Albania may not be the most obvious choice for many travelers, but it stands out as a remarkable destination. Offering a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and a relaxed atmosphere, Albania provides a captivating experience at an affordable price. Read on to discover the best places to stay and explore, ensuring a memorable trip to this fascinating country.
- Saranda – Perfect for Relaxing
- Blue Eye – Nature’s Hidden Gem
- Gjirokastër – A Town With Unique Charm
- Butrint – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
- Tirana – Ideal for History Lovers
1
Saranda
Saranda is a captivating city that offers endless opportunities for both relaxation and adventure while also boasting a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It’s a must-visit for any itinerary.
- Perfect Base for Day Trips: Saranda is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions such as Blue Eye, Gjirokastër, and Butrint, all just a short distance away.
- Beautiful Beaches: Known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, Saranda’s beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing by the sea.
- Laid-Back Vibe: The city’s relaxed atmosphere makes it an ideal destination to unwind, whether at the beginning or the end of your trip.
Best Time to Visit: From May to September, when the weather is warm and perfect for enjoying its beaches and outdoor activities.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by ferry from Corfu, Greece, or by bus from major cities in Albania, such as Tirana or Gjirokastër.
Where to Stay: Stay in Saranda’s seaside hotels or charming guesthouses, offering beautiful views of the Ionian Sea and convenient access to the city’s main attractions.
Budget Tip: Opt for local restaurants and street vendors to enjoy delicious Albanian cuisine at affordable prices.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Saranda, check out my detailed article 5 Of the Best Things to Do in Saranda, Albania.
2
Blue Eye
Blue Eye isn’t a city but a stunning natural spring, perfect for a day trip from Saranda. It can be easily combined with nearby attractions like Gjirokastër or Butrint.
- Stunning Natural Beauty: The water is a mesmerizing mix of vibrant blues and greens, bubbling up from a mysterious underwater cave. It’s one of Albania’s most striking natural wonders.
- Refreshing Adventure: If you’re feeling adventurous, bring a swimsuit and take a plunge into the water. Even in summer, the water remains icy cold, but many visitors embrace the chill for a refreshing swim!
- Affordable Entry: With an entrance fee of just 50L ($0.70 CAD), visiting Blue Eye is both a memorable experience and incredibly affordable, making it accessible to travelers on any budget.
- Easy to Reach from Saranda: Just a 35-minute ride from Saranda, Blue Eye is easily accessible. Renting a scooter or car is highly recommended for convenience. From the parking area, it’s a short and pleasant 10-minute walk through nature to reach the spring.
Best Time to Visit: From May to September, when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring and swimming.
Where to Stay: Saranda offers a wide range of accommodation options, making it the ideal base for visiting Blue Eye and other nearby attractions.
3
Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër is a picturesque town that perfectly showcases the beauty of the Balkan region. Whether you spend 1-3 hours or a full afternoon, it’s a great place to stop for lunch or dinner.
- Charming Streets and Architecture: Known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, featuring stone houses with slate roofs, walking through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.
- Day Trip from Saranda: Just an hour away by scooter, car or bus from nearby cities, Gjirokastër makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip. Its proximity allows you to explore the town’s highlights without feeling rushed, making it a great addition to your itinerary.
- Gjirokastër Castle: Perched on a hill overlooking the town, Gjirokastër Castle offers stunning panoramic views and a fascinating history.
- Souvenir Shopping: Gjirokastër’s small shops offer a range of handmade goods and unique souvenirs. Shopping for traditional Albanian crafts is a fun way to support local artisans and bring home a piece of the town’s charm.
Best Time to Visit: From April to October, with pleasant weather ideal for exploring its historic streets.
Where to Stay: If you stay overnight, choose from charming guesthouses or boutique hotels within the old town for stunning views.
Budget Tip: Save money by dining at local taverns and exploring the town on foot.
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4
Butrint
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved archaeological wonders in Albania, Butrint is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
- Highlights of the Site: The Butrint Ancient Theater and Venetian Butrint Castle are standout attractions. The theater, with its well-preserved seating and stage, and the castle, with its panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, make for an unforgettable visit.
- Affordable: With an entrance fee of just 700L ($10 CAD), Butrint provides a highly affordable way to explore Albania’s ancient past.
- Day Trip from Saranda: Whether you’re renting a scooter or using public transportation (which costs only 100L ($1.50 CAD) each way), Butrint is a convenient day trip.
- Time to Visit: Plan to spend about 2-3 hours exploring the site, allowing plenty of time to fully appreciate its historical significance.
Best Time to Visit: Between April and October, when the weather is warm and ideal for exploring the archaeological site.
Where to Stay: Saranda is the best place to stay, offering a range of accommodations and easy access to Butrint.
5
Berat
Often considered the most beautiful city in Albania, Berat is a place where history and charm meet.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Berat earned its UNESCO status thanks to its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and unique urban layout. Walking through its historic streets feels like stepping back in time.
- The City of a Thousand Windows: Berat’s old town is famously known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to its rows of white Ottoman houses with large windows, creating a striking visual effect.
- Berat Castle: This impressive 13th-century fortress overlooks the town and offers breathtaking views, showcasing the unique landscapes of the Balkans that are unlike anywhere else in Europe.
Best Time to Visit: Spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer.
How to Get There: You can reach Berat by bus from Tirana, Saranda or other major cities, with regular services available throughout the day.
Where to Stay: Choose from hostels, charming guesthouses or boutique hotels in the old town.
Budget Tip: Opt for local eateries and public transport to experience Berat affordably.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Berat, check out my detailed article 4 Of the Best Things to Do in Berat, Albania.
6
Tirana
Tirana, the capital of Albania, is the heart of the country’s culture, history, and modern transformation.
- A City of Modernity: Unlike many cities in Albania, Tirana stands out for its modern feel, with tall buildings and wide streets.
- Insight into Albania’s Complex History: Visit places like Bunk’Art or the National History Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s Communist past and its cultural evolution.
- Vibrant Local Culture: The city is filled with lively cafes, restaurants, and art spaces. Skanderbeg Square is a great spot to immerse yourself in local culture.
- Affordable and Accessible: Tirana remains an affordable capital city, making it easy to explore its cultural and historical landmarks without breaking the bank. Its growing network of public transportation also makes getting around simple.
Best Time to Visit: From April to June or September to October, offering mild weather and fewer crowds.
How to Get There: Easily accessible by flying into Tirana International Airport (TIA), located just 17 kilometers from the city center.
Where to Stay: The city offers a variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to upscale hotels, especially around Skanderbeg Square.
What to Do: For a more in-depth guide on the top things to do in Tirana, check out my detailed article 7 Of the Best Things to Do in Tirana, Albania.
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