Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you looking for an Albania travel guide? Packed with things to do in Albania? Then you have come to the right place. When I told people I was going to Albania, the reactions were… mixed. Some asked, “Why would you go there?” and one person even said, “Don’t they kidnap people there?” I couldn’t believe it. And to be fair, I didn’t see many Albanian travel guides to get me ready for my trip, so I knew I would have to write one myself when I got back from my trip.
And after the ignorant comments, I had to go see it for myself so here is my 5 day Albania travel guide just for you.
I loved Albania and I can say that what I discovered was nothing like the negative assumptions I heard or came across. I was met with breaking views, I mean breathtaking views (get it… haha), crystal-clear turquoise waters, and some of the warmest, most genuine locals I’ve ever encountered in Europe. Albania is a hidden gem, and trust me, it deserves a spot on your travel list.
I booked my return flight to Albania via WizzAir for just £36.99! Yes, under £40! Total bargain! You’ll also find affordable routes with airlines like Ryanair, especially if you book early or fly mid-week. This post is for anyone who needs an Albania travel guide to make their trip absolutely perfect.
Also read: Nobus Hotel and Spa in Vlorë, Albania: Hotel Review
Albania Travel Guide
Albania is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Europe I’ve been to in a long time and there is a lot of things to do in Albania. The country is great for the curious traveller and culture lover. If you are a travel foodie like me, this destination is perfect.
Albania is often overlooked, but it has so much history, from the Ottoman-era towns and rugged mountain ranges to Mediterranean beaches that rival Greece. Albania has a rich history shaped by Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and, more recently, a long period of isolation under communist rule.
The country is quickly emerging as one of Europe’s most exciting destinations. The country has colourful cities like Tirana, peaceful coastal towns like Saranda and Ksamil, and infectious scenes in Volrë (my fave in Albania), I would advise going sooner rather than later.
The food is fresh and comforting, the landscapes are cinematic and best of all, Albania is incredibly affordable. The official currency is the Albanian Lek (ALL), and your money really stretches here. Just remember: cash is king – many places, especially outside major cities, don’t accept cards.
Albania Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for travellers to Albania are relatively easy for most nationalities. It is very easy for British Citizens as there is no visa required for UK and Canadian citizens for stays up to 90 days.
For Americans, you can visit for up to 1 year with no visa. As for Nigerians, a visa is required and must be arranged before travel via the Albanian embassy or consulate.
Before travelling, check the ‘Entry Requirements’ section for Albania on your country’s official foreign travel advice site for the most up-to-date restrictions and conditions. If needed, you can apply for your visa here.
Regardless of your nationality, your passport should be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. You can check the most up-to-date entry information on your government’s foreign travel advice site before your trip.
Getting Around Albania
There are a lot of things to do in Albania but the transport is quite limited. Public transport in Albania isn’t the most reliable, and ride-hailing apps like Uber or InDrive don’t really operate there. I recommend booking transfers in advance, whether that’s local drivers (which you can book here) or trusted transfer services (another option here). It’s always smart to compare and choose what works best for your schedule and budget.
If you’re comfortable driving abroad, renting a car is also a great option, especially for flexibility when exploring coastal towns like Saranda or Ksamil.
Accommodation
My favourite part of planning a trip is looking at hotels. I stayed in two stunning hotels during my trip, one in the capital, Tirana, and the other in the coastal city of Vlorë:
Of course, there are many more options depending on your style and budget. You can explore your own hotels and book from here.
Use the map below to explore nearby activities near the Nobus Hotel & Spa and book directly.
What To Eat in Albania
The Albanian food is fresh, hearty, and full of flavour. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Byrek – A Flaky pastry with cheese or meat, perfect for breakfast
- Tavë Kosi – Lamb baked with yoghurt and eggs
- Fresh seafood – Grilled octopus, shrimp, and calamari were so fresh, and the seabass is actually seasoned!
- Trilece – Sweet, milky dessert cake – light but indulgent
- Raki – Not for the faint-hearted, but very Albanian!
Bonus: Albania is a pistachio lover’s heaven. From baklava to ice cream, try everything.
Albania Travel Itinerary
There is so many things to do in Albania, but what I was able to do in the short time is below.
Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana
For you to really enjoy your Albania travel itinerary you will want to at least start your day with ease. I always start my itinerary with a slow day you can walk the streets of Tirana. Explore Skanderbeg Square, sip coffee at nearby cafés, and enjoy the city vibe.
Day 2 and 3 – Tirana to Sarandë and Ksamil
Today is an early start. You can start at around 5 am by booking a tour around Albania. This will include popular destinations like Sarandë and Ksamil here. You will go through the following destinations and more:
- Saranda
- Kamil Beach
- The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
- Tepelenë
There are, of course, other tours you can choose from, which you can book here also.
You can have lunch at Trident Restaurant. I ordered the seasoned seabass with grilled veg and chips/fries. You can also order the seafood pasta, which is also a delight.
Day 4 – Vlore Beach Day
Another early start to head out to Volrë, we booked a trusted taxi driver (I am happy to share details – send me a DM via Instagram). However, you do have options to book drivers here. I would always recommend shopping around to ensure you get the best deal.
You can book a boat tour to see the Blue Cave for the day. It’s an underrated gem with crystal waters and dramatic cliffs. I would recommend booking here.
For dinner, you can eat at the Nobus Hotel and Spa with a beautiful sunset. I would highly recommend the prawn pasta and trying Albanian water, it is glorious – super fresh and crisp.
Day 5 – Return to Tirana
Your last day in your Albania travel itinerary will solely depend on the time of your flight, you may decide to either travel back to Tirana the night before or head there in the morning from whatever city you are in. Visit local markets for last-minute snacks or souvenirs. You can book your transport service here.
If you have time, relax in the airport lounge one of my favourite things to do to start or end a trip. It offers local Albanian food and is a great way to end your trip. You can book lounge access here. Want a free Priority Pass? Apply for the credit card I used if you want to gain points and get the Priority Pass for free, I would suggest applying for the credit card here and earning points while you’re travelling.
Other Travel Resources & Albania Travel Tips
- My Instagram and TikTok have quick reels and specifics of my visit to Albania. I also share a visual Albania travel itinerary vlog.
- You can actually book a flight for less than £50 via WizzAir (be sure to check Skyscanner for flight comparisons), which is much cheaper.
- Always carry some cash, Albanians use Lek, your money will go far. They also take Euros, just be sure to have XE to know the daily exchange rates.
- Before going to any of these countries, I recommend visiting the Foreign Advice Page for U.K. travellers. Check if you need visas here.
- Book with Viator or Get Your Guide if you want specific tours for Albania. Please read the reviews before booking!
- I used Airlo, an e-SIM card, for data. You can purchase it here and use the code ADEBOL5279.
Final Views: Albania Travel Guide
Albania owes me absolutely nothing! I have already recommended it to my God sister, and friends have already told me that I should take them next time.
It was nothing like the assumptions people made; it’s peaceful and beautiful, and the people are incredibly kind. You have to explore for yourself to truly understand and uncover the hidden gems of Albania.
I especially loved seeing how Albania is quietly embracing sustainability with battery stations for electric cars dotted across cities. It was such a refreshing sight and shows that the country is looking forward, not just relying on tradition.
Would I go again? Absolutely.
Would I recommend it? 100%. I hope my Albania travel guide has helped you to think about going somewhere new.
What about you? Have I convinced you to travel to Albania? Let me know in the comments, and share this with a friend you would like to go with.
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Speak soon
MBV
Xx
