10 reasons to visit Albania

One of the most unexpected highlights was the driving experience in Albania – the road from Gjirokastra to Korca was one of the most awe-inspiring journeys I’ve taken. Passing through the towering mountains on smooth, well-maintained roads, I had to keep pulling over to take it all in. Alongside the incredible scenes, I came across lots of standout moments that I may have missed had I taken another route, including white-water rafting and a stop at a working distillery that was named one of TIME magazine’s “World’s Greatest Places of 2024”. The distillery is a top lunch spot, with a spacious restaurant located inside the main building. Here, you can tuck into tasty local dishes, surrounded by giant copper stills and towering tanks. And, if you choose to stay overnight, the bathrooms even have a sauna and steam room! The drive takes around four hours from Gjirokastra to Korca if you don’t include any stops, but I recommend making a day of it.

If you’re a fan of bathing in geothermal pools surrounded by nature, then Albania should absolutely make your list. When driving from Gjirokastra to Korca, a stop at Benja Thermal Baths is a must. Sitting beside the Lengarica River, these naturally heated springs are rich in minerals and stay toasty warm year-round, thanks to the geothermal activity bubbling beneath the surface. I visited in spring, during the shoulder season, and had a peaceful, scenic-rich experience with only a few other people. However, during the summer, I have heard it can get quite busy and crowded, so spring/autumn may be a better option for this one.

Tirana is most people’s introduction to Albania, and although some head straight to the mountains or the coast, I think it’s definitely worth stopping off for a few nights here to get a feel for the country. Alternatively, it’s a great place to end your trip before your flight home. The city has transformed in recent years, with colourful streets, buzzing cafés, and street art around every corner, yet it holds onto its traditional charm. The walking tour is an immersive way to see the sights and learn about Albania’s complex history, from bunkers to city streets and hidden spots you’d miss on your own.

Although this was my second time on Albanian soil, I can’t say I’m familiar with the language, beyond a few phrases to get by. However, I didn’t find the language barrier got in the way, and was welcomed with big smiles and warm gestures from the locals. While walking through a small village, I passed an older woman sitting on the ground cracking open nuts. She started chatting to me, so I smiled and tried my best to explain to her I was English, although I’m not sure she understood. She just kept smiling and gesturing up a nearby hill. Eventually, I realised she was trying to tell me to walk up the hill to see something. I followed her advice, and I’m so glad I did. At the top was an old mosaic, tucked away and completely off the tourist trail. I definitely would have missed this if it weren’t for her thoughtful suggestion.

Albanian food is a celebration of traditional and fresh ingredients. While in Berat, I took part in a cooking class, which was definitely one of the highlights of my trip. I love to get involved with learning to cook local cuisine while I’m away, as it helps me to get close to the culture while creating a delicious meal. But you don’t need to sign up for a class to enjoy the flavours, with street food like burek and traditional dishes, including meatballs with yoghurt and pistachio, served everywhere. Another highlight not to be missed is the raki! Make sure to grab a glass while you’re in Albania.

I know Albania is famed for its beaches, and they are beautiful, but I think there is so much more to this diverse country than its sandy shore, with the real magic happening inland. Picture towering mountains, pristine lakes, river canyons and sleepy towns steeped in history. I believe the best way to travel in Albania is to combine the coastal beauty of the Riviera with countryside stays and outdoor adventures, such as hiking in the Albania Alps or rafting near Korca.

If you’re partial to a glass of wine, or just curious about how it’s made, you won’t be disappointed with a trip to a vineyard in Albania. Maybe not as sophisticated as a similar tour in a more well-known wine region, such as France or Spain, it’s still an experience not to be missed. In fact, the wines taste just as good, without the crowds or the price tag! We can arrange this for you from your stay in Berat.

Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, arriving in UNESCO-listed Berat was every bit as captivating as its nickname suggested. Wandering through its maze of cobbled streets, I passed whitewashed Ottoman houses stacked along the hillside, each with windows gazing out across the valley. This makes for some amazing photography! You can climb up to the castle for sweeping views, stop for strong Albanian coffee in a shady square, and soak up the relaxed, timeless feel. Literally, every corner hints at the traditions and craftsmanship that have shaped Berat into one of Albania’s treasured heritage sites.

Albania is one of the most affordable places to travel in Europe. Accommodation, food, activities and even wine tasting are all surprisingly budget-friendly, meaning you can stretch your adventure that little bit further.

If (or when!) you do hit the coast, you’ll find turquoise waters, soft sand, and laid-back beach towns. Yes, the beaches can be busy in peak summer, but outside July and August, you’ll often have plenty of space to yourself – and at a fraction of the price of nearby hotspots like Greece or Croatia.