What to see in Albania?
Top 5 places worth visiting
Albania is one of the most dynamically developing destinations in the Mediterranean, where pristine mountain landscapes blend with rich history and the turquoise sea.
1. Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows (UNESCO)
Berat is one of the oldest and most architecturally impressive cities in the Balkans. Ancient white Ottoman houses built on the hillside above the Osum River create the illusion of hundreds of windows gazing out over the valley. Looming over the city is the massive Kalaja fortress; its complex still houses local residents and Byzantine churches, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
2. Ksamil and the Albanian Riviera
The southern coast of the Ionian Sea is rightly referred to as the “European Caribbean.” Ksamil attracts visitors with its fine pebble and sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and four small, uninhabited islets that are easily accessible by swimming, kayaking, or pedal boat. For a more peaceful experience away from the crowds, it is worth visiting outside the peak summer holiday season (in May, June, or September).
3. Theth National Park and the Albanian Alps
Northern Albania is a must-visit destination for lovers of hiking and dramatic scenery. The village of Theth lies in the heart of the limestone mountains (the Prokletije range), surrounded by waterfalls (such as Grunas), canyons, and traditional stone *kulla* towers. It is from here that the iconic one-day hike over the mountain pass to the neighboring Valbona Valley begins.
4. Gjirokastër – Stone City (UNESCO)
Gjirokastër is a showcase of Ottoman fortification architecture. The town is characterized by steep cobbled streets, stone roofs and well-preserved fortified burgher houses such as the Zekate House. The dominant feature is a vast medieval castle with an exhibition of weapons and a view of the Drino river valley. The famous karst spring Syri i Kaltër (Blue Eye) is also located near the city.
5. Lake Koman (Liqeni i Komanit)
The dam on the Drin River has created a narrow, winding canyon featuring turquoise waters and steep rock walls—a landscape whose atmosphere is reminiscent of Norwegian fjords. A trip by ferry or small boat from Koman to Fierza (or a detour to the Shala River) ranks among the most visually stunning natural experiences in the entire country.