Top 5 Cities to visit in Albania
Albania is a hidden gem in the Balkans that offers an abundance of natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture to those who choose to travel there. Top 5 cities to visit in Albania include the capital city Tirana, the historic cities of Berat and Gjirokastra. The coastal town of Saranda, and the picturesque city of Shkodra. From the stunning beaches of the Albanian Riviera to the rugged mountain ranges of the Accursed Mountains, Albania has something for everyone.
Destinations / Albania
updated March 2023
Albanian cuisine is also a highlight, with dishes such as byrek, fërgesë, and tavë kosi showcasing the country’s Mediterranean and Balkan influences. With friendly locals and affordable prices, Albania is a must-visit destination for any adventurous traveler.
Tirana
Tirana is the capital of Albania and the largest city in the country. It is a vibrant and lively city with a mix of Ottoman, Italian, and communist-era architecture. Some of the popular attractions in Tirana include Skanderbeg Square, the National History Museum, the Ethem Bey Mosque, and the colorful Blloku neighborhood.
Budget per day: for example, basic budget is around $30-$40 per day. Otherwise it costs about $50-$100 or more per day.
Berat
Berat is known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” due to its unique architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Additionally, the city is surrounded by beautiful mountains and has a charming old town with cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and historic mosques and churches.
Budget per day: For budget travelers it is $25-$35 per day, otherwise $45-$80 or more per day.
Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture. The city is located in the south of Albania, It also has a beautiful castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Budget per day: For budget travellers it is around $20-$30 per day. Otherwise daily spending can be $40-$70 or more per day.
Saranda
Saranda is a coastal city located in the south of Albania, near the border with Greece. It is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lively nightlife. Some of the popular attractions in Saranda include the Butrint Archaeological Site, the Blue Eye natural spring, as well as the Lekuresi Castle.
Budget per day: Around $50-$100 or more per day. But Budget travellers can travel in $35-$45 per day
Shkoder
Shkoder is one of the oldest cities in Albania and is known for its rich cultural heritage. The city is located in the north of Albania and has a beautiful historic center with narrow streets, traditional houses, and historic landmarks such as the Rozafa Castle and the Shkoder Cathedral. The city is also a great base for exploring the nearby Albanian Alps and Lake Skadar National Park.
Budget per day: Budget travelers can expect to spend around $25-$35 per day, Otherwise around $40-$80 or more per day for mid range to luxary.
