Destinations – Albania

Himare is a charming coastal town on the Albanian Riviera, known for its beautiful beaches, mountainous scenery, and rich history. It offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities to explore ancient ruins, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals. The town is nestled between the Ionian Sea and the Ceraunian Mountains, providing stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, especially in the spring and fall.

Beaches: Himare boasts several beautiful beaches, including SpilLe, Marachi, Livadh, and JalE, known for their crystal-clear waters. Atmosphere: Himare is known for its relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with a strong Greek influence. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Albanian Riviera.  Activities: Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring the coastal area. The town also offers a promenade for leisurely walks, with Mediterranean-style taverns and local shops.

History: The town has a long history, with evidence of Greek settlements dating back to antiquity. The Himare Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the past. Location: Situated on the southwestern coast of Albania, in the Vlora District, along the Ionian Sea. Nearby: The town is close to other popular destinations like Dhermi, known for its lively atmosphere and beaches. 

Dhermi is a picturesque coastal village located on the Albanian Riviera, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and traditional white stone houses with blue windows. 

Perched on the slopes of the Ceraunian Mountains, it offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant beach life. The village provides a mix of tranquility and lively entertainment, making it appealing to various travelers.

Beaches: Dhermi boasts several beautiful beaches, including Drymades, Perivoli, and the city beach. These beaches are known for their white pebbles and clear turquoise waters. Some areas feature limestone cliffs and hidden coves accessible by boat. Activities and Atmosphere: Dhermi offers a range of activities, including water sports, hiking, and exploring the surrounding mountains. It has a growing nightlife scene with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. 

Location: Dhermi is situated on the Ionian Sea, nestled between the mountains and the coast. It’s a popular stop for travelers exploring the Albanian Riviera. The village sits at an altitude of 200 meters, gradually descending towards the sea.  Historical and Cultural Sights: Dhermi has historical sites like the Monastery of St. Theodore, the Church of the monastery of Panagia, and the Church of Hypapante. The village’s traditional architecture, including white houses with blue accents, adds to its charm. 

Borsh is a coastal village and popular beach resort on the Albanian Riviera, known for its long, sandy beach and crystal-clear waters. 

It’s located in VlorE County, offering a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and authentic Albanian culture. 

The village stretches from the beach up into the hills, where the old part of town is situated. Borsh is also known for its olive groves and the production of virgin olive oil. 

Beach: Borsh boasts the longest beach on the Albanian Ionian coast, stretching about 7 kilometers. The beach is a mix of sand and gravel, with both wild and well-maintained sections. Culture: Borsh offers a glimpse into authentic Albanian culture, with opportunities to explore the village, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warmth of the community. Olive Oil: The region is known for its olive groves, and Borsh has a history of olive oil production, with a former olive processing plant located in the village. 

History: Borsh Castle, also known as Sopot Castle, sits on a hill overlooking the village and has a history dating back to the 4th century BC, with significant structures added in the 18th century by Ali Pasha. 

Location: Situated in the southwest of Albania, Borsh is nestled along the Albanian Riviera, offering stunning views of the Ionian Sea and surrounding hills. 

Ksamil is a coastal town in southern Albania, renowned for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and proximity to the Greek border and Butrint National Park.  

It’s often called the “Maldives of Europe” due to its stunning beaches and small islands accessible by swimming or boat. 

Atmosphere: Ksamil offers a blend of water activities, and cultural experiences, making it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. 

has a relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere and is known for its affordable prices compared to similar destinations. 

Cuisine: Ksamil offers delicious Albanian cuisine, including fresh seafood. 

Activities: In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can enjoy snorkeling, diving, boat tours, and exploring the nearby Butrint National Park. 

Accessibility:The town is easily accessible from Saranda by car or bus, and there are ferry connections from Corfu, Italy, and Greece. 

Historical Significance: One of Albania’s oldest cities, with settlements dating back thousands of years. 

Unique Architecture:  Characterized by its white houses with many windows.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Castle of Berat (Kala): A 4th-century castle with Byzantine and Ottoman additions.

Mangalem and Gorica: Historic neighborhoods with unique architectural styles. 

Osum River: 

Flows through the city, adding to its scenic beauty. 

Modern Revival: 

Experiencing a wine renaissance, with local wineries rediscovering traditional techniques. 

ShkodEr, often called the “City of Bicycles,” is a historic city in northwestern Albania. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and proximity to the Albanian Alps and Lake ShkodEr. The city has a unique blend of European architecture. 

Gateway to the Alps: Shkoder is a popular base for exploring the Albanian Alps, a rugged mountain range known for its hiking trails and dramatic landscapes. 

Historical Significance: Shkoder is one of the oldest and most historic cities in Albania, with evidence of settlements dating back thousands of years. 

It served as the capital of Illyria in the 3rd century BC and was also a significant center during Roman rule. 

Transportation: Shkoder is well-connected by road and is easily accessible from other parts of Albania and neighboring countries. 

Key Landmarks: Rozafa Castle, a thousand-year-old fortress, is a major attraction. Other notable sites include the Mesi Bridge, the Marubi National Museum of Photography, and various churches.  Modern Development: Shkoder has seen recent renovations, including a new promenade and a bypass road, improving the city’s infrastructure and traffic flow. 

Gjirokaster, is a historic “stone city” known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and distinctive slate-roofed houses. It’s a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into the past with its castle, bazaar, and traditional homes. Gjirokaster, nestled in southern Albania, boasts a rich history and unique architectural style.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its exceptional architecture, including houses with characteristic stone roofs, wooden balconies, and stone walls. “City of a Thousand Staircases”: The hilly terrain of Gjirokaster leads to a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets and numerous staircases, adding to the city’s charm.  Historical Significance: Gjirokaster is the birthplace of Albanian writer Ismail Kadare.

Gjirokaster Castle: The city’s prominent castle dominates the landscape and offers stunning views, as well as historical significance.  Traditional Bazaar: The old bazaar provides a vibrant atmosphere and a chance to experience local crafts, food, and culture.  National Folklore Festival: The city hosts this event every five years, showcasing Albanian folk music, dance, and costumes. 

Tirana is Albania’s capital and largest city, a vibrant and dynamic center located in the heart of the country. It’s a place where the past meets the present, Italian-influenced architecture alongside a growing cosmopolitan atmosphere. 

Tirana is a hub of economic, political, and cultural activity, boasting a lively nightlife, numerous attractions, and a growing tourism industry. 

History: Founded in the early 17th century, Tirana became the capital in 1920.

It has seen periods of Ottoman, Italian, and Communist rule, all of which have left their mark on the city’s architecture and culture. 

Economy: It’s Albania’s primary economic, financial, and trade center, experiencing a construction boom and growing tourism. 

Location: Tirana sits in a valley surrounded by hills and mountains, with a glimpse of the Adriatic Sea to the northwest on clear days. 

Culture: Tirana has a lively cultural scene, including art exhibitions, music and film festivals, theatrical performances, and a vibrant cafe culture.  Vibe: Tirana has a unique atmosphere, described as both cosmopolitan and charming, with a mix of traditional and modern elements.