Republic of Albania

Explore Albania

A country briefing: geography, heritage, cities, and the practical facts professionals need.

Albania is a small country in Southeastern Europe, located on the Balkan Peninsula. It has a beautiful coastline along both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas and shares borders with Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. Its capital and largest city, Tirana, is the country’s political, economic, and cultural center. Albania is known for its rich history, dramatic mountain landscapes, Mediterranean beaches, and well-preserved historic towns. Three of its most important cultural destinations—Berat, Gjirokastër, and the ancient archaeological site of Butrint—are recognized as UNESCO World

TiranaCapital
3UNESCO sites
Two seasAdriatic & Ionian
AlbanianOfficial language
Places Country briefing
Capital

Tirana

Tirana is Albania’s lively capital and the country’s main centre for culture, dining, nightlife, business, and contemporary city life. The city blends colourful architecture, wide boulevards, cafés, museums, markets, and green spaces, with Skanderbeg Square at its heart. Visitors can explore landmarks such as Bunk’Art, the Pyramid of Tirana, the New Bazaar, and the Blloku district, once reserved for the country’s political elite and now one of the city’s most vibrant areas. Surrounded by hills and with Mount Dajti rising just outside the city, Tirana is both a destination in its own right and an excellent starting point for discovering the rest of Albania.

Central Albania

Berat

A UNESCO World Heritage destination, Berat is one of Albania’s most beautiful and historic cities. Famous as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” its white traditional houses climb the hillsides above the Osum River, creating one of the country’s most recognizable views. High above the city stands Berat Castle, overlooking the old neighbourhoods, river and surrounding mountains. Wandering through Berat means discovering stone streets, centuries-old architecture, charming cafés and spectacular viewpoints. With its unique blend of history, architecture and natural scenery, Berat is an essential stop for anyone exploring Albania.

Ionian coast

Albanian Riviera

Stretching along Albania’s spectacular Ionian shoreline, the Albanian Riviera is home to some of the country’s most beautiful coastal destinations, including Saranda, Ksamil, Himara, and Dhërmi. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, hidden coves, and lively seaside towns, this part of Albania is especially popular during the summer months. From the beaches of Ksamil and the vibrant waterfront of Saranda to the relaxed atmosphere of Himara and the scenic bays around Dhërmi, the Riviera offers a mix of beach holidays, road trips, nightlife, local cuisine, and Mediterranean landscapes.

North

Shkodra

Shkodra is one of Albania’s oldest cities and the cultural gateway to the north, set between Lake Shkodra, the Albanian Alps, and the Adriatic lowlands. The city is known for its relaxed atmosphere, lively pedestrian streets, historic churches and mosques, and the impressive Rozafa Castle, which rises above the surrounding rivers and offers panoramic views across the region. With easy access to Theth, the Albanian Alps, Lake Shkodra, and nearby villages, Shkodra is an ideal base for travellers looking to combine history, nature, and northern Albanian culture.

Cities

Durres

Durrës is one of Albania’s oldest cities and one of the country’s most popular seaside destinations, combining Adriatic beaches, ancient history, and a lively waterfront. The city is home to important landmarks such as the Roman Amphitheatre, Byzantine walls, and archaeological remains that reflect more than two thousand years of history. Along the coast, visitors will find long sandy beaches, restaurants, cafés, and a vibrant promenade. Located close to Tirana and the international airport, Durrës is an easy destination for travellers looking to combine history, the sea, and relaxed coastal life.

South

Gjirokastra

Known as the “Stone City,” Gjirokastra is one of southern Albania’s most distinctive historic destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built along the slopes above the Drino Valley, the city is famous for its stone-roofed Ottoman houses, steep cobbled streets, traditional bazaar, and impressive hilltop castle overlooking the surrounding landscape. Gjirokastra combines history, architecture, local culture, and dramatic mountain scenery, making it one of the most memorable stops in southern Albania.

South

Butrint

Hidden among wetlands and Mediterranean greenery near Saranda, Butrint is one of Albania’s most important archaeological treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ancient city preserves layers of history stretching across Greek, Roman, early Christian, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Visitors can explore the remarkably preserved theatre, baptistery, basilica, ancient city walls, and fortifications while walking through a landscape surrounded by Lake Butrint and the Vivari Channel. Combining archaeology, nature, and more than two thousand years of history, Butrint is an essential cultural stop on any journey through southern Albania.

North

Albanian Alps

The Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, are among the country’s most spectacular natural landscapes, with dramatic limestone peaks, deep valleys, clear rivers, and traditional mountain villages. Theth and Valbona are the best-known destinations in the region, offering some of Albania’s most memorable hiking trails, waterfalls, mountain scenery, and guesthouse experiences. The area is especially popular with travellers looking for outdoor adventure and a quieter side of the country. With its combination of wild nature, alpine villages, hiking, and traditional northern hospitality, the Albanian Alps are one of Albania’s essential destinations for nature lovers and adventure travellers.

Near Tirana

Kruja

Set on the slopes of Mount Kruja, Kruja is one of Albania’s most important historic towns and is closely associated with the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg. The hilltop Kruja Castle overlooks the surrounding plains and houses museums dedicated to the city’s history and traditions. Below the castle, the Old Bazaar leads visitors through a cobbled street lined with traditional wooden shops selling handmade crafts, carpets, jewellery, antiques, and souvenirs. With its combination of history, mountain views, traditional architecture, and local craftsmanship, Kruja makes an excellent cultural stop and an easy day trip from Tirana.

Country briefing

Language

Albanian is the official language. English is widely spoken in Tirana, tourist areas, hotels, and among younger people, making communication easy for most visitors. Italian is also commonly understood.

Currency

Albania uses the Albanian lek (ALL). Cards are widely accepted in Tirana and major tourist areas, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. It’s still useful to carry some cash for local markets, taxis, small cafés, and rural areas.

Capital

Tirana is Albania’s vibrant capital and main centre for culture, business, dining, and nightlife. Home to the country’s international airport and major institutions, it is the main gateway for visitors and an ideal starting point for exploring Albania.

Transport

Getting around Albania is easy by taxi, bus, or rental car. Tirana is the country’s main transport hub, with regular connections to coastal cities and the north. Renting a car is a popular choice for travellers who want more freedom to explore beaches, mountain villages, and scenic routes**.

Climate

Albania enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot, sunny summers along the coast and mild winters. Mountain areas are cooler and can receive heavy snow in winter. Spring and autumn are ideal for sightseeing and hiking, while summer is perfect for the beaches.