Albania Travel Information

Albania is a hidden gem in the Balkans that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From stunning coastlines and rugged mountains to charming towns and vibrant cities, Albania has something for every kind of traveler. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing holiday, Albania has plenty to offer. In this article, we will outline the top 10 things to do in Albania that are a must-see for anyone planning a trip to this beautiful country.

1. Explore the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is a stunning coastline that stretches from Vlora to Saranda. It's home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, including Dhërmi, Jale, and Ksamil. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as exploring the picturesque villages and coastal towns along the way.

2. Visit the historic city of Berat

Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture, including a castle and many mosques and churches. Visitors can take a guided tour of the city, explore the castle, and learn about the rich history of the area.

3. Discover the ancient ruins of Butrint

Butrint is an ancient city located in the south of Albania that dates back to the 7th century BC. Visitors can explore the ruins of the city, including the impressive amphitheater and Roman baths, and learn about the rich history of the area.

4. Hike through the Valbona Valley National Park

Valbona Valley National Park is a stunning mountain range that offers some of the best hiking in Albania. Visitors can hike through the park's beautiful trails, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Albanian Alps, and explore the traditional villages that dot the landscape.

5. Relax on the beaches of Saranda

Saranda is a coastal town located in the south of Albania that's known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can relax on the beach, enjoy the local seafood, and explore the nearby archaeological sites.

6. Experience the vibrant nightlife of Tirana

Tirana is the capital city of Albania and offers a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy the many bars and nightclubs in the city, as well as explore the historic landmarks and museums during the day.

7. Visit the stunning Blue Eye natural spring

The Blue Eye is a natural spring located in the south of Albania that's known for its stunning blue color and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can take a dip in the spring, enjoy a picnic in the surrounding area, and explore the nearby hiking trails.

8. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gjirokastra

Gjirokastra is a historic city located in the south of Albania that's known for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and cobbled streets. Visitors can explore the castle, visit the many museums and galleries, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of the area.

9. Explore the Ottoman-era city of Shkoder

Shkoder is a city located in the north of Albania that's known for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture, including the castle and many mosques and churches. Visitors can take a guided tour of the city, explore the many museums and galleries, and enjoy the local cuisine.

10. Sample traditional Albanian cuisine

Albanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Albania has a diverse climate, with Mediterranean and continental influences that vary by region. The best time to visit Albania depends on your interests and the activities you want to do. In general, the summer months are the most popular for tourism, but spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Climate

• Albania has a Mediterranean climate on the coast, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.
• Inland, the climate is more continental, with cold winters and hot summers.
• The mountainous regions can experience heavy snowfall in the winter and cool temperatures in the summer.
• The average temperature in the summer is around 27°C (81°F), while the winter average is around 7°C (45°F).

Best time to visit

• The summer months (June to August) are the most popular for tourism, with warm temperatures and sunny weather.
• The shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Winter (December to February) can be cold and wet, but it's a good time for winter sports in the mountains.
• The peak tourist season is from mid-July to mid-August, so if you prefer to avoid the crowds, it's best to visit outside of these months.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

There are numerous hotels throughout Albania, ranging from budget to luxury. They can be found in major cities, beach resorts, and mountain regions.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are small, family-run establishments that offer a more intimate and personalized experience. They are often found in rural areas and small towns.

Hostels

Hostels are a budget-friendly option for travelers, especially for solo or group backpackers. They offer shared dormitories and communal spaces for socializing and meeting other travelers.

Apartments

Apartments are a good choice for those who prefer more space and privacy, especially for families or groups. They can be found in major cities, beach resorts, and mountain regions.

Campsites

Albania offers many campsites in scenic locations, such as near lakes, rivers, and mountains. Camping is a great option for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Homestays

Homestays provide a unique opportunity to experience Albanian culture by staying with a local family. They offer a more immersive and authentic experience.

Villas

Villas are a luxurious option for those who want more privacy and space. They can be found in exclusive locations, such as beachfront or mountain top properties.

Buses

Buses are the most common mode of transportation in Albania, with many local and regional bus companies operating throughout the country. They are a cheap and efficient way to travel between cities, towns, and villages.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Albania, and they are a convenient option for getting around in cities or between nearby locations. However, it's important to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Car Rentals

Car rentals are available in major cities, airports, and tourist destinations. Having a car provides the flexibility to explore the country at your own pace, especially in remote areas. However, driving in Albania can be challenging due to narrow roads and steep mountain passes.

Trains

Albania has a limited railway network, with only a few routes connecting major cities. Train travel is slower and less frequent than buses, but it can be a more comfortable and scenic option for longer distances.

Ferries

Ferries operate between several ports in Albania and neighboring countries, such as Italy and Greece. They are a great option for island hopping or traveling along the coastline.

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights connect Tirana, the capital city, with other major cities in Albania. They are faster than buses or trains, but they are also more expensive.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.