If you’re not sure what to do in Albania, don’t worry. I’ve put together a list of the top 10 things to do in Albania that’ll help you make the most of your trip.
1. Explore Ksamil, Saranda and the Blue Eye
You can easily spend a full day enjoying this southern trio.
Relax in Ksamil
Ksamil is like a dream. The beaches have soft white stones, and the sea is bright blue and super clear. There are tiny islands close by that you can swim or kayak to. It’s peaceful and perfect for sunbathing or a fresh seafood lunch.
Stroll Around Saranda
Just up the road, Saranda is a lively city by the sea. It’s full of shops, restaurants and a busy promenade. Head up to Lekursi Castle for amazing views over the city, especially at sunset.
Visit the Blue Eye (Syri i Kalter)
The Blue Eye is a natural spring that looks like a giant, glowing blue eye. The water is super clear and cold, and it bubbles up from deep underground. You can walk around it and enjoy the view—it’s a magical spot.
Insider’s info: When in Ksamil I would suggest you take the” Albanian riviera Jeep Safary” to really explore the jewels of the Albanian riviera. Every day the Safary starts in Saranda.
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2. Discover Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat is a city full of history, with beautiful white houses stacked on a hill and loads of charm.
Walk Through History
The old parts of town Mangalem and Gorica are split by a river and joined by a stone bridge. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit Berat Castle on the hill, and see churches, mosques, and a small museum inside the castle.
Unique Houses
Berat’s houses have lots of big windows, which is why it’s called the “City of a Thousand Windows.” The buildings all seem to look out over the city and hills. It’s a peaceful and beautiful place to explore.
Insider’s info: When visiting Berat a great idea would be to visit Roshnik, a charming village, where you can take a wine tour and enjoy an Albanian meal that has made international headlines in most of the travel magazines in 2025!
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3. Hike to Bovilla Lake
If you like nature and hiking, Bovilla Lake is a great choice. It’s not far from Tirana and is surrounded by cliffs and green hills.
The Journey is Worth It
Getting there takes a bit of a drive, but the views along the way are lovely. Once you arrive, you’ll see calm, green water and high cliffs all around.
A Short Hike with Big Views
There’s a path that leads up to a viewpoint where you can see the whole lake. It’s not a hard walk, but the view at the top is amazing. Bring your camera! Insider’s info: Bovilla lake is actually the fresh water reservoir that supplies Tirana, the capital, so swimming in allowed BUT if you ask your guide he should be able to take you to really nice nearby river
4. Try Raki Tasting in Tirana
If you want to taste something truly Albanian, try raki. It’s a strong drink made from grapes or fruit, and it’s part of local life.
More Than a Drink
Raki is offered when you visit someone’s home, at celebrations, or just when friends meet. It’s got a kick, but it’s a big part of Albanian culture.
Tasting Experience
In Tirana, you can join a raki tasting where you’ll try different kinds some plain, others aged or flavoured. You’ll also get snacks like cheese, olives, or byrek (a savoury pastry). It’s a fun and tasty way to learn about local traditions.
Insider’s info: It is actually a selection of 7 varieties out of 100 something different flavors, my personal favorite is called “roasted raki”. It has a golden color and a sweet unique flavor, weirdly it goes really well with sour food.
5. Eat Your Way Through Shkoder
Love trying new food? Then Shkoder is a must. The city’s food is full of flavour and inspired by many cultures.
Local Tastes
Being near a big lake and mountains means you’ll find a mix of fish, meat, and fresh veggies. Most of the food is made with local ingredients.
Dishes You’ll Love
Try Tavë Krapi (baked carp with onions and herbs) or Çorba Shkodrane (a hearty soup with meat and rice). For a sweet finish, try a local dessert. Eating your way through Shkoder is one of the tastiest things to do in Albania. Insider’s info: You can book an experience called taste food Shkoder and actually this is an experience organized by Alma in her guesthouse. She is a famous nice lady in Shkodra for her meals and everyone was telling her she needs to open a restaurant. Well she decided to open a guest house BUT her passion for cooking could not be neglected so she actually now make the best tasting possible in her garden. She serves 23 different meals that I LOOOOOVEEEEED the first time I tried them and every guest that she had has been amazed by her goodies!
6. Walk the Streets of Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra is another old town, and it feels like stepping into a storybook.
Stone City
This town is full of grey stone houses, narrow alleys, and sloped roofs. Visit the big castle at the top and the Cold War museum in a real bunker!
Feel the Culture
It’s a quiet place with loads of character. If you’re lucky, you might be there during the National Folklore Festival with music, dancing, and colorful outfits.
Insider’s info: In the Bazaar I would suggest you visit the the “coffee makers”. What are the coffee makers? Well it is an experience where you join a group of locals and learn how to make traditional Albanian coffee and while making and enjoying the coffee you hear and participate in local gossip. Yea Albanians love to gossip.
7. Drive the Llogara Pass and Chill in Himara
Head to the southern coast for pretty views and quiet beaches.
Breathtaking Drive
The Llogara Pass is a mountain road with sweeping views of the sea. There are spots to stop and take pictures or grab a coffee.
Himara’s Peaceful Beaches
Himara is smaller and quieter than other beach towns. The beaches are clean, and the town is super laid-back. A great place to relax without crowds.
Insider’s info: Just before going in Himara there is another lesser known beach called Livadhi. It has the cleanest waters and it’s a must spot for beach lover.
8. See the Caves in Pogradec
By Lake Ohrid, you’ll find Pogradec and its interesting caves.
Secret Spots
St Mary’s Cave is the most famous and has cool rock formations. You’ll need to hike a bit to reach it, but it’s a peaceful place to visit.
Insider’s info: Around 1 hour drive from Pogradec you will find the St Mary’s monastery. In the caves nearby the monastery you will find some glowing white rocks. These rocks are believed to bring good luck and clean your energy. I have taken 2 small white rocks and I keep one in my house and one in my car. Not a big believer of these things but actually they look really nice and they glow all the time, so who knows, the legends might be true!
9. Camp in Theth National Park
In the north, Theth is perfect for anyone who loves nature and fresh air.
Into the Wild
You’ll find mountains, rivers, waterfalls and small farms. The air is fresh, and the views are unforgettable.
Sleep Under the Stars
Stay in a small guesthouse or camp under the stars. You can hike to the Blue Eye of Theth or Grunas Waterfall. It’s a proper break from city life and one of the best things to do in Albania.
Insider’s info: When you are in Theth other than visiting the church and of course the awesome hike trails and waters I would also suggest you visit the “Kulla e ngujimit” it would translate to something like “ The house of the hider”. Vendetta and the tradition of equal revenge was something usual amongst all people and the law in this place used to state clearly that you have the right to kill any man within a family that you have a Vendetta with. So this house was established as a safe place for people who were in a Vendetta, since for as long as you stayed here the other families did not have the right to kill you and also you could ask for peace. You will hear interesting stories of how the people in North Albania used to live and the dark side of the law of Dukagjin.
10. Hang Out in Tirana’s Blloku District
Back in the capital, Blloku is where the cool crowd goes.
Trendy and Fun
It used to be a closed-off area during Communist times, but now it’s full of life. Think cafés, cocktail bars, street art, and music.
Perfect for People Watching
It’s the best spot to sip coffee during the day or enjoy a drink at night. You’ll see Tirana’s younger side here.
Insider’s info: If you are looking for a more exclusive place you should also visit the “ Rrugica e Sales”.
Final Thoughts
Albania is full of surprises. Whether you want beaches, mountains, great food or history, it’s all here—and often without the crowds. These top 10 things to do in Albania are just the start. It’s a country that’s easy to fall in love with. So why not go see for yourself?