17 Best Things to Do in Albania

Albania is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe. From dramatic mountain hikes and historic castles to pristine beaches and delicious local food, the country offers an incredible variety of experiences.

Here are 17 of the best things to do in Albania.

1. Hike from Theth to Valbona

The Theth to Valbona hike is one of the most famous trekking routes in the Albanian Alps. The hike typically takes 6–8 hours and passes through breathtaking mountain landscapes, valleys, and alpine meadows.

This challenging but rewarding trail offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the Balkans and is a must for nature lovers and hikers.

2. Visit Rozafa Castle in Shkodër

The city of Shkodër is one of the oldest cities in Albania and worth visiting for its history and culture.

The highlight is Rozafa Castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the city, the lake, and the surrounding rivers. The castle offers incredible panoramic views and fascinating legends connected to its history.

3. Drink a Beer in a Rotating Bar in Tirana

One of the most unusual experiences in Albania is visiting the rotating bar in the Sky Tower in Tirana.

While enjoying a drink, the bar slowly rotates 360 degrees, allowing visitors to admire views of the entire city. Sunset is one of the best times to visit for a memorable experience.

4. Visit a Museum Inside an Abandoned Bunker

During the communist era, thousands of bunkers were built across Albania. Today, some of them have been transformed into museums.

BUNK'ART in Tirana is one of the most interesting museums in the country, offering a deep look into Albania’s history during the communist regime. The museum is located inside a massive underground bunker.

5. Take the Cable Car to Mount Dajti

Just outside Tirana lies Mount Dajti, a popular destination for nature and panoramic views.

Visitors can take the Dajti Ekspres cable car to the top of the mountain. From there, you can enjoy hiking trails, restaurants, and stunning views over the city.

6. Wild Camp on Albania’s Beautiful Beaches

Wild camping is legal in many areas of Albania, making it an amazing destination for adventurous travelers.

The Albanian coast offers countless stunning beaches where visitors can camp and enjoy peaceful sunsets and clear waters.

7. Visit Hidden Beaches

While Albania has many popular beaches, some of the most beautiful ones require a short hike to reach.

Two of the most impressive are:

• Gjipe Beach
• Secluded bays near Livadh Beach

These beaches are much quieter and perfect for a relaxing day surrounded by nature.

8. Visit Berat, the City of a Thousand Windows

Berat is one of the most beautiful cities in Albania and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city is famous for its white Ottoman houses stacked on the hillside, creating the appearance of countless windows facing the valley.

9. Explore the Old Town of Gjirokastër

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gjirokastër is known as the “City of Stone.”

The old town features traditional stone houses with flat stone roofs, cobblestone streets, and a large hilltop castle offering incredible views of the valley.

10. Relax in the Benja Thermal Springs

The Benja thermal springs, located near the town of Përmet, are a hidden natural gem.

The warm geothermal pools are located beside an ancient Ottoman bridge and surrounded by beautiful mountains.

11. Take a Road Trip Through Albania

Albania is an incredible destination for road trips.

Driving through the country allows you to experience mountain landscapes, coastal roads, rural villages, and authentic local life. The journey itself often becomes one of the highlights of the trip.

12. Eat Burek

Burek is one of the most popular foods in Albania and across the Balkans.

It is a pastry filled with ingredients such as:

• Meat
• Cheese
• Spinach

It is cheap, delicious, and available in bakeries all over the country.

13. Swim in Crystal-Clear Waters

The beaches of Albania are famous for their clear turquoise waters, especially along the Albanian Riviera.

The water quality rivals some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean, making swimming and snorkeling unforgettable experiences.

14. Try Trilece Dessert

Trilece is a popular dessert made from a soft sponge cake soaked in milk or cream and topped with caramel.

Different bakeries and restaurants have their own variations, so it’s worth trying several versions during your visit.

15. Eat Fresh Seafood on the Coast

Albania’s coastal towns offer excellent fresh seafood at very affordable prices.

Many restaurants serve freshly caught fish, mussels, shrimp, and other seafood dishes, often accompanied by local wine.

16. Visit the First Albanian School in Korçë

The city of Korçë is known for its cultural heritage and beautiful architecture.

One of its most important landmarks is the National Education Museum, which was originally the first Albanian school opened in 1878.

17. Enjoy the View from Korçë’s Tower

At the end of Korçë’s pedestrian street stands a small tower offering views over the city.

Visitors can take an elevator to the top for a small fee and enjoy a unique perspective of the surrounding area.

Conclusion

Albania offers a wide range of experiences—from hiking in the Alps and relaxing on beautiful beaches to exploring historic towns and tasting traditional cuisine.

Whether you love nature, culture, or adventure, Albania is a destination that continues to surprise travelers with its beauty and authenticity.