Vacation in Albania

Hidden Secrets and Must-Sees

Albania is a true hidden gem among European countries. This Balkan nation captivates with a blend of untouched nature, historical treasures, and Mediterranean charm. You can enjoy a relaxing vacation in Albania on the beach, hiking in the Albanian Alps, or exploring one of the many cities in the country. The best part: you don't need a large travel budget for Albania, as compared to other European countries, it is very affordable.

In our article, we have gathered all the important information for a great vacation in Albania: from the best travel time to practical tips, a packing list, and a suggested itinerary by car, you'll know everything!

The Essentials in Brief

• A varied destination: In Albania, you can plan beach vacations, hikes in the Albanian Alps, or city trips according to your taste.
• Best travel time: The months of May, June, and September are ideal for beach vacations and hikes. During this time, there are fewer tourists.
• Touring Albania: By taking a tour, you can discover the full diversity of this Balkan country. With our packing list, you'll think of everything important.
• Road safety: Respect speed limits and be cautious on sometimes poor roads, especially in rural areas. Adhere to the 0.0 per mille limit when driving.

Albania: A varied and affordable destination

Albania is located in southeastern Europe between Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece.

In this country, travelers find what has become rare in the Mediterranean: deserted beaches with clear water, untouched mountain landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. Unlike its more touristy neighboring countries, Albania retains its original charm. Whether on the Adriatic coast, in the Albanian Alps, or in a city: in Albania, you will have a low-cost vacation in an exceptional setting.

Beach Vacation in Albania

Destinations

• Ksamil: hidden coves and small islands for snorkeling
• Dhërmi: long pebble beaches with crystal-clear water
• Vlorë: perfect blend of urban life and beach

Best travel time

• Avoid the high season in July and August. In May and September, prices are lower, temperatures are pleasantly warm, and the beaches are not crowded.

Tips

• During your beach vacation in Albania, travel along the coast between Dhërmi and Vlorë. With a scooter, you can also discover more hidden beaches.
• Take a boat trip along the Albanian Riviera.

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Wellness Vacation

Destinations

• Near Përmet, in the Lenggarcia Canyon, there are natural thermal springs. A narrow bridge from the 19th century connects the two banks.
• In the capital Tirana, there are several wellness hotels with saunas, steam baths, and massage offers.

Best travel time

• Albania is ideal for wellness vacations all year round. You can choose to enjoy the natural springs in warm weather or book a wellness hotel in winter with a view of the snowy Albanian Alps.

Tips

• The natural thermal springs are free. You only need your swimsuit. 
• Combine your wellness vacation in Albania with a wine tasting. Near Përmet, in addition to the thermal springs, there are also numerous vineyards.

City Vacation

Destinations

• Tirana: modern capital with a colorful art scene
• Gjirokastër: UNESCO World Heritage site with Ottoman architecture
• Berat: UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "city of a thousand windows"

Best travel time

• City vacations in Albania are possible all year round. In spring and autumn, temperatures are milder and there are fewer tourists.

Tips

• Visit a traditional market and taste Albanian specialties like Byrek (stuffed pastries), Tavë Kosi (lamb with yogurt), and Fërgesë (traditional dish with peppers and tomatoes). 
• Book a guided tour: locals will guide you through the city for a small donation and offer you an authentic insight. 
• Take the time to enjoy Albanian coffee culture. 
• In larger cities, you will find workshops to try traditional Albanian crafts like carpet weaving or silver jewelry making.

Hiking Vacation

Destinations

• Hikes in Valbona National Park and Theth National Park promise a great experience between traditional mountain villages and untouched nature.

Best travel time

• From mid-May to late June and from early September to late October, weather conditions are ideal for hiking vacations in Albania.

Tips

• The long-distance hiking trail Peaks of the Balkans, with a length of 192 kilometers, crosses Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro.

Touring Albania

If you are planning a road trip in Albania with your own car, you can choose from different routes. The fastest route goes through Germany and Montenegro to reach Albania. Alternatively, you can use the ferry connection from Bari (Italy) to Durrës (Albania). Remember to bring your international driving permit, green insurance card, and vehicle registration. To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and your driving license must be valid for at least one year. Additionally, you will need a credit card for the deposit.

Sample Itinerary for Your Vacation in Albania (14 to 21 Days)

1. Arrival in Albania (2 days): Tirana Airport - Tirana

• Car rental
• 2 days to settle in and visit the city
• Highlights: Skanderbeg Square, Bunkart Museum, Mount Dajti

2. Northern Albania (4 to 5 days): Shkodër - Theth - Valbona

Highlights:

• Rozafa Fortress in Shkodër
• Theth National Park
• Valbona Valley
• Traditional mountain villages
• Hikes in the Albanian Alps

3. Southern Coastal Route (7 to 8 days): Durrës - Vlorë - Dhërmi - Ksamil

Highlights:

• Roman ruins in Durrës
• Llogara Pass
• Hidden coves of the Albanian Riviera
• Butrint National Park
• Blue Eye Spring

4. Inland Return Route (4 to 5 days): Gjirokastër - Berat - Tirana

Highlights:

• UNESCO World Heritage old towns
• Vineyards around Berat
• Ottoman architecture
• Local cuisine

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Vacation in Albania: What to Know About the Roads

As in most European countries, driving in Albania is on the right. Observe the speed limits: in towns, you can drive at a maximum of 40 km/h, outside towns up to 90 km/h, and on the few highways up to 130 km/h. Unlike many other countries, Albania enforces a strict 0.0 per mille alcohol limit for drivers. It is mandatory to drive with headlights on during the day and you must have at least one safety vest in the car. Wear it in case of a breakdown or accident.

Driving on Albanian roads requires special attention and a defensive driving style. Expect other road users to make risky overtaking maneuvers or park in double rows. The quality of the roads varies greatly: while main roads are generally well-maintained, secondary roads often have potholes and uneven surfaces. In rural areas, you should expect unpaved roads and the presence of goats, sheep, or donkeys on the road. Near Albanian tourist attractions, traffic is often heavier.

Are you traveling with a motorhome or caravan during your vacation in Albania? We recommend a campsite by the sea. Since the camping infrastructure is still developing, waste disposal stations are rare. Consider this in your route planning and equip yourself accordingly. Wild camping is generally tolerated.

Packing List for a Vacation in Albania

With our tips for a vacation in Albania and the following packing list, you will be perfectly prepared for your stay in Albania: whether for a beach vacation, hiking vacation, city trip, or road trip..

Documents

• Identity card
• International driving permit, European Health Insurance Card, vehicle registration
• Vaccination card
• Travel insurance

Clothing for a Beach Vacation in Albania

• Swimwear
• Water shoes
• Light clothing

Clothing for Hiking in the Mountains

• Hiking boots
• Hiking socks
• Technical clothing
• Rain jacket
• Fleece sweater

Clothing for a City Trip

• Light, airy clothing
• Shoulder covering (for church visits)
• Comfortable shoes

Camping Equipment

• Tent (weather-resistant)
• Sleeping bag
• Sleeping mat
• Camping stove
• Dishes
• Headlamp
• Multitool
• Binoculars

Car Equipment

• Safety vest (mandatory)
• Warning triangle
• First aid kit
• Spare wheel
• Tool kit
• Tow rope
• Jumper cables
• Reserve canister

Electronics

• Power bank
• Adapter
• Charging cables
• Navigation system
• Camera

Health

• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit
• Travel pharmacy
• Disinfectant
• Wet wipes

Miscellaneous

• Travel guide
• Offline maps
• Albanian phrasebook

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Tips for a Successful Vacation in Albania

To make your vacation in Albania an unforgettable experience, you should follow these tips.

• Calculate travel time generously and plan enough time for spontaneous discoveries. Avoid too many stops during your stay, instead, enjoy each place thoroughly.
• Book your accommodation for the high season in advance. You will find cheap accommodations mainly on local websites. Our tip: don't just sleep in hotels, but also in traditional guesthouses for an authentic insight into Albanian culture.
• In cities, the mobile network is better than in rural areas. Note that Albania is not part of EU roaming. Buy a SIM card from a local provider to always have network and internet access.
• Don't rely solely on your GPS. Follow local signage. Also, download offline maps or take road maps with you, as the mobile network does not work everywhere.
• Take enough cash with you. Debit cards are not accepted everywhere. Change money on-site at an ATM. In Albania, you pay with Albanian Lek. The euro is often accepted, especially in the south, near the Greek border.
  Learn a few words of Albanian and take a small dictionary with you. In rural areas, few Albanians speak English.
• When planning your route, consider the location of gas stations in Albania and plan for toll fees.
• In restaurants, it is common to give a 10% tip if the service is not already included in the bill. In cafes and bars, rounding up the bill may be enough.

Europ Assistance: Your Travel Insurance for Your Vacation in Albania

Whether you are traveling through Albania by car, having a relaxing beach vacation, or hiking in the Albanian Alps, travel insurance is important to be covered in case of unforeseen events. 

With travel insurance from Europ Assistance, you are fully protected against unexpected costs. You always have the choice between annual protection and single-trip protection. Discover all our travel insurance options by clicking here.
 

Well Prepared for Your Vacation in Albania

Albania offers a combination of authentic experiences, breathtaking nature, and cultural highlights – at really affordable prices. With good preparation, your vacation in Albania will be a special experience and you will also avoid mass tourism. 

With suitable travel insurance, you can start your vacation with peace of mind. One thing is certain: this Balkan destination is a true hidden gem and will charm you with its hospitality, hidden treasures, and authenticity.

>> Calculate for free your insurance premium for your next trip <<

Copyright image article : @GettyImages Marius Roman