My Albania Guide

15 Best Places to Visit in Albania in 2026: A Complete Travel Guide

Alex

05 Feb 2026 — 2 min read

Photo by Luca Hooijer / Unsplash

Albania is quickly becoming one of Europe's most exciting destinations. Here are the 15 best places to visit in 2026.

1. Tirana - The Vibrant Capital

Albania's capital has transformed into a colorful, energetic city. Don't miss Skanderbeg Square, the Bunk'Art museums, and the trendy Blloku district.

2. Berat - City of a Thousand Windows

This UNESCO World Heritage site features stunning Ottoman architecture with white houses climbing the hillside.

3. Gjirokastër - The Stone City

Another UNESCO gem with impressive stone houses and a massive hilltop castle.

4. Albanian Riviera

Stretching from Vlorë to Saranda, this coastline rivals any Mediterranean destination.

5. Ksamil

Often compared to the Maldives, Ksamil offers crystal-clear turquoise waters and small islands you can swim to.

6. Butrint National Park

This UNESCO archaeological site spans 2,500 years of history.

7. Theth & Valbona - The Albanian Alps

For hikers, the Accursed Mountains offer dramatic scenery and the famous Theth to Valbona hike.

8. Lake Koman Ferry

This three-hour ferry ride through dramatic canyon landscapes is one of Europe's most scenic boat journeys.

9-15. More Highlights

Shkodër (gateway to the Alps), Krujë (Skanderbeg's fortress), Blue Eye Spring, Pogradec (Lake Ohrid), Përmet (thermal baths), Vlorë, and Durrës.

Planning Your Trip

Best time: May-June or September-October. Rent a car for flexibility. Budget around 40-60 EUR per day. Albania is safe, welcoming, and remarkably affordable.

Albanian Riviera: Complete Beach Guide for 2026

The Albanian Riviera stretches along the country's southwestern coast where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. With crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and charming coastal villages, it's quickly becoming Europe's hottest beach destination. Top Beaches on the Albanian Riviera Dhërmi Beach The most popular beach

Berat vs Gjirokastër: Which UNESCO City Should You Visit?

Albania boasts two UNESCO World Heritage cities, and choosing between them can be tough. Both showcase stunning Ottoman architecture and fascinating history, but each has its own character. Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows The Vibe Berat feels like a living museum where people still go about daily life.

Traditional Albanian Food: 20 Must-Try Dishes for Food Lovers

Albanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, shaped by Ottoman influence and local traditions. Main Dishes 1. Tavë Kosi Albania's national dish - tender lamb baked in a creamy yogurt and egg sauce until golden. Rich, tangy, and utterly satisfying. 2. Fërgesë A Tirana

48 Hours in Tirana: The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Albania's Capital

Albania's capital has reinvented itself as one of Europe's most intriguing cities. Once grey and isolated, Tirana now bursts with color, energy, and creativity. Day 1: Morning Skanderbeg Square Start at the heart of Tirana - the massive main square dominated by the Skanderbeg statue. The