Summer trip to Albania

Albania is still an underexplored gem of Europe, which has not yet been lost among crowds of tourists.

What to see in Albania? The country resembles a chest of surprises: in a small area there is an incredible number of picturesque landscapes — pine coasts similar to Croatian ones; beaches with white sand and turquoise sea, like in the Maldives; picturesque mountains that resemble the Alps; fjords no worse than Norwegian ones; olive groves, like in Greece; and turquoise waves of the Ionian and Adriatic seas.

From the southern border with Greece to the Karaburun Peninsula stretches the Albanian Riviera — sunny, rocky, and incredibly picturesque. In the north of the country — a different atmosphere: a spacious coastline, sandy beaches, and tranquility. Summer here is dry and warm, the sea is clean and transparent, and the sky is almost cloudless 300 days a year!

A real discovery will be the local cuisine — a mixture of Italian and Turkish traditions. Here you can enjoy generous portions of seafood at the price of a salad in a European café. The hospitality of the locals is astonishing: don’t know Albanian? No problem — they’ll understand with gestures, help with a smile. It is also worth noting that English is hardly spoken here, but Italian is known almost at the level of the native language.

In Albania, the majority of the population practices Islam, but approximately one-third are Catholics and Orthodox. Despite the religious mosaic, the country retains a noticeably Balkan, secular character. The atmosphere is friendly and calm. Albanians behave politely and reservedly toward tourists. It seems they have adopted from the Italians not only a love for delicious food but also good manners.

Prices for apartment rentals or hostel accommodation here are significantly cheaper than in other Balkan countries. And for just a few euros a day, you can pitch a tent with access to a shower, toilet, kitchen, and Wi-Fi. The majority of housing is still new, clean, and tidy. Want more adventure? Car rental or a sea trip — and you're already on your way to neighboring countries: Macedonia, Montenegro, Greece, and Italy. From Saranda to Corfu — only 30 minutes by sea!

Albanian resorts are not about all-inclusive vacations, but if your soul seeks peace, untouched nature, clear sea, and sincere people — a trip to Albania in the summer will become a true discovery.

 

A trip to Albania in summer: popular resorts

Durrës – a combination of ancient heritage and beach relaxation

This cozy and picturesque city can be explored in just a few hours. The main historical landmarks are located close to each other: the Byzantine Forum with the rotunda, the ancient amphitheater, the old Roman road, and the Venetian Tower. Walks along the Albanian Boulevard and the Volga Promenade leave unforgettable impressions.

But keep in mind: the sea and beaches are Durrës’ weak points!

The city port pollutes the seawater. The popular beaches have a convenient entry into the water but are overcrowded during the season. Others have concrete slabs or rocky bottoms, which makes swimming difficult. You can also find wild beaches without amenities but with beautiful views.

Many locals prefer nearby resorts when they want a high-quality beach holiday. However, if the sea is not your main priority, Durrës can be a good fit. Nightlife, shops, well-developed tourist infrastructure, and attractive prices make it popular among young people, budget travelers, and couples without children.

In July, prices for a 10-day stay on the coast of Durrës start from €215 per adult.*

* The accommodation prices in Durrës and other Albanian resorts mentioned later in the article were collected from Booking at the time of publication. Only verified listings with the “Superb: 9+” guest review rating were considered. Since tourism in Albania is still developing, this makes up only 25–30% of all listings. If you exclude this filter, you can find more options at even lower prices.

 

Mali i Robit and Golem — seaside relaxation without the rush

These resorts are ideal for those seeking peace, space, and scenic nature. Pine trees grow along the coast, beneath which small hotels and apartments are nestled. Wide sandy beaches with soft, fine sand and a gentle entry into the warm Adriatic Sea create perfect conditions for relaxation.

Low-rise buildings are hidden among the trees, followed by a promenade with small shops, cafés, an amusement park, and second-line hotels. It’s hard to get lost here — everything is arranged linearly and conveniently.

There’s no nightlife — everything quiets down after midnight. For loud parties, you’ll need to head to nearby Durrës, but only by car: there’s no public transport at night.

The coastline is long, and the beaches are mostly without clear boundaries — so you can freely stroll along the sea. On weekends, residents of Durrës come here, so the number of people increases.

The sea has a pleasant turquoise hue, similar to the Bulgarian coast. After a storm, the water can become cloudy due to seaweed, and in July, small jellyfish sometimes appear.

In July, prices for a 10-day stay on the coast of these resorts start at €219 per adult.

 

Vlorë — where two seas meet

This Albanian resort combines two coastlines at once: in the northern part, the Adriatic Sea with its soft sandy shore and gentle water entry, and in the south, the Ionian Sea with pebble beaches and a calm atmosphere.

The location of the city allows you to choose your preferred vacation format: if you want peace — stay away from the center; if you're after entertainment — the central area with nightlife and activity is for you.

Vlorë’s hotels cater to any budget. There’s a wide range of accommodation options:

from affordable apartments and half-board hotels to comfortable 4–5* resorts. If you dream of views with cliffs, greenery, and crystal-clear turquoise water — check out the hotels on the outskirts, where the landscapes are truly impressive.

One of Vlorë’s highlights is sea excursions. Boats from local ports go to caves, wild bays, and nearby resorts.

Along the promenade, you’ll find open-air summer cinemas, seasonal fairs with local goods, and evening concerts and street performances. It's easy to combine beach relaxation with a light cultural experience.

Vlorë is also a city of history: nearby lies the ancient Greek settlement of Apollonia, with a classical theater, temples, and an open-air museum.

In July, prices for a 10-day stay on Vlorë’s coastline start from €197 per adult.

 

Sarandë — the most popular resort of the Albanian Riviera

Sarandë is considered the heart of southern Albania: it offers the best combination of nature, sea, and urban infrastructure. A vacation here is not only about beaches, but also scenic hills, fresh mountain air, olive groves, and access to unique locations — including the Greek island of Corfu, which can be seen from the shore.

The city is built like an amphitheater: all buildings are arranged in tiers, so almost every room offers a sea view.

Sarandë’s coastline consists of pebble beaches with a gradual entrance into the water. Thanks to this seabed, the Ionian Sea is always clean and clear, but the stones may be uncomfortable to walk on — so water shoes will come in handy.

If you prefer sandy beaches, you can head to Ksamil.

The Sarandë promenade is one of the most beautiful along the Albanian Riviera. It resembles resorts in Spain and France — with palm trees, cafés, restaurants, and lively nightlife.

The accommodation options are as diverse as it gets:

• all-inclusive hotels with kids’ clubs,
• apartments with kitchens for self-catering,
• budget hotels, hostels, and even campgrounds.

In July, prices for a 10-day stay on the Sarandë coastline start from €267 per adult.

 

Ksamil — the “Maldives” of Albania on the Ionian coast

This small resort is considered the jewel of southern Albania in summer travel rankings. The incredible sea is the main attraction: the water shifts from turquoise in shallow areas to deep emerald in the depths. The beaches look like postcards — instead of sand, there’s stone ground into fine, white, soft powder. Palms next to pine trees create a unique mix of southern exoticism.

Ksamil is ideal for a quiet, unhurried vacation. There are no loud clubs or night transport here. Everything revolves around the beach, the sea, and harmony with nature.

If you’re craving more activity — Sarandë is just 10 km away and easily reached by taxi or bus.

The resort is small and cozy, with narrow streets, the scent of the sea, and fresh pastries in the morning. Most places here are family-run taverns and cafés serving local seafood — and prices remain very reasonable even in high season.

Just offshore are several picturesque islets you can reach by swimming, kayak, boat, or pedal boat. Keep in mind: in summer, Ksamil attracts many tourists, so it’s hard to find completely empty spots.

Due to its compact size, available housing in Ksamil is limited in peak season (especially July–August). So if you want a sea-view apartment or hotel near the beach — it’s best to book early.

In July, prices for a 10-day stay on Ksamil’s coastline start at €314 per adult.

 

What to see in Albania near the seaside resorts

Excursions from Durrës, Mali i Robit, Golem

Lake Koman

Some compare this lake to the Austrian Alps in a compact format, others see a resemblance to the Norwegian fjords. The incomparable landscapes of Albanian nature captivate everyone without exception. The lake looks especially enchanting at sunrise and sunset.

For lovers of active recreation, Koman is a true paradise: there are picturesque cycling routes here, passing through dense forests, gorges, and along crystal-clear water.

Besides cycling tourism, water tourism is also popular: by boats and ferries, you can explore the lake, admire the steep shores and waterfalls, and visit small villages located along its banks.

Tirana — the capital of Albania

Tirana is included in the ranking of cities for tourism in Albania. The city is located among picturesque mountains near the coast. Local parks and cozy narrow streets create an atmosphere of home comfort. Albanians took a creative approach to renewing the city: old buildings are not demolished but transformed into bright art objects. The facades of houses here are painted in all the colors of the rainbow, and street lamps resemble huge wall sconces.

Every day there is a free walking tour, Tirana Free Walking Tour (meeting near the opera at Sheshi Skënderbej Square at 10 AM and 6 PM). This is an ideal and budget-friendly way to get acquainted with the city and its history.

Interesting places in Tirana

• Notable architectural structures: Ethem Mosque, Clock Tower, Skanderbeg Square with interesting old buildings, and Petrela Castle — a bright example of medieval architecture — here you will find both colorful Eastern buildings and restrained European structures.
• Blloku district — the trendiest corner of the city, where Italian elegance reigns. Luxurious cars and stylish cafes can be seen on the streets of the district. Here you can feel the true urban drive.
• The cable car to Mount Dajt opens breathtaking panoramas from observation decks and restaurants at the top. This is a favorite recreational place for locals, so it’s better to plan a trip on a weekday to avoid crowds.
• Saint Procopius Park, with its artificial lake and picturesque promenade, impresses not only with its beauty but also with sounds — in the evening, a choir of frogs begins to sing here, creating a calming and magical atmosphere.
• The unique Sky Tower bar has a floor that makes a full rotation in an hour. From here, you can see incredible views of the city.

 

Excursions from Vlorë

Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park

Be sure to plan a trip to Karaburun-Sazan Marine Park if you are staying in Vlorë. Here awaits a true gem of Albania — Sazan Island, considered the country’s signature landmark. The wild nature of the Karaburun Peninsula and the legendary Haji Ali cave with a crystal-clear lake about 10 meters deep will add unforgettable impressions to your vacation.

It is important to remember that Sazan Island has military status, so swimming is allowed only at designated hours and strictly accompanied by a group. The excursion takes place on a small boat, which allows you to fully enjoy the sea air and landscapes without exhausting bus transfers. You can simultaneously swim, sunbathe, and discover new horizons — an ideal option for an active and comfortable holiday.

Grami Bay and Zvernec Beach

Grami Bay is a true gem for those seeking peace and solitude in the heart of untouched nature. It impresses with its crystal-clear waters and picturesque views where the blue sea meets the greenery of dense pine forests. It is very quiet here, with few tourists, so you can enjoy relaxation far from the hustle and bustle.

Zvernec Beach has soft sand and a gentle entrance into the water, making it convenient for families with children. Natural harmony prevails around: the sound of waves, the rustling of pines, and fresh sea air.

 

Excursions from Saranda and Ksamil

Butrint

Within Butrint National Park lie the ruins of a large city that existed during Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian eras. Today, this archaeological complex is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Huge eucalyptus and laurel trees create a special atmosphere here. The scale of the monuments is impressive — an amphitheater, temples, baths, and houses.

It’s best to arrive early to calmly walk the streets, then join a group for a free guided tour. Don’t forget to bring water and food — prices inside the park are quite high.

Blue Eye Spring

Here you can refresh yourself in crystal-clear water by jumping from a viewing platform into a bright blue whirlpool that shimmers with shades from green to purple. But be careful — the water is very cold, even in the heat!

Bring water shoes — the bottom is rocky and slippery. Summer months are crowded, so the best time to visit is morning or weekdays.

Huge and bright dragonflies, which look more like butterflies, fly around. They swarm here. The atmosphere is magical — as if you’ve entered a fairy tale about fairies and elves.

Lekuresi Castle

The castle was built by the Turkish Sultan Suleiman for his wife Roxolana. Today, there is a restaurant here, and nearby are the ruins of the old fortress. From the top of Lekuresi Castle opens a picturesque view — it feels like you hold Saranda in your palm.

There is a chair at the observation deck — a perfect place for a photo with the city in the background. Visit the castle closer to sunset — the light is best for photos and it’s not so hot. If you plan to dine at the restaurant, despite prices being quite high by Albanian standards, book a table in advance, especially during the season.

Trip to Corfu island and Parga town

Corfu is a true green gem, with an atmosphere that resembles Italian resorts more than typical Greek ones. Just 30 minutes by ferry and you find yourself in a completely different country!

The ferry from Saranda runs daily; the ticket costs about 19 euros. You can buy it at any travel agency by showing your passport.

Plan at least two full days for visiting Corfu because there is a lot to see — picturesque beaches, historical landmarks, and colorful towns. Rent a car or scooter for convenient island travel.

 

Albania: summer tours

If you are planning to travel by plane, you can reach Albanian resorts through 2 airports:

• Durrës, Mali i Robit, Golem — Tirana International Airport. This is the only international airport in Albania.

• Vlora, Saranda, Ksamil — Ioannina International Airport in Greece. The nearest international airport to the southern resorts of Albania.

Keep in mind that flights to these airports from Eastern European countries usually require transfers. There is a better chance of finding a direct flight to Tirana International Airport.

From the airport to the coastal resorts, you will need to take a bus or arrange a transfer or taxi.