Albania is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do. From incredible mountain ranges and beautiful beaches to ancient ruins and trendy cities, this little country is sure to impress. And the best part is that travelling to Albania suits every budget, making it perfect for both backpacking trips and those seeking a bit of luxury.
Here are our top 5 things to do in Albania that will make your trip unforgettable. Plus, read to the end to find a special little bonus tip!
Visit the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter)
The Blue Eye is one of Albania’s most beautiful natural wonders. You’ve probably seen photos of the bright blues and greens swirling just under the surface - and we can confirm that it really is just as beautiful in real life. The Blue Eye is a deep spring that pushes ice-cold water out from a cave hundreds of metres underground.
This natural phenomenon is a lovely place to spend a sunny day, with plenty of seating and shaded areas for you to stretch out and relax. You aren’t able to swim at the Blue Eye; however, there are wooden platforms scattered around for you to take photos and dip your feet in (be prepared for it to be very cold)!
How to get to the Blue Eye
The Blue Eye is about a 25-minute drive out of Sarandë, and you can grab a local taxi that will wait for you while you’re there.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump on a public bus, but be prepared for a 40-minute walk at the end, as the bus will only take you as far as Kroi i Bardhe.
Or, you can save yourself the hassle and join our Corfu and Albania Explorer tour, where our local guide will take you there and back and point out all the hidden gems along the way!
Explore the Butrint Archaeological Park
If you’re interested in ancient history, then you have to check out the Archaeological Park in Butrint. It’s been home to Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Venetians and has a history spanning over 3,000 years. You can truly feel the influence of all these cultures - it’s like stepping into a time machine!
Today, the park has been well preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s often uncrowded and offers an easy loop trail surrounded by wetlands, thick forest and plenty of wildlife. Whilst you’re walking around, make sure you visit the Acropolis at the top of the hill for sweeping views over the wetlands.
Our top tip for Butrint
The site is large and you don’t want to miss anything, so it’s worth picking up a map at the entrance or joining a guided tour. They’ll point out details you can’t see with the untrained eye, like the mosaic baptistery or the ancient city walls hidden beneath the trees. Set aside at least two hours - there’s a lot more to see here than you might expect.
Check out the beaches of Himarë
If you’re looking for a laid-back beach town to hang out at, then Himarë should definitely be on your list. We love this spot because it feels so much more raw and authentic than some of the beaches further south.
The town itself is stretched out along a calm bay, offering plenty of dining and shopping options. We suggest heading to Livadhi Beach to go swimming or Jale Beach if you’re looking for beach bars with a bit more energy.
Looking for more of an adventure?
The best beaches come when you step into your hiking shoes and head off onto the trails. The trail through Gjipe Canyon takes you through stunning valleys and hill-top ancient ruins along the way, with Gjipe Beach waiting to reward you at the end. This iconic hike is included on our Corfu & Albania Explorer, so you can experience this full journey without any planning stress.
Learn the history at Bunk’Art in Tirana
Tirana is the capital of Albania and is quickly becoming a hotspot for young and creative energy. It’s a great place to start or end your trip (the airport has direct flights to most major European cities), and it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up on your modern history.
One of the most impactful spots to really understand Albania’s past is Bunk’Art 1, a massive bunker from the Cold War that is now a museum on the outskirts of the city. It’s surreal to walk through the corridors knowing they were once built to shelter government officials during the communist dictatorship. Today, the space has been transformed into an immersive museum filled with exhibitions on surveillance, the secret police, propaganda, and the everyday realities of life under Hoxha’s regime.
If you’re short on time, there’s also Bunk’Art 2 in the city centre. It’s smaller but still packed with fascinating information and offers a quicker, more accessible look into Albania’s modern history.
A bonus tip to make the most of Tirana
Whilst you’re in Tirana, head to the nearby Blloku District to explore another example of Albania’s past being transformed. What was once an area restricted only to the communist elite is now the place to be with trendy cafes, bars, restaurants and street art.
Explore Theth National Park
If you’re craving that feeling of mountain air, then you definitely want to head up to Theth National Park. Tucked deep into the Alps in Northern Albania, this is a stunning region full of snow-capped mountains, quiet valleys and the purest rivers. The park is protected, so you’ll pass by all sorts of incredible wildlife and raw landscapes.
The village of Theth sits right in the heart of the National Park and is our recommended base for hikers. It’s small and traditional, but you’ll find everything you need in terms of guest houses and delicious home-cooked meals. If you’re planning a big hike, head to Shkodër first and stock up on all the gear and supplies you might need (and check out that incredible lake). If this is high on your bucket list, then be sure to look into the best time to visit Albania, as the weather can really affect the experience up here.
The best trails in Theth National Park
The most well-known hike in this area is definitely the Valbonë to Theth day trek. It will have you crossing high mountain passes with breathtaking views, and you’ll be able to experience a bit of local life in the villages. For an easier trail, head to Grunas Waterfall, which will take you down a gentle route through valleys and steep cliffs.
Take the ferry to Corfu (Bonus Tip!)
If you’re already exploring Southern Albania, hopping over to Corfu is one of the easiest add-ons you can make to your trip. The ferry departs from Sarandë and can be as quick as 35 minutes if you opt for a fast ferry. Spend your day exploring the Kerkyra Old Town, eating incredible Greek food and wandering around the colourful streets. There are plenty of places to stay if you want to turn it into an overnight trip - just be sure to check the visa requirements, as Corfu is part of Greece.
Albania is one of those beautiful countries that surprises you at every turn. It has ancient cities tucked into mountains, beaches that are straight out of a postcard and villages that give you a taste of home-style hospitality. If you want to experience the beauty of Albania without the hassle, our Corfu & Albania Explorer provides a seamless itinerary that will reward you with hiking, culture and food, all experienced with a local guide and like-minded travellers.