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Albania Holidays
Albania

Albania Holidays

Untouched beaches and ancient ruins make Albania a holiday spot to watch

Holidays in Albania

Looking for somewhere a little different for your next budget-friendly beach holiday? Known for its stunning coastline, rugged mountains, and rich history, Albania is emerging as a trending European destination. With beautiful beaches along the Albanian Riviera, ancient sites like Butrint, and lively cities like Tirana, Albania offers a fascinating mix of Mediterranean charm and Balkan spirit. Perfect for travellers seeking authentic culture and less-touristy landscapes, holidays to Albania suit adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, and beach lovers alike who want something off the usual European holiday path.

When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Albania is between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach days, hiking, and exploring archaeological sites. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, especially along the coast. If escaping the bustle of peak tourist months is more your style, spring (April–May) is lovely and quieter, perfect for cultural trips, coastal strolls and early-season hiking with fewer tourists.

Where is the best place to stay?

Tirana, the historic capital, is a great starting point for city break explorers, with colourful buildings, cafes, and museums. For beach lovers, the Albanian Riviera boasts charming towns like Dhermi, Himara, and Ksamil, where turquoise waters and secluded bays await. History buffs should consider staying near Saranda for access to ancient sites like Butrint National Park or the mountain town of Berat, with its UNESCO-listed old town, offering a mix of culture and stunning views. For a rural retreat, the Accursed Mountains, also known as the Albanian Alps, provide peaceful villages and hiking trails.

Travel guide

Albania is ideal for beach lovers, culture seekers, and outdoor adventurers looking for undiscovered Europe.

  • Best time to visit: May-October
  • Average flight time: 3 Hours
  • Most suited for: Couples, Nature Enthusiasts, Budget Travellers
  • Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
  • Time Difference: +1 Hour

Relax on the Albanian Riviera Beaches

Discover the magic of the Albanian Riviera, a sun-dipped stretch of coastline known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, and charming coastal villages. Whether you're unwinding on the white-sand shores of Ksamil, dancing the night away at popular beach bars in Dhermi, or soaking up panoramic views along the Llogara Pass, this hidden gem region of Albania offers relaxation and adventure by the bucket load. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and seaside dining, the Riviera is a must for anyone searching for an unspoiled Mediterranean beach holiday. With its stunning scenery and warm hospitality, the Albanian Riviera is quickly emerging as one of the best beach destinations in Europe.

Explore Berat's Historic Quarter

Step into Albania’s cultural soul with a visit to Berat, famously known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” This UNESCO World Heritage city enchants visitors with its cobbled lanes, ancient stone bridges, and iconic hillside Ottoman-era houses that glow in the afternoon sun. Highlights include the magnificent Berat Castle, the Onufri Iconography Museum, and the atmospheric Mangalem and Gorica quarters, where history and tradition come to life around every corner. Ideal for those interested in authentic cultural travel, Berat offers a timeless escape and a deep connection to Albania’s storied past.

Visit Butrint National Park

For a journey through Albania’s ancient past, head to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Saranda. Once a thriving city influenced by Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman civilisations, Butrint now offers visitors a unique archaeological experience surrounded by wetlands and forests teeming with wildlife. Explore highlights like the Roman theatre, the Great Basilica, and the Venetian tower, all set in a peaceful environment that feels worlds away from the modern world. Ideal for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, Butrint is one of the top cultural and historical attractions in Albania.

Food & Drink in Albania

Albanian cuisine blends Mediterranean and Balkan flavours with fresh ingredients like olive oil, herbs, lamb, and seafood. If you’re looking to try local delicacies, try byrek (savoury pastries), tavë kosi (baked lamb with yoghurt), and grilled fish along the coast. If you enjoy getting your caffeine fix, you’ll love Albania’s strong coffee culture. Enjoy espresso or traditional Turkish-style coffee with sweet treats at quaint local cafes straight from a period novella. For other drinks, sample raki, a popular fruit brandy, and local wines from regions like Berat and Vlora.

Albania Weather

Average monthly temperature in Albania (°C)

  • Jan 7°C
  • Feb 8°C
  • Mar 12°C
  • Apr 16°C
  • May 21°C
  • Jun 26°C
  • Jul 29°C
  • Aug 29°C
  • Sep 25°C
  • Oct 19°C
  • Nov 13°C
  • Dec 9°C

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