- Tirana – The capital city of Albania, Tirana is known for its colorful buildings, lively nightlife, and historical landmarks such as the Skanderbeg Square and the National Museum of History. Visitors can also take a walk along the Tirana River, visit the Et’hem Bey Mosque, or explore the trendy Blloku neighborhood. Getting there: Tirana can be reached by plane, bus or train. Cost: Many of the historical sites and museums are free to visit, but some require a small fee.
- Saranda – This coastal city is known for its beaches, crystal-clear waters, and ancient ruins such as the Butrint National Park and the Lekuresi Castle. Visitors can also take a boat tour to the nearby island of Corfu in Greece. Getting there: Saranda can be reached by bus or car from Tirana, or by plane. Cost: The entrance fee to Butrint National Park is around $5.
- Berat – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, including the Berat Castle and the Mangalem neighborhood. Visitors can also take a walk along the Osum River, visit the Onufri Iconographic Museum, or attend a traditional Albanian folk music concert. Getting there: Berat can be reached by bus or car from Tirana. Cost: Entrance to many of the historical sites is free, but some require a small fee.
- Shkoder – Known for its picturesque lakes, such as Lake Shkoder, and historic landmarks, such as the Rozafa Castle and the Marubi National Museum of Photography. Visitors can also take a walk along the Buna River, visit the Shkoder Ethnographic Museum, or attend a traditional Albanian folk music concert. Getting there: Shkoder can be reached by bus or car from Tirana. Cost: Entrance to many of the historical sites is free, but some require a small fee.
- Gjirokastra – This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture, including the Gjirokastra Castle and the Old Bazaar. Visitors can also take a walk along the Drin River, visit the Gjirokastra Folklore Museum, or attend a traditional Albanian folk music concert. Getting there: Gjirokastra can be reached by bus or car from Tirana. Cost: Entrance to many of the historical sites is free, but some require a small fee.
- Kruja – The birthplace of Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg, Kruja is known for its historic castle and the Skanderbeg Museum. Visitors can also take a walk along the Ishmi River, visit the Kruja Bazaar, or attend a traditional Albanian folk music concert. Getting there: Kruja can be reached by bus or car from Tirana. Cost: Entrance to many of the historical sites is free, but some require a small fee.
- Valbona – This valley is known for its natural landscapes, including the Valbona National Park and the Valbona River. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: Valbona can be reached by car or public transportation. Cost: Entrance to the park is around $5.
- Theth – This small mountain village is known for its natural landscapes, including the Theth National Park and the Theth River. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a guided tour of the area. Getting there: Theth can be reached by car or public transportation. Cost: Entrance to the park is around $5.
- Dhermi – This coastal village is known for its beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, take a boat tour of the Albanian Riviera, or explore the historic old town. Getting there: Dhermi can be reached by bus or car from Tirana, or by plane. Cost: Entrance to many of the historical sites is free, but some require a small fee.
- Ksamil – This coastal village is known for its beaches, crystal-clear waters, and the nearby Ksamil Islands. Visitors can relax on the sandy beach, take a boat tour of the Ksamil Islands, or explore the historic old town. Getting there: Ksamil can be reached by bus or car from Saranda. Cost: Entrance to many of the historical sites is free, but some require a small fee.
Precautions: Visitors should be aware of the current COVID-19 regulations in Albania, which may include wearing masks in enclosed public spaces and practicing social distancing. Visitors should also be aware of the Albania’s laws and regulations, it’s good to carry a map and water, wear appropriate clothing and footwear and respect the local culture and environment.