Albania

Where every journey becomes a story

Discover Albania

Albania is one of the most surprising destinations I have visited. A mix of clean and modern cities, dramatic mountains, stunning coastlines, warm people, and fascinating history. I traveled with a friend, staying in Tirane and exploring the Albanian Riviera, the Blue Eye, and the mountain paradise of Theth. It was breathtaking from start to finish.

Stories From Albania

Tirane — A City of Renewal, History & Modern Charm

We stayed in Tirane, and instantly loved it. The city is clean, modern, and full of life. Our Airbnb overlooked the entire city — stunning views of colorful buildings and distant mountains. We were shocked to learn that Albania only began using cars widely about 30 years ago, which explains why the city feels so fresh and newly developed.

The History of Tirane

Tirane has transformed dramatically since the 1990s. Once isolated under communist rule, it is now full of life, color, and culture. The city blends Ottoman, Italian, and communist-era influences, yet feels young, vibrant, and welcoming. Cafés fill every corner, locals enjoy long walks through parks, and the city has a warm, artistic personality.

Landmarks of Tirane

• Skanderbeg Square — the heart of the city surrounded by museums and historic buildings.
• Bunk’Art Museum — an underground bunker turned into a modern museum about Albania’s communist era.
• Pazari i Ri — a colorful market full of produce, cafés, and local life.
• Tirane Castle — transformed into a charming walkway of restaurants and artisan shops.
• Pyramid of Tirane — once a communist monument, now a cultural landmark.

Sarande, Ksamil & The Blue Eye — Albania’s Coastal Paradise

Sarande

Sarande is a beautiful Riviera city along the Ionian Sea. Known for its palm-lined promenade, crystal blue waters, Mediterranean restaurants, and relaxing coastal energy. It felt like a sunny seaside escape filled with charm.

Ksamil

Ksamil is famous for having some of the clearest waters in Europe. White-sand beaches, turquoise sea, and tiny islands you can swim to. Many compare it to the Maldives. The peaceful vibe, beach clubs, and natural beauty made it unforgettable.

The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

The Blue Eye is one of Albania’s most magical natural springs — deep blue, ice-cold water surrounded by lush forests. The source is so deep divers haven’t reached the bottom. It felt like discovering a hidden gem in the middle of nature.

Theth — Albania’s Mountain Wonderland

After returning to Tirane, we rented a car and drove to Theth. The journey through winding mountain roads and quiet villages felt surreal. We stayed in a cozy cabin in Boge, surrounded by mountains, forests, cows, horses, and fresh air. It felt like an entirely different country — peaceful, pure, and full of natural beauty.

Exploring Theth

We took a scenic road trip deeper into Theth and went on a mini hike to a waterfall — refreshing, quiet, and absolutely stunning. Even getting lost made the experience more fun. We also visited the iconic Theth Church, a stone church in a breathtaking valley surrounded by mountains.

After exploring the mountains, we returned to Tirane and enjoyed the city even more — learning about its history, modern transformation, and the warm culture of the Albanian people.

Overview

Albania is a beautiful mix of mountains, beaches, cities, and untouched nature. From the lively capital of Tirane to the turquoise waters of Ksamil and the dramatic peaks of Theth, the country offers a surprising variety of landscapes and unforgettable experiences.

Top Highlights

• Tirane — vibrant, colorful, historic, modern.
• Sarande — beautiful coastal city by the Ionian Sea.
• Ksamil — white-sand beaches & turquoise water.
• Blue Eye — magical natural spring.
• Theth — stunning mountain landscapes.
• Boge — peaceful cabins deep in the mountains.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Albania is from May to September for beaches and from June to October for mountain adventures. Tirane is great all year round, with mild winters and warm summers.

Travel Requirements

• Visa: Many nationalities can enter visa-free.
• Passport: At least 6 months validity recommended.
• Vaccinations: None required (check latest updates).
• Travel Insurance: Recommended for adventure areas.

Things to Do in Albania

Explore Tirane

Museums, cafés, markets, history, and modern culture.

Visit Ksamil & Sarande

Turquoise beaches, islands, beach clubs, coastal walks.

See the Blue Eye

Crystal-clear spring hidden in lush nature.

Hike Theth

Mountains, waterfalls, peaceful cabins, scenic views.

Good to Know

• Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
• Language: Albanian
• Emergency Number: 112
• Transport: Buses, taxis, rental cars, shuttles

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