Great Trips To Take In Albania

Albania offers visitors the chance to take some great trips throughout the country. Whether you like inland destinations or relaxing at the beach, Albania, despite its small size, has it all. Read our seven great trips to take in the Land of the Eagles.

From Berat to Skrapar

Head to the fortress of ancient Berat for dazzling vistas. Once you’re here you will understand why it is named a UNESCO World Heritage site. Berat has an impressive Ottoman-era center with lovely white houses with small windows and many mosques and churches. Berat is the symbol of Albanian religious tolerance, which is one of the reasons why it was included on UNESCO’s list. If you love adventure then from there we strongly suggest you to head to Skrapar, a village two hours from Berat. Reach the gorgeous Osumi Canyon and indulge in some river rafting with the help of Albania Rafting Group.

From Saranda to Syri I Kalter

Saranda is the main coastal town on the Albanian Riviera and is a must-see destination for every traveler. Despite the fact that the town is crowded in the summer months, it offers various activities thanks to the gorgeous beaches that surround it. But just 30 minutes away from Saranda lies one of the most magical places in the country, Syri I Kalter, or Blue Eye. This natural spring, a geological phenomenon with dazzling blue, cold waters, which resembles a pupil and its iris, is one of the best places to visit in Albania.

From Durrës to Kepi I Rodonit

If you love archaeology and history, you need to spend some of your time in Durrës, one of the oldest towns on the Adriatic Coast. Most of the main archaeological landmarks of Albania are located here, and the majority are situated behind the port. One hour away by car from Durrës you can reach the stunning Kepi I Rodonit, a rocky cape on the Adriatic Sea built by Skanderbeg in 1463, the Albanian greatest national hero, which offers terrific views over the sea.

From Tirana to Kruja

Tirana is one of the coolest and liveliest capital cities of the Balkan Peninsula and totally worth a look. But sometimes it can be very crowded and noisy, so if you are looking for peace and quiet take the bus and head for Kruja. This lovely hamlet surrounded by mountains and nature is just one hour from the capital city and is the perfect place to escape Tirana’s crowds.

From Shkodra to Theth

Shkodra is one of the most important cities in Albania and the gate to the north of the country. It is home to Albania’s largest castle – Rozafa Castle – that sits on the edge of Lake Shkodër and offers breathtaking views over the town and lake. Shkodra is the perfect base to explore the north of Albania. Plus, if you have time, we strongly suggest you visit Theth; a mountain village nestled in the Albanian Alps, and one of the most enchanting destinations in the country.

From Vlora to Dhërmi

Vlora is the third largest town in Albania and also the base point to visit the south of the country. After spending some of your time strolling through its city center and recently renewed lungomare, head to the Riviera. After the Llogara Pass you will find the gorgeous coastal hamlet of Dhërmi, one of Albania’s most magical places. The road that connects Vlora to Dhërmi is simply amazing.

From Gjirokastër to Përmet

Gjirokastër is one of the best preserved Ottoman cities in the Balkans and part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list. Gjirkoastër owes its preservation to the fact that it was the birthplaces of the former dictator Enver Hoxha who ordered that the city remained untouched during the regime. From Gjirokastër you can easily reach Përmet, the Albanian town known for its natural hot springs, and spend some of your time relaxing in the warm waters.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.