Where should you go in Albania? What activities can you do with your family? Where can you stay in Albania? In this article, you’ll find the answers to these questions to help you plan the perfect family trip to Albania.
♠ Read carefully until the end to find the two accommodations where you can stay during your vacation. ♠
Albania, a country to discover without delay
Albania is a country located in Eastern Europe, bordered by the Adriatic Sea and the Ionian Sea.
It is known for its mountains, beaches, lakes, and historic cities such as Tirana, Berat and Sarandë. Albanian culture is influenced by Illyrian, Ottoman and communist influences. The country is also famous for its culinary heritage, including dishes such as Tavë Kosi, Fërgesë and Byrek.
Albania is undoubtedly a place to discover for lovers of history, nature, and adventure.
Where to go in Albania?
Here are the must-see places to see in Albania:
Tirana, the capital
What to do in Tirana
Here is a list of some activities to do in Tirana:
- Visit the Palais des Congrès, a historic building that houses conferences, exhibitions, and concerts.
- Stroll through Tirana city center and discover the colorful buildings and bustling streets.
- Visit the National History Museum of Albania, which displays artifacts and cultural objects from the country’s history.
- Relax in an outdoor café or bar, offering views of Tirana’s bustling streets.
- Explore the park on Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard. A large green space with play areas, gardens, and fountains.
- Admire views of the city from the Tirana Tower, a 20-story skyscraper with an observatory.
- Attend a concert or performance at the Albanian National Opera and Ballet Theater.
Berat, “the city of a thousand windows”, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Here is a list of some activities to do in Berat:
- Visit the Berat Citadel, a historic fort located on a hill offering panoramic views of the city.
- Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and discover the stone houses and carved wooden windows.
- Visit the Byzantine and iconographic museums, which display historical and religious objects.
- Attend a concert or performance at the Berat Popular Theater.
- Taste local cuisine, including Tavë Berat, a meat and vegetable dish cooked in a terracotta terrine.
- Relax on the banks of the Osumi River and enjoy the surrounding nature.
- Visit historic churches and monasteries, such as the Church of Saint Michael and the Gorica Monastery.
The National Park is a great place for hiking and climbing.
The National Park is known for its spectacular natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Here is a list of some activities to do in the National Park:
- Hiking: Theth National Park offers numerous hiking trails to explore the region’s mountains, forests, and gorges.
- Climbing: The park is a popular place for climbers due to its impressive rock walls and cliffs.
- Swimming: There are many hot springs and rivers suitable for swimming in the park.
- Fishing: The area is famous for its cold water fish, such as trout, and is a popular fishing spot for fishing enthusiasts.
- Wildlife viewing: Theth National Park is home to many wildlife, including foxes, eagles, mouflons, and wolves.
- Visit traditional villages: Theth National Park is surrounded by traditional Albanian villages, providing an opportunity to experience the local life and culture of the region.
- Excursions: The park is an ideal starting point for excursions to the surrounding mountains and neighboring towns, such as Shkoder and Valbona.
Sarandë is a coastal beach destination with beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Sarandë is a coastal city located on the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic architecture.
Here is a list of some activities to do in Sarandë:
- Beach: Sarandë is famous for its sandy beaches, such as Dhërmi Beach and Jal Beach.
- Historic Town: The Old Town of Sarandë offers an opportunity to experience the historic architecture of the town, with stone and carved wooden buildings.
- Visit the archaeological remains: Sarandë is surrounded by archaeological remains, such as the ruins of the Butrint Citadel, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sea Excursion: Sea excursions are a popular way to discover the surrounding islands and rocky coasts of the Adriatic Sea.
- Nightlife: Sarandë is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.
- Local Market: Sarandë’s local market is a good place to discover local products, such as fresh seafood and artisan products.
- Water sports: Sarandë is a popular place for windsurfing, surfing, and other water activities.
- Visiting churches and monasteries: There are several historic churches and monasteries in the surroundings of Sarandë, such as the Church of Saint Nicholas and the Lëkurësi Monastery.
Lake Ohrid, located on the border between Albania and Macedonia
Lake Ohrid is an alpine lake located between Albania and Macedonia and is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and historical and cultural heritage.
Here is a list of some activities to do around Lake Ohrid:
- Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails around the lake, offering spectacular views of the mountains and lake waters.
- Swimming: Lake Ohrid is famous for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and water activities.
- Visiting historic towns: Lake Ohrid is surrounded by several historic towns, such as Ohrid in Macedonia and Pogradec in Albania, with many ancient buildings and archaeological remains.
- Visiting monasteries and churches: Lake Ohrid is rich in historic monasteries and churches, such as the Monastery of St. Panteleimon and the Church of St. Jovan.
- Fishing: Lake Ohrid is famous for its freshwater fish, such as trout, and is a popular fishing spot for fishing enthusiasts.
- Boat Trips: Boat tours are available to explore the lake shores and surrounding islands.
- Water sports: Activities such as canoeing and windsurfing are popular on Lake Ohrid.
- Tasting local products: There are many restaurants around Lake Ohrid, providing an opportunity to taste local dishes, such as fresh fish and dairy products.
The Tomb of King Skanderbeg is a national monument dedicated to the Albanian national hero.
The Tomb of King Skanderbeg is a national monument in Albania dedicated to the greatest Albanian national hero, Skanderbeg.
It is located in the town of Krujë in northern Albania.
Skanderbeg is known for leading a rebellion against the Ottoman Empire for over 20 years, protecting Albania’s cultural and religious identity.
King Skanderbeg’s tomb is considered an important historical and cultural site, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
Visitors can also visit the Skanderbeg Museum in Krujë, which features exhibits on the life and exploits of Skanderbeg as well as the history of Albania.
The National Museum of History of Albania is in Tirana.
The National History Museum of Albania, located in Tirana, presents the history of Albania from the Stone Age to the modern period.
The museum’s collections include archaeological artifacts, historical objects, paintings, and photos.
It also houses exhibitions on the daily life, culture, and traditions of Albania.
The museum offers visitors an opportunity to discover Albania’s rich and complex history and understand the different periods and events that formed the country.
History buffs and people interested in the culture and traditions of Albania may find the National History Museum of Albania particularly interesting.
The town of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO heritage site, is known for its traditional architecture.
Gjirokastër is a historic town located in the mountains of southern Albania. It is famous for its unique architecture, which reflects Turkish, Greek, and Albanian influences.
Gjirokastër is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Visitors can explore the old quarter of Gjirokastër, which is considered one of the most beautiful in Albania. They can also visit the town museum, which houses a collection of historical and cultural objects from Gjirokastër.
Unmissable in Gjirokastër are:
- a visit to Gjirokastër Castle, built in the 13th century and restored in the 20th century.
- the ethnographic museum, which presents traditional objects from the region.
- the local market, where visitors can buy local products and meet locals.
Gjirokastër is a popular destination for tourists interested in the architecture, history, and culture of Albania. and offers an authentic and memorable travel experience.
Where to sleep in Albania?
Tirana => EMILIANO Castle of Kruja (click here to book)
A real gem! The location has a view of the idyllic valley and is a stone’s throw from the Sanderbeg Museum. The green setting. The meals were very good and plentiful. Breakfast is generous and served on the terrace with a breathtaking view of Kruje. You will not be disappointed!
Lezhë => Rambuje Resort (Click here to book)
Located 43 km from Rozafa Shkodra Castle, Rambuje Resort offers an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, a restaurant, a kids’ club, room service, and free WiFi throughout the property. An ideal place for a moment of relaxation with the family!
