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Introducing Albania

With its unparalleled natural beauty, ancient approach to hospitality, forgotten history, and villages that seem frozen in time, this Balkan country is quickly rising as a new travel destination.

When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit Albania is during the Summer, when the weather is warmer and dryer.

Where to go in Albania?
Experience the natural splendor of the Accursed Mountains, the vibrant hustle of Berat and the capital city Tirana, the castle and cold war tunnel of Gjirokastra, and the Mediterranean beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Foodies will relish in the unique and flavorful tastes of Northern Albania.

How many days do I need?
Spend at minimum 3 days and up to 10 or 12 to see everything that this unique country has to offer.

Albania Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
Perast, Montenegro
Map of Albania to Montenegro Road Trip - 4 Days
Albania to Montenegro Road Trip - 4 Days

Experience the enchanting scenery and rich history of Albania and Montenegro on this short-but-sweet road trip through the Balkans. Beginning in the Albanian Riviera, your route will take you to the historic cities of Gjirokastra and Berat, the sunny beaches of Ulcinj in Montenegro, and the photogenic shores of the Bay of Kotor. Along the way, you'll make detours at a natural spring, an Albanian winery, a legendary castle, and more.

A child leads a pack animal in rural Albania
Map of Highlights of Northern Albania - 7 Days
Highlights of Northern Albania - 7 Days

Explore mountainous terrain and small villages on this one-week tour through the remote regions of northern Albania and Kosovo. Start near Lake Skadar and see the ancient Rozafa Castle, then continue through the Albanian Alps to the scenic Rugova Valley. Cross the border to see the ancient Ottoman trading cities of Peja and Gjakova, then take the ferry across Lake Koman to the mining city of Bulqize to stay in a traditional stone Kulla home.

Highlights of Albania - 8 Days
Map of Highlights of Albania - 8 Days
Highlights of Albania - 8 Days

See the best of Albania in just over a week with a tour from modern Tirana to the Ionian Sea. See Greek and Byzantine ruins in UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park, take in the village-lined shores from a boat ride on Lake Prespa, tour historic sites like ancient Apolloni and seaside Berat, and grab dinner and drinks in the capital's hippest neighborhood.

View over the "Stone City" to Gjirokastra Castle
Map of Classic Albania - 8 Days
Classic Albania - 8 Days

Get a snapshot of beautiful Albania with a tour from modern Tirana to the Ionian Sea. In just over a week, you'll take in many of the country's best highlights: see ancient ruins in Butrint National Park, stroll the seaside promenade of charming Sarandë, and tour multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites along the way. End your journey with a fun night in Blloku, one of the capital's hippest neighborhoods.

Views of Kotor Bay, Montenegro
Road Trip Through the Balkans - 16 Days

This quick-moving tour will take you on a fascinating circuit through Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia, visiting UNESCO cities such as Ohrid, Kotor, and Berat and combining culture with the scenic nature that abounds in the Balkans. You'll enjoy scenic drives through tall mountain passes, vibrant national parks, and along the picturesque coast of the Adriatic Sea, stopping for day hikes, traditional meals, and beach days, plus in charming old towns like Perast and Prizren. Explore two of the region's capitals, Tirana and Podgorica, as well as Montenegro's Old Royal Capital of Cetinje. 

St. John's Church, Ohrid
Driving Albania & Macedonia: Lake Ohrid to the Albanian Riviera - 8 Days

This eight-day private tour takes you through Southern Albania and into Northern Macedonia to visit the famous Lake Ohrid. You'll explore three UNESCO World Heritage cities, as well as the famous archaeological parks of Butrint, Antigonea, and Apollonia. Along the way you'll enjoy spectacular mountain scenery, conquer mountain passes, soak in thermal baths, and relax for two nights on the Ionian Sea.

Albania Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip

Our Latest Albania Content

An autumn scene in Albania's Thethi National Park
Best Time of Year to Visit Albania

The shoulder seasons of late spring (April to May) and early fall (September) are the best times to visit Albania and enjoy outdoor activities, the Albanian Riviera, and archaeological sites. The weather is pleasant, and you'll avoid the summer holiday rush as well as the scorching summer heat and cold winter weather. Albania also hosts various cultural, music, and culinary events from spring through fall, making it a festive time to visit.

The New Bazaar lit up for Christmas and New Year in Albania's capital, Tirana
Albania in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is the first actual month of winter in Albania, and temperatures are cold and crowds are somewhat nonexistent. However, Albania doesn't tend to get as cold as many other European countries, making it a top winter city break destination. Read on to discover more about traveling to Albania in December.

Yellow leaves of fall in Pogradec, Albania (photo courtesy of Endri Killo)
Albania in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

November is late fall in Albania, which means cooler temperatures, a chance of rain, and practically no other tourists. If you're interested in city attractions and cultural sites in ancient towns, November is a great time to visit. Find out more about seeing Albania in November.

Albania Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map Albania to Montenegro Road Trip - 4 Days
Albania to Montenegro Road Trip - 4 Days
View article
Map Highlights of Northern Albania - 7 Days
Highlights of Northern Albania - 7 Days
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Map Highlights of Albania - 8 Days
Highlights of Albania - 8 Days
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Trip Reviews for Albania

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our driver/guide,Andi, was great. He was very...
Albania | Oct 11 - Oct 21, 2026

Miriam
Miriam W.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Oct 25, 2026

Our driver/guide,Andi, was great. He was very knowledgeable not only about the history of each place we visited but had lots of suggestions for places of interest or places to eat that we’d might like. He took our interests into consideration and tailored his suggestions to fit them. We can’t say enough good things about his professionalism and his facility with English.
We particularly loved Theth ( but not the guesthouse), Gjirokaster (great hotel, our favorite ), and Lazarat ( the community working together to change its reputation was inspiring).

Local specialist: Aurélie Piloquet
Aurélie
Aurélie Piloquet
Local specialist in Tirana | Replied on Oct 26, 2026
Dear Miriam, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience in Albania! We're delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful time with Andi! It's lovely to know that his knowledge, professionalism, and personalized recommendations made your journey even more enjoyable. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to him! We're also happy that you particularly enjoyed Theth, Gjirokastra, and your visit to Lazarat. It's wonderful that you had the opportunity to discover the... Read more

Dear Miriam,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience in Albania!

We're delighted to hear that you had such a wonderful time with Andi! It's lovely to know that his knowledge, professionalism, and personalized recommendations made your journey even more enjoyable. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to him!

We're also happy that you particularly enjoyed Theth, Gjirokastra, and your visit to Lazarat. It's wonderful that you had the opportunity to discover the inspiring story of this community and its efforts to build a new future.

We're sorry to hear that the guesthouse in Theth didn't meet your expectations. We truly appreciate your feedback, as it helps us improve the experiences we offer.

Thank you again for trusting us with your Albanian adventure. We hope to welcome you back to the Balkans someday!

Warm regards,
Aurélie

Albania is a fascinating country with a compl...
Albania | Oct 2 - Oct 12, 2026

Minda
Minda H.
Maple Grove, MN | Reviewed on Oct 20, 2026
Albania is a fascinating country with a complicated history. It's also beautiful with friendly people. We were able to see a lot in our 10 days in country. Highlights include visiting the city of Berat, a wine tasting at Alpeta winery, relaxing time in Ksamil and the ruins at Butrint. We also were thrilled with the beautiful drive through the Llogara pass to Kruje. Our itinerary, which local agency agent, Violaine put together included lovely hotels. Our local guide and driver, Migan... Read more

Albania is a fascinating country with a complicated history. It's also beautiful with friendly people. We were able to see a lot in our 10 days in country. Highlights include visiting the city of Berat, a wine tasting at Alpeta winery, relaxing time in Ksamil and the ruins at Butrint. We also were thrilled with the beautiful drive through the Llogara pass to Kruje. Our itinerary, which local agency agent, Violaine put together included lovely hotels. Our local guide and driver, Migan Avdullaj, was fabulous. He was very knowledgeable, a safe driver and easily directed us to some options when there was unscheduled time open.

Hotel Reviews
Arameras Beach Resort
ksamil

Great place to relax

Authenticity & Character
Resort atmosphere, relaxing
Authenticity & Character
Resort atmosphere, relaxing
Location
Beautiful setting on the riviera
Location
Beautiful setting on the riviera
Staff
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bella Venezia Historic Boutique Hotel
Corfu

A very attentive staff made this stay lovely.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy to walk to old town Corfu and explore
Staff
attentive
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great beds and nice bathroom
Rose garden Hotel
Gjirokastra

The hotel is located within walking distance of the castle and the old town which invites wandering!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Mangalemi
Berat

Loved the old-world character of this hotel

Authenticity & Character
Location
we could walk to the center of town easily
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wait n sea
Himare

Lovely views from the room

Authenticity & Character
Location
There is a fabulous restaurant a minute's walk away.
Staff
The owner was very attentive
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great view from the shower!
Faces & Places Boutique hotel
Tirana

This hotel was difficult to find, especially after being dropped off late at night. There is no elevator and our room was on the third floor. The breakfast was good and the bed was comfortable

Authenticity & Character
Location
better directions
Staff
Not much interaction, as there were limited staffing hours
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Panorama Kruje
Krujë

Excellent dinner and breakfast, convenient location

Authenticity & Character
beautiful views
Location
convenient
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Sightseeing tour of Tirana
Sightseeing tour of Tirana
Tirana

This was a good introduction to Albania.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private halfday boat tour in Corfou
Private halfday boat tour in Corfou
Corfu

Unfortunately, this was canceled due to weather. Also it was unfortunate that there wasn't much of an alternative plan.

Wine tasting in Alpeta Winery
Wine tasting in Alpeta Winery
Berat

Very entertaining evening, great wine. Beautiful drive to get to the winery.

Quality of Experience
The master of ceremony was very fun!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discovering Corfu – guided exploration of the island
Discovering Corfu – guided exploration of the island
Corfu

Out guide in Corfu was great, I don't have her name though. We went to dinner with her and she helped us order traditional food and suggested things to do.

Welcome in Tirana
Welcome in Tirana
Tirana

The pick up from the airport was fine, getting to the hotel was difficult

Quality of Experience
friendlier driver
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our driver from the airport basically dropped us off in the middle of the street without showing us the wat to the hotel which was tucked away. This was near midnight.
Transport
See above
Local specialist: Violaine Fejoz
Violaine
Violaine Fejoz
Local specialist in Tirana | Replied on Oct 21, 2026
Minda, thank you so much for your lovely review! I'm delighted to hear that you enjoyed discovering Albania and its fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. It's wonderful to know that Berat, Alpeta Winery, Butrint, and the scenic drive through Llogara Pass were among your highlights! I'm also very happy that you appreciated the itinerary and the hotels we selected for you. A special thank you for your kind words about Migen! He is indeed a fantastic guide, and I'll... Read more

Minda, thank you so much for your lovely review!

I'm delighted to hear that you enjoyed discovering Albania and its fascinating history, beautiful landscapes, and warm hospitality. It's wonderful to know that Berat, Alpeta Winery, Butrint, and the scenic drive through Llogara Pass were among your highlights!

I'm also very happy that you appreciated the itinerary and the hotels we selected for you.

A special thank you for your kind words about Migen! He is indeed a fantastic guide, and I'll be sure to share your feedback with him. I'm so glad his knowledge, professionalism, and flexibility helped make your trip even more memorable.

It was a real pleasure organizing your Albanian adventure, and I hope we'll have the opportunity to welcome you back to the Balkans someday!

Warm regards,
Violaine

Albania and Corfu
Albania | Oct 2 - Oct 12, 2026

Candace
Candace V.
Maiden Rock, WI | Reviewed on Oct 16, 2026
Violaine was very communicative in setting up our itinerary based on phone conversations and chat exchanges. She modified some aspects as we moved forward with planning in accordance with our requests. She also was in touch with Migen our guide throughout the trip to assist in changes as weather dictated. We appreciated her responsiveness and follow through.
Migen was outstanding in his knowledge, energy, and driving skills. His ability to share history, culture, and personal experiences...
Read more

Violaine was very communicative in setting up our itinerary based on phone conversations and chat exchanges. She modified some aspects as we moved forward with planning in accordance with our requests. She also was in touch with Migen our guide throughout the trip to assist in changes as weather dictated. We appreciated her responsiveness and follow through.
Migen was outstanding in his knowledge, energy, and driving skills. His ability to share history, culture, and personal experiences greatly enhanced all aspects of the trip. When weather changed our plans, he quickly adapted the itinerary, spent hours rearranging our ferry, and expanded what we were able to see and experience despite the rain.
Migen's talent as a guide on the ground exceeded our expectations, and we are grateful we were traveling with him!
The cities and experiences we enjoyed:
Tirana, Berat, Alpeta Winery, Gjirokaster (including Ardenica Monastery and Apollonia), Langarica Canyon, Ksamil and Butrint, side trip to Corfu (with an excellent guide) , Himare, Llogara Pass, and Kruje.
Migen was with us every step of the way, highlighting history, landscapes, and culture. His contributions were priceless.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Mangalemi
Berat

Steps away from attractions; attentive staff; great food.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Panorama Kruje
Krujë

Stunning views; superb location; exceptional breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wait n sea
Himare

Comfortable rooms; great breakfast; attentive staff; lovely setting.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bella Venezia Historic Boutique Hotel
Corfu

Beautiful hotel; great location; exceptional staff.

Arameras Beach Resort
ksamil

Relaxing; beautiful views, attentive staff, great restaurant

Authenticity & Character
Views
Location
Staff
All the staff were responsive, helpful, and friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rose garden Hotel
Gjirokastra

Quiet; lovely; beautiful views

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Friendly, attentive, great breakfast
Cleanliness & Comfort
Faces & Places Boutique hotel
Tirana

Lovely, restful, conveniently located, but a bit difficult to find. Great spot for walking around Tirana. Welcoming staff!

Authenticity & Character
Restful, comfortable, good breakfast
Location
Great for walking - a bit challenging to find
Staff
Welcoming, helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Discovering Corfu – guided exploration of the island
Discovering Corfu – guided exploration of the island
Corfu

Our guide assigned to Corfu was excellent. She provided a very enjoyable walking tour and food sampling. She was attentive, very approachable and entertaining.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Wine tasting in Alpeta Winery
Wine tasting in Alpeta Winery
Berat

Our host was witty, welcoming, and entertaining. Wine and nibbles were excellent

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sightseeing tour of Tirana
Sightseeing tour of Tirana
Tirana

Migen, our guide made this a memorable day.

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Migen is extremely knowledgeable
Transport
Comfortable transport for four of us.
Local specialist: Violaine Fejoz
Violaine
Violaine Fejoz
Local specialist in Tirana | Replied on Oct 17, 2026
Dear Candace, Thank you so much for your wonderful and detailed review! It was a real pleasure helping you plan your journey through Albania and Corfu, and I'm delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience. I'm especially happy to read your kind words about Migen! He truly is an exceptional guide, and I'm so glad his knowledge, enthusiasm, and flexibility made such a difference throughout your trip. I'll be sure to share your lovely feedback with him! Despite the weather... Read more

Dear Candace,

Thank you so much for your wonderful and detailed review! It was a real pleasure helping you plan your journey through Albania and Corfu, and I'm delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience.

I'm especially happy to read your kind words about Migen! He truly is an exceptional guide, and I'm so glad his knowledge, enthusiasm, and flexibility made such a difference throughout your trip. I'll be sure to share your lovely feedback with him!

Despite the weather challenges, it's wonderful to know that you were able to enjoy so many beautiful places and experiences, from the historic towns of Albania to the stunning landscapes and your time in Corfu.

Thank you again for your trust, your flexibility, and for taking the time to share such thoughtful feedback about the hotels and activities. It means a lot to us!

Wishing you all the best, and hopefully we'll have the pleasure of welcoming you back to the Balkans one day!

Warm regards,
Violaine

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