Albania is a beautiful and diverse country in the Balkans, full of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Whether you love ancient ruins, charming old towns, or relaxing on the beach, Albania has something for everyone. Each city offers its own unique experiences and sights.
Join us as we explore the top cities to visit in Albania, discovering the best places to see, stay, and enjoy.
- Tirana
- Berat
- Durrës
- Elbasan
- Fier
- Fushë-Krujë
- Gjirokastër
- Golem
- Hamallaj
- Kamëz
- Kavajë
- Korçë
- Kukës
- Laç
- Lezhë
- Lushnjë
- Mamurras
- Patos
- Pogradec
- Sarandë
- Shkodër
- Sukth
- Vlorë
Tirana
Tirana is the capital and largest city of Albania, known for its colorful architecture and rich cultural scene. Key attractions include Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. The Blloku district is famous for its nightlife, cafes, and restaurants.
The Dajti Ekspres cable car offers scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains, with hiking and picnic spots available at the top. Tirana's parks, such as the Grand Park of Tirana, provide green spaces for relaxation.
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Berat
Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," is a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. The city is characterized by its white-washed houses with large windows, which seem to cascade down the hillside.
Key attractions include the Berat Castle, which offers stunning views of the city and houses several Byzantine churches and mosques. The Ethnographic Museum and the Onufri Museum, showcasing religious icons, are also worth visiting. The old town areas of Mangalem and Gorica are great places to stay for their historical charm and proximity to the main sights.
Durrës
Durrës is a coastal city known for its ancient history and modern-day beach resorts. The city is home to the largest amphitheater in the Balkans, the Durrës Amphitheatre, dating back to Roman times. The Archaeological Museum offers insights into the city's rich history.
The sandy beaches, especially around the areas of Golem and Mali i Robit, are popular for relaxation and water activities. The promenade, known as Vollga, is a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Elbasan
Elbasan is a central Albanian city known for its ancient castle and market life. The Elbasan Castle, built during the Roman period and later expanded by the Ottomans, is the main historical attraction.
Within the castle walls, you can find the King's Mosque and the Ethnographic Museum. The city has a lively bazaar where you can experience local culture and cuisine.
Fier
Fier is an industrial city located near important archaeological sites. The Apollonia Archaeological Park, just outside the city, features ruins of an ancient Greek city and a well-preserved monastery.
Inside Fier, the city center has a few parks and cafes. It's a convenient base for exploring the nearby ancient sites.
Fushë-Krujë
Fushë-Krujë is a small town known for its historical connections to Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. The town is close to the Krujë Castle and the Skanderbeg Museum, which are significant historical sites.
The town itself offers a quieter alternative to the bustling capital, with local markets and cafes to explore.
Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved Ottoman-era houses and cobblestone streets. The Gjirokastër Castle, offering panoramic views of the valley and housing a military museum, is a major attraction.
The old town, with its characteristic stone houses, is a delight to explore. The Skenduli House and the Ethnographic Museum provide insights into traditional life. Staying in the old town area allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the historical atmosphere.
Golem
Golem is a popular beach resort town near Durrës, known for its long sandy beaches and clear waters. It’s a great place for a summer vacation with numerous hotels, resorts, and holiday apartments. The beaches are lined with bars, restaurants, and nightlife options. The area is ideal for families and those looking to relax by the sea.
Hamallaj
Hamallaj is a small coastal village known for its tranquil beaches, situated between Durrës and Tirana. It’s a great spot for a quiet getaway, with fewer crowds compared to larger resort areas. The beach is the main attraction, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Kamëz
Kamëz is a suburban town near Tirana, known for its rapid growth and development. While it doesn't have major tourist attractions, its proximity to Tirana makes it a convenient place to stay.
The area has several new residential and commercial developments, with local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Kavajë
Kavajë is a small town located near the coast, known for its historical significance and proximity to the beach. The nearby Spille Beach is a popular spot for locals and tourists. The town has several old churches and mosques, reflecting its diverse cultural heritage.
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Korçë
Korçë is a cultural hub in southeastern Albania, known for its arts scene and beautiful architecture. The National Museum of Medieval Art and the Korçë Cathedral are major attractions.
The city hosts the annual Korçë Beer Festival, drawing visitors from all over the country. The old bazaar area is perfect for exploring local crafts and cuisine.
Kukës
Kukës is a town in northeastern Albania, near the borders with Kosovo and North Macedonia. It is known for its beautiful mountainous scenery and proximity to the Fierza Lake.
The town played a significant role during the Kosovo War, providing refuge for displaced people. It’s a good base for exploring the surrounding nature.
Laç
Laç is a small town in northwestern Albania, known for its religious significance. The Church of St. Anthony, situated on a hill overlooking the town, is a popular pilgrimage site. The area offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Lezhë
Lezhë is a historic town in northwestern Albania, known for the Lezhë Castle and the nearby site where the League of Lezhë was formed by Skanderbeg in 1444. The town also has a memorial to Skanderbeg. The surrounding region is rich in natural beauty, with several rivers and the Adriatic coast nearby.
Lushnjë
Lushnjë is a small city in western Albania, known for its agricultural significance. It’s a gateway to the Myzeqe plain, a fertile area producing various crops. The city itself has a few parks and local markets. It’s a quiet place with limited tourist attractions, but there are accommodation options for visitors.
Mamurras
Mamurras is a small town in northwestern Albania, with a primarily residential and agricultural character. It’s not a major tourist destination, but it offers a glimpse into everyday Albanian life.
Patos
Patos is an industrial town in southwestern Albania, known for its oil fields. While it doesn’t have significant tourist attractions, it serves as a base for those working in the oil industry. The surrounding region features some rural landscapes and small villages that offer a glimpse into local life.
Accommodation in Patos is primarily focused on catering to business travelers, with a few hotels and guesthouses available.
Pogradec
Pogradec is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Ohrid, known for its stunning natural beauty and clear waters. The town is famous for its lakeside promenade, beaches, and fresh fish restaurants. The Drilon National Park, with its beautiful springs and gardens, is a must-visit.
The park offers boat rides, walking trails, and picnic spots. The area around the lakefront has numerous hotels and guesthouses, providing scenic views and easy access to the water. Additionally, the nearby village of Tushemisht is known for its charming old houses and peaceful atmosphere.
Sarandë
Sarandë is a popular coastal city in southern Albania, known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers unique nightlife, a beautiful waterfront, and delicious seafood.
The promenade along the bay is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying the sunset. Ksamil, a nearby village, is famous for its crystal-clear waters and small islands, ideal for a day trip. There are many accommodations, ranging from budget to luxury, making Sarandë a great holiday destination for various types of travelers.
Shkodër
Shkodër is one of Albania’s oldest cities, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The Rozafa Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas, is a major attraction. The Marubi National Museum of Photography and the historic city center, with its mix of old and new architecture, are also worth visiting.
Shkodër is a gateway to the Albanian Alps, making it popular for outdoor activities such as hiking and biking. The nearby Lake Shkodër is the largest lake in the Balkans and offers opportunities for boating and birdwatching.
Sukth
Sukth is a small town near Durrës, primarily residential with a few local markets and cafes. Its proximity to the coast makes it a convenient place to stay for access to the beaches of Durrës and Golem. While Sukth itself does not have major tourist attractions, it provides a quieter alternative for monthly rentals.
Vlorë
Vlorë is a historic coastal city known as the site where Albania declared its independence in 1912. The Independence Monument and Museum are significant landmarks. The city is also a gateway to the Albanian Riviera, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
The nearby Llogara Pass offers stunning views and access to the Llogara National Park, which is ideal for hiking and nature excursions. The Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park, located off the coast, offers opportunities for diving and exploring underwater caves. Accommodation in Vlorë ranges from beachfront resorts to budget private rooms, making it a popular destination for both history enthusiasts and beach lovers.
Flatio: Flexible housing in Albania
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And why Flatio, you ask?
Here's an overview of the features that differentiate us from other rental accommodation providers:
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