.

Enjoy relaxing beach days, take a hike along the winding coastline, and savor local Albanian dishes in cheerful local taverns. Himare has something for everyone, making it a wonderful destination.

### Butrint
Visit Butrint to get a glimpse of ancient Greece in Albania. Located near Ksamil, this ancient Greek city dazzles with sunflower-yellow stones, well-preserved amphitheaters, and ruins of forums and public baths. The complex also features a unique paleo-Christian basilica. Nestled along a sparkling coastline and shady woodlands, Butrint offers a beautiful scene and is one of the best historical sites in Albania.

### Gjirokaster
History lovers will adore Gjirokaster, a hillside city in southern Albania adorned with silvery-grey buildings that date back to the Ottoman era. Also known as the ‘City of Stone,’ it features distinctive stone-roofed buildings.

With around 500 centuries-old homes and buildings, Gjirokaster is a historical gem. Visit the Gjirokaster Castle for an extraordinary view of the Albanian mountains, and explore the Old Bazaar and the Ethnographic Museum to understand Albania’s rich cultural heritage.

Albania is undeniably amazing! It’s a bucket-list destination you should visit at least once in your life. If you’re thinking of traveling to Albania or other Eastern European countries and want to make it easy, check out JoinMyTrip for curated group trips to various destinations worldwide. Travel safely, comfortably, and experience the best with fellow travelers. Ready to embark on a memorable adventure? Travel with JoinMyTrip today!