You might not hear Albania pop up in casual travel chats as often as Italy or Greece, but maybe that’s part of its charm. If you're planning a summer getaway in 2025 and want something a little different - with fewer crowds, warmer welcomes, and jaw-dropping scenery - this place kind of sneaks up on you. In a good way.
From crystal-clear coastlines to rugged alpine villages, Albania is a surprisingly diverse country where modern café culture lives side by side with centuries-old stone towns. And the best part? It still feels... untouched. Not in a primitive sense, but more in a this-isn’t-overrun-with-tourist-buses kind of way. If you're curious where to begin, here are 7 of the most beautiful places in Albania that should make it to your list.
If you're craving a beach holiday that doesn’t come with inflated prices or overbuilt resort towns, Ksamil might be your spot. Located along the southern Albanian Riviera, this tiny village is often compared to the Maldives... which sounds like a stretch until you see the water.
The beaches here? Soft, white sand. The sea? Shimmering shades of blue you thought were reserved for postcards. People usually rent paddle-boats or hop on a boat to explore the three little islands just offshore - which, by the way, are great for snorkelling or just having a quiet lunch with a view.
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday if you want it a little quieter. July and August weekends can get a tad crowded, but still way calmer than, say, Santorini.
This one’s for the culture lovers, history buffs, or honestly... anyone who appreciates moody, medieval vibes. Gjirokastër is a UNESCO-listed city that feels like it was carved from the mountains themselves. The old town is a maze of cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era houses with slate roofs - all stacked along a steep hillside with views that get better as you climb.
There’s a massive castle perched above the city that once served as a fortress, then a prison. Now? It houses a museum with relics and war artifacts... but also offers panoramic views over the Drino Valley. You might not expect this kind of mix - fortress ruins, folklore, and sudden glimpses of the Greek border - but Albania has a habit of surprising you!
And if you're into local food, the homemade qifqi (rice balls with mint) here are oddly addictive.
Somewhere between party scene and peaceful escape, Dhermi lands right in the middle. Tucked into a rocky stretch of the Albanian Riviera, it's a long beach town that seems to stretch out lazily - like it's in no rush to impress you. But it sort of does anyway.
Think beach bars made of driftwood and hammocks... but also chic little hotels with sea-facing balconies. The sunsets here are kind of ridiculous - all golden light and sleepy waves. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike over to Drymades Beach for a slightly more secluded vibe.
Looking for the best place to visit in Albania for a beach holiday? Honestly, Dhermi might win that title. It’s one of those spots that makes you want to extend your trip “just one more night.”
If you’re the kind of traveler who packs hiking boots before flip-flops, the Albanian Alps - specifically Theth and Valbona - will probably feel like your version of heaven. This northern region is a completely different Albania from the beaches of the south. It's all jagged mountain peaks, crisp air, icy rivers, and villages that feel like time forgot them... in the best way.
The most famous trail here? The Theth to Valbona hike. Around 17 kilometres, it crosses dramatic passes, winding paths, and quiet valleys where shepherds still lead flocks like they did a hundred years ago. It’s not an easy stroll - you’ll want decent fitness and proper shoes - but wow... every switchback seems to open to a view more unreal than the last.
Quick tip if you're planning a summer 2025 hike: Book your accommodations in advance! Guesthouses fill up fast during the short trekking season, especially in July and August.
This entire region is part of what makes Albania summer travel feel so special. It’s wild and real and still very much off most people’s radar.
You know how some towns just stick with you? Berat is one of those places. It’s warm, both in color and in feeling. Built into the hillsides of central Albania, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its white Ottoman houses with large windows that seem to gaze out in perfect symmetry. And when the light hits them just right? The whole town glows.
Beyond the looks, Berat has depth. There’s an ancient castle on the hilltop (yes, people still live inside it), Byzantine churches with haunting frescoes, and mosques that echo the city’s layered history. You can wander through the old quarters - Mangalem and Gorica - connected by a stone bridge that feels like it belongs in a novel.
And the wine? Very underrated. Local wineries are starting to gain attention, and sipping a chilled glass of Shesh i Bardhë while overlooking the Osum River feels like a secret no one told you about until now.
If you want a bit of everything - beaches, nightlife, history, and maybe even a quick hop to Greece - Saranda might be the best place in Albania for a holiday. It’s a proper seaside city but still holds on to that slightly scrappy, endearing edge that makes Albania what it is.
You’re right on the Ionian Sea here, and it’s one of those places where the water really is that insane shade of blue. During the day, you’ve got plenty of spots to swim or sunbathe, and by evening, the waterfront promenade fills with families, music, and smells of grilled seafood and buttery corn.
Nearby highlight: Butrint National Park - a UNESCO-listed archaeological site just outside the city. You get Roman ruins, ancient amphitheatres, and views over the salt lagoons that feel otherworldly. It’s a key stop for anyone into Albania’s cultural sites or history. Planning your Albania itinerary? Saranda makes a great anchor point, especially if you're combining beach time with day trips.
Albania doesn’t always follow a fixed rhythm. Buses run... but maybe not exactly when Google says. Restaurants may be open late or close early depending on the day. Be flexible - some of your best moments will come from unplanned detours anyway.
Card payments are growing, especially in Tirana and touristy beach towns, but plenty of places still expect cash. Keep small bills in lekë on hand for taxis, snacks, and off-the-path cafés.
Yes, the beaches are incredible, but don’t miss spots like Gjirokaster, Berat, or Shkoder. The cultural depth, the history, the food... it’s all just as rich, just in a different way.
If you’re up for it, rent a car Albania travellers often say it’s the best way to explore beyond the usual tourist path - from remote beaches to winding mountain roads. Just be prepared for a bit of unpredictable driving and watch for goats. Seriously.
Fresh food, mountain grapes, wood-fired bread, spicy stuffed peppers... Albanian cuisine is comfort food with Mediterranean flair. Try the spinach byrek and whatever’s homemade that day.
Shorts and tank tops are fine at the beach, but in small towns or religious places, cover your shoulders and knees. It’s a simple sign of respect.
Signal can be patchy in the Alps or on long drives. Having your maps downloaded ahead of time can save a lot of frustration - or arguments in the car.
You don’t need to be fluent, but even a "Faleminderit" (thank you) goes a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort.
Things take time here... meals are long, conversations stretch out, buses meander. Don’t fight it. Lean into it. Albania rewards the patient.
Hospitality is real and often spontaneous. A family might offer you coffee. A vendor might give you fruit "just because." It’s part of the culture - warm, proud, and incredibly welcoming.
Albania in 2025? It’s kind of having a moment... but also still flying under the radar in a way that makes it feel yours, not the travel industry’s.
From swimming in clear Ionian waters along the Albanian coastline to hiking trails that twist through the clouds in the Alps, or wandering Ottoman-era towns where kids still chase footballs on ancient streets - there’s no single “best place in Albania for holiday.” It depends on your mood, your pace, your idea of what makes a summer unforgettable.
Honestly, that’s what makes this country so worth exploring. It doesn’t come pre-packaged. It asks you to wander a little, to try the unfamiliar, to stay curious. And maybe that’s what travel should feel like.
1. Ksamil: Turquoise Waters and Quiet Moments
If you're craving a beach holiday that doesn’t come with inflated prices or overbuilt resort towns, Ksamil might be your spot. Located along the southern Albanian Riviera, this tiny village is often compared to the Maldives... which sounds like a stretch until you see the water.
The beaches here? Soft, white sand. The sea? Shimmering shades of blue you thought were reserved for postcards. People usually rent paddle-boats or hop on a boat to explore the three little islands just offshore - which, by the way, are great for snorkelling or just having a quiet lunch with a view.
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday if you want it a little quieter. July and August weekends can get a tad crowded, but still way calmer than, say, Santorini.
2. Gjirokastër: A Town Built of Stone and Stories
This one’s for the culture lovers, history buffs, or honestly... anyone who appreciates moody, medieval vibes. Gjirokastër is a UNESCO-listed city that feels like it was carved from the mountains themselves. The old town is a maze of cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era houses with slate roofs - all stacked along a steep hillside with views that get better as you climb.
There’s a massive castle perched above the city that once served as a fortress, then a prison. Now? It houses a museum with relics and war artifacts... but also offers panoramic views over the Drino Valley. You might not expect this kind of mix - fortress ruins, folklore, and sudden glimpses of the Greek border - but Albania has a habit of surprising you!
And if you're into local food, the homemade qifqi (rice balls with mint) here are oddly addictive.
3. Dhermi: Sunset Swims and Laid-Back Luxury
Somewhere between party scene and peaceful escape, Dhermi lands right in the middle. Tucked into a rocky stretch of the Albanian Riviera, it's a long beach town that seems to stretch out lazily - like it's in no rush to impress you. But it sort of does anyway.
Think beach bars made of driftwood and hammocks... but also chic little hotels with sea-facing balconies. The sunsets here are kind of ridiculous - all golden light and sleepy waves. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike over to Drymades Beach for a slightly more secluded vibe.
Looking for the best place to visit in Albania for a beach holiday? Honestly, Dhermi might win that title. It’s one of those spots that makes you want to extend your trip “just one more night.”
4. Theth & Valbona: Hiking the Albanian Alps
If you’re the kind of traveler who packs hiking boots before flip-flops, the Albanian Alps - specifically Theth and Valbona - will probably feel like your version of heaven. This northern region is a completely different Albania from the beaches of the south. It's all jagged mountain peaks, crisp air, icy rivers, and villages that feel like time forgot them... in the best way.
The most famous trail here? The Theth to Valbona hike. Around 17 kilometres, it crosses dramatic passes, winding paths, and quiet valleys where shepherds still lead flocks like they did a hundred years ago. It’s not an easy stroll - you’ll want decent fitness and proper shoes - but wow... every switchback seems to open to a view more unreal than the last.
Quick tip if you're planning a summer 2025 hike: Book your accommodations in advance! Guesthouses fill up fast during the short trekking season, especially in July and August.
This entire region is part of what makes Albania summer travel feel so special. It’s wild and real and still very much off most people’s radar.
5. Berat: The Town of a Thousand Windows
You know how some towns just stick with you? Berat is one of those places. It’s warm, both in color and in feeling. Built into the hillsides of central Albania, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its white Ottoman houses with large windows that seem to gaze out in perfect symmetry. And when the light hits them just right? The whole town glows.
Beyond the looks, Berat has depth. There’s an ancient castle on the hilltop (yes, people still live inside it), Byzantine churches with haunting frescoes, and mosques that echo the city’s layered history. You can wander through the old quarters - Mangalem and Gorica - connected by a stone bridge that feels like it belongs in a novel.
And the wine? Very underrated. Local wineries are starting to gain attention, and sipping a chilled glass of Shesh i Bardhë while overlooking the Osum River feels like a secret no one told you about until now.
6. Saranda: Where the City Meets the Sea
If you want a bit of everything - beaches, nightlife, history, and maybe even a quick hop to Greece - Saranda might be the best place in Albania for a holiday. It’s a proper seaside city but still holds on to that slightly scrappy, endearing edge that makes Albania what it is.
You’re right on the Ionian Sea here, and it’s one of those places where the water really is that insane shade of blue. During the day, you’ve got plenty of spots to swim or sunbathe, and by evening, the waterfront promenade fills with families, music, and smells of grilled seafood and buttery corn.
Nearby highlight: Butrint National Park - a UNESCO-listed archaeological site just outside the city. You get Roman ruins, ancient amphitheatres, and views over the salt lagoons that feel otherworldly. It’s a key stop for anyone into Albania’s cultural sites or history. Planning your Albania itinerary? Saranda makes a great anchor point, especially if you're combining beach time with day trips.
Smart Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Albania
1. Don’t rely on a rigid plan!
Albania doesn’t always follow a fixed rhythm. Buses run... but maybe not exactly when Google says. Restaurants may be open late or close early depending on the day. Be flexible - some of your best moments will come from unplanned detours anyway.
2. Cash still rules!
Card payments are growing, especially in Tirana and touristy beach towns, but plenty of places still expect cash. Keep small bills in lekë on hand for taxis, snacks, and off-the-path cafés.
3. Don’t skip inland towns!
Yes, the beaches are incredible, but don’t miss spots like Gjirokaster, Berat, or Shkoder. The cultural depth, the history, the food... it’s all just as rich, just in a different way.
4. Rent a car if you’re confident driving!
If you’re up for it, rent a car Albania travellers often say it’s the best way to explore beyond the usual tourist path - from remote beaches to winding mountain roads. Just be prepared for a bit of unpredictable driving and watch for goats. Seriously.
5. The food? Ridiculously underrated!
Fresh food, mountain grapes, wood-fired bread, spicy stuffed peppers... Albanian cuisine is comfort food with Mediterranean flair. Try the spinach byrek and whatever’s homemade that day.
6. Respect modesty, especially in rural areas!
Shorts and tank tops are fine at the beach, but in small towns or religious places, cover your shoulders and knees. It’s a simple sign of respect.
7. Download offline maps!
Signal can be patchy in the Alps or on long drives. Having your maps downloaded ahead of time can save a lot of frustration - or arguments in the car.
8. Learn a few basic Albanian phrases!
You don’t need to be fluent, but even a "Faleminderit" (thank you) goes a long way. Locals genuinely appreciate the effort.
9. Embrace the slower pace!
Things take time here... meals are long, conversations stretch out, buses meander. Don’t fight it. Lean into it. Albania rewards the patient.
10. Don’t be surprised if someone invites you in!
Hospitality is real and often spontaneous. A family might offer you coffee. A vendor might give you fruit "just because." It’s part of the culture - warm, proud, and incredibly welcoming.
Final Thoughts
Albania in 2025? It’s kind of having a moment... but also still flying under the radar in a way that makes it feel yours, not the travel industry’s.
From swimming in clear Ionian waters along the Albanian coastline to hiking trails that twist through the clouds in the Alps, or wandering Ottoman-era towns where kids still chase footballs on ancient streets - there’s no single “best place in Albania for holiday.” It depends on your mood, your pace, your idea of what makes a summer unforgettable.
Honestly, that’s what makes this country so worth exploring. It doesn’t come pre-packaged. It asks you to wander a little, to try the unfamiliar, to stay curious. And maybe that’s what travel should feel like.
If you’re planning your Albania 2025 tourism escape now, start with these seven... then see where the road takes you! (Image source: Unsplash)
