8 Reasons Why Everyone Should Visit The Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera, a stretch of land from the Llogara Pass to Ksamil, is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. With its pristine beaches, ancient hamlets, and gorgeous vistas, this region of Albania is a must-see destination along the Balkan trail. Here’s our list of reasons why everyone should visit the southern coast of the Land of the Eagles.

Breathtaking panoramas

Albania’s coastline, with rugged mountains, traditional hamlets, golden beaches, and crystalline waters, offers visitors views that seem only possible in dreams. The best way to admire these fabulous views is to reach the hilltop villages by sunset. One of the best panoramas you’ll see in the Riviera is from Kisha e Manastirit të Shën Mërisë, a lovely small Orthodox church located on the top of Dhërmi, which is quite possibly the nicest village on the Riviera. Don’t forget to bring your camera with you!

Pristine beaches

Excellent food

Another great reason to spend your holidays at the Albanian Riviera is the food; Albanian food is full of flavor and is extremely versatile. At the restaurants on the southern coast of the country, you will find tasty fish and seafood menus, as well as vegetarian dishes and typical Albanian gastronomy, such as tavë kosi (lamb cooked with yogurt sauce) and other traditional delicacies. The best part is, it will cost you only a few euros.

Lovely hamlets

The coastal hamlets of the Albanian Riviera may not be as famous as some Italian villages or Greek towns, but they certainly have their charm. From the mountain pass of Llogara to the enchanting beach of Ksamil, (the last destination on the Riviera), you’ll find plenty of hamlets to explore, such as Dhërmi, Vuno and Qeparo. Walk along cobblestone streets, smell the blooming bougainvillea, visit small Orthodox churches, and take photos of the colorful and decorative doors that adorn homes and buildings.

Funny festivals

If you are planning to visit this area of Europe, you need to know that every year in spring and summer there are several big outdoor events like the South Outdoor Festival, an event held in Vuno every April, and Kala Festival, a music festival that takes place in Dhërmi at the end of June. Remember that the city of Saranda, the main town of the south of Albania, is a vibrant summer destination with many cafés and clubs too. You won’t be lacking in things to do.

Hidden bays

Despite locals and travelers frequenting the more famous beaches of the area, like Dhërmi Beach, Borsh Beach, and Ksamil, the Albanian Riviera has plenty of hidden bays that are just as pleasant. Since they are hidden, they are not crowded, not even in the peak of the season. Don’t miss the chance to relax at Drymades, Gjipë, or Jalë, three of the most beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean Sea.

Luxury hotels for good prices

Albania offers the chance to have a beautiful holiday without breaking the bank. Compared to other neighboring countries, here you can spend your nights in great hotels without spending a fortune. The area has excellent accommodations to choose from, such as Hotel Orange in Dhërmi, a beautiful hotel that is only a few steps from the enchanting Drymades beach, or Blue Days Hotel in Borsh, located in front of Borsh Beach, Albania’s largest beach.

Ancient History

Despite the gorgeous beaches and vibrant nightlife, this area of Albania has a very ancient and fascinating history. Throughout all the Riviera, you will find plenty of old Orthodox churches, monasteries, and ancient castle ruins, such as the Ali Pasha castle, hidden in forests. Behind the beach of Ksamil, there is the largest and most important archaeological site of Albania, the archaeological park of Butrint. The park is a not-to-miss destination for those who are interested to learn more about the history of this beautiful country.

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.