Aholiday in Albania is a journey back in time where you can get lost among ancient ruins, relax on idyllic beaches and dedicate a few hours to cultural visits. Without giving up the fun. It is no coincidence that both Lonely Planet and the New York Times have included it in the rankings of the countries to absolutely visit in 2023. The Land of Eagles is the new trendy destination in the Mediterranean .
«Albania is a country of small dimensions, but geographically very varied. From the northern Alps to the beaches along the southern coast, passing through the cities of art, villages, lagoons, lakes and archaeological sites, it is a travel destination capable of satisfying the needs of any visitor. Without forgetting that our territory is crossed by the Vjosa river, the last wild watercourse in Europe, a crucial habitat in the conservation of many animal and plant species, which has just been declared a national park with consequent commitment from the government in the protection of the area”, declared Mirela Kumbaro , Albanian tourism minister at the FESTA Forum in Tirana , the first international conference on tourism held in the Balkans, at the beginning of April, which was attended by the Secretary General of the UNWTO, Zurab Pololikashvili and representatives of the sector from around forty nations.
The data on tourism in Albania are positive: this is also confirmed by the important investments in the hotel sector (among all, the Marriott and Meliá chains which have inaugurated their structures in the country) and the increase in air connections from all over Europe with the capital Tirana which Last year it was elected European Youth Capital and this year European Sport Capital . Foreign tourists in 2022 were 7.5 million and this year, according to statistics, there will be even more. A decidedly important figure if we consider the number of inhabitants of the Adriatic nation (2.8 million according to the latest census).
Between beaches, cities and adventures, here’s what not to miss during a trip to southern Albania.
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ANDREW MAYOVSKYYBeaches, marine parks and archaeological sites
A few km from the capital Tirana, Durres is one of the oldest inhabited centers in the Balkans, guardian of important archaeological sites, among all the large amphitheater in the heart of the city which, in ancient times, could accommodate up to 20,000 people. Ancient Dyrrachium is surrounded by very popular beaches in high season, such as Golem , with beaches of fine sand and expanses of pine forests, ideal for families traveling with even very small children, and Kepi i Rodonit , to the north, a rocky cape with wild beaches and Mediterranean scrub as far as the eye can see. Ideal to discover at the beginning of summer, when tourists are few and the climate is still mild. Going south, Vlora is the starting point for discovering the beauties of the southern Albanian coast. The city is a mix of beaches and cultural points of interest, including the Zvernec Monastery , whose surrounding lagoon is populated by colonies of migratory flamingos, Kanina Castle, the recently restored historic center and the Peninsula Marine National Park of Karaburun and Sazan Island , a former military area now open to the public, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, caves that have become the habitat of Mediterranean seals and uncontaminated nature. Without forgetting Radhimë , south of the city, with its numerous beaches where relaxation is the watchword.
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RH2010 – STOCK.ADOBE.COMThe southern coast
What connects the mountain pass of Llogara, south of Vlore, to Ksamil, the last Albanian outpost before the Greek border, is the most fascinating stretch of coast in Albania. An area characterized by mountains, postcard beaches, stone villages, monasteries, canyons and castles overlooking the sea. The villages of Dhërmi , Vuno and Qeparo , with traditional houses, small white churches with blue domes and lush bougainvillea, are each more beautiful than the other. From Himara Castle you can admire one of the most fascinating views along the coast, while Saranda is the unmissable destination for those looking for lively nightlife. Ksamil is the most famous resort in the area, crowded in high season, but beautiful at the beginning and end of summer. From the coast you can swim to the idyllic islands that surround the bay of this small pearl of the Ionian Sea, green drops dotting the crystal clear water. The real jewel of the Riviera is, however, the Ali Pasha Fortress , near the former military base of Porto Palermo, a triangular structure with round-section towers, overlooking the sea.
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LEONID ANDRONOV – STOCK.ADOBE.COMThe archaeological park of Butrint
Behind Ksamil, the Archaeological Park of Butrint is the most important historical site in Albania, with archaeological remains ranging from the Illyrian era to the Middle Ages, founded, according to Virgil, by the Trojan Helenus, son of King Priam, who after the fall of Troy moved west. The route, inside a lush forest, is rich in archaeological remains, among which the Roman theatre, the basilica dating back to the 6th century, the early Christian baptistery, the lion gate and the Venetian fortress stand out, which houses a museum Inside the story of the ancient town is told. From here the view of the surrounding lagoon leaves you speechless. A place to be admired in all its splendor. Calmly. Without crowds. A dream.
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LUKASZIMILENA – STOCK.ADOBE.COMWhat to do in Albania
Cycling excursions : tours in the hinterland of Vlore organized by GAIA-Green Adventures Into Albania which promotes sustainable trips on two wheels, to discover the natural beauty, and more, of Albania. An unmissable opportunity to come into close contact with the wild nature of the Balkan country and also visit places outside the most well-known tourist routes.
Off the road by jeep : aboard an open-top Land Rover from Saranda Jeep we set off from Saranda to visit beaches, bays and some of the most beautiful and exclusive areas of the southern Albanian Riviera accompanied by local guides who know the area and its history perfectly.
Mussel tour : in the Butrint lagoon, behind the beaches of Ksamil, it is possible to discover the world of mussels and discover everything about the farms thanks to the tours organized by Mussel Tour . At the end of the tour, you will enjoy mussel dishes.
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ANDREW MAYOVSKYYWhere to sleep in Albania
Epidamn White Sensation, Golem . Design hotel with swimming pool overlooking the sea, private beach, restaurant with land and sea menu, lounge bar with live music along Golem beach, south of Durres.
Kraal Hotel, Vlora . Spacious rooms with sea view, private beach, swimming pool, restaurant and lounge bar overlooking the old beach of Vlora. Ideal for those looking for relaxation.
Mazarine Hotel, Radhimë . This luxury hotel is a little gem with a private swimming pool and beach, a contemporary cuisine restaurant and minimal style rooms overlooking the sea.
Abonora Drymades, Dhërmi . Contemporary structure with private swimming pool, rooms with designer furnishings, Mediterranean cuisine restaurant and sushi bar facing one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.
Villa Margarit, Saranda . Family-run hotel in the heart of Saranda, a few meters from the seafront. The rooms are furnished with extreme care, the lush garden of the structure is an oasis of relaxation.
Manta Resort, Ksamil . Boutique hotel furnished down to the smallest detail, located on a small promontory surrounded by the sea, surrounded by greenery, overlooking the water and the islets of Ksamil.
