albania riviera travel

The Ultimate Travel Guide to the Albanian Riviera

Last Updated on April 29, 2024 by Sam

The Albanian Riviera is an amazing travel destination, home to gorgeous beaches, coastal towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and more! Situated in southern Albania , the riviera stretches from Dhermi to Sarande and is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. The beaches of the Albanian Riviera make it an enticing destination, especially considering they’re substantially less crowded than other European hotspots. We spent 3 weeks discovering several amazing places to visit along the riviera, including Sarande, Himare , Gjirokaster, the Blue Eye, and of course many beautiful beaches. Find out the best places to visit, where to stay and much more with this travel guide to the Albanian Riviera.

Table of Contents

How to get to the Albanian Riviera

The easiest way to get to the Albanian Riviera is to fly into the Greek island of Corfu and take the ferry over to Sarande/Saranda, Albania. During peak season there are normally over 10 boats a day running to Sarande, so you don’t have to stay overnight on Corfu itself if you don’t want to.

Prices during peak season start from €19 one-way on the slower ferry boat or from €24 one-way on the quicker boats. The slower ferries take around 70 minutes to get from Corfu to Sarande whereas the quicker boats make the journey in just 40 minutes.

Click here to find out more and book your ferry from Corfu to Sarande!

If you decide to make your way from Corfu to Sarande then be aware that the Greek Island is one hour ahead of Albania, so make your plans accordingly.

Unfortunately the Albanian Riviera has no international airport so the other main way to get to there is to fly into the capital Tirana and travel down the coast from there. Construction is due to start shortly for an international airport in Vlore and if plans go ahead it is due to open in March 2025.

One of the easiest ways to get from Tirana to the Albanian Riviera is by renting a car, and it takes around 3 hours to reach the start of the riviera in Dhermi. Click here to find great car rental deals on the Discover Cars website!

It’s also possible to get here via a bus, which means heading into Tirana’s bus terminal where buses generally go every 2 hours to Sarande and take around 5/6 hours for 1300 Lek.

Only a few airlines fly into Tirana airport, which means generally flying into Corfu is a better option. If you want to explore more of Albania though you may want to fly into Tirana before making your way down to the riviera.

Make sure to check out our guide to the best places to visit in Tirana if you plan on visiting Albania’s capital city!

Getting around the Albanian Riviera

To discover the full beauty of the Albanian Riviera it’s best to rent a car. Renting a car allows you to travel around more freely and visit places that aren’t as easily accessible by public transport.

Driving in Albania is perfectly safe and the roads are in good condition, so it’s easy enough to get around.

Public transport in the Albanian Riviera isn’t always the most reliable as buses don’t stick to a strict timetable. This means taking day trips to beaches and towns can be an issue if you don’t rent a car.

It ends up being a lot easier to get around if you rent a car, which is why we recommend renting one for the entirety of your trip. Thankfully, renting a car is relatively inexpensive in Albania, so it won’t end up costing too much either!

Click here to find the best car rental deals for your trip!

Best time to visit the Albanian Riviera

Summer is the best time to visit the Albanian Riviera, as the glorious sunshine and weather gives you the chance to make the most of the beautiful beaches. The weather is best during July and August as temperatures can exceed 30 degrees Celsius.

Unsurprisingly, with good weather comes crowds of tourists. The Albanian Riviera is increasingly popular with tourists, and so July and August is very much peak season in the area.

During peak season the beaches are at their busiest and accommodation prices are at their highest, but thankfully are still reasonable compared to other European destinations.

If you visit during the shoulder season months of June and September then the weather should still be good but the beaches won’t be as busy. Saying that, you can still get an influx of tourists at beaches during these months too, but it shouldn’t be as busy as July or August.

It’s best to avoid visiting the Albanian Riviera from October to March as the weather it isn’t as warm during the autumn and winter months. The area is a lot quieter during these months, but you can’t appreciate the beaches properly without good weather, and sunny days aren’t that likely.

April and May can be good times to visit as temperatures can reach up to around 25 degrees Celsius if you’re lucky. This makes it a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds as well as the warmest months of the year!

Crowds generally tend to congregate in popular destinations such as Ksamil, Sarande , and Dhermi . If you’re planning to explore outside of these spots then it means there’s likely to be fewer tourists around!

Best places to visit in the Albanian Riviera

The town of Sarande, also known as Saranda, is the main city in the Albanian Riviera. It’s a great base for exploring the area, and is also home to a number of public and private beaches.

One of the easiest ways to get to the Albanian Riviera is to travel from the nearby Greek Island of Corfu. If you’re coming from Corfu then Sarande is a perfect starting point for exploring the riviera.

The town’s location means it’s well placed near some of the best things to do in the Albanian Riviera. Find out more about what the town has to offer with our guide to the best beaches in Sarande!

 Ksamil

Situated approximately a 30-minute drive from Sarande, the small village of Ksamil is home to some of the best beaches in the Albanian Riviera and Albania as a whole which makes it a must visit on any itinerary in the area. There are several beaches in the village, but the pick of the bunch is Spiaggia Di Ksamil – a wonderful sandy beach with dazzling blue water.

As one of the country’s most beautiful beaches it can get quite busy. Thankfully there are a number of other beaches in Ksamil which tend to be less busy, the only downside is that they’re pebbly beaches.

There are also some other quieter beaches on the stretch of coast between Sarande and Ksamil. For example, Monastery Beach is a lovely spot to visit if you have your own car.

If you don’t have a car then it’s easy enough to get from Sarande to Ksamil by bus, which costs just 100 Lek. However you decide to get there though, don’t miss the chance to visit the amazing Spiaggia Di Ksamil beach!

The ‘Blue Eye’ is an incredible natural phenomenon in the form of a stunning blue water spring and a must visit when in the Albanian Riviera. With a pool in excess of 50 metres deep, it resembles an eye thanks to the deep blue water in the centre of the spring and the lovely turquoise water that surrounds it.

Swimming isn’t allowed in the eye itself, so it’s cordoned off to protect the wonderful nature. Many people ignore this though by going for a swim or jumping into the ‘Blue Eye’ from a viewing platform.

Fortunately you are allowed to go in to the more shallow bits of water, but swimming in the eye itself is off limits. The water is icy cold which is great hot summer days – just prepare yourself before going in!

Located around a 30-minute drive from Sarande, the Blue Eye is easy to get to if you’ve rented a car. It’s possible to park by the entrance, which is extremely convenient.

If you aren’t renting a car then take the inexpensive bus from Sarande to Gjirokaster and ask the drive to stop at the Blue Eye. Unfortunately the bus route doesn’t go directly past the entrance, so once you get off it’s around a 2-3 kilometre walk to the eye itself.

As of 2024 entrance to the Blue Eye costs just 50 Lek and 100 Lek for parking, which makes it great value even if you don’t visit for long!

Gjipe Beach

The stunning Gjipe Beach and is a must do for our travel guide to the Albanian Riviera. Located in the middle of Gjipe Canyon, it’s certainly one of the country’s most picturesque beaches thanks to the beautiful nature surrounding it.

It’s a pebbly beach, but the wonderfully blue, crystal clear water makes it an amazing spot to visit regardless.

Gjipe Beach used to be one of the best kept secrets in Europe, but has become more busy in recent years as more people take holidays in the Albanian Riviera. Nowadays the beach can get quite busy, but if you get there early hopefully you can avoid the crowds!

The beach is located around a 30-40 minute drive from the town of Himare. There is a car parking fee of 250 Lek, and it’s around a half-hour walk from the car park to Gjipe Beach itself.

If you haven’t rented a car then you can either take a bus or speedboat from Himare to Gjipe Beach.

Butrint National Park

The Albanian Riviera may be best known for its beaches, but it’s also home to some fascinating history most notably at Butrint National Park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to some incredible ancient ruins, as well as wetlands, freshwater lakes, marshes, open plains, islands and more!

Butrint is the largest archaeological park in Albania, with ruins from various civilisations including the Greeks, Romans and Byzantines. To learn more about the site’s history make sure to visit the Venetian Castle that is now home to an interesting museum.

There’s so much history to enjoy within the national park that you can easily spend half a day, or even a full day, exploring what it has to offer!

Butrint National Park is conveniently located around a 30-minute drive from Sarande, which is perfect if you decide to rent a car. Alternatively, you can take the bus there which should take around half an hour.

Buses drop you off directly by the entrance to the park, and to catch a bus back just return to the same spot. Although there are no official bus timetables in Albania, the buses run once an hour in each direction.

Entrance to Butrint National Park costs 1000 Lek as of 2024.

Himare is our favourite town in the Albanian Riveira, so we definitely recommend spending a few days enjoying what it has to offer. If destinations like Dhermi and Sarande are too busy for you, then Himare is the perfect place as it’s one of the quieter towns along the coast.

The beaches in and around Himare are amazing and blessed with dazzling blue sea that will make you want to dive straight in! There are 3 lovely beaches in the town itself – Spile Beach, Prinos Beach and Potami Beach – as well as several other beautiful beaches nearby, including Gjipe Beach, Livadhi Beach, Gjiri i Filikurit Beach and Jala Beach.

With lots of great beaches to choose from, Himare is a great base from which to explore the Albanian Riviera. To top if off, there are some wonderful restaurants in the area serving good quality food at reasonable prices!

Find out more about this lovely little town with our guide to the best things to do in Himare!

Gjirokaster

The Old Town of Gjirokaster, itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the best places to visit in the Albanian Riviera. This brilliantly preserved Ottoman Old Town makes for a refreshing change from the area’s beautiful beaches, and so it’s an ideal destination for any history lovers.

Situated in a valley between the Gjere mountains and the Drino river, the city is surrounded by beautiful nature. A visit to the well-preserved Gjirokaster Castle gives you the chance to enjoy lovely views of the Old Town, as well as the surrounding mountains.

Aside from visit the castle, the main thing to do in Gjirokaster is to wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the unique Ottoman architecture of the Old Town.

Buses run every hour from Sarande to Gjirokaster, and take around 1-1½ hours to get between the two. A bus should cost around 400 Lek, and will drop you a relatively steep 30-minute walk from the Old Town, but thankfully taxis are available if you’d prefer.

Albanian Riviera Tours

Blue eye and lekuresi castle tour.

This wonderful guided tour takes you to explore the natural wonder of the Blue Eye, as well as the ancient Lekuresi Castle in South Albania. The tour includes all entry fees and departs in the morning from Sarande.

At the Blue Eye, you’ll be amazed by the sparkling blue and crystal clear water, as well as the beautiful surrounding greenery. From Lekuresi Castle you will enjoy stunning panoramic views of Sarande, Butrint Lagoon, and the nearby Greek island of Corfu.

Tours depart from Sarande and cost just €59 per person, with a minimum of 2 people required for the trip to run. 

Click here to book an incredible tour to the Blue Eye and Lekuresi Castle on the Get Your Guide website!

Private Albanian Riviera Tour

Explore the stunning Albanian Riviera with a private guided tour that takes you to some of the region’s most beautiful spots. Over the course of around 10 hours you will visit a variety of amazing spots including Himare, Dhermi, Borsh, Qeparo, and Vuno.

Being a private tour the itinerary can often be altered slightly if there are some other spots on this list that you would prefer to visit too! These amazing tours of the Albanian Riviera start from around €64 per person, with a minimum of 3 people required for the trip to run.

Click here to book this amazing tour on the Viator website!

Where to stay in the Albanian Riviera

Blue water villa.

The Blue Water Villa in Ksamil is a wonderful option if you want to stay near the centre and close to the nicest beaches in the Albanian Riviera. Just a short walk from Ksamil’s beaches, the hotel offers modern air-conditioned rooms and free private parking on site.

Staff are kind and helpful too, so will strive to make your stay as good as it can be! Prices start from just 10,300 Lek  per night.

Click here to see the brilliant Blue Water Villa on Booking.com!

Vila Kosteli

If you’re looking for where to stay in the Albanian Riviera then Vila Kosteli is perfect. Ideally located by the Himare beachfront, it’s a lovely place to spend a few days.

All rooms at the hotel have air conditioning as well as a balcony, some of these rooms you will be able to enjoy sea views from the comfort of your room.

Prices at the hotel start from 12,000 Lek  per night.

Click here to book a stay at the lovely Vila Kosteli on Booking.com!

Elysium Hotel

The stunning Elysium Hotel is one of the best luxury hotels in the Albanian Riviera. First things first, the hotel has a huge swimming pool for you to cool off in during the hot summer days.

On top of that, the rooms are modern and luxurious, making the hotel a great place to relax. There’s free parking on site and the service is incredible too, so you’re bound to have an amazing stay!

Situated in Dhermi, the hotel is well situated for exploring the Albanian Riviera. Prices at the hotel start from 16,170 Lek  per night.

Click here to take a look at the amazing Elysium Hotel on Booking.com!

Buze Boutique Hotel

Sarande is one of the best places to stay in the Albanian Riviera, and one of the best hotels in the area is the brilliant Buze Boutique Hotel. With a lovely outdoor swimming pool and a private beach, the hotel has everything you need for an amazing stay.

There’s free private parking available at the hotel, which is perfect if you’re renting a car to explore. Prices start from 22,550 Lek  per night, with breakfast included in the price.

Click here to take a look at the Buze Boutique Hotel on Booking.com!

Alternatively, VRBO have some fantastic accommodation options if you want to rent a property instead of staying at a hotel during your time in the Albanian Riviera! Click here to see the amazing options on the VRBO website!

Looking for other places to travel in Eastern Europe? Check out our one week Montenegro itinerary.

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The best beaches of the Albanian Riviera

Jun 24, 2019 • 4 min read

Sandy Drymades beach during summer, on the Ionian Sea, Albania.

Albania’s rugged coastline, with traditional villages nestled in isolated bays and golden beaches lapped by turquoise waters, was a revelation when travellers first started discovering the country during the turn of the century. Since then Europe’s last untouched beaches have changed almost beyond recognition, but there’s still plenty of reason to come here and explore this magnificent coastline where the Adriatic and Ionian seas meet.

You may have heard of the Albanian Riviera and its beaches, once catchwords of true backpackerdom – their names were synonymous with unspoilt sands backed by rolling hills covered in olive groves, rustic accommodation right next to the water, and grilled meats and cold beers for the equivalent of a handful of change.

Inevitably that hasn’t endured; asphalt roads now connect all but the most far-flung of the Riviera’s villages, while hotels, restaurants and holiday homes dot the coastline. Today you’re more likely to be competing for beach space with a day-tripping family from Tirana than a crowd of international shoestringers. And yet, despite the Riviera’s transformation, there are still idyllic and breathtaking spots along this craggy coast. Here are some of the very best.

The beach at  Dhërmi  is one of the most famous in Albania , a dazzling strip of white rock several kilometres long that is lapped by deep blue water. Outside peak season, it’s very quiet, and while the summer months now get very busy, the beach is long enough to find a quiet spot away from the crowds even in mid-August. For explorers, there are lots of coves and smaller bays further along the beach, including the famous Drymades beach, where excellent budget accommodation can be had and a number of smart hotels are found on the beach itself.

This is the first accessible beach on the Riviera after negotiating the incredible descent through the zigzagging Llogaraja Pass . A relatively new access road takes you from the main road to the beach itself, a glorious stretch of white sand sprinkled with a handful of low-key local eateries. Sadly the serenity of this overlooked spot could soon be tarnished somewhat, as building work begins on a sprawling, ugly apartment complex that will change the landscape of the beach and bring an increased number of bathers. But, for now at least, Palasa remains the perfect spot for beach bums wanting to avoid crowds, camp alone on the beach and swim in pristine waters.

South of Saranda , the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera, and within striking distance of the Greek border, Ksamil has an excellent location. The three small islands in its turquoise bay are an easy swim or boat ride away, and there are always fewer people here than on the busier town beach. This is a big tourism centre for locals, and it can get very crowded in summer, but even then the islands offer some respite. Corfu looms across the channel in the distance (this is Albania’s closest point to the Greek island), and the ancient city of Butrint , a Unesco World Heritage Site, is just beyond Saranda, which makes it very easy to combine beach time with some cultural pursuits.

This little charmer of a cove is often overlooked by travellers hurrying towards the bright lights of Saranda, a short distance beyond it. Bunec is quiet and somewhat unusual, with a pebbly white beach divided by a river which runs down from the mountains above. The sunset here is gorgeous, and the beach is a good option for those looking for a bit more comfort while remaining in a pleasingly unspoilt place: both the Bunec Bed and Breakfast and Naza Hotel have smart double rooms right next to the water, and there are a couple of budget campsites and simple cafes here as well. Apart from that, there’s nothing but the silence and the waves – and that’s the whole point.

The sleepy town of Himara is a well-established stop on the tourist trail. Despite its growth in the past decade it hasn’t lost its charm, although the town beach is now crowded in summer. Instead, head 4km south of the town to Llamani beach, a wide, white stone beach backed by rolling hills and with inviting, clear water for swimming.  In Himara itself, Potami beach is a good alternative to the main one; you’ll find it just south of the centre, beyond the large rock that cuts the town in two.

The largest unbroken stretch of beach in Albania, 7km-long Borsh  is quite a sight as you approach it along the dramatic coastal road leading to the wide plain with the eponymous town spread out before you. Even more remarkable is that tourism has barely touched Borsh, despite its significant community and busy olive-oil production industry – the beach is backed by little more than a few makeshift restaurants and bars. This is inevitably going to change soon, as developers train their sights on the empty lots backing the beach, so come now to enjoy this magical place.

This article was originally published in May 2015 and updated in June 2019.

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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

Albania Itinerary | 7 days in the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is one of the most up-and-coming destinations in Europe , offering something for everyone. With the perfect blend of stunning beaches, charming coastal villages, rich historical sites, and next level hospitality, there are so many reasons why you should visit . This 7 day Albania Riviera itinerary will dive into all the best spots for you to visit in Albania, with insider tips on where to go and what to do in Albania, and act as the perfect Albania Road Trip Guide for you.

PS – Useful Travel Resources that will help you plan better for your Trip to Albania  – 

• Book your Europe train tickets at Omio or Trainline
• Book your Rental Car in Albania on Discover Cars and RentalCars.com
• Book the best Albania Tours at GetYourGuide or Viator
• Book the best Culinary / Food Experiences in Europe on EatWith
• Book your Accommodation in Albania on Agoda or Booking.com
• Book your flights at the cheapest rates on Kiwi.com
• Get an eSIM by Airalo to stay connected and Save on Roaming Fees
• Sign up for a Priority Pass before flying to Albania, to enjoy premium Airport Lounge Access.
• Sign up for a Travel Insurance to enjoy a hassle free vacation in Albania.

Days 1-3: Ksamil

Days 3-4: borsh, days 4-6: himara, days 6-7: dhermi, 7 day albania road trip itinerary – faq’s, share this:, 7 day albania road trip itinerary .

Your Albanian Riviera holiday will likely start in Tirana, the country’s main airport. From here, we recommend you hire a car to drive to the first stop in this 7 day Albania itinerary: Ksamil. It’s a 4 hour drive from Tirana, though there’s several places you can stop along the way, including Vlore, Gjirokastra, and the Blue Eye.

Gjirokastra | Photo by Abenteuer Albanien on Unsplash

Once you arrive, check into your hotel and freshen up before heading straight off to the beach for sunset. As the Albanian coast is west facing, you’re almost guaranteed spectacular sunsets right over the sea every night. 

Ksamil is known for its vibrant beach clubs and spectacular beaches.

Spoiler alert: these are the most beautiful beaches in the whole of Albania in our opinion!

With white stony sand and sparkling turquoise sea, it honestly feels like you’ve been transported to South East Asia, not the Mediterranean! 

On your first full day in Ksamil, we’d recommend heading slightly out of town to either Pulebardha or Pasqyra beaches. They’re a little quieter than the beaches directly in town and, in our opinion, are the most beautiful. 

Hire a sun lounger for 1000 Albanian Lek each, lay back, and relax with the sound of the waves lapping at the shore. Both of these beaches have onsite restaurants which we can highly recommend – the food is fresh and delicious! Plus, you can have drinks and ice lollies brought directly to your sunbed: pure bliss.

Ksamil | Photo by Bleron Salihi on Unsplash

Once you’re done sunning yourself, spend a few hours in the afternoon wandering around Butrint National Park. This UNESCO world heritage site offers a unique insight into the history of the area, as it brings together Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian influences.

Butrint National Park | Photo by Bleron Salihi on Unsplash

In the evening, head to one of the many trendy beach clubs lining the seafront for a cocktail (or two) in beautiful surroundings. We’d recommend Poda Beach House for its chic vibe and plenty of insta ops – in fact you’ve probably seen it on social media yourself!

Start your third day with a dip in one of Ksamil’s main beaches, with views over one of the four islands. If you get up early, you’ll be treated to pure serenity, with the beaches completely to yourselves. Spend the morning relaxing at the beach before taking a 1hr 15 minute drive to your next destination.

Borsh is just a 1hr 15 minute drive from Ksamil, and yet it offers a completely different vibe to the popular beach town. Borsh beach is huge, stretching for over 7km. Unlike Ksamil, there are plenty of spots in Borsh where you can lay a towel and relax on the sand, rather than having to hire a sun lounger.

There is plenty of parking at Borsh beach itself, with several quiet beach bars offering food and drinks, with amazing hospitality. 

Borsh is the perfect place to just spend a day chilling after Ksamil. We found there were very few tourists in Borsh, with the vast majority of people being Albanian, offering a really authentic feel and a chance to immerse yourself in the Albanian culture. We were told by a tour guide in Tirana that this was his absolute favourite beach in the whole of Albania, and we have to agree, it’s beautiful. 

Check into your hotel, spend some time relaxing in the family-friendly ambiance and interacting with the locals, before setting off again around midday the next day.

For days 4-6 of your Albanian Riviera itinerary you will be basing yourself in Himara, a little further up the coast. It’s approximately a 25 minute drive to Himara from Borsh, though we’d recommend stopping halfway to checkout the fortress of Porto Palermo, built by Ali Pasha in 1804. Head inside to learn more about the fascinating history of Albania.

The Fortress of Porto Palermo

Once you arrive in Himara, find a space to park your car up and head straight into the trendy town to explore. Car parking should cost between 300-500 lek for 3-5 hours. With a beautiful promenade along the beach, lined with cafes and restaurants, it’s the perfect place for a stroll. Pick up some souvenirs and postcards to send home, before heading to Pasticeri Delight for the best ice cream in Himara! It costs just 100 lek per scoop and it is honestly divine. 

On day 5 of your Albania itinerary, get up early and drive to Livadhi, just a few minutes down the road, before hiking to Aquarium Beach. It should take you around 30 minutes to reach Aquarium beach and the hike is not too strenuous, though we would recommend sensible footwear as the path is a little uneven. 

Aquarium Beach is the most stunning little cove, with warm, sparkling turquoise water, cliffs to jump off, and fish to snorkel amongst. As it is relatively inaccessible by car (unless you have a 4×4), it remains quiet until around 10am, with no sun loungers, noise pollution, or facilities. Find a spot to lay your towel, grab a good book, and relax in this Mediterranean oasis. 

The beauty of Albanian Riviera

Around midday the beach will start to get very busy and, honestly, not so tranquil. At this point, walk back to Livadhi where you can either spend the afternoon sunbathing on Livadhi beach, a beautiful sandy beach with deep sea to swim in, or head back to Himara beach. Both of these beaches are super chilled, and you have the option of hiring a sunbed if you wish. Himara beach even has free beach umbrellas for you to use!

The food in Himara has strong Greek and Italian influences, and for dinner, we’d recommend heading to Valentino Restaurant. The food is fresh and delicious, the views over the sea are incredible, and the staff are so friendly.

Set another early alarm on day 6 of this 7 Day Albania Road Trip Itinerary, and drive around 40 minutes to Gjipe Beach, a gem along the Albanian Riviera. You’ll need to park near the Holy Monastery of St. Theodore as the last stretch of road is only accessible by 4×4. The walk from there should take no more than half an hour.

Gjipe Beach is nestled at the end of a 2km canyon, with cliffs towering high around it, and the deep blue Ionian Sea lapping at the shore. The natural beauty of this beach, surrounded by lush greenery, is why it’s absolutely worth visiting. It’s quite popular, hence we recommend arriving early, and has a small restaurant and toilet facilities.

After spending a couple of hours on Gjipe Beach, hike back to your car and continue driving for around 20 minutes to reach Dhermi, where you’ll spend your last night on the Albanian Riviera.

Before heading to your accommodation, park in the Old Town where you’ll be able to explore a sleepy authentic Albanian hill side town, with the most stunning views over the sea. Climb up to the Monastery of St. Mary at the top of the Old Town for the best vantage point.

Head to Dhermi beach, a short drive away from the Old Town, for a late lunch in a luxurious beach-front bar that will have you believing you’re in Bali. 

Dhermi beach is similar to Himara in that there are sections that are covered in sunloungers for you to hire, and sections that are kept clear for sunbathers who’d rather relax on a towel (and save a bit of money!). It offers the perfect balance between luxury and authenticity, with locals loving to stop for a chat and offer you tips on where to visit. This is without a doubt the best place to end your 7 day Albanian Riviera itinerary, and flying out of Albania to your next travel destination.

Do I need a car to visit Albania?

Whilst a car is not essential to explore the Albanian Riviera, we would highly recommend one in order to make the most out of your time and to avoid hassle. Many beaches are only accessible by car, and the bus system in Albania is notoriously unreliable, so we would highly recommend hiring a car in Tirana before starting this trip.

Where is the best nightlife in the Albanian Riviera?

The award for best nightlife in the Albanian Riviera has to go to Ksamil. With numerous trendy bars and nightclubs, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself and meet other travellers on a night out. With venues getting busy around 10pm, head out early to get the most out of your night.

Is Albania expensive?

When compared to other popular beach destinations in the Mediterranean, Albania is a relatively affordable country. In fact, it is one of the Cheapest Countries in Europe. With accommodation costs starting at just £20 per night and a meal out setting you back less than £10, it is very easy to travel Albania on a budget. That being said, if you prefer something a little fancier, there are plenty of high grade hotels and restaurants to splurge on. Albania really is as cheap or as expensive as you make it!

7 Day Albanian Riviera Itinerary – Summary

Day 1 | Arrival in Albania | Head to Ksamil

Day 2 | Explore Ksamil

Day 3 | Relax in Ksamil | Head to Borsh and spend the day by the beach

Day 4 | Head to Himara

Day 5 | Drive to Livadhi | Hike to Aquarium Beach

Day 6 | Drive to Gjipe Beach | Head to Dhermi | Explore Dhermi

Day 7 | Departure from Albania

The Albanian Riviera, located in southwestern Albania, is a beautiful stretch of coastline known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and impressive cliffs. It’s a favourite spot for tourists worldwide, offering something for everyone.

This 7-day Albania Road Trip itinerary, which has been rated as one of the Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe , sees you visiting four of the most beautiful and popular towns: Ksamil, Borsh, Himara, and Dhermi. Each town has its own unique character and charm, and you’re sure to have a wonderful time exploring them all.

Feel free to adjust the plan based on your interests and budget. If you love hiking, consider more time at Gjipe Canyon. If you’re on a tight budget, you could stay in hostels or guesthouses and cook your own meals.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’re sure to have the best time on the Albanian Riviera. It is a beautiful and affordable destination with something to offer everyone.

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The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

The Best Places to Visit on the Albanian Riviera

Albania is quickly becoming a popular tourist destination. Its easy to see why with it’s incredible beaches, dramatic mountains and quaint villages. The Albanian Riviera has drawn Balkan tourists for years but more and more foreigners are now booking Albania for their summer break. In this post, we help you find the very best places to visit on the Albanian Riviera, including some useful tips and local knowledge.

Where is the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is located in the south west of the country between the towns of Saranda, in the South, and Vlora, in the north. The Ionian Sea runs along the stunning coastline.

When to Visit the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is a beautiful location that can be visited at any time of year. During July and August the temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F) and the beaches can become busy. If you enjoy crowds and beach parties, this is the time to go. Otherwise, we would recommend the shoulder seasons, May and June or September and October.

The Albanian Riviera is still beautiful in the winter. It is very quiet and peaceful as there are almost no tourists at all. However, not everything will be open in the resort towns such as Ksmail and Sarande.

How to get there

There is no airport in the Albanian Riviera. So, there are two options to get there.

Option 1 is to fly to the Greek Island of Corfu. From there, you can take a 30 minute ferry to Saranda .

Option 2 is to fly to Albania’s capital city, Tirana, and travel south from there. This can be done by bus or by hiring a car.

Our favourite way to get to the beautiful Albanian Riviera is taking the ferry from Corfu as it is faster and more pleasant than taking a bus.

The Weather

The weather in the Albanian Riviera is great all year round as it has a Mediterranean climate. Of course it is much colder in the winter. During the summer months you can expect temperatures between 30°C and 40°C (86°F and 104°F). In the winter, it can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F – 59°F ). However, there are plenty of sunny days to enjoy!

The Best Places to Visit on the Albanian Riviera – Saranda

The warm weather and party vibe makes Saranda one of the best places to visit on the Albanian Riviera. ( Spelled Sarandë in Albanian). The low costs also make it ideal for budget travellers. However, there is still plenty to offer those looking for a bit of luxury.

The surrounding beaches and mountains means there are tonnes of day trip options . But there is also enough to keep you busy if you want to stay in the city. There are plenty of great places to eat and drink in Saranda. The seafood restaurants alone make Saranda worth visiting!

One of the most popular summer locations in Albania is Ksamil – a beach lover’s paradise! Just a short trip from Saranda lies the small town of Ksamil with its serene islands, clear green waters and bright white, sandy beaches. It is also very close to the  ancient City of Butrint  and ranks highly amongst the best beaches in Albania.

Ksamil has several smaller beaches, many of which are owned by bars or restaurants, so it’s often necessary to pay for a sun lounger. Recently, prices have really increased so we recommend checking before getting comfy. Prices can range from €8-50 for an umbrella on the beach. But once you find the spot, you can watch the sunset over the islands with a cocktail in your hand.

Avoid visiting in July and August as the crowds get a little crazy. However, there are no big chain hotels here and many businesses are family owned. This makes Ksamil feel like a more relaxed and blissful beach location than others in Europe.

Boat trips are a popular choice amongst visitors to Ksamil. Many  boat tours  include a meal and drinks so it is a really fun way to see some of the smaller islands and enjoy the sea air.

The Best Places to Visit on the Albanian Riviera – Butrint National Park

A journey to Butrint is certainly one of the most interesting places to visit on the Albanian Riviera! Roman baths, a large amphitheatre, an acropolis dating back to the 8th Century BC and, our favourite, the relatively intact basilica from the 6th century, were just a few of the ancient gems of Butrint.

We also learned that prehistoric sites have been identified within the area and the earliest evidence of occupation dates back to 50,000 BC. The civilization was eventually abandoned due to the progression of the marshland.

The Blue Eye

This is one of the most beautiful places to visit to the Albanian Riviera. In the centre of the country lies a mysterious and intriguing body of water shrouded in local legend. The Blue Eye , Albania, or Syri i Kalter, is a natural water spring of unknown depth and chilling temperatures. The centre of the spring is a deep, dark blue whilst the surrounding water is a fresh green fading out to the white of the pebbly shore.

The Blue Eye can be easily reached from Saranda , even by public transport. It can also be combined with a trip to beautiful Gjirokaster.

Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster, Albania, is known for its beautiful Ottoman architecture and imposing castle. Those who have experienced the city are captivated forever and people planning to visit are in for an incredible surprise. Gjirokaster is definitely a must when visiting the Albanian Riviera.

There are many amazing things to keep you busy in Gjirokaster. The city is immersed in history and bursting with magnificent Ottoman architecture. The highlight for us was the imposing castle perched above the old town. Make sure you also check out the Old Bazaar, with some great souvenir shops, and stop for a strong coffee in one of the quaint coffee shops at the side of the picturesque, cobbled streets. Check out  THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN GJIROKASTER

Gjirokaster can also be reached easily from Saranda – find out how by clicking HERE .

The Best Places to Visit on the Albanian Riviera – Himare

Possibly one of the most glamorous beaches in Albania, Himara enjoys the sun all year round. Sailing and fishing boats pass in and out of the harbour while the town offers plenty of clubs, cafes and restaurants. Borsh, Porto Palermo and Lukova beaches are also nearby.

Dhermi Beach

Heralded as one of Albania’s best beaches and it’s easy to see why. Dhërmi is a small beach in a bay overlooked by the town atop a craggy cliff. The fine, white pebbles are a beautiful contrast to the sparkling green water, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. However, if you take a walk along the beach you are bound to find a quiet spot, even in the summer.

There are plenty of restaurants serving delicious, fresh seafood nearby.

Gjipe Beach

Close to Vlora , Gjipe is a beach with a difference. It has barely been touched by development as the surrounding mountains make it less accessible. If you’re up for the 2km hike (1.25 miles), you will be greatly rewarded. The beach is stunning but remains quiet even in the height of summer. This is an amazing spot for those who like to explore and hope to avoid the summer crowds. This is more certainly one of the best places to visit on the Albanian Riviera!

The Best Places to Visit on the Albanian Riviera – Drymades Beach

Not far from Dhërmi is Drymades beach. This is like a little piece of heaven. This place is quiet and relaxing and is known for its incredible sunsets across the twinkling water. A great beach if you’re looking for a bit of space and calmness.

Llogara National Park

Llogara National Park is one of the most visited natural parks in Albania. About 40km from Vlora, its definitely worth visiting while you are in the area. The park covers only 10.1 sq km (3.90 square miles) but is home to roe deer, fallow deer, chamois, European wildcat, red fox, otter, and even the mighty wolf.  There are also diverse bird species including the majestic golden eagle and the griffon vulture roaming the skies. This is one of the best places to visit to the Albanian Riviera for those of us who love hiking and nature.

The Best Places to Visit on the Albanian Riviera – Vlore

The coastal town of Vlore sits in the heart of the Albanian Riviera. As the third largest city in Albania, and sandwiched between the mountains and the sea, it certainly has a lot to offer.

The town of Vlora (Vlorë in Albanian) sits on a bay between the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. When visiting this part of Albania you will be spoilt for choice with so many spectacular beaches. There is loads of amazing things to do in Vlora.

The Mediterranean climate here means there are around 300 sunny days per year, perfect for spending loads of time on the beach! The Ceraunian Mountains are close by offering amazing hiking opportunities if you grow tired of the gentle, turquoise waters.

How to get Around the Albanian Riviera

There are limited options for getting around the Albanian Riviera. A furgon is the most common mode of public transport in the are. It is a mini bus that will work loosely to a timetable but will sometimes only depart when full. These buses are small and old but they will always get you from A to B. They are usually a cheap way to travel and a great way to experience how locals get around.

There are no trains services connecting the towns of the Albanian Riviera. However, if you can haggle, a taxi will take you anywhere.

If you want to save a bit of time and to have a bit more flexibility, renting a car might be for you.

Should I Rent a Car to Explore the Albanian Riviera?

This is a tricky one, and definitely down to personal preference. Albania’s public transport is cheap and cheerful but far from wide ranging. It is great for travelling between towns and cities but reaching the secluded beaches will be difficult. Saying that, if you can haggle, a taxi driver will take you anywhere!

Hitchhiking  in Albania is a popular way to get around and is supposedly perfectly safe. We have not tried this ourselves but have spoken to many successful hitchers.

If you decide to rent a car in Albania, please make sure you take out the full insurance. Drivers in the Balkans have their own unique style… On our last visit to Saranda we spent 3 days in the town and witnessed 2 crashes. Make sure you plan your journey in advance as there are many smaller roads that are not more than dirt tracks.

If you take the plunge and decide that driving is best for you, try  SIXT . They are really handy if you are starting your journey in Saranda and are located just beside the port.

Renting a car will provide a lot more freedom and independence and make it easier to avoid the crowds. While exploring, look out for signs pointing to “Plazhi…” meaning beach in Albanian. All along the jagged coastline there are serene, and often secret, beaches

What to Pack for your Visit to the Albanian Riviera

You’re excited about your visit to the Albanian Riviera, lounging on the warm sand and listening to the gentle waves brushing the coastline. But you’re in a rush! Here’s a super easy packing list to make sure you don’t arrive in paradise unprepared.

• Sunscreen 
• Sunglasses 
• Bathing suit 
• A good book 
• Beach Towel 
• Cell phone and power bank or charger 
• Frisbee/ball
• Drinking water
• Map downloaded on phone (if you’re going exploring)

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not go north and check out Albania’s capital city, Tirana

Final note:  Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Albania? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

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Albania was on our itinerary when Covid shut us down and we are still working to get it back on our travels. Hopeful for 2024. Thanks for this great info. I like the idea of arriving from Corfu…which I hadn’t thought of so that’s a real possibility for us. Saving all this great info. Thanks!

Wow! The water is so clear and blue. Dreamy it is.

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The Ultimate Albanian Riviera Guide

Looking for a guide to the Albanian Riviera? We’ve got you covered!  In this guide to the Albanian Riviera, I’ll cover all the must-see places along the coast as well as provide tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around. I’ll also share my insider recommendations on the best-hidden gems that you won’t find in any guidebook. So come with me and discover the many wonders of the Albanian Riviera! 

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED AND AFFILIATE LINKS MORE INFORMATION IN  OUR DISCLAIMER

This article on the Albanian Riviera comes from JJ from Travel Across The Borderline

I spent a month beach-hopping along Albania’s coastline in south Albania and exploring everything the area has to offer. From ancient ruins, secluded coves, glitzy beach clubs, and mouthwatering food, there is something for everyone here in this beautiful corner of the world.

#1 THING TO DO

Take Trip to Butrint and Ksamil

There’s fascinating history here at this UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as some of the most stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Make a day of it!

Where is the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera is located in the south of Albania. The Albanian Riviera starts in Vlore and stretches down to Saranda (also known as Sarandë). It is a beautiful stretch of coastline, featuring some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Europe. With its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it is no wonder why this region is fast becoming a favorite summer destination for travelers looking to experience a unique corner of Europe.

How to get to the Albanian Riviera?

There are several ways that you can get to the Albanian Riviera . To get to the Albanian Riviera by plane you will need to fly into Albania’s only international airport in Tirana. From Tirana airport, you can rent a car and drive down to the Riviera or alternatively catch a bus from Tirana to Saranda. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also hitchhike your way down.  You can also get to the Albanian Riviera by catching a ferry from Bari, Italy , or from the Greek island of Corfu.

• You can check the prices of rental cars for Albania here
• Book a ferry from Bari to the Albanian Riviera
• Book ferries from Corfu to Albania here

Getting around the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is best explored by car. There are a lot of winding roads and the public transport system is not always reliable so renting a car or hiring a driver is the best option for getting around. 

For car rentals in Albania – get a quote from Discover Cars here

If you don’t want to drive, there are also minibuses (known as furgons) that run between the main towns along the coast.  For many of these furgons you don’t need to book (and usually can’t), but to check what you can prebook it’s best to use Busbud .

Personally, I found that the easiest way to get around the Albanian Riviera was to hitchhike . Hitchhiking is a common way to get around in Albania and is quite safe as long as you use common sense.

Weather at the Albanian Riviera

The best time to visit the Albanian Riviera is from April through October when the weather is usually warm and sunny. The temperatures range from 15-30 degrees Celsius during the day and 13-18 degrees at night.  You can expect some rain in the winter months but it usually doesn’t last more than a few days.

Best Time to Visit the Albanian Riviera

The best time to visit the Albanian Riviera is during the peak season months of July and August when temperatures are at their highest. This is also the busiest time for tourists, with beach clubs and restaurants bustling with activity.  If you prefer a more peaceful experience, then the shoulder seasons of April-June or September-October are your best bet.

How Many Days to Spend On the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera is best explored over at least four days. This will give you enough time to explore the main towns along the coast, as well as some of the more secluded beaches and hidden gems.

If you want to enjoy the beach clubs and nightlife, then plan on spending at least one week on the Albanian Riviera. I spent a month here which was plenty of time to really get to know the area, but you can easily hit up all the main sites in a week.

Is It Safe In The Albanian Riviera?

I spent time hitchhiking and wild camping in Albania and always felt completely safe. I would say that overall Albania is one of the safest countries that I have travelled to. The locals are incredibly friendly and hospitable, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.  However, it is important to use common sense when traveling in Albania, as with anywhere else, and be sure not to put yourself in any unnecessarily risky situations.

The 12 Best Things to Do in the Albanian Riviera

There is an almost endless list of things to do on the Albanian Riviera. Whether you’re looking for beach relaxation, cultural exploration, or outdoor adventure, you will find it here.  Some of the must-see attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage site Butrint , the stunning Blue Eye spring, and the ancient town of Gjirokastra.  Here are some of my favorite things to see and do on the Albanian coast:

1. Explore Butrint Archaeological Site and National Park

Butrint Archaeological Site and National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the Albanian Riviera. It is an ancient city dating back to 627 BC which has been preserved over the centuries by its unique location, surrounded by marshland and enclosed within defensive walls. The archaeological site features several ruins including temples, churches, amphitheaters, baths, and much more.

You can take a day trip to Butrint from Sarande – it’s the perfect way to explore and maximizes your time in the area.  Take a look at what you can explore here.

Butrint also offers beautiful views of the Ionian Sea as well as lush forests full of wildlife. Visitors can explore the area on foot or take a guided tour to learn about its fascinating history. With so much to see and do at this stunning historic destination, it’s no wonder why Butrint National Park is one of Albania’s most popular tourist attractions! I loved exploring the ruins as they were so well preserved.

The best part was that I practically had the whole place to myself! There were hardly any other tourists there when I visited. A stark contrast to the over-crowded ruins in nearby Greece!

2. Visit the Blue Eye Spring in Albania’s Riviera

One of the most stunning natural wonders in Albania is the Blue Eye Spring. Located on the Albanian Riviera, this mesmerizing spring has captivated visitors with its mysterious blue waters and surrounding lush forests. The crazy thing about this spring is that no one knows how deep it is! Divers have tried to reach the bottom but have never succeeded.

There are two Blue Eyes in Albania and this might be the easiest to reach.  It’s even easier on a guided tour from Sarande – check out this option for exploring.

The Blue Eye Spring is believed to have healing properties due to its high concentration of minerals and it’s said that anyone who takes a swim in its turquoise depths will have their health restored! Visitors can take a dip in the crystal clear waters or simply admire this beautiful natural phenomenon from a distance. If you do decide to go for a dip be extra careful because the water is really cold. Don’t jump in because you will get an icy shock!

3. Go beach hopping on the Riviera in Albania

The Albanian Riviera is full of stunning beaches that are perfect for an afternoon of sun-soaking and relaxation. There’s something for everyone, from secluded bays to lively beach clubs. Some of my favorite beaches include the Ksamil Beaches, Gjipe Beach, Palasa Beach, and Borsh Beach. The best way to explore the Albanian coastline is to rent a car and go beach hopping, stopping off at each spot for an hour or two.

4. Take a day trip to Corfu from Albania

If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not take a day trip to the Greek island of Corfu ? Located just across the Ionian Sea from Albania, this beautiful Mediterranean paradise is perfect for day-trippers who want to explore its traditional villages, lush olive groves, and stunning beaches. You can easily get there by ferry. The fast ferry leaves Saranda every day and only takes 30 minutes to reach Corfu. Tickets cost about 20 euros each way.  Ferries run 4 times a day in high season and you can check the timetable and the costs here.

5. Explore Gjirokastër

Gjirokastër is an ancient city located in the Albanian Riviera. It is known for its unique architecture and Ottoman-influenced buildings, making it one of the most picturesque cities in the country. The old town is full of cobbled streets and winding alleyways, lined with colorful houses and traditional bazaar stalls.

Want to explore Gjirokaster with a local?  This 3-hour guided tour is excellent value for money and the perfect way to find out more about the city. 

Gjirokastër is also home to the National Museum of Weapons and the Ethnographic Museum, both of which are great places to explore the city’s history and culture. You can also explore the fortress, find the cold war era ‘spy plane’ and hike to Ali Pasha’s bridge – an Ottoman bridge located in a stunning valley just outside of Gjirokastër.

6. Visit Porto Palermo Castle

Located in the beautiful bay of Porto Palermo, this stunning castle was built by Ali Pasha Tepelena – a 19th-century Albanian ruler and Ottoman warlord. The castle is perched on a small island in the bay of Palermo, overlooking the Ionian Sea. The island is connected to the mainland by a small strip of land so you can easily walk across to the castle. The castle has a unique triangular shape with three towers at the corners. It’s believed that Ali Pasha built the castle to protect the town of Himara. Today, it is a popular tourist destination where visitors can explore the ruins and admire stunning views of the bay below.

7. Hike Up to Himara Castle for the Sunset

One of the best things to do on the Albanian Riviera is to end your day with a hike up to Himara Castle for the sunset. Located at the top of a mountain, about 2.5km north of the modern town of Himara, this centuries-old castle is one of the most spectacular sights in Albania. The impressive castle has existed here since the bronze age. It’s well worth the steep climb for unparalleled views of the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands. The sunsets here are particularly spectacular. Steep climbs are hard on the way up, often harder on the way back down and you’ll definitely find this return easier with a set of hiking poles.

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8. Kayak to Albanian Hidden Beaches

The Albanian Riviera has several small hidden coves and beaches that are only accessible by water.  One of the best ways to explore these secluded spots is by kayak or paddleboard. Rent equipment from one of the beach towns and spend a day paddling between secret beaches, stopping for swims and picnics along the way. Some spots worth checking out include Livadhi Beach, Qeparo Beach, and Borsh. Just be careful of strong currents and winds which can make paddling more challenging. Always check the weather forecast before setting off on a kayaking adventure.

9. Indulge at the Beach Clubs on the Albanian Riviera

There are some fantastic beach clubs along the Albanian Riviera. Some of my favorites are Mulino Beach in Ksamil and the Folie Marine beach club at Jale Beach. These beach clubs serve up some of the best food, drinks, and cocktails in the country. Enjoy sunset dinners with live music, sunbathe on their sandy beaches, and swim in their crystal clear waters. One of my favorite memories of the Albanian Riviera was from dancing the night away at Folie Marine beach club after spending the day lounging in the sun.

10. Hike Gjipe Canyon

Gjjipe Beach is one of my favorite beaches in Albania and is a must-visit for any trip to the Albanian Riviera. The beach is remote and can be reached by boat or by hiking through the Gjipe Canyon. The hike is spectacular and I highly recommend taking this option.  It’s about an hour’s hike through the canyon from the main road. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views and the beautiful secluded beach waiting for you at the end. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection!

11. Explore the Llogara Pass

The Llogara Pass is a winding mountain road that cuts through the Albanian Alps. The views here are breathtaking and it’s a great spot to take some Instagram-worthy photos. There are also several small villages along the way where you can stop for lunch or dinner at one of the local taverns. The Llogara Pass is a must-visit spot when exploring the Albanian Riviera.

12. Take a Boat Tour of the Albanian Riviera

Finally, take a boat tour and explore the dramatic coastline of the Albanian Riviera. There are many different options available, from full-day trips to half-day excursions. Sail around the beautiful coast and small islands to find secret beaches, snorkel in crystal clear waters and admire spectacular views of the cliffs.

The Best Albanian Coastal Towns

Picking where to stay on the Albanian Riviera is tough, there are so many great options, so here are a few words on the best coastal towns of the Riviera

Himare is a small coastal town in Albania and it’s a great place to base yourself for an Albanian Riviera vacation. With its buzzing beachfront promenade, cute cafes, and stunning views of the bay and nearby islands, there’s plenty to explore here.

Spend the day at the beach before hiking up to the castle in Himare’s old town for incredible sunset views.

Explore our recommendations of the best spots to stay in Himare here.

The Town of Ksamil

Ksamil is one of the most popular towns in Albania, and it’s easy to see why. With its sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and nearby islands, Ksamil offers plenty for beach lovers. The town has a bustling promenade full of restaurants, cafes, and bars which are perfect for a night out. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and paddle around the bay for some of the best views in Albania.

Check out our recommendations of the best spots to stay in Ksamil here.

Saranda is the perfect spot for a beach getaway in Albania. With its picturesque harbor, stunning views of the Ionian Sea and nearby islands, and vibrant nightlife, this city has something for everyone. Spend the day lounging on one of Saranda’s beaches before heading out to explore the city’s restaurants and bars. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, take a tour to nearby Blue Eye Springs and relax in the turquoise waters, or head to Butrint’s archaeological park to admire the well-preserved ruins.

Here are our recommendations on where to stay in Saranda here.

Dhermi is a small, charming town situated in the heart of the Albanian Riviera. With its stunning sunsets and gorgeous beaches, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxing beach vacation. Spend your days lounging on one of Dhermi’s beautiful beaches or head out to explore the nearby villages.

There’s plenty to explore in Dhermi, from the unique architecture of the churches to the nearby archaeological sites.

Find the perfect place to stay in Dhermi here.

Best beaches on the Albanian Riviera

One of the best reasons to come to the coast of Albania is beach life.  So here are some of the Albanian Riviera’s best beaches to explore.

Borsh beach

Borsh is my favorite beach on the Albanian Riviera! At 7km long, it is the largest beach along the Ionian Sea. It’s a popular beach but as it is so big you can still find a quiet spot to yourself.

I wild camped here and woke up to see dolphins swimming close by. It was magical. 

Gjipe beach

Gjipe Beach is a remote, secluded beach that can only be reached by boat or by hiking through the Gjipe Canyon. The hike is worth it for the stunning views and the beautiful stillness of the beach waiting for you at the end. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen!

Drymades beach

Drymades Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Albania, located in the small fishing village of Dhermi. Its breathtaking beauty and crystal-clear blue waters make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The beach is unique as half of it is pebbled and the other half is sandy!

Ksamil Beach

Ksamil Beach is a great family-friendly spot, located close to the city of Saranda. It is the most popular beach on the Albanian Riviera so it does get a little crowded during the summer months. The beach has shallow waters and plenty of activities nearby, including snorkeling and boat trips.

One of the best things to do in Ksamil is to rent a kayak and paddle around the uninhabited Ksamil islands, which lie a short distance offshore.  There are also plenty of restaurants and bars right on the beach where you can get delicious freshly caught seafood and some great cocktails!

Best Places to Eat & Drink on the Albanian Riviera

When you’re visiting the Albanian Riviera, it’s hard to miss out on the delicious seafood restaurants that line the beachfront. Most restaurants offer a mix of traditional and international cuisine, perfect for those who are adventurous eaters.

In Himare, you can find some great restaurants like Restaurant Piazza which offers a range of seafood dishes, Mediterranean cuisine, and great wines. It’s also in a great location for watching the sunset.

In Saranda, be sure to check out Oceanic Restaurant – a Mediterranean restaurant with stunning views of the beach. It’s an incredibly romantic setting if you’re looking for something special. They also serve some great vegetarian and vegan options here.

Ksamil is also not to be missed when it comes to food and drinks. There are many restaurants scattered along the beachfront, serving up some of the freshest seafood you can find in Albania.

Finally, if you’re looking for a lively night out, head to Saranda or Himare where you will find plenty of bars playing everything from rock ‘n roll to modern hits. The vibe is always lively and you’ll be sure to have a great night out.

Where to stay on the Albanian Riviera?

There are plenty of great Albanian Riviera hotels. I recommend staying in either Saranda or Himare and using these larger towns as a base to explore the rest of the Albanian Riviera on day trips.

Saranda is the most popular town on the Albanian Riviera and provides plenty of accommodation options from budget hostels to luxury hotels. You can also find some great Airbnb options here too. Himare is a smaller, more traditional town with plenty of guesthouses and hotels to choose from.

If you want something a little more unique and adventurous, then consider renting a campervan and driving around the coast. It’s a great way to explore the different beaches on the Albanian Riviera without having to worry about accommodation. You can wild camp on many of the beaches in Albania. I camped on Gjipe, Borsh, and Himara beaches and had a wonderful experience.

Tips for traveling the Albanian Riviera

1. You should always carry cash as some places don’t accept cards.

2. Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and mosquito repellent with you when traveling the Albanian Riviera in the summer! It gets incredibly hot.

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3. If you are driving, be careful on the roads as they can be quite narrow and winding and not well maintained. Albanians also have a reputation for being bad drivers, so be warned!

4. Public transport is limited in the region so it’s best to hire a car or take taxis if you want to get around quickly and easily. You can also try hitchhiking. Hitchhiking is both common and relatively safe in Albania.

5. Don’t forget to bring your camera! The Albanian Riviera is a great place to go if you are into photography as it offers some truly stunning landscapes and beaches.

6. Make an effort to get to know the locals. Albanians are some of the most friendly, welcoming, and hospitable people in the world.

Safety in Albania

Albania is a pretty safe place to travel to.  Follow all the usual precautions that you would when traveling.

• Keep valuables out of sight
• Always lock your valuables away when they’re not with you ( read how we use a portable travel safe here )

Best Portable Travel Safe

This fabulous portable travel safe is big enough for laptops, phones, cameras, and a whole lot more. It packs flat and secures to just about anything!

• Use a VPN when utilizing public Wi-Fi networks in hotels, hostels, and guesthouses ( read about VPNs here )
• It’s not recommended to drink tap water in Albania. Consider taking a refillable water bottle to reduce the use of single-use plastic.  Here we explain why we always travel with a filter water bottle.

Travel Insurance for Albania

Albania and the Albanian Riviera are pretty safe locations to travel to, but accidents can happen.  If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip to Albania, then you can get a quote from World Nomads for your travel insurance for Albania

Travel Tips for Exploring Albania

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Arriving by air? Book your airport transfer with Welcome Pickups here
• Get online immediately with an Albania eSIM here.
• Download and install a VPN BEFORE you travel to Albania > discount coupon here
• Book Transport in Albania with Bookaway
• Rent a car in Albania with Discover Cars
• Book the best Albanian tours and guides on Get Your Guide
• Book accommodation in Albania with Booking

Final Thoughts on the Albanian Riviera

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and explore the Albanian Riviera!  The Albanian Riviera is one of the most underrated destinations in Europe and is sure to offer you a unique holiday experience. With its stunning coastal views, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone here! So whether you are looking for an adventure-filled trip or simply want to relax on the beach and enjoy some beautiful sunsets, the Albanian Riviera has it all and won’t disappoint!

Thanks to JJ from Travel Across the Borderline – who loves a good adventure and has a passion for misunderstood places, post-conflict destinations, and responsible tourism.  She loves to get off the beaten path and explore some of the most unique destinations in the world as well as discover hidden gems in popular destinations.

Stock images in this article are courtesy Deposit Photos.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

ASocialNomad is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, and amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

Sarah Carter

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Our perfect Albanian Riviera itinerary – 1 and 2 week options!

Have you ever visited somewhere with minimal expectations and been seriously surprised? This was us in Albania! The beaches are incredible, up there with some of the very best in Europe! The locals are friendly, and there’s lots of great things to do and see in this booming travel destination.

We visited for a little over a week in 2022 just as Albania was hitting the radar of many travellers and travel bloggers. The Albanian Riviera itinerary below is based upon our well research stay and covers of what we think is the perfect way to spend your time along this beautiful stretch of coastline. We give both 1 and 2 week options pending your ideal length of stay! If you think we have missed some of your favourite options, comment below to let us know!

The perfect Albanian Riviera travel itinerary!

The entire Albanian Riviera is truly extraordinary, boasting a stunning coastline with numerous world-class beaches and cute towns. Based upon our experience during our visit, thorough research and many discussions with others who have travelled here, we recommend a few must visit areas and provide a consideration for a number of other great options to include in your itinerary. We also provide a few sample itineraries and link to other Albanian travel guides.

MUST VISIT along the Albanian Riviera:

Please note this is based upon our personal experience and opinion, which may differ from others.

1. Himare: This costal town ranks as one of our favourite beachside destinations from our European travels so far. Enjoy the calm and crystal clear water of the main beach, the authentic local food and friendly locals. Additionally, the ability for day-trip options really elevates Himare. In particular, nearby beaches of Porto Palermo and Gjipe Beach are worth visiting! See our Himare guide including top picks, accommodation and more here!

2. Gjirokaster: The small inland town of Gjirokaster is definitely a hidden gem! We consider it one of the best small towns in Albania, and possibly in all of Europe! Nestled into the hills with views of mountains, Gjirokaster is made up of cobbled old streets and charming Ottoman houses, whilst its historic castle sits impressively overlooking the town on the hill. Gjirokaster is a a great foodie town and overall very cheap! The town comes to life at night, so we recommend you stay at least 1 night! This town is located around 1.5 hours inland from Sarande. See our trip and guide to Gjirokaster here!

Other GREAT OPTIONS to look at when visiting the Albanian Riviera:

• Ksamil: Come to Ksamil for beach clubs, good vibes, seafood and azure waters. Ksamil is also a great entry point to the Albanian Riviera due to the locality from Sarande and Corfu.
• Butrint National Park: An easy day trip from Sarande or Ksamil, this national park offers historic old ruins and less popular beaches. Best explored with via car or private tour, however taxi or busses can be used here. We would recommend this if you are staying longer than a few days in Ksamil or Sarande.
• Borsh Beach: A popular and top stop along the peninsula. This strip of coastline offers one of the wider beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Locals recommend this place for families, however we didn’t manage to find time to visit. The pictures look beautiful, and it may be worth investigating more during your trip along the coast.
• Berat: This old inland town sits a little further north than Gjirokaster, meaning it’s not quite as easily accessible if you visit from Sarande. However, old historic houses pain a beautiful picture and if we had our time again, we would include this in our road trips. If you are planning a longer road trip through this region of Albania, it’s definitely worth considering!
• The Beaches: This is the main reason you should visit the region! Either for a day trip, or to stay nearby in the cute little beachside towns, visiting the incredible coastline is a must! Consider beaches like Porto Palermo, Gjipe Beach, Jale Beach, Borsh and more!
• Dhermi/Vlore: The other bigger towns along the Riviera offer excellent alternative options to Himare if looking to base yourself along the coast. We didn’t visit them, but have seen great photos and reviews of these locations.
• Hiking? This is a great and highly underrated option in Albania. Sadly we didn’t include enough time on our trip to include this, but we have seen others on some incredible hikes and encourage you to do some research here!
• Tirana: While it is considered to be up and coming as a city, this may be a little ‘out of the way’ compared to the Riviera. If you are looking to road trip, flying into Tirana may be a good option and driving down via towns like Berat and Vlore.
• The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër ): This freshwater spring is located inland on the trip towards Gjirokaster, making it an easy and ideal day trip option or addition to your road trip. However, it gets busy (so arrive early) and is a little ‘touristy’.

Our Albanian Riviera Itineraries:

Option 1: 1 week albanian riviera itinerary.

This is the perfect way to sample the Albanian Riviera, giving you enough time to see a few locations. We have included 3 of the top picks in your stay, and recommend hiring a car or driver to get around due to the poor public transport infrastructre.

• Fly in to Corfu: The Greek Island of Corfu represents the closest airport to the Albanian Riviera and the easiest way to enter. Land in Corfu and either stay a few nights or head straight to the ferry.
• Ferry to Sarande: Be prepared for chaos. There is poor organization, things run late, and it’s busy! Book in advance and make sure to book the fast ferry.. it’s worth the extra cost! It will take between 40mins-2 hours.
• Taxi to Ksamil: Either book a car hire or catch a taxi down to the nearby Ksamil. This will take around 1 hour.

Stop 1: Ksamil 2-4 nights: The beachside town of Ksamil has surged in popularity mostly due to social media clips of the azure water beaches, beach clubs and cheap prices. Spend a few relaxed days here with day trip options to the nearby Butrint National Park or ‘hidden beaches’.

Stop 2: Gjirokaster 1-2 nights: Head back to Sarande and pick up a car (or drive from Ksamil straight there). Head inland 1-2 hours to Gjirokaster. This little town is definitely one of our favourite spots in Albania and worth staying a night rather than rushing the day trip!

Stop 3: Himare 3-5 nights: A Himare how we love you! Spend a relaxed few days in the charming beachside town. If you have a car, head for day trips to nearby beaches (e.g. Gjipe, Porto Palermo etc). See our Himare Guide here including top accommodation picks!

End: Drop your car back in Sarande, catch the ferry to Corfu, and fly from this Greek Island onwards to your next stop.

Option 2: 2 week Albanian Riviera itinerary

The extended visit over 2 weeks gives you much more time to really explore the region and beautiful coastline. It also provides the opportunity for more inland adventures, including smaller towns like Berat, Gjirokaster, and possibly seeing the capital Tirana.

Part 1: as above – the first week of your road trip in Albania will look similar to the itinerary above. Consider adding 1-2 more nights to both of Ksamil and Himare to ‘slow down’ a little and enjoy the trip. You may also want to spend a night in Corfu to help slow the travel.

• Fly in to Corfu
• Ferry to Sarande
• Taxi to Ksamil

Stop 1: Ksamil 2-4 nights

Stop 2: Gjirokaster 1-2 nights

Stop 3: Himare 3-5 nights

Part 2: The Additions

Stop 4: Pick 1 of Vlore/Dhermi/Borsch 2-5 nights : These are some of the other beautiful beachside towns along the Albanian Riviera that are begging to be explored. Spend another few nights at one or multiple of these towns!

Stop 5: Berat 1 night: This inland town looks like another hidden gem, and is worth exploring, especially if you’re heading back up to Tirana to drop off a car. Spend 1-2 nights here exploring the charming old town streets.

Stop 6: Tirana 1-2 nights : This is your finishing point. With the reputation as an up and coming city in Europe, Tirana forms your base for 1-2 nights to explore and then fly out of their airport (the biggest in Albania).

Alternative End: Keep your car hire and drive up into the must visit Montenegro (option 1) OR head east to the incredible Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia (option 2). Both require reasonable amount of driving but form excellent options to prolong your travel in the region. Additionally, you could easily complete the road trip in reverse, flying into Tirana and exiting in Corfu (perfect base to explore the Greek islands).

• See our Kotor (Montenegro) guide here.
• See our Lake Ohrid (Noth Macedonia) guide here.

Want to see more Albania & Balkan travel guides and memories:

Want to see more of Albania? Take a look at our memories and travels in Albania !

The Albanian Riviera might be Europe’s best kept secret

Don’t Miss the Balkans for Your Next Europe Adventure

• Our visit to Gjirokaster!
• The beaches of Ksamil!
• The beachside town of Himare!

Visiting the nearby Greece? Check out some of our thoughts on the Greek Islands we visited:

• Have a read about our stay in Naoussa and the island of Paros!
• Want to visit Santorini? See if we think it’s worth it!
• Read about our time in Antiparos, one of our favourite day trips yet!
• Want to do another great day trip on Paros? Consider a visit to Lefkes!
• Take a look at travel content from Greece ! And follow all of our travel moments here!

Check out further highlights from our time in the Europe! Take a look!

Did we miss anything? Please let us know in the comments below if there’s any great ‘travel hacks’ or places we missed from Albania!

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Europe 1 Month Itinerary – 5 great options to help you plan the perfect trip!

Our Europe travel guide for 2023 & 2024

If we had 3 months in Europe this is where we would go! [3 Month Itinerary]

Tags: albania , albanian riviera , balkan , beach , day trip , Europe , gjirokaster , himare , ksamil

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Albanian Riviera Tour – Itinerary with the best beaches

The Albanian Riviera is a 120 km long coastline in the South of Albania. The area has some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in Europe. However, as there are so many beaches and sights to visit in the Albanian Riviera, how do you decide what to do?

Highlights of the Albanian Riviera Tour

• Visit to the Blue Eye Spring
• Swim at the unspoiled beaches of the Albanian Riviera
• Ksamil beach and boat trip to Ksamil islands
• UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Butrint
• Visit Museum cities: Berat & Gjirokastra

Because there are so many little beaches in the Albanian Riviera, it can be difficult to decide what to visit. Moreover, it is not easy to reach the smaller beaches by public transport, especially if you do not speak the Albanian language. Therefore, a tour of the Albanian Riviera will make your visit a lot easier.

Albanian Riviera Tour Itinerary

Duration: 8 days; 7 nights Departure point: Tirana, Albania Tour type: Active, Adventure, Beaches, Cultural Suitable for: Everyone Language: English Included: -Private transportation -Breakfast daily -Selected entrance fees -Private tour guide -7 nights in handpicked hotels -Airport pickup and drop-off at Tirana International Airport

Excluded: -Meals and drinks -Flight -Travel insurance

Day 1: Arrival Day

• Airport pick-up service from Tirana International Airport
• Check-in and time to refresh at your hotel in Tirana
• Guided walking tour of the city center of Tirana
• Overnight stay in a 3 star hotel in Tirana

Day 2: Berat city – Zvernec Island – Vlore

• Breakfast at the hotel
• Visit Berat city The city of Berat is located in the center of Albania. It takes around 2 hours to drive from Tirana to Berat.Berat is the most beautiful historical town in Albania. The old town of Berat is very well preserved, therefore, the city is a UNESCO heritage site. Berat is famous for the traditional Ottoman houses, that were built on the side of the hill.The houses are white colored and they all have windows which overlook the river and the valley below. Therefore, Berat is also called “the city of a thousand windows”.Walking through Berat is like walking through a museum. The streets are all paved with traditional cobble stones. And many of the traditional houses, have been turned into hotels, cafes and restaurants.
• Visit the Castle of Berat From the center of Berat, you can walk uphill for about 15 minutes, to reach the Castle of Berat on the top of the hill. The castle is a large fortress with many churches and mosques inside the castle’s walls. From the castle, you have an amazing panoramic view of the surrounding areas. You can see the Old town below. And you also see the bright blue Osum river in the valley. Although, the castle existed in 200 B.C. The majority of the castle dates back to the 13th century.
• Sightseeing at Zvernec Island. Zvernec Island is a little island in the Narta Lagoon. A long bridge leads you from the mainland to Zvernec Island. On the island, you can visit the little Zvernec monastery. The island is a beautiful location to make pictures.
• Vlore Beach The city Vlore is a very popular and large beach side city. It is also the starting point of the Albanian Riviera, which leads from Vlore southwards to Saranda. The city is built around a large horseshoe bay in the sea. Along the bay, there is a popular beach side promenade called Lungomare. Along this promenade, you can find many shops, restaurants, clubs, coffee houses and bars.
• Free time to walk by Vlore beach in the evening.
• Overnight stay in a 3 star hotel in Vlore

Day 3: Llogara Pass – Dhermi beach

• Stop at the Llogara Pass. There is a coastal road between Vlore and Saranda, that leads by all the beaches of the Albanian Riviera. The highest point on the coastal road is the Llogara Pass. We will make a stop at the Llogara Pass on our journey southwards. The Llogara Pass is famous for the spectacular view. From the pass, you can see the Ionian Sea and the beaches below. At the pass, there is a coffee house, where you can have a refreshing drink or a coffee, while admiring the view down below.
• Dhermi beach. Dhermi beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Albanian Riviera. There is a little village on the mountain side, it is worth walking up the hill to see some of the old houses and little churches. Afterwards, you can relax and swim on the lovely beach. Moreover, you can also walk along the beach to the stunning Drymades beach, which comes highly recommended by the Lonely Planet.
• Overnight stay in a 3 star hotel in Dhermi

Day 4: Gjipe beach – Jale beach – Himare village

• Gjipe beach. The beach of Gjipe is a very private beach, because the beach is entirely enclosed by cliffs. After a short drive from Dhermi, you need to walk for 10 minutes to visit the beach of Gjipe. The beach is one of the most hidden beaches of Albania. It is a beautiful place, and it is known for the perfect turquoise water. You will have some free time at Gjipe beach to relax and swim.
• Jale beach. Jale beach is close to Gjipe and it is known for the clear water. There is a little bay at this beach, but there are not many facilities yet. It is possible to go by road to Jale, but you can also go via the sea on a little kayak or by foot.
• Himare village. In the late afternoon, we transfer to the village of Himare. There is a small walking tour of the old village, which is on the hill. You can see some of the traditional houses, which are on the hillside. Moreover, since the village is on the hill it offers a beautiful view towards the Ionian Sea.
• Overnight stay in a 3 star hotel in Himare

Day 5: Ali Pasha castle – Borsh beach – Saranda

• Ali Pasha Castle. The castle of Ali Pasha is something special, because the castle is on a little peninsula in the middle of the Porto Palermo bay. The castle was built by Ali Pasha Tepelena, who was a governor while the Turkish Ottomans ruled Albania. Ali Pasha was somewhat of an eccentric figure and therefore there are many legends and stories about the castle’s owner. The building has a triangular shape and is pitch dark inside. But on the roof top, you can overlook the entire bay, which is stunning.
• Borsh beach. The beach of Borsh is an impressive sight, because the beach is extremely long. You can choose to stay amongst other people, close to the restaurants. Or you can walk along the beach to be by yourself. The beach has perfect clear blue water and there is a good restaurant at the beach as well.
• Saranda beach. Saranda is located all the way in the south of Albania, close to the Greek border. The city is the most well-known beach destination in Albania, and it is known for the vibrant nightlife. Along the seaside, there is a great variety of restaurants, bars, clubs, shops and coffee houses. In the evening, you can walk along the waterside and see all the little lights along the bay.
• Overnight stay in a 3 star hotel in Saranda

Day 6: Butrint UNESCO site – Ksamil beach & islands

• Guided tour of Butrint UNESCO heritage site. Butrint is the most impressive, archaeological site in Albania. At Butrint, you can visit the ruins of an ancient city. The site was inhabited by the Greeks from Corfu, the Romans and the Byzantines. What makes the site special, is that it is a little sanctuary and it feels very romantic. The ruins are surrounded by the trees and nature of the national park. Moreover, the site is located on a small hill, which is surrounded by water from Lake Butrint and the Vivardi channel. The archaeological remains and the beautiful setting, make Butrint worth a visit.
• Ksamil beach and islands. Ksamil beach is the most beautiful beach in Albania. The beach is paradise-like with perfect white sand and the clearest sea water you have ever seen. Moreover, there are four little islands in front of the beach. The islands are grown with nature and they have a very tropical feel. We take the boat to the Twin islands, that are connected to each other by a little strip of land. There is free time in Ksamil to swim and relax.

Day 7: Blue Eye Albania – Gjirokaster UNESCO site – Tirana

• Visit to the Blue Eye Spring. The Blue Eye Spring is a natural wonder and touristic highlight. The underwater spring pumps water from an underwater cave to the surface. The Blue Eye spring is very beautiful, because of its bright blue colour. The blue/green colour of the water seems artificial, but it is natural. Moreover, the spring looks like a human eye. The blue water is the iris and the black underwater cave is the pupil. The Blue Eye is something truly unique, that you cannot see anywhere else.
• Visit to Gjirokastra UNESCO site. Gjirokastra is a historical city, which has been crowned a UNESCO heritage site. The city has beautiful, traditional stone houses and cobble stone streets everywhere. There are a several touristic sights in the city. There is a castle on the top of the hill overlooking the town. Moreover, you can visit Zekate or Skenduli house, which are traditional houses with the original décor inside. Furthermore, you can visit the Cold War tunnel, which is a bunker from the communist period. Or you can visit the house of Enver Hoxha, who was the former communist dictator of Albania. However, if you do not want to visit any of the sights, you can simply browse at the traditional bazaar market, where you can buy souvenirs and crafts.
• Drive to Tirana

Day 8: Departure day

• Transfer to Tirana International Airport for your return flight home

Where is the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera is a 120-kilometre-long coastline in the South of Albania. The area has some of Europe’s most beautiful and hidden beaches. Although Albania has some beaches in the north of the country, the beaches in the south are the most beautiful. The Albanian Riviera starts in the coastal city Vlore and runs southwards to the city Saranda. Both Vlore and Saranda are big coastal cities with many facilities e.g. shops, restaurants, bars etcetera.

However, the true beauty of the Albanian Riviera are the little beaches. The small, hidden beaches that are enclosed by cliffs. Compared to other European countries, Albania still has unspoiled and deserted beached.

The coastal road that runs through the Albanian Riviera has a very Mediterranean feel. The road winds through the hills and every time you turn a corner, there is a little hidden beach and a fantastic view across the Ionian Sea.

The climate of the Albanian Riviera is excellent. The area has hot dry summers and mild rainy winters. The areas in the south of Albania, around Saranda, have 290 sunny days per year.

When should I visit the Albanian Riviera?

The best time to visit the Albanian Riviera is between April and October. The high season in Albania is in July and August, when there are hot temperatures and the seawater warm.

However, it is also very nice to visit Albania just before or just after the high season. If you have a chance to visit in April, May, June, September or October, you can avoid the busy season. Moreover, the temperatures are still very pleasant.

The best part of visiting in the months just before or just after the high season, is that you can have the loveliest beaches to yourself. Ksamil beach is the most popular and most pretty beach, I have visited in June and it was completely empty.

Pre-summer season: April – June High season: July and August Post summer season: September and October Low season: November – March

Do not worry, if you only have the chance to visit in July or August, due to holiday restrictions. In these months, there are still plenty little hidden beaches that are uncrowded.

Moreover, at many beaches, you can wade through the sea along the cliffs to find a hidden beach. Furthermore, some of the beaches, like Dhermi and Borsh, are very long. So, you can walk along the beach, to find the perfect spot for yourself.

How to get to the Albanian Riviera?

You can get to the Albanian Riviera by:

• Flying to Tirana International airport and driving to the south.
• Flying to the Greek Corfu island and taking the ferry to Albania.

To fly to Tirana International airport, you can book a flight with one of the following airlines:

Adria airways, Transavia airways, Austrian airlines, Alitalia, Tui Fly, British Airways, Lufthansa airline, Edelweiss air, Czech airlines, Aegean air, Air Serbia, Turkish airlines, Pegasus airline, Albawings, Blue Panorama airlines, Wizz Air, Smart Wings airline, Air Albania, Eurowings and Ernest airlines.

Then from Tirana, you can get to the Albanian Riviera by car or by bus. From Tirana, it takes roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes to drive to Vlore. The coastal city of Vlore is the starting point of the Albanian Riviera.

From Vlore, you can drive along the winding coastal road to Saranda. There are many little beaches between Vlore and Saranda. If you drive from Tirana to Saranda along the coastal road without stopping it will take you 6 hours and 30 minutes.

****IMPORTANT**** If you book the Albanian Riviera Tour, you will be picked up from Tirana International Airport and all transportation is included in the tour.

It is possible to take a minibus to Vlore or Saranda, those depart from the bus station, which is 5 kilometres from the city centre of Tirana.

It is also possible to fly to the Greek Corfu island and take the ferry to Albania. Upon arrival at Corfu airport, you need to travel to the port of Corfu. The ferry trip from the port of Corfu to Saranda takes 30 minutes by high speed boat or 70 minutes by ferry boat. The ticket prices for the ferry are between €19.00 – €23.80 depending on the season. There are between 1 – 5 ferry boat departures a day, depending on whether you travel in the low-season or the high-season.

How is the Albanian Riviera weather?

The weather in the Albanian Riviera in the summer is between 17 – 33 °C, depending on the month and city you visit.

The Albanian Riviera is the coastal area between Vlore city and Saranda city. Therefore, you can see the temperature visuals for both cities just below.

The best period to visit Vlore is between April and September. On average the temperatures in Vlore are:

April – 17 °C May – 19°C June – 23 °C July – 26 °C August – 27°C September – 25 °C

The best period to visit Sarande is between April and October. On average the temperatures in Sarande are:

April – 22 °C May – 24°C June – 29 °C July – 33 °C August – 32°C September – 27 °C

Does Albania have nice beaches?

The nicest beach of Albania is Ksamil beach . The beach of Ksamil is like a paradise with perfect white sand and turquoise water. There are four little islands in front of the beach, which gives it a very tropical feeling.

The most well-known beaches in the Albanian Riviera are Vlore, Sarande and Dhermi . These are popular amongst tourists and young people. At Vlore, Sarande and Dhermi, you will find a variety of restaurants, bars, clubs, coffee places and shops near the beach.

However, some of the lesser-known and smaller beaches are the best, if you are looking for private and unspoiled beaches. Some of the smaller beaches that are well worth a visit are:

• Gjipe beach
• Monastery beach
• Mirror beach
• Borsh beach

If you prefer to stay in a village with some character, instead of a large city. You can choose to stay at Himare. The village of Himare has traditional houses on the hill and it has a beautiful city. Himare is also a very convenient place to stay as it is in the middle of the Albanian Riviera. So it is easy to visit the nearby beaches by taxi.

Related Questions

How long is Albanian coastline? The Albanian coastline is 427 km long. Albania has beaches along the Adriatic Sea in the North and along the Ionian Sea in the South. The most beautiful part of the coast is the Albanian Riviera, which is 120 kilometres long. The Albanian Riviera is in the south of Albania between Vlore and Sarande.

How many islands has Albania? Albania has 13 islands, which are Sazan island, Kune island, Malsori island, Zvernec island, Shurdhah island, Maligrad island, Tongo island, Stillo island, Paqe island and the four Ksamil islands. For tourists, the best islands to visit at Sazan, Zvernec and the Ksamil islands.

What is the nearest airport to the Albanian Riviera? The nearest airports to the Albanian Riviera are Tirana International Airport (TIA) and Corfu Airport (CFU). If you fly to Tirana airport, you can drive or take the bus to Vlore city, which takes 3 hours and 30 min. If you fly to Corfu airport, you can take the ferry boat to Albania for 30 – 70 min.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania . I arrange your transportation and I am your English speaking guide. So that, you get to experience the most beautiful places in Albania! Kind regards, Manon

Welcome to Albania!

I am a tour guide in albania.

I am an Albania Tour Guide , who organizes 1-day, 2-day or multiple day private tours in Albania .

South Albania Itinerary: 10 Days in the Albanian Riviera!

Last Updated on August 8, 2024

This site contains affiliate links for products and services we recommend. Read my disclaimer  for more information. If you make a purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you, I will earn a small commission (for which I am very grateful).

This south Albania itinerary is for someone who loves to be by the beach and wants to explore the Albania Riviera and some of the most beautiful beaches in Albania.

It’s also perfect for anyone hopign to take a Albania road trip through the south of Albania – I’ve included anAlbanian Riveira map to help you plan your route.

The Albania Riviera runs from the south ( Saranda ), to Vlora in the north. Between those two cities are the most  beautiful Albanian beaches  you will find. Many untouched and wild!

Table of Contents

Ultimate Itinerary for 10 Days in Albania

Day 1: tirana (1 night).

I recommend starting your south Albania itinerary in the bustling capital of Tirana. Tirana airport is very convenient to land in if you’re travelling from abroad.

You ought to spend at least one night in this up-and-coming Albanian city.

Tirana has made leaps and bounds over the last couple of years. The first call of action on your first day is to visit Bunk Art.

Just off the Skanderbeg square you can get a look into what communism was like and step back in time.

This is a great place to get a feeling of what Albania was like during most of the 1900s under Enver Hoxha’s rule.  

Carrying on with the theme of communism a stop to the House of Leaves is a must.

It’s a new museum which looks into communism through the eyes of the government who were spying on the citizens.  

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After you have been drowned in communism history you may need something to eat and drink to process all that information!

I highly suggest a visit to the Blloku area. Here you will find an abundance of bars, restaurants and trendy cafes.

This part of Tirana is my favourite part and is the perfect location to visit if its your first trip here. You can also find Enver Hoxha’s house here as the area was built only for the communist party during 1944-1990.

If you want to organise your own things to do in Tirana, then read my  full Tirana guide here  with some other recommendations.

For those that have 2 weeks in Albania or longer and intend to spend more time in Tirana, you can also get in the Southern Albanian mindset by taking a day trip to the beach.

One of the best beaches near Tirana is Golem beach, which is about a 50 minute drive from the city.

Where to stay in tirana

This south Albania itinerary wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t include some of the best places to stay! Here are my favourite accommodation options in Tirana.

Luxury:  A great luxury option is  The Plaza  which is in prime position for all of the best attractions in Tirana.

This five star hotel has gained a positive reputation in Tirana and is filled with facilities to make your stay comfortable.

Another great option is the Xheko Imperial Luxury Boutique Hotel . This hotel is located in the heart of Tirana and has gorgeous balconies overlooking the city center.

Mid-range:  Try   Arc Hotel Tirana  or  Urban Rooms .

Backpacker:  The best hostel, in my opinion, is  Trip’n Hostel !

If you’re still looking for somewhere to stay, here are the  best hotels in Tirana .

Day 2: 3 Nights in Saranda

It’s time to get up and travel to the seaside city of Saranda in the Albanian Riviera. This is a great base to start your south Albania itinerary.

I might be bias because I love here, but you can’t plan an Albania travel itinerary without including Saranda.

The  bus from Tirana to Saranda  goes from the north bus station and the journey will take anywhere from 4 ½ hours to 8 hours (depending on the driver and how much coffee he’s had that day).

The journey is very beautiful and almost the best part! You will go through smaller villages, mountains and then finally reach the sea!

There is a lot to do in Saranda but after a few hours of travelling, I highly suggest relaxing at one of the beaches north of the main part of the city.

The beaches next to the restaurants’ sunset and cocktail dreams are great beaches to experience your first taste of the Albanian Riviera!

After a relaxing afternoon, I highly recommend you take in the beauty of the centre of the city and go for an Xhiro, this is one of the main attractions!

An Xhiro is a unique tradition to add to your Albania itinerary, where everyone comes out from their homes at around sunset and walks down the main boulevard/road.

This is a way for people to catch up with each other. After a walk along the main boulevard, you should duck into a restaurant and enjoy a night of eating the best seafood!

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Saranda has amazing seafood which you need to try. In the centre, I recommend Anchor Bar and restaurant. They do great seafood!

Day 3: Saranda & Butrint

In the early morning of the next day you should head to  Butrint ! Only a 20-30 minute public bus ride from Saranda is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint and should definitely be on your south Albania itinerary!

I recommend a quick trip to  Ali Pasha’s castle  before visiting the main site. This is one of my favourite  unique things to do in Albania .

After exploring the UNESCO site for a couple of hours it’s time to relax in what’s called the ‘gem of the Albanian Riviera’  Ksamil .

Ksamil has gained huge popularity over the last few years and is a must for any Albania itinerary. In summer this place can get super busy but for good reason, it’s incredible.

I recommend having a bite to eat at the restaurant Givat and then relaxing at one of the beaches.

If it’s too busy I recommend a trip to the nearby beaches like Mirror or Monastery

Monastery Beach is one of my favourites as it’s small and you also have the option to climb the hill and see an incredible view of the beach and surroundings by going to the monastery.  

Did you know that the south of Albania does incredible Italian food? Tonight, you should see for yourself!

Here are some of the best places where I recommend getting a taste of Italian food: Italian Mattarello pizzeria, Maria Magdalena, and A Casa Mia do DELICIOUS Italian food in Saranda.

In my opinion, vacations in Albania aren’t complete without a day trip to Butrint National Park and Ali Pasha’s castle.

Day 4: Saranda

On your last full day in Saranda and I highly recommend taking a trip to Blue Eye – a 20-minute short drive away from Saranda.  

Blue Eye is a natural spring that has an unknown depth. Divers have been down to 50 meters and were unable to go any further, so nobody has any idea how deep this spring really goes.

The people who live here believe that the spring water has healing properties so many locals bring their water bottles to fill up from this spring.

The water is a constant 10 degrees Celsius! Have a coffee at one of the restaurants at the blue eye and enjoy nature!

Read my full post on how to  visit the Blue Eye  so you have the best info when adding it to your south Albanian itinerary.

On the way back from Blue Eye I suggest you visit Phoenice Archaeological park. This park is one of Saranda’s best-kept secrets. I recommend bringing a lunch picnic and enjoying it from there.  

This park dates to the 5th century BC. You can see remains of an ancient theatre, a small prostylos temple, Hellenistic houses, Byzantine church and other important relics and monuments.  

In the late afternoon either chill at the beach again or you can do a walk or drive up to the monastery of the 40 saints. This is where Saranda got its name.

💛 Anita’s Top Recommendations: Check out these incredible tours in the local area!

👉 Attend a sightseeing tour: Visit Saranda’s best sites including Blue Eye, Butrint, and Lekuresi Castle.

👉 Take a stunning hiking tour: Begin at Bovilla Lake and hike Gamti Mountain for once-in-a-lifetime type views.

👉 Go water rafting: This unforgettable water rafting tour allows you to explore the natural beauty of Albania including the Osumi Canyons.

The monastery dates back from the 4th-6th century. The monastery is half in ruins now due to it being bombed in World War 2 as the British thought there was a German garrison hiding inside.

I highly recommend staying and watching the sunset from here, it’s a beautifully quiet spot and in my opinion, gives the best view of the city centre!

Another great sunset spot that is more popular is Lëkurësi Castle.

Unfortunately, these days the castle has been turned into a restaurant but nevertheless, it’s still a beautiful spot to watch the sunset and enjoy the view.

If you have a bit more time and want to do Albania in 2 weeks rather than 10 days, I highly recommend a few extra days in Saranda.

Where to  Stay in Saranda

Luxury:  One of the best luxury hotels in Saranda is  Santa Quaranta . This hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool, an on-site bar and spacious bedrooms.

By staying here, you will also be close by to some of Saranda’s most popular locations including Butrint National Park.

Another great option is the  White residence rooms .

Mid-range:  Try  Olive Tree  or  Hotel Pini .

Backpacker:  My recommendation is  Hasta La Vista .

Read my full list of the best Saranda hotels .

Day 5: 1 Night in Qeparo

Next up on your south Albania itinerary, it’s time to hit the road and drive towards the small southern Albania village of  Qeparo .

This is one of the most underrated places to visit in Albania, but people often tell me it was a highlight of their Albania vacations, and I don’t disagree!

On the way, I recommend a stop to Borsh Beach, the longest strip of beach along the Albanian Riviera. You can always find a spot for yourself here. 

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After a little relaxing at the beach, you can go to Borsh Castle. It’s an incredibly unique castle with a lot of history.

The castle is often missed by tourists, but I highly recommend adding to your Albania itinerary.

The view from the castle is amazing. It dates to the 13th century.

The castle is in ruins but in the 14th century when the Ottoman empire took over Albania, they built a mosque in the middle of the castle which still stands today.

And now it’s time to reach the beach portion of Qeparo!

Enjoy lunch at Hotel Riviera and soak up the rays. In the afternoon you must visit the half-abandoned village of old Qeparo on top of the hill.

This is the most beautiful old Albanian village in my eyes. Cobbled paths leading around the village which was pretty much abandoned during the fall of communism.

Unfortunately, there is no option to stay up here so after visiting make your way back to the beach front and settle for the night.

Where to stay in Qeparo

Luxury:  For a luxury accommodation option try Qeparo Napolon Complex . The complex is set within the hills of Qeparo, so you will have some pretty great views by staying here.

You’ll also have access to an outdoor pool, BBQ facilities and free wi-fi.

Mid-range:  For a mid-priced hotel try  Irini’s Garden Hotel .

Backpacker:  There are currently no hostels in Qeparo but if you look at  Booking.com  you can get a room for as little as €20.

Day 6 & 7: 2 Nights in Himare

Today on your south Albania itinerary, you will travel to the coastal town of  Himara . This is one of the most beautiful places in South Albania!

On the way make sure you visit the unique castle of Ali Pasha – Porto Palermo castle.

The castle is unique because it has 3 corners instead of 4. There’s also a small beach by the castle.

When you get to Himare you can opt to stay by the beach or in the old village which sits on top of the mountain.

Spend 2 nights here enjoying everything that Himara has to offer.

Walk down the boulevard, enjoy the beaches in the small town (There’s even a secret one which you can only rock climb or kayak too).

This is the perfect place to lay out on the beach and soak up the Albanian Riviera rays. Another thing you should do is check out the old town on the hill if you are not already staying up there.

The view is incredible, and the town lies within an old ruined castle. It’s one of my favourite spots in southern Albania for some peace and quiet.

Where to stay Himare

Luxury:  Make sure you stay at  Vila Kosteli  as you’ll be 200 metres from Maracit Beach and 300 metres from Spille Beach!

When staying here, you can indulge in a refreshing breakfast on the rooftop with incredible views of Himara.

Mid-range:  Try  Scala Bungalows , a boutique setting but at a very affordable!

Backpacker:  There are two great hostels in Himara,  Himara Downtown Hostel  and  Himara Hostel .

Day 8: 1 Night in Jale

Jale is a small developing beach stopover, but still worth including in your south Albania itinerary.

You can find some amazing luxury places to stay here, a daybed can cost over 100 euros!

In the summer it’s buzzing with people and in the other seasons, it’s completely empty.

Depending on when you visit south Albania might affect if you stay here or not as in the summer the parties can be wild. If partying is not your thing then you can choose to stay in Dhermi for an extra night.

Whilst you relax or party in Jale make sure you hire a kayak and go to the nearby beach paradise of  Gjipe .

Nowadays it’s not so secret but it’s still such a beautiful place to visit in southern Albania. You can go here by car (only 4wd) or by walking or kayak!

This beach is set in between a huge canyon and is a good option for people who love to camp as there are some beautiful views here.

Where to stay?

Luxury:  Try  Folie Marine Beach Hotel and Club  has comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast and a gorgeous outdoor pool.

You can also try out many local delicious whilst staying here and of course, enjoy the gorgeous outdoor pool.

Backpacker:  There are no hostels but there is a great camping spot in Jale!

Day 9 & 10: 2 Nights in Dhermi

The final stop on your south Albania itinerary or Albania roadtrip is Dhermi. Dhermi is another popular place for holidaymakers coming to south Albania.

It’s beautiful beaches, luxurious resorts, and great places to visit nearby make it a popular destination of anybody’s Albania itinerary!

Apart from checking out Dhermi and relaxing near the seaside, you can also visit the nearby village of Vuno where you’ll discover traditional houses and some of the best views in South Albania.

This picturesque small village sits on the hillside and has an amazing view of the Albanian Riviera. 

While you’re in Dhermi be sure to check our Drymades, a beach that’s not far from Dhermi. It’s one of my favourite places to visit during the summer months!

You can also opt to go to Llogara national Park which is not too far from Dhermi and one of the best national parks in Albania, in my opinion. 

At the top of the park, you can explore by doing a short walk or if you’re a thrill seeker you also have the opportunity to do parasailing from here! 

Where to stay Dhermi

Luxury:  Try  Golden View residence  for a luxury hotel in Dhermi!

This hotel has spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool and stunning views Ionian sea.

Backpacker:  There is currently no hostels in Dhermi however, if you look on  Booking.com  there are very cheap private room options.

Now it’s time to head back to Tirana for the finale of your Albanian Riviera holiday. From Dhermi it’s a 4-5 hour bus or car ride. Purchasing a rental car is the most convenient way to travel and the best option if you have the budget to do so. However, taking public transportion is one of the fun things about travelling and you never know who you might meet.

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This Albanian Riviera itinerary can easily be extended and adjusted according to your wants and needs.

That concludes this south Albania itinerary. If you have more time and are interested in more Albania day trips, here is a list of other great places to visit or stay in south Albania that I haven’t mentioned in this article:

• Gjirokastra

Frequently Asked Questions

The Albanian Riviera is located in the Southwestern part of the Albania along the Northeastern Ionian Sea in the Mediterranean Sea. Generally the Albanian Riviera is considered to be between the cities of Vlore and Sarande.

It spans 120-kilometres (74.5 miles) along the Albanian coast.

Ten days is a great amount of time to see the region. This gives you enough time to enjoy all the best Albania south beaches and have a fun Albanian road trip through the south. However, if you have more time, definitely spend a few extra days at least and do Albania in 2 weeks instead.

Both the north and south of Albania has its own characteristics. The south is well known for its traditional tourist attractions whereas the north is most famous for the Albanian Alps and its charming villages.

Now that you have prepared your south Albania itinerary , do you have any questions? Did I miss anywhere worth visiting? What are your favourite South Albania cities?

Other articles you will love:

• Albania Travel Guide for First Timers: Everything You Need to Know!
• Important Tips Before You Travel to Albania
• Guide to the Best Beaches in Albania
• Locals Guide to the Albanian Riviera
• Albania Itinerary: 1 week in Albania (7 days)

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Beautiful pictures! Kudos to capturing these great views

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The Albanian Riviera: A Gem to Add to Your European Bucket List

• Post last modified: August 6, 2024
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: July 28, 2022
• Post category: Europe / Guides

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Every year millions flock to the beaches of Europe . While many flood the popular beach destinations like Greece and and Italy , they hardly touch the other areas surrounding. But did you know that some of the best beaches in Europe are those that most overlook? Well, the Albanian Riviera is home to a lot of them.

From trendy beach clubs facing turquoise waters, to hidden coves only accessible by boat, there are tons of hidden gems in Albania just waiting to be discovered!

In this guide we're going to share our favorite spots along the Albanian Riviera, from the best beaches of Albania, to where you should base yourself. So without further ado, here is everything you need to know for visiting the Albanian Riviera.

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera refers to the long stretch of the best beaches of Albania, in South Western Albania. The area starts from the city of Vlore, and stretches all the way down to the city of Ksamil, just north of the border with Greece .

The Albanian Riviera sits along the Northeastern Ionian Sea, which is part of the Mediterranean.

The Albanian Riviera starts from Vlore, and goes down to the border of Greece.

How to Get to the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is an entire coast line, so depending on where you are coming from, or which part you want to go to, will depend on the best way to get there.

Vlore, which is the northernmost area of Albanian Riviera, is about a 2/1 hour drive from the capital city. Ksamil, which is the southernmost town, is about 280 kilometers driving, and a 5 hour ride by car.

Where Do You Fly to for the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera itself doesn't have an airport. However, you can fly into Tirana or Corfu. Depending on where you are coming from will determine which one is better. We personally use Skyscanner's calendar feature to check which dates are the cheapest for the entire month, and you can compare whether Tirana or Corfu have better options.

Here we've added the search option so you can look directly and see which airport is best for you!

How to Get to the Albanian Riviera from Tirana

If you fly into Tirana, it will definitely be the most seamless option as you will be inside the country. The easiest way to get to the Albanian Riviera is to rent a car in Tirana and drive. This will give you much more freedom to truly explore the best beaches of Albania, and all that the coastline has to offer.

We love to rent cars from locals, as it's the perfect way to cut costs and support the community:

The Albanian Riviera is best enjoyed by driving the coast.

Getting to the Albanian Riviera by Bus

There are also public buses that go from Tirana and stop along the Albanian Riviera. Vlore takes about 3 hours and is 500 Lek, while Saranda is a 5 hour drive and costs around 12 euros. If you don't want to rent a car, then we would suggest choosing a base, and then taking excursions from where you are.

Getting to the Albanian Riviera by Ferry

The first time I visited the Albanian Riviera actually wasn't by starting in Albania. 

Did you know that the Greek islands are right around the corner from the Albanian Riviera? Corfu is a stunning Greek island that sits right across from the south of Albania, and has daily ferries that go to Sarande (just 10-15 minutes north of Ksamil).

So if you happen to find a cheaper flight to Corfu, you can easily hop on the ferry to make it over to the Albanian Riviera. Also, if you want to just visit while in Corfu, this is the perfect day trip to get a glimpse at what the Albanian Riviera has to offer!

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Entry Requirements for Albania

Traveling in Europe can get a little confusing, as there are different requirements for every country. This goes for within the EU, as well as within the Schengen Zone. That's why we're here to clarify a few things for traveling to Albania.

Visa Requirements for Albania

In many  European countries , the "90/180" rule applies for those that are not European. This means that in a 180-day period, tourists can only stayin the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in total.

Some countries in Europe are part of the EU, but aren't part of the Schengen Zone, and some are in the Schengen Zone but are not part of the EU. Some are in both, while some aren't in either. You can imagine that this can get super confusing when trying to calculate your traveling dates! 

The good news is though, that Albania is not part of the Schengen Zone. This means that you can freely travel here even if you've already expired your 90 days in the Schengen Zone (which is exactly what happened to us). Tourists are able to travel to Albania visa free for a total of 90 days within a 180-day period, despite any of the other European countries they had visited prior.

Covid Entry Requirements for Albania

While the entry requirements to enter and stay in Europe may get confusing, luckily it isn't when it comes to Covid. Albania is now open for all travelers, with or without a vaccination. There are also no longer any regulations about wearing masks, nor will you really find anyone wearing them anymore.

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Local Adjustments for the Albanian Riviera

Whenever traveling there are things that you may forget about, that could be different from where you are coming from. Here are a few of the local adjustments to keep in mind while traveling throughout Albania.

What Language is Spoken in Albania?

The official language in Albania is Albanian. Unlike all of the languages north of Albania, the Albanian language has nothing to do with the Slavic ones. It is rather hard to learn, and we were really only able to pick up a few words here and there.

Many older people won't speak too much English throughout the country, but the young kids really have a great level of English! Being in a more "touristy" area of the country though, we found much more people were able to speak English along the Albanian Riviera.

What Currency is Used in Albania?

The currency used in Albania is the Albanian Lek. Currently (March 2024) the exchange is 96.05 lek for every USD or euro. Euros can actually be used pretty much everywhere, and we even found the exchange rate to be better than using lek sometimes! This is quite rare to find, so we suggest bringing as many euros as you can before coming to Albania.

Another thing to note is that even in fancy looking beach clubs, you'll find. lot of places only take cash. Even restaurants will claim that their "credit card machine is broken". So pretty much cash is key in Albania.

Is the Albanian Riviera Expensive?

The Albanian Riviera is surprisingly affordable! Honestly, when you are there you will feel as if everything will be a lot of money, but it is much cheaper than some of the nearby countries such as Croatia , Montenegro , or the Greek Islands.

What Plug Adapter Do I Need for Albania?

Albania uses the same plug types as the rest of Europe, which are types C & F. The standard voltage in Albania is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.

Is Albanian Water Drinkable?

The water potability actually changes quite a lot throughout Albania. You'll find that in the mountains the water is great to drink, while cities don't have the most drinkable water. 

The Albanian Riviera is pretty safe to drink, but locals prefer bottled water. Additionally, it's rare that restaurants will bring tap water to the table.

Is Tipping Expected in Albania?

The tipping culture in Albania is pretty flexible. Most people tip in bars by just rounding up, while in restaurants leaving 100-200 lek (between $1-2).

We always left 10% to our servers that did a good job, as wages are pretty low in Albania. However, if you don't receive great service, you don't need to feel obligated to tip like that.

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What City is the Albanian Riviera? Where to Stay Along the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Rivera is full of stunning spots! So what city is the Albanian Riviera exactly? Well, the coast is very long, and just like the Amalfi Coast , there are a number of cities that you can stay in. We're going to tell you a few of our favorite areas to stay along the coast line.

Dhermiu & Drymades

This area of the Albanian Riviera is simply stunning, and we don't understand how it wasn't jam packed when we visited in the height of summer.

Dhermiu and Drymades are the beginning of the Albanian Riviera, and are just beside one another. Home to some of the best beaches of Albania, you can't skip this area! The beaches have super turquoise waters, a cute downtown, and the most stylish beach clubs.

Dhermiu and Drymades are home to the best beach clubs and resorts.

This area used to be super popular for Albanians to escape the city and party the night away. Unfortunately, things have changed when it comes to nightlife, and now the cops make bars and clubs turn off the music after midnight. So we suggest having yourself a happy hour at one of the trendy beach clubs if you want a little summer fun.

The beach clubs no longer have music late, so we suggest enjoying the daytime.

Want to book a place in the area of Dhermiu & Drymades? You can see the different accommodation options by checking the map below:

Just south of Dhermiu lies another amazing beach town to stay. Himare has a Long Beach, as well as surrounding smaller ones. There is a long strip of restaurants, bars, and shops to check out, making it perfect for all ages.

Himare has a long coast lined with beach clubs, restaurants, and shops.

Another reason we visited Himare was because it is where the excursions go to visit some of the hidden beaches in the area. We has an amazing day sailing and exploring the gems that the Albanian Riviera has to offer, including one of the best beaches of Albania- Grama Bay!

Himare is home to most of the boat trips along the Albanian Riviera.

Want to check out accommodation options in Himare? Simply refer to the map below:

Ksamil was once one of my favorite beaches in the world. Also known as the "Maldives of Europe", Ksamil is pretty much the only area where you'll find sandy beaches, surrounded by a small archipelago.

Ksamil is the only area that has sandy beaches.

Unfortunately now it's changed quite drastically. The entire area is covered with restaurants. umbrellas, and vendors. Word got out what a hidden gem Ksamil is, and well now- it isn't so hidden.

Ksamil now is full of big beach clubs and restaurants over the water.

Despite my dissapointment, I can't help but still recommend Ksamil, particularly for families.

There are pedal boats, aqua parks, and plenty of activities for children to enjoy while adults grab a drink on the water. If you don't have kids, we still suggest coming here for a few hours to check out the chaotic and vibrant beach town of Ksamil.

Ksamil has plenty of activities for families.

Want to prebook some excursions around the area? Here are a few different options:

Looking to book your place to stay in Ksamil? Just refer to the map below:

The Best Things to Do Along the Albanian Riviera

Now that you know all of the best places to stay along the Albanian Riviera, it's time to share all of the great things you can do.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Indulge at the Beach Clubs

As we mentioned, the beach clubs are seriously awesome along the Albanian Riviera, particularly in Dhermiu, Drymades, and Himare. 

The best beach clubs are along Dhermiu and Drymades Beaches.

Swings next to the beach, boardwalks running to the sea, and trendy music play to set the mood. Stylish decor, bean bags along the beach, and covered cabanas are just another few things you can expect to experience at the beach clubs along the Albanian Riviera.

The beach clubs are so much more than bars and restaurants.

Many beach clubs are just for cocktails, while there are also plenty that serve up tasty dishes (which we'll mention our favorites later). The best part? You can feel like a celebrity without having to spend a fortune doing so.

The beach clubs have everything from swings and hammocks to bean bags and cabanas.

Hike to Gjipe Beach

In our opinion, one of the best beaches of Albania is Gjipe Beach. Tucked away through a canyon between Dhermiu and Himare, it's easy to spend a whole day enjoying all that Gjipe has to offer. 

Gjipe beach is one our favorite beaches along the Albanian Riviera.

Rent a float, paddle board, or kayak, explore the caves, or hike to the waterfall inside the canyon. This beach can be hiked to in just 20 minutes (or 3 hours from the main road). Want to learn more? We have a full article that you can check out with all the details.

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Check out Himare Castle

While the main highlight is beach area of Himare, little people know about the hidden gem sitting behind it.

Himare castle is now pretty much in ruins, but it is still pretty cool to check out. Perched up high away the bay, you can also enjoy spectacular views- especially at sunset! Until 8 pm there is a small entrance fee, which is less than the equivalent of 1 USD.

Himare Castle is a hidden gem of the Albanian Riviera.

Visit Castle Palermo

This is a gem that you can find right off the main highway going from the north of the Albanian Riviera towards the south (about 10-15 minutes from Himare).

Palermo Castle can be spotted right from the highway.

The large castle sits on a small peninsula where you can find locals sunbathing or swimming. Unfortunately we could only appreciate the view from the road, as it closed at 6 pm and it was a bit later than that. Nevertheless, we definitely think it would be a great stop while driving the coastline.

Palermo Castle is located on a peninsula with small beaches around it.

Take a Boat Tour

When we initially got our boat tour from Himare, we just wanted to go to Grama Bay. Paying 50 euros a piece, we weren't exactly sure if it would be worth it.

Taking a boat trip is a great way to explore the Albanian Riviera.

However, after a long day on the water (from 10 am to 3 pm) we can say it was one of our favorite things that we did along the Albanian coast! 

Taking a boat trip allows you to explore the best beaches of Albania.

Our boat had a small group, stopping at and by some beautiful spots like hidden beaches and caves. it was an incredible experience, and really a highlight for us. We definitely suggest booking in advance! (The waves can really depend on whether the tours run or not).

Our boat made several stops along the coast.

Trek to Grama Bay

Just as we mentioned, the main reason we took a boat tour was to see Grama Bay. This is one of the best beaches of Albania, and is probably because it is still pretty well preserved from mass tourism.

Grama Bay is one of the best beaches of Albania.

Tucked away in the rocky coast, Grama Bay has super turquoise waters, and an epic viewpoint.

Boat tours come here briefly, but if you really want to spend some time here, then you can do a 4 hour hike to get there. There is a restaurant and even people staying in tents there. We do suggest starting early as the sun gets strong, and it is a rather long trek to get there.

You can spend hours enjoying Grama Bay- especially from this viewpoint!

Want to experience the highlights of the Albanian Riviera? Here are a few options from day trips to full packages:

Explore the Hidden Coves

The entire Albanian coast is full of some of the best beaches of Albania. While most beaches are long stretches full of beach clubs, there are some tiny beaches tucked away from the crowds. We definitely suggest searching for them if you like your own little slice of paradise.

Our favorite zone of tiny beaches was located in between Drymades and Palasa. Here you'll even find tiny patches of sand, as well as a couple of caves!

There are some great hidden coves near Drymades.

Explore Butrint National Park

If you're a history lover, then you'll love a stop at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Butrint National Park is located all the way in the south of Albania, right by the border of Greece . It is full of archaeological remains and historical sites. We personally thought that it was a bit overpriced (1,000 lek per person), and a tad overcrowded for our liking. 

Butrint Park is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, if you do want to see something a bit different, then it's a great spot to check out early in the morning before the big tour buses arrive. (It opens at 8 am, and is right down the road from Ksamil).

Butrint Park is just outside Ksamil.

If you'd rather take a tour or have your transportation included, here are a few options you can choose from:

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Getting Around the Albanian Riviera

Getting around the Albanian Riviera is definitely easiest by car.

We didn't find many buses, although we are sure there are some in the bigger cities such as Sarande and Vlore. Renting a car is the best in our opinion, and is most practically done by getting one straight in Tirana if you are flying into Albania.

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Local Food & Drink

We absolutely loved the cuisine in Albania, and found that the food varied quite a bit from the mountains to the beach areas.

Along the Albanian Riviera you can expect to find a lot of fresh seafood and pasta dishes, similar to those of Italy. Even the fancy beach clubs were super affordable, making a meal at the beach extremely pleasant.

Seafood pasta is a must while on the Albanian Riviera.

Fresh fruit is also very big in Albania, especially watermelon! It's pretty common that restaurants will bring watermelon or some fruit to the table after your meal completely free of charge. Here are a couple of our favorite places we ate along the Albanian Riviera.

Best Restaurants Along the Albanian Riviera

The restaurants along the Albanian Riviera were a bit hit and miss. These are the two places that we loved though.

Located at Dhermiu Beach, this beach club is extremely trendy and inviting, just as the owner is. The cocktails were great, there was a wonderful vibe, and the seafood pasta and seafood salad we got were the best we had in the whole country.

We ended up spending a full day at Rapos, due to the amazing service we got. Great music and atmosphere, and the sweetest waiter ever were at this restaurant. The seafood wasn't as amazing as Don Mare, but it was still very good. Located in Himare, it's definitely a great place to relax for the day with some drinks on the beach.

Rapos was one of our favorite beach clubs in Himare.

How Safe is the Albanian Riviera?

When you tell other Balkan citizens that you're visiting Albania, they have nothing but bad things to say about the people. Personally, I've also had some experiences with Albanians that came off a bit arrogant in the past.

This time we came and found that all of those stereotypes and preconceptions were completely false! The people of Albania are super warm, and the country is very safe.

Like anywhere, we still suggest to be cautious with your belongings, and don't leave things in your car in eyesight. However, solo travelers, women, and families can confidently go and explore this beautiful country without having to worry about safety.

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Other Things to Know About Visiting the Albanian Riviera

Now you know almost all there is to know about visiting the Albanian Riviera! Here are also a few other thing to keep in mind.

What is the Weather Like in the Albanian Riviera?

We were at the Albanian Riviera for an entire week, and seriously didn't see a single cloud in the sky. Days were long, hot, and sunny, making it perfect to enjoy the best beaches of Albania.

The Albanian Riviera has hot sunny days and clear skies.

What are the Best Months to Go to the Albanian Riviera?

The coastline really comes to life in the summertime, and even in the height of the season, we rarely felt that places were too packed to enjoy (with the exception of Ksamil). We do predict that this will change in years to come, as Albania will definitely start to appear on peoples' radar sooner or later.

If you want completely empty beaches and still pleasantly warm days, you can come during the shoulder months. We would suggest from early May to early June, or September to early October.

Even in the summer we were able to enjoy some areas that weren't so crowded.

How to Pack for a Trip to the Albanian Riviera

When it comes to visiting the Albanian Riviera, it's all about the beach preparation. Here are some of the things we suggest packing for a trip to the Albanian Riviera: 

• Sunscreen  
• Flip flops  (our favorites are  Havaiana flip flops , as they are long lasting)
• Bathing suits
• Sneakers  (for the hikes)
• Water Shoes (the beaches are of pebbles)
• Power Bank  (for the long excursions, beach days, and hikes- we use  Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)
• Nicer beachy clothing to go out in
• Vacuum Sealed Water Bottle (we use Cafago Water Bottles )
• Action Camera  (for all water activities) we use the  Insta 360 X3  because it's small & waterproof
• Drone  (You can get epic shots at the beaches! We use the  Mavic Mini Pro 3  because it's super light and high quality)
• Case Mate waterproof phone pouch  (we use the  Cafago Waterproof Phone Pouch )
• Travel Adapter  (we use Insignia travel adapters as they are affordable and reliable)
• Travel toiletries  (our favorites are from  Sheer Alternatives because they're all natural and 100ml)

The beaches are rocky along the Albanian Riviera, so make sure to bring water shoes.

Finally, we found that when booking places people always asked for E uros , and even gave a slightly better rate when using them. Unfortunately we didn't have a lot of euros, but definitely think it would've helped.

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Whether you plan on visiting the hot spot of Ksamil, or exploring the lesser known best beached of Albania, we know you are going to fall in love with the Albanian Riviera just like we did.

We spent a week exploring down the coast, and found that it was a perfect taste for what the area has to offer. However, we definitely could have spent a full two weeks with all of the amazing things the area has to offer! We have a ton of other Albania travel guides , and always more coming up! So make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay in the know for upcoming articles.

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The Albanian Riviera Travel Guide

Holidays on the Albanian Riviera! That sounds good … The beautiful Albanian Riviera is located on the coast in the south of Albania. It starts from the municipality of Sarandë in the extreme south of Albania at the places of Ksamil and the archaeological site and natural park of Butrint (near the Greek border) and ends at the mountain pass and national park of Llogara.

About the Albanian Riviera

The Albanian Riviera is located in southwestern Albania on the Ionian Sea and is separated in the hinterland by the Keraunian Mountains. In general, tourism on the Albanian Riviera is still relatively small-scale, tourism development has only started since the year 2000 and the coastal road and roads to the beaches were reconstructed around 2008 and 2011. Most tourists on this coast are Albanians from Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia and emigrants on holiday in their own country. The most visited coastal towns by foreigners are probably Ksamil with the islands, Himare and Sarande.

Best time to travel to Albanian Riviera

The best time to travel to Albania is from May to September. Are you a sun lover? Then you will enjoy yourself in Albania. Although Albania has hot dry summers, the breeze from the Adriatic Sea makes for a wonderful refreshment. In winter it can be very cold especially in the interior. The area has a wonderful Mediterranean climate, also known as the Mediterranean climate.

How to get there?

The Albanian Riviera is often compared to the Amalfi coast in Italy or Greece before mass tourism. There are few ways to get to the Albanian Riviera. One option is to fly to Tirana and take a taxi or bus to the coast. A bus trip takes about 3 to 5 hours but is quite inexpensive. Another option is to fly to Corfu airport and take the ferry to the Albanian Riviera. This takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Places to visit

A beautiful landscape with extensive beaches, where you can relax as a visitor. The city itself has a vibrant nightlife, which attracts many young Albanians. The city is located on a mountain slope by the sea. This way you can enjoy beautiful sunsets from the city. The beach has a cozy atmosphere, partly due to the lively beach bars. The beach also has quiet places where you can enjoy the beautiful Albanian Riviera.

Read more: Dhermi Albania

A beautifully situated city on the Ionian Sea, where the weather is warm every season, who wouldn’t want that? That is why Sarande also has a completely relaxed atmosphere. Unfortunately, the coast is overdeveloped, due to the development of atmospheric apartment buildings. Yet Sarande also has beautiful parts. There are many bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops, which are worth a visit. In the area of ​​Sarande, in addition to ancient ruins, there are many other historical sites. The city is fun to visit in combination with a trip through the beautiful, natural surroundings that surround the city.

Read also: Things to do in Saranda

Sun, sea, and beach. All can be found in Himare, a town located on the Albanian Riviera, by the water, and on a hilly coastline. The beaches and the quiet boulevard by the sea are the most visited places. The historic old town is also worth a visit. The atmospheric tavernas are full of Mediterranean charm and serve delicious, local seafood. This city also has a beautiful castle with a view of the sea. The mountains near the city contain hiking trails that overlook the countryside, where spectacular churches and monasteries such as the Monastery of the Cross and Athaliotissa can be seen.

This is the first accessible beach in the Riviera after the steep descent through the zigzagging Llogaraja pass. A new motorway leads from the main road straight to the beach, which consists of nothing more than a strip of white sand and rocks, apart from a nightclub that draws large crowds in the summer. In addition to the nightclub, there are several cafes, a pizzeria, and a handful of camping pitches. Perfect for beach lovers who want to avoid the crowds, camp alone and swim undisturbed.

South of Saranda, the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera, lies Ksamil: a perfect location just steps from the Greek border. The three small islands, surrounded by a turquoise bay, are easy to reach by swimming or boating and it is always less crowded than on the busy city beach. Ksamil is an important place for the locals, because of the many travelers who stay here in the summer, but even during that period, the islands offer some form of tranquility. Corfu can be seen from a distance (this part of Albania is the closest to the island) and the ancient city of Butrint, Unesco World Heritage, is a little further than Saranda, which makes it easy to combine beach and culture.

This charming cove is often overlooked by travelers passing directly to Saranda just down the road. Bunec is peaceful and somewhat unconventional, with a white pebble beach divided by a river flowing from the mountains. The sunset here is nothing short of beautiful and a beach is a good option for those looking for a little more comfort, but still want to stay in an unspoiled place.

Borsh is the longest stretch of beach in Albania. Seven kilometers of breathtaking nature, with an impressive road that leads to the open plain where the village of the same name looms from afar. Strangely enough, Borsch is not very touristy, despite its community and bustling olive oil industry. There is nothing more than a few makeshift restaurants and bars on the beach.

What to eat

You can order delicious fish on the coast. One of the best places you find is in the port city of Vlora. The bay is full of good fish restaurants and often you will also find a beautiful view. A great place to eat is the restaurant, Kuzum Baba. This restaurant is located at the highest point in the city. Nice view, good food, good wine. What more could you wish for?

Read also: Albanian traditional food and  The best restaurants in Albania

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The Ultimate Guide To The Albanian Riviera: Where To Find The Best Beaches In Albania

4 October 2018.

After shivering through my first proper European winter, a grim few months of monotonous grey skies, sub-zero temperatures and generous lashings of rain, sleet and icy winds, the heat of summer was what I desperately craved.

An endless string of sun-drenched afternoons spent beside the sea, slipping into a hypnotic dance that drifts between the waves and the sand, and enough time to bask in the kind of warmth that seeps deep into your bones.

As the frosty days melted away, the lush green of spring rippled across the continent and the end of my 3-month stay in the Schengen Area was fast approaching, I set my sights on the turquoise seas of the Albanian coast and the promise of long, balmy days, uncrowded shores and all the beauty of the Greek Islands without the price tag.

The days slipped by in a blissful blur of morning swims on empty shores, stunning clifftop hikes that led to hidden bays, delicious seafood by the water, daily ice-creams and sunsets that washed the turquoise seas in shades of vibrant orange and gold.

While Albania’s beaches are hardly the well-kept secret they once were, especially in summer, its sparkling coastline is dotted with a ridiculous number of impossibly pretty bays, secluded coves and wide swathes of pebbled shores that make you wish you could stay forever.

After 3 weeks hopping along the magnificent Albanian Riviera, these are my picks of the best beaches in Albania and the charming seaside towns where you can still find your own little pocket of untouched beach paradise.

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Laidback Himara was my first stop along the coast and it’s still one of my absolute favourites.

Despite the growing development springing up along much coastline, this mellow seaside town has remained relatively untouched and manages to retain oodles of that old-timey beach town charm.

With deep-seated fishing traditions, Himara wraps neatly around a pebbled bay where fishing boats bob lazily in the turquoise water and delicious Mediterranean eats abound.

Undoubtedly, it’s one of the best stops along the Albanian Riviera and makes an excellent base for further exploration.

Which Himara Beaches To Visit  |

The pebbly shores of Himara’s main beach, Spile Beach , make a lovely place to sprawl out and relax, particularly in the morning and afternoon when the crowds are yet to rise or have already begun to disperse.

The humming boulevard that lines the waterfront serves up ice-cream, cold drinks and tasty snacks making it easy to while away an entire day here without having to wander far from the beach.

Just a 20-minute walk through the forest north of Himara you’ll emerge at Livadhi Beach , a favourite for many in the area. This wide stretch of beach is much livelier than Himara, has plenty of deck chairs for rent and at the right time of year makes a perfect spot to catch the sunset.

A short way south of Himara,  Filikuri Beach  provides a more secluded beach hideaway. Filikuri is wrapped in cliffs and has a rather rocky shore so is best reached by boat or kayak, though I did meet some rather adventurous beachgoers who instead decided to scale the rocks with the aid of a rope which is reportedly fixed to the cliff.

Where To Stay In Himara  |

Himara Hostel    |  Kick back in a hammock in the enormous leafy garden or enjoy a sunset swim at Spile Beach just a 5-minute walk away. This budget-friendly option also boasts spacious dorms, a decent free breakfast, guest kitchen and several resident kitties to cuddle up with.

Read the latest reviews on  TripAdvisor , or check rates and availability on  Hostelworld  or  Booking.com .

Beleri House   |  This lovely beach pad has a prime location just 2 minutes from the beach. Guests love the gorgeous ocean views, vine-covered terrace and friendly owners.

Read the latest reviews on  TripAdvisor , or check rates and availability on  Booking.com .

Where To Eat In Himara  |

Taverna Lefteri   |   This was the top-rated restaurant on TripAdvisor during my stay and it certainly lived up to its reputation. Meals were tasty and plentiful, prices reasonable and a number of extra side dishes were provided on the house which is always a nice touch. Seafood is the speciality here and given the fishing culture of the town, you can be sure the ingredients are all super fresh.

I Love Souvlaki   |   The Greek influence in Himara manifests in many ways, but perhaps no more so than through its food. For a delicious budget-friendly bite, look no further than a mouth-watering souvlaki right on the beachfront. Take a seat in the busy sitting area or take it away to enjoy beside the water.

How To Get To And From Himara  |

There are two daily buses from Tirana to Himara at 6:15 a.m. (for Saranda) and 1 p.m. costing 1,000 lek (€8) and taking around 6 hours. Buses between Himara and Saranda are more frequent with at least five daily services.

DON’T MISS: ALL THE VERY BEST THINGS TO DO IN HIMARA!

Dhermi Beach and its nearby neighbour Drymades Beach are firm favourites among this string of Albanian beaches, and while I didn’t actually make it here, their iridescent blue hue as you whirl across the top of the epic Llogara Pass is unmissable.

With a stunning mountain backdrop that tumbles down to the wide blonde bay and its crystalline waters, Dhermi makes a great stop along the Albanian Riviera.

The waterfront boulevard is simply bursting with places to eat and while beach chairs are everpresent along the shore, the length of the beach means there’s still plenty of space to claim your own patch of pebbles and escape the crowds.

Where To Stay In Dhermi  |

Dhori House Dhermi   |   Set a 15-minute walk from the beach, Dhori House is a great value option in Dhermi and offers up spacious and affordable private rooms with ocean views.

Check rates and availability here.

Set amidst a remote pocket of bushland between Dhermi and Himara, Gjipe is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in Albania and I’m inclined to agree.

With deliciously blue seas, a curious network of caves and the towering ochre cliffs of the Gjipe Canyon leading directly off the pebbled shore, it’s a beautiful spot to while away the day.

Lose hours drifting between the aqua sea and pebbled shore, and when the searing midday sun becomes a little too much, escape to the cool shadows of the canyon where spiky trees sway overhead and the promise of adventure draws you in.

While these days Gjipe Beach is far from being the secret it once was, it’s certainly one of the most beautiful and least crowded beaches along the Albanian Riviera and an essential stop for anyone travelling the Albanian coast.

For everything you need to know about how to get there and where to stay, don’t miss this guide !

READ NEXT: HOW TO PLAN A FANTASTIC DAY TRIP TO GJIPE BEACH!

If there’s a bay more brilliantly turquoise than Porto Palermo, I’m yet to find it.

Aside from the wide arc of vibrant blue that is certainly one of Albania’s prettiest spots, Porto Palermo is home to two other compelling features – Porto Palermo Castle and a sprawling military base.

The 19th-century castle which crowds out the bay’s tiny island is definitely worth a visit with great views along the coast and an intriguing jumble of dark corridors and underground chambers. Entrance is just 100 lek (€0.80) and the thick rock walls keep the interior wonderfully cool during the heat of the day.

The military base which stands guard over the secluded cove to the north is framed by a pair of impossibly pretty beaches that have the benefit of no deckchairs or other visitors, though somewhat annoyingly, it’s unclear whether these are actually open to visitors.

The attendant at the information centre said it was perfectly fine to visit, and the steep trails in the area clearly indicate that people do, but the ominous signs at the base’s entrance clearly suggest otherwise. It is possible to reach the area by boat to get a closer look at the gaping submarine tunnel in the hillside, but special permits may be needed. I’d recomend asking on the ground before trying to reach the beaches around the military zone.

Porto Palermo’s easy access right on the main road means it can get pretty darn crowded, especially on weekends, but arrive early and you’ll have no problem snagging a spot. The beach here is also rockier than most so a renting a beach chair isn’t a bad idea.

Aside from the main beach, the craggy coastline to the south also hides a number of tiny coves where you can enjoy your very own patch of shore without anybody else around.

Where To Stay  | 

Agavia Village   |  This slightly time-worn collection of bungalows has an exceptional setting right behind Porto Palermo but that’s about as far as this recommendation goes. Based on recent reviews and experiences from fellow travellers, it sounds like this once lovely spot has seen far better days and is now in need of some serious TLC.

Unless you’re after location only, I’d suggest staying in nearby Himara or Qeparo instead. Check rates and availability here.

Where To Eat In Porto Palermo  |

The only restaurant in Porto Palermo serves up fresh and delicious seafood dishes with fantastic views overlooking the beach. Understandably, prices are a little higher here than elsewhere on the coast, but its a decent choice for lunch with a great location.

If you’re on a tight budget, pack a picnic instead and enjoy it beside the water.

START PLANNING: THE ABSOLUTE BEST HOSTELS IN ALBANIA.

Winding along the cliff-hugging road south, the long silver shores of Qeparo and Borsh stretch out into the distance.

Backed by olive groves and dusty roads, both these beaches have a thoroughly offbeat rural feel, and while they’re perhaps not quite as pretty as some of the others along the Riviera, they’re also far less crowded, are frequented by many more locals than foreigners and, somewhat refreshingly, also have large patches of sand.

While much of Qeparo sits perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, Borch town is set a ways back from the beach. Both have a humming boulevard stuffed with restaurants and beautiful villas though so you’ll be sure to get your seaside fix.

Where To Stay In Qeparo  |

Qeparo Pano Rooms   |  Stunning views overlooking the turquoise bay, clean and comfortable apartments and a very helpful host make Pano Rooms a great option in Qeparo.

Where To Eat In Qeparo  |

Veranda   |  Though you’ll find many restaurants and bars dotted along the waterfront, I ate my only meal in Qeparo at Veranda which is set back along the main road and makes a fabulous spot for lunch. The speciality Mousaka is delicious and prices are reasonable.

Cascading down a steep basin toward a wide, teal coloured bay with the peaks of nearby Corfu silhouetted along the horizon, Saranda casts a rather impressive sight, particularly when the sun starts to drop toward the horizon and washes the city in a deep golden hue.

Aside from its beaches, Saranda also makes an excellent jumping off point for exploring Albania’s south with a number of great day trips within easy reach (read this post for some ideas). You’ll also find a huge range of accommodations and the best mix of tasty seafood and lively bars you’ll find anywhere along the coast.

Saranda is certainly the most popular beach destination on the Albanian Riviera, but it’s also the kind of place that seems to strongly divide its visitors.

You’ll either love it … or you won’t.

After an utterly blissful week in Himara and another few peaceful days in Qeparo, arriving to the height of Saranda’s summer madness, and the congested streets, loud music and dreadfully overcrowded shores that come with it, I landed firmly in the latter camp.

That said though, outside of the crazy summer months when it feels like every man and his dog, plus every distant relative, has arrived for their well-deserved beach vacation, I think it would be a perfectly lovely place to spend a few days.

But sadly, Saranda simply isn’t built to deal with the rapidly increasing number of summer visitors that flock here in search of ridiculously blue seas and an affordable beach getaway.

If you are visiting in the peak season, staying even a little outside the city but still near the water will definitely help in dealing with the crowds.

WHERE TO STAY IN SARANDA  |

Unsurprisingly given its popularity, Saranda has more accommodation options than anywhere else in Albania, with almost double the offerings of Tirana, the capital. Buzzing hostels, cosy guesthouses and lavish beach villas all have a home here. Check rates and availability here.

For a more homey experience, Airbnb is an excellent option and you’ll be glad to know there are plenty of great apartments available in Saranda. If you’ll be staying for a while or visiting with a group, these often provide even better value than many of the hotels. Out of the summer high season, long term apartment stays in Saranda are also some of the most affordable in Albania. Check rates and availability here.

New to the platform? Sign up here  and receive up to $30 off when you make your first booking.

WHERE TO EAT IN SARANDA  |

There are dozens of restaurants in Saranda and competition is high making the issue of fake reviews on TripAdvisor rife. If you’re someone who focuses largely on online reviews, bear this in mind when choosing where to eat and expect most places along the waterfront to charge tourist prices.

Haxhi   |   For simple, tasty, affordable and cooked-with-love seafood in Saranda, look no further than Haxhi. This small family-run establishment is set a few blocks back from the beach, has just a handful of menu items and simply oozes homely Albanian charm. I didn’t eat out much in Saranda but this was a place that I returned to several times and was never disappointed.

Arrive early to get the best seats or make a reservation in advance.

DON’T MISS: 5 AMAZING DAY TRIPS TO TAKE FROM SARANDA!

Marked by rugged cliff lines and untamed landscapes, the idyllic turquoise waters of Ksamil, housed in the Butrint National Park, are where you’ll find some of the best beaches in Albania.

Despite being small, Ksamil has some fantastic waterfront restaurants and retains a rather laidback air about it, even in the height of summer. The paved walkway that hugs the coastline also makes a simply perfect spot for a sunset stroll, while the tiny islands waiting just offshore are a unique feature of this landscape.

It’s proximity to Saranda means the small beaches of Ksamil do suffer from much the same overcrowding issues in summer, but thankfully there are a number of beautiful, secluded coves scattered along the nearby coast that receive fewer visitors and, in this travellers opinion, are far more beautiful.

Which Beaches To Visit In Ksamil  |

Where the town trickles down to the sea, you’ll find the wonderfully powdery sand and aqua waters that have made Ksamil quite so famous, framed by a tight cluster of beach chairs and umbrellas. Somewhat annoyingly, these are considered private beaches reserved only for those staying at the hotels or renting the chairs which often has to be done in advance as this is prime beach real estate.

The tiny, rather sad stretch of rocky shoreline at the far end is the only designated public swimming area. Arrive in the early morning though and feel free to swim wherever you please and revel in that delightfully fine silver sand!

Manastir (Monastery) Beach , on the fringe of the national park, was my favourite of the Ksamil beaches with impossibly clear waters, some intriguing Soviet wartime relics and not too many beach chairs, leaving plenty of space for those who just want to sprawl out on their towels in the sun. Considering this beach is on the rockier side though, a beach chair actually isn’t a bad idea.

There are two restaurants here serving up simple dishes and ice-cold drinks for when the blazing sun proves a little too much.

From there, a very rough path leads all the way along the coast from Monastery Beach to Pasqyra (Mirror) Beach , another beautiful spot. Take the dirt road to St. George’s Monastery and at the far right corner of the basketball court you’ll find a dirt trail leading through the shrubs. Where the road forks, either turn right to reach a pretty, secluded bay which had just a handful of beachgoers during my visit, or go straight on for Pasqyra Beach.

Further along, Pulebardha Beach is another good option, though you’ll need to return to the main road to get here.

Where To Stay In Ksamil  |

Ksamil doesn’t have quite as many accommodation offerings available which is why so many people choose to stay in nearby Saranda, but if you book well in advance, it’s certainly a beautiful place to stay for a day or two.

Check rates and availability for Ksamil here.

Where To Eat In Ksamil  |

Beach Bar Korali   |   Great food, decent prices, friendly service and a fantastic outlook over the bay makes Korali a great choice for eating out in Ksamil. Really, what more could you want in such a paradise!

ESSENTIAL READING: YOUR COMPLETE ALBANIA TRAVEL GUIDE!

These three picturesque and rather remote beaches are dotted along a beautiful stretch of the coastline north of Saranda and according to locals are some of Albania’s best beaches!

Set a fair way from the main coastal road, the difficulty in reaching here also makes them some of the least crowded pockets of the Albanian Riviera.

Unfortunately, the limited bus services meant I wasn’t able to make it here, but if you’re travelling by car, consider adding them to your itinerary.

By Bus  |

I spent nearly three weeks hopping between Albania’s beaches by bus, and while I wasn’t able to visit absolutely everywhere, it’s certainly easy enough to get around if you’ve got the time.

From Tirana , two daily buses depart from the South Bus Station and take the coastal route, one at 6:15 a.m. heading for Saranda and another at 1 p.m. for Himara. These can drop you anywhere along the coast. For those heading directly to Saranda, several daily buses leave Tirana and take the much faster central highway.

Buses and furgons ply the coastal route between Vlora and Saranda just a few times a day, with more beginning in Himara and Borsh . These can be flagged down or drop you off anywhere along the way and will be your bread and butter for getting between the beaches listed in this guide.

Saranda is one of the biggest transport hubs in Albania with buses running throughout the country, as well as international services to Greece and Macedonia. Long distance buses leave on a schedule, while those travelling to nearby destinations, such as Gjirokaster or Vlora, tend to leave when full. You’ll find buses and furgons waiting around the western edge of Friendship Park in the centre of town.

To reach Ksamil , buses run every hour from Saranda town centre to Butrint via Ksamil and back and can drop you at any of the beaches along the way. The trip takes around 45 minutes (often much longer in summer) and costs 100 lek (€0.80) for the full trip, or just 50 lek for shorter journeys.

By Car  |

If you’re pressed for time, much easier is to rent a car to explore the gorgeous coastline which affords you the flexibility to stop off at every pretty cove and sparkling bay that passes by your window and to reach some of the more secluded spots.

If the weather is clear, be sure to drive the spectacular Llogara Pass, a series of steep hairpin bends that wind across the forested mountain between Vlora and Dhermi. Trust me, it’s well worth it!

Check rates on car rental in Albania here.

By Boat  |

For those keen on getting a taste of Greece by hopping over to Corfu, you’ll find dozens of agencies in Saranda selling ferry trips throughout the day for around €20 each way. If you’re travelling in summer, I’d recommend booking your ticket at least a day in advance.

Also remember that, as part of Greece, Corfu falls inside the Schengen Zone so be sure to have a visa if required.

From most of the main beach towns, you can organise a boat trip up and down the coast to reach the more secluded spots or just for a ridiculously scenic day out.

By Hitchhiking  |

Hitchhiking along Albania’s coast is almost like a rite of passage among backpackers in these parts.

It’s fairly common practice and, paired with the wonderfully friendly locals, you’ll likely never have to wait more than a few minutes for a ride. Plus, there’s really only one main road so virtually everyone is heading in the right direction and are only too happy to take you along.

That said, it pays to take the usual precautions.

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Tis all sounds spectacular. In case I missed it, what time of year did you go and what were the average day temperatures

I was there in July when average high temperatures are around 30-35°C. It’s a dry heat though and often there’s a slight breeze which makes it quite comfortable.

Amazing post and so informative! Can I ask which beach is the one with the gorgeous water but filled to the gills with umbrellas? Love that water and the cliffs in the background but NOT the hordes of people…would like to avoid and find something similar in Ksamil that isn’t crowded like that.

So glad it was helpful for you, Tracy! I believe the one you’re thinking of is Pasqyra or Mirror Beach. I visited in the peak of the summer holidays so it was definitely at its busiest. Outside of this, you should find the whole area is much quieter.

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Home » Travel Guides » Albania » 15 Things to Do in the Albanian Riviera

15 Things to Do in the Albanian Riviera

The line of villages along the Albanian coastline is known a Bregu to the locals, and the Albanian Riviera to the rest of the world.

Starting in Palasa and ending in Lukove, tourists flock to the area each year in search of what Frommer’s named the Top Value Destination of 2012.  Filled with isolated pockets of undeveloped nature, quaint villages, incredible night life, history and culture, and some of the most incredible vistas in the Balkans, it’s no wonder this hidden gem is gaining in popularity.

1. Llogara Pass

The road between Orikum and Dhermi is known as the Llogara Pass. It’s a spectacular mountain pass that overlooks the Albanian Riviera. Driving along the road you get a panoramic view of what’s below and the feeling that you can touch the clouds at the same time. The winding road reaches a height of over 1000 metres and is considered by many to be the best coastal drive in Europe.

It’s so impressive that greats such as Ptolemy, Julius Caesar, and Strabo have written about it. Be sure to bring your camera and don’t eat a heavy meal before you begin!  Prior to 2009 the road was very narrow and not well paved. And although it’s well maintained now, there are parts that remain narrow and at such elevation, fog can make driving tricky. You’ll feel like you’re flying over the sea – it’s sure to be one of your most memorable Albanian experiences.

2. Llogara National Park

In the same area as the Llogar Pass, Llogara National Park is 1020 hectares of alpine forest rich with plant and animal life. It’s about 30km from Vlore, directly between Dhermi and Orikum, and has been a national park since 1966.  There are resorts within the park, and most visitors come for hiking, picnics, air adventure sports, and for a cosy alpine retreat.

It’s a refreshing break for most people thanks to the combination of high mountain air and closeness to the sea. There are over 100 different birds and animals that call the park home. The trees in the park are particularly interesting because they have been moulded over time by the sea air currents.

Be sure to check out Flag Pine which most say resembles the Albanian Eagle.

3. Gjipe Canyon & Beach

This secluded beach with a gorgeous coastal canyon at one end can be found between Vuno and Dhermi on the Karaburun. It’s so secluded that there is no paved road to the beach. From the nearest road is about a 30-minute trek – though it is possible to find yourself going the long way if you haven’t been there before! The walk is gorgeous and the unspoilt beach is well worth the trouble.

If you don’t prefer to hike, you can always kayak from a more accessible spot on the peninsula – like Jale Beach. Regardless of how you arrive, the clear water and pebbled beach is a relaxing spot. You’ll find a few vendors with small wagons selling snacks and drinks, but no full service restaurant or beach shack.

The canyon is fun to explore and it’s easy to take a quick dip to cool off after.

4. Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park

Also located on the Karaburun Peninsula is the only marine park in Albania. The park follows several kilometres of coastline between the peninsula and Sazan Island. Once so secluded that almost no one visited, the Regina Blu ferry was established in 2014 making access to this fantastic park easer.

The entire Karaburun peninsula is a Managed Nature Reserve. The park features sunken ships from World War II as well as some once belonging to the Greeks and Romans. You’ll find giant caves to explore, steep cliffs, interesting carvings written by sailors over the years, breath-taking views at every turn, and fabulous secluded beaches to enjoy.

If you like underwater life, don’t miss the meadows of Posidonia where you’ll see crustaceans, molluscs, reptiles, red coral, and possibly some mammals.

5. Butrint Archaeological Site And National Park

Butrint has been inhabited since prehistoric times and over the centuries has been a Greek colony, a Roman colony, and even a bishopric. So it’s no surprise that the current archaeological site is a hodgepodge of ruins. Researchers have found evidence of the Byzantines, the Venetians, the Ottomans, and more. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is surrounded by a lovely lagoon.

The highlight is surely the fourth century theatre that can sit roughly 1,500 people. Each summer you can see wonderful performances there. There’s also a 6th century baptisry with colourful mosaics and a basilica. Near the theatre are Roman homes surrounded by courtyards and imposing walls. There’s a museum on site where many of the objects are displayed. Though the most famous artefact, the famous head of Apollo, is on display in Tirana

6. Saranda at the Corfu Strait

Saranada has the perfect combination of beauty and affordability. Both tourists and Albanians come here each summer as an affordable alternative to some of the pricier Riviera beach towns.

The vibe is energetic, with lots of seaside bars and nice restaurants that feature the catch of the day. Nearby Saranda you’ll find Butrint, the Ksamil Islands, and Lekursi Castle. Built in the mid 16th century, the castle sits on top of a hill that affords fantastic views of Corfu and the surrounding area. There’s even a great restaurant on site.

Also in Saranda is the historic synagogue complex. This is the site of a once wealthy Jewish community that reached its height in the 5th century AD. And if you want a little more history, visit the 40 Saints Monastery. Built in the 6th century, it was built in honour of 40 Christian Roman soldiers who were sentenced to death in Siberia after refusing to renounce their religious beliefs.

7. Ksamil Islands south of Saranda

Just 17km from Saranda are the Ksamil Islands. Made up of three small islands, you can swim out or take a boat to reach them.

White sand beaches, lounging chairs, clear blue water, and the Mediterranean sun make this the perfect relaxation spot.

Find yourself a secluded inlet to avoid all others and let the rest of the world fall away.

Most visitors to Orikum will tell you that it felt like a home away from home almost immediately.

With a long fine pebbled beach that’s perfect for walking and relaxing, there’s just something about the place that’s welcoming.

The night life is laid back and you’ll find good restaurants and shops there.

No matter where you are in town, you’re never more than ten minutes away from a cooling dip in the sea.

The village has retained all of its charm over the years and you can see and feel the history and pride of the locals.

Thanks to its geographic location (good views of the ocean and the mountain passes), Julius Caesar camped his troops here during the Roman Civil War.

At the end of the bay is the Archaeological Park where you can visit the ruins of an amphitheatre and an elaborate network of roads.

9. Church of Marmiroi

One of the highlights of Orikum is the Church of Marmiroi.

This Byzantine church was built sometimes between the 8th and 13th centuries and still contains many of the original frescoes.

The architecture is something to see, with one of the most complex designs from this period.

It’s a rare example of a cross-shaped construction with a dome and cylindrical roof.

It’s just outside of town and in order to reach it you have to cross a small stream.

10. Tragjas Village

This quaint and traditional village near Orikum is the perfect place for those who want to experience the true pace and lifestyle of the Albanian people.

If you’re just visiting for the day, be sure to take a walk up the village path that leads uphill to some spectacular views of Orikum and the coast.

Along the way to the top you’ll pass old farm factories.

The Pass of the Tombs gets you back and forth between New Tragjas and Old Tragjas.

True to its name, there are many tombs scattered around.

The Old village is abandoned but you can still explore the crumbling houses and buildings.

Villagers had to flee the village in 1943 when it was bombed by the Nazis.

You’ll also find older ruins and tombs dating to the Ottoman period

11. The Castle of Porto-Palermo

Known by the locals as Ali Pasha Tepelena, this castle was designed by a Frenchmen and built in the shape of a pentagon with large stone blocks – some as wide as 1.6 metres.

In 2014 The Huffington Post listed the village of Porto-Palermo as a top 35 Undiscovered European Destination.

Soon to be declared protected land and a historical site, the castle was once a prison during World War II, and there are still some Albanians around who were held there.

12. The Ruins of Himara

Originally dating to the Bronze Age, the castle contains the Church of Saints Sergius and Baku, the apartment of Tanj Jorgii Goro, the Church of All Saints, and an ancient tower.

The castle has been used by many historical figures like Emperor Justinian, and has been destroyed and rebuilt many times.

The medieval walls are still standing and the entire site makes for an interesting walk through Albanian history.

13. Churches of Shen Stefani and Shen Dhimitri

In the village of Dhermi you’ll find two of the designated Cultural Monuments of Albania.

These are buildings that have been recognized by the government as having particular religious and national heritage.

The Churches of Shen Stefani and Shen Dhimitiri are still places of worship and architecture and history buffs will love a break from the Dhermi beaches to explore the churches.

14. Qeparo Village

Located near Porto Palermo, Qeparo is an ancient village built on a hillside.

There are several historical sites here, including the Towers of Ali Pasha, the House of Minella Gjika, and the Monastery of Shen Dhimitri.

There’s also a beach nearby for a little relaxing after your site seeing.

Many visitors who come to Qeparoi also visit nearby the Borshc Castle and mosque in Borshc Village, and the ancient village of Pilur.

You’ll find plenty of dining and accommodation options and a warm welcome from the villagers.

15. Karavasta Lagoon & Divjaka National Park

The largest lagoon in Albanian is the Karavasta.

The rich ecosystem includes the lush Divjaka National Park, large flocks of penguins, a colony of threatened Dalmatian Pelicans, and tons of eels in the shallows.

For nature lovers, you can’t go wrong here.

The lagoon is just over 4,000 hectares and you can arrange a boat ride to explore the lagoon.

After, grab lunch at a local restaurant serving mullet and eel fresh caught from Karavasta.

15 Things to Do in the Albanian Riviera:

• Llogara Pass
• Llogara National Park
• Gjipe Canyon & Beach
• Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park
• Butrint Archaeological Site And National Park
• Saranda at the Corfu Strait
• Ksamil Islands south of Saranda
• Church of Marmiroi
• Tragjas Village
• The Castle of Porto-Palermo
• The Ruins of Himara
• Churches of Shen Stefani and Shen Dhimitri
• Qeparo Village
• Karavasta Lagoon & Divjaka National Park

• Destinations
• Travel Guides

The breathtaking beaches of the Albanian Riviera

• Exploring the Albanian Riviera

The gorgeous white sand and fine rock beaches on the Ionian coast of Albania rival many popular and more expensive Mediterranean destinations.

Affectionately known as the Albanian Riviera, the region is becoming better known internationally due to its raw and wild natural beauty. It hasn’t been over-developed, and only a very few areas have been “over-discovered.”

Albanian Riviera beaches are located near quaint villages and modern cities up and down the southern coast of the country. Regardless of where you go, you’ll find crystal-clear emerald, turquoise and deep lapis-blue waters.

Overall, the beaches are magnificent - and we’ve chosen the best of them for this handy guide.

• Reaching Albania’s beaches

There are numerous ways to reach your ultimate seaside destination. If you arrive via air to centrally-located Tirana, the capital city, you can rent a car and make your way south, down the coast. Buses also follow these routes, along with minivans (furgons) and private cars or taxis for hire.

To reach the Riviera beaches, you can also take an inexpensive hopper flight from anywhere in Europe to the Greek Island of Corfu. From there, seasonal hydrofoil ferries make a quick 25-minute trip across the Ionian Sea to Sarande, the most popular beach city. You can even visit Albania as a day trip from Corfu if you're short on time.

If you enter Albania via land border (Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia , or Greece), you’ll most easily make your way to the coast via minivan or rental car.

Bus travel tip: In summer (high season), buses run from Pristina, Kosovo to Sarande. Buses from Montenegro and North Macedonia require transfer to Tirana. You'll also need transfers from various cities in mainland Greece .

Sarande, a city in the far south of the country (around 5 hours drive from Tirana), is the most popular beach city in the Albanian Riviera. Sarande is an action-packed area for a beach vacation, with a lively nightclub-party scene, if you’re into socializing.

The waters of Sarande’s beaches run along a horseshoe bay, and are absolutely gorgeous, ranging from shimmery pale green to brilliant turquoise. There are three free public beaches in Sarande, located between the port (ferry) terminal and the tourist information centre, where you can catch some sun rays and relax on the pebbly sand.

Slices of the beach are leased out for the season, so you’ll either have to rent a beach chair (around €3-8/per day) from the current “owner” or find an area in between the rented sections to claim as your own. Although they can get super-crowded in July-August, there’s usually room to put your towel down somewhere.

Sarande has a long and attractive boardwalk promenade lined with cafes, bars, hotels, apartments, shops, and restaurants. The reasonably-priced food is delicious, and includes traditional Albanian fare , Greek souvlaki, and excellent fresh seafood.

Sarande’s beachfront features some fragments of archaic stone city walls, and the small centre of town includes the remains of an ancient synagogue.

Tip: Mango Beach is a popular private beach venue with a nice bar/restaurant. Pay for a sunbed during the day, and you can transition to night-clubbing come evening, with music and partying into the wee hours. 

From Sarande you can take day trips to outer beaches, the Butrint Archaeological Park, The Blue Eye natural spring water pool, or Lekuresi Castle, right outside of town, for expansive views.

About 9 kilometres to the north of Sarande is Krorëza Beach, a paradisiacal little cove with soft white sands and glistening clear aquamarine waters. Enjoy this secluded beach that can best be reached by boat or kayak/SUP tours for a few hours of serenity.

Sun umbrellas are available for rent (€10), plus there’s a beach bar and restaurant. (Note: the restaurant can be pricey, so bring your own snacks/picnic, if you want some options).

Accommodation recommendation: Oceanic Overview Suites

About 20 minutes south of Sarande is the sleepy fishing village of Ksamil.

Ksamil’s dazzling white sand beaches and mesmerizing cerulean and turquoise waters are simply magical.

Less developed than other popular Mediterranean beach towns, Ksamil is not overcrowded and remains friendly and hospitable. You can spend your days lazing on beaches dotted with sun umbrellas, or enjoy swimming, kayaking, sailing, snorkelling, or scuba diving. You can even take a gastronomic mussels boat tour. 

Or, relax and have fresh watermelon juice in one of the many seafood restaurants in Ksamil centre. You can chill out and gaze at the nearby Ksamil islands nestled in the shimmering waters. Two are close enough to swim to; you can visit the other two via kayak, water taxi or paddleboat.

Take a dip for free at any of Ksamil’s beaches, but there are a few private beaches where you have to rent a sunbed to hang out on the beach, especially at the height of summer (€10 for sunbed + umbrella).  Check out the nearby Mirror Beach, and Pulëbardha Beach for more privacy.

Accommodation recommendation: Hotel Meta Ksamil

• Borsh Beach

North of Sarande, Borsh Beach is the longest stretch of beach (over 7 kilometres!) in the Albanian Riviera.

Because the white sand beach is so large, there’s plenty of space for everyone. The small village, about 2 kilometres above the beach, is charming and there are restaurants and beach bars along the beach. 

The water is calm, clear and deep blue, perfect for snorkelling, swimming, or kayaking. The beach is a tranquil spot to spend the day and also to walk along the shore at sunset.

Tip: For quick side trip, visit picturesque Qeparo village tucked into olive groves nearby, just above Qeparo Beach. Enjoy a coffee or a tasty meal in one of the cute little bistros and cafes in the lower town.

Then, for a glimpse of how Albanian village life used to be, climb the hill and explore the cobbled streets of the half-abandoned old town.

There you’ll find the remnants of beautiful crumbling white stone houses (some of which are newly renovated and inhabited), a church, and an ancient clock tower.

Accommodation recommendation : Sole Luna Hotel

• Himare beaches

With a tranquil vibe and enough fun activity to keep it interesting, the lovely little Greek-influenced coastal town of Himare is one of the best areas on the Albanian Riviera. Himare’s village, situated on a hill above the shoreline, is quaint and charming.

Spile Beach is just off of the boardwalk promenade, and is not very crowded, for a main city beach. The clear cerulean to aquamarine blue waters are warm and inviting.

Accommodation recommendation: Rea Boutique Hotel

There are other beaches in the vicinity to explore including:

Sfageio Beach

Another main beach in Himare, very family friendly, clear aquamarine waters surrounded by rocks that are perfect for playing and jumping into the water. Sfageio is not crowded, with a fun, easy-going vibe. Kayak rentals are available (€6/hour/2 people).

Livadhi Beach

Beautiful beach with clear blue waters, great place to relax. Beach restaurants and umbrellas available. More crowded on weekends, but overall one of the favorite beaches in the area.

Porto Palermo Beach

This fine gravel beach, nestled in the Porto Palermo Bay (just below Porto Palermo Castle), is a family friendly beach with brilliant turquoise waters. It’s a quiet beach that doesn’t have beach bars and beach facilities, so it’s not overcrowded with partying tourists. Be sure to bring your own umbrella, towels, water, and snacks to best enjoy the silence and tranquility of this secret beach.

Dhermi Beach

For an upbeat young beach-party vibe, check out Dhermi Beach, an all-time favourite, about 30 minutes north of Himare. You can rent a beach umbrella or bring your own towel and hang out, enjoying the crystal blue perfectly lovely waters.

Expect lots of restaurants, music, and crowds during high season, but there are fewer teeming sections further away from the central beach area.

Jale Beach and Gjipe Beach

Head here for more parties and action with younger crowds. You'll find beach-goers congregating for partying, camping, loud music and long nights.

These activities are often accompanied by lots of chaos and litter on the beaches, so try going in early-mid June, just before the season gets rolling, or towards the end of the high season. Then you’ll be able to enjoy the finely-pebbled white beaches, aquamarine waters and surrounding cliffs in a more peaceful atmosphere.

Beautiful Vlore is Albania’s third-largest city and sits right where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian Sea.

Built on a bay, the Italian-influenced town is flat and walkable, rather than built on a hillside, like other Albanian beach cities. A large, long seaside promenade called The Lungomare (Italian for “Seafront”) encircles the gorgeous bay. 

The view of the deep sapphire water is stunning from any point along the boardwalk, with a long row of shops, cafes and seafood and authentically Italia n pizza restaurants lining the street opposite. Step into one of the many cafes, while you participate in Albania’s crazy-wonderful coffee culture (a highlight of Vlore!) and sip an espresso.

Tip: Although most of the seafood restaurants along the Lungomare close during winter, the city stays lively all year round, and is a festive favourite winter holiday/Christmas/New Year's destination for Albanian and foreign tourists.

Vlore has two city beaches, Plazhi I Ri (New Beach) and Plazhi I Vjeter (Old Beach). Oddly, for this wonderful city, the main beach, Plazhi I Ri is not a favourite with locals or tourists, because it doesn’t have the clean, crystal-clear alluring waters of beaches further south.

Plazhi I Vjeter has clearer turquoise water and is preferred over Plazhi I Ri in terms of water clarity.

Accommodation recommendation: Veranda Boutique Hotel

• Uji I Ftote (Cold Water) beach area

The best beaches for swimming, however, are outside Vlore. Because these beaches are loved by all, they are quite crowded in summer.

Vlore Beach

Turquoise water with golden sands, this beach is partly free, with the rest only accessible to those staying in resorts there. Swimming, catamaran rental, and other activities are all available.

Stay : Sea & Sand Hotel

Sunny Beach

Pretty Sunny Beach has light pebbles, so water shoes are recommended; crowded in high season. A beach resort stay is necessary for most access to the beach, which is walkable from the parking area.

Stay : Hotel Tramonto Vlore

La Plaia Beach

This white sand beach has crystal-clear aquamarine waters and is within a small bay. Much of area is reserved by resorts with facilities, so there’s limited free access.

Stay : Nobus Beach

Gjiri i Shen Beach

One of the top-rated, this beach has crystalline turquoise water, towering cliffs above, and is pebbled (water shoes recommended). Accessible to those who stay at resorts at the beach.

Radhime Beach Area

Just to the south of Vlore, this area includes 4-5 small, attractive beaches, mostly for beach resorts with limited free areas. If you opt to stay at a resort, you’ll have access to all of their amenities.

Stay: Tirana Resort Radhime

Orikum Beach

A popular free beach with easy access for all, light clear turquoise water, slightly pebbled beach, so water shoes recommended.

 If you’re a diver, you can also opt to explore deep water caverns and eerily beautiful abandoned shipwrecks in the Vlore area by joining a diving tour , with a well-respected PADI-certified diving company.

Stay: Maxola's Dream Orikum

Planning a trip to Albania? Read our travel guide

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Author - Maysie Dee

Maysie Dee is a freelance writer, content editor, and recipe creator. She and her husband have travelled across the world for decades as natural product consultants, collecting stories along the way.

Last Updated 17 May 2024

Wander-Lush

Guide to Dhermi, the Loveliest Village on the Albanian Riviera

Dangling off the side of the Ceraunian Mountains like a string of pearls, Dhërmi is a dreamy village of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches.

With strong Santorini vibes, it is widely regarded as the most charming settlement on the Albanian Riviera.

Dhermi is located between Vlora and Himara. Approaching from the north, it is one of the first villages you reach after descending towards the sea via the spectacular Llogara Pass.

It is perfectly positioned for exploring the northern portion of the riviera and popular Albanian beaches including Gjipe and Jala, as well as the town’s own beach, Dhërmiu.

Unlike other villages such as Qeparo and Vuno, Dhermi has been partially reconstructed, giving the old stone houses and Greek Orthodox churches a fresh lease on life. A multitude of boutique accommodations can be found here, along with restaurants and cafes.

Dhermi is one of the few places on the riviera where there are enough alternative activities beyond the beach to comfortably fill a day.

In this Dhermi Travel Guide, I will show you all the best things to do in Dhermi in 1-2 days, where to stay, where to eat, and other travel tips.

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Why visit Dhermi?

It was a photograph of a stunning blue-domed church that first put Dhermi on my radar. When planning our Albania road trip , I wanted to dedicate at least two nights to the village. (As a side note, I connected with the author of that photograph on social media after my trip – small world!)

Dhermi’s good looks do indeed set it apart from other villages on the riviera. Extensive conservation works – the likes of which have been planned for nearby Qeparo and Vuno, but are yet to commence – have transformed Dhermi.

Not only is it one of the best places in Albania to see vernacular terraced architecture, Dhermi is a cultural experience too. Rehabilitation and revitalisation projects have aimed to honour Dhermi’s history, and there are several initiatives that teach visitors about the village and its way of life.

One of these initiatives is the Mills Trail, a historic hiking path that links the village with the coast, which has been redeveloped into an immersive experience with the use of signboards.

Among locals, Dhermi is still called by its Greek name, Drymades. Most inhabitants are ethnically Greek and speak the Greek Himariote dialect and/or the Tosk Albanian dialect.

As I mentioned, Dhermi has a lot to offer beyond the beaches. We spent two nights in Dhermi and found this was the perfect amount of time. A full day can be spent exploring the village and walking the trail. If you’re visiting in the season, you might wish to add another day for the beach.

How to get to Dhermi

Dhermi is located on Albania’s main State Highway 8 that runs down the coast. It is approximately 60 kilometres from Vlora and 70 kilometres from Saranda.

Any bus that travels the coastal road – e.g. from Vlora to Himara (16 kilometres from Dhermi) – will be able to drop you off in Dhermi.

Dhermi is close to the Llogara Pass and Llogara National Park. If you are driving in Albania , you are in for one of the most scenic legs of your trip.

Thinking of self-driving in Albania? I recommend hiring a car from a local agent via Local Rent . Prices are competitive, and most vehicles do not require a cash deposit or a credit card. I used Local Rent on my recent trip to Albania and couldn’t have been happier with the service.

I highly recommend timing your journey to reach the Llogara Pass at sunset. There are several marked viewpoints for panoramic sea views. Dhermi is a quick 20-minute drive from the Big Bunker, for example (see below for more), so you can enjoy the sunset and still safely reach your accommodation before it gets too dark.

Good to know: If you plan on self-catering during your stay in Dhermi (which might be necessary – more info below), there are a few small supermarkets in town. We found that Market Neco had a good range of pre-packaged food, but not much in the way of fresh ingredients.

Where to stay in Dhermi

Dhermi is quite sprawling, with houses stretching from the highest point of the village along the SH8 highway all the way down to the shoreline. I highly recommend staying in the upper part of Dhermi rather than on the beach.

Dhermi’s best (in my opinion) accommodations are in the older upper town, and even though some of the streets are too tight for a car, there is ample free parking available on corners and in small squares.

We stayed at Roots Dhermi , a beautifully renovated old house that now has several self-contained guest studios. Our upper-level room had incredible views and was very spacious, with a full-size bathroom, apartment style kitchen, sitting area, generous bedroom, and a private terrace.

Another popular option in Dhermi is Zoe Hora , a luxury resort complex that occupies a clutch of old houses under the cliff at the top of the village. We wandered into the resort a few times on our travels around Dhermi. The outdoor terraces and pool looked lovely.

Things to do in Dhermi

Wander dhermi’s cobbled streets & look for the blue-domed church.

Dhermi is made for long, aimless walks. Concentrate your efforts on the northern side of the village and the streets around Roots Dhermi. Here is where you’ll find the grandest stone houses and loveliest wooden doors.

There are several small squares in Dhermi. At one, we found old mill stones and what might have been an olive oil press propped up against the stone walls. A nearby building, de-roofed and hollowed-out, has an old mill in its centre, overgrown with tall grass.

Another square has a statue of Albanian novelist Petro Marko , who was born in Dhermi in 1913.

There are several small Orthodox churches hidden amongst the houses, including the Church of St Thanasi and Church of St Michael .

The Church Of St Spyridon – that iconic church with the blue dome – isn’t marked on Google Maps, but it is located next to the school on the north-western side of the village ( see the exact location here ).

For that classic Dhermi photo of the bell tower framed by red rooftops, head to the old laneways north-west of Zoe Hora. Many of the houses on this far side of the village are untouched and partially ruined.

Walk up to the Monastery of St. Mary

The Monastery of St Mary sits on top of a small hill on the north-western side of Dhermi and is one of the best vantage points for a sweeping view of the village.

The church can only be reached by foot via a glorious new set of stairs. It only takes 5 minutes to climb up. Parking is available nearby at this point .

The church has a freestanding twin-bell tower that is distinctly Greek in style. We arrived in the early morning to find the gate open, so we wandered in for a closer look. The churchyard contains a small cemetery with most stones bearing Greek lettering.

Get a village view from the Ballkoni i Gjilekut

For a postcard-perfect photo of old Dhermi and its white houses buttoned onto the hillside, you need to head back up the highway towards Vlora. The road bends at the perfect spot for a panoramic view of the village and St Mary’s.

If you’re in a car, there is a small parking area in front of this church where you can safely pull over. I recommend going in the late afternoon or evening for better light (the east-facing vantage is too shadowy in the morning).

Walk the historic Mills Trail

The Mills Trail is a unique Dhermi attraction that sets this village apart from its peers. Created during the restorations, it links the upper part of the village with the shoreline and beaches below via a marked path through a pocket of forest. Information boards dotted along the way teach visitors about different aspects of Dhermi’s history.

This is an easy 1.5-kilometre trail that takes around 30-45 minutes to walk each way. Allow more time if you’re going to stop and read the signboards. The path is clearly marked with signboards and bright red rails/bridges, and the terrain is easy to manage in light shoes.

The trailhead starts from the side of the highway close to the aforementioned viewpoint. You will see an opening on the side of the road and an information board describing the walk. Find the exact location pinned here .

As you start making your way downhill, you are almost immediately launched into a green oasis of pomegranate and olive trees. At times you are following a stream and water channels carved from the earth for irrigation and to feed the stone grinding mills that give the trail its name. The atmosphere reminded me a lot of hiking through an Omani wadi .

I highly recommend doing this walk early in the morning before the heat of the day sets in. Even though the path is mostly shaded, it is still very warm and humid. We set off before 9am and were joined by a herd of sheep and goats!

The path does need some maintenance as some of the sign boards have toppled over. The ones that still stand reveal fascinating tidbits about Dhermi village and its inhabitants.

The trail passes the remains of several ancestral mills that once belonged to prominent families, an old hydropower station (the first of its kind in rural Albania), a waterfall, and towards the end of the path, two churches. The dirt path slowly changes to sand, and eventually it delivers you to the sea.

A red archway marks the beach-end of the trail, at this point . From there, you can access the beach by following the main road to the west for around 600 metres.

Stroll along Dhermi’s rehabilitated waterfront

Like every place we visited on the Albanian coast, Dhermi’s beachfront is still under development. At the time of our visit there were several intrusive construction sites right on the shoreline.

Dhermi’s waterfront was reconstructed in 2016 as part of the Albanian government’s Urban Rebirth initiative. The main promenade was converted into a pedestrian-only zone, basic infrastructure such as bench seats and rubbish bins were added, and to enhance the feeling of connection with the physical environment, a ‘water square’ was created at the neck of the esplanade.

Dhermi Beach has a nice feel to it. I especially like the sculptural square near the pier.

The further down the beach you go, the more developed it feels. Beach bars and clubs take over. We stopped for a drink at the La Brisa pavilion – the caffe freddo was tasty, and prices were surprisingly good.

Swim on Dhermi Beach

Dhermi Beach (Dhërmiu Beach) is a pebble beach that stretches approximately 1.5 kilometres from Empire Resort down to the Theodore Bay headland. It is quieter than some of the other beaches in the vicinity and favoured by locals as a result.

We arrived in the off-season when the thatched umbrellas has already been bundled away for the winter, but I’m sure it’s more lively in summer.

Outside of the small public beach , you will need to pay for the privilege of swimming here. Expect to pay between 6-8 Euros per person for a chair, umbrella and towel.

There are plenty of restaurants along the water, but they are seasonal and shut down outside of summer. We were keen to try Luciano but it was well and truly closed by the time we arrived in mid-October.

Eat a local fish dinner at Sofia Bar

Food options are limited in Dhermi outside of the high season. We found almost every restaurant and bar on the beach was closed when we visited in mid-October. 

Thankfully there are a handful of establishments that stay open to serve the local crowd. There are two small restaurants in the upper part of town that sit side by side and look almost identical – we chose the one on the left with the small patio out front – Sofia Bar .

Fish is the thing to order here. We were only after a snack, so we went for the tzatziki and a big plate of fries. Honestly it was some of the best tzatziki I’ve had in my life. Paired with a beer and a sunset view, it was the perfect end to our day in Dhermi.

If you have a car, there are a few more all-year food options available in nearby Gjilekë. We had our morning coffee and byrek at Barba Niko Bakery and ate lunch one day at Restorant Genti opposite. The pizza oven was closed for the season, but the pasta was actually very good. The restaurant has a great balcony view, too.

Watch the sunset in Dhermi

In front of Sofia Bar there is a wide balcony that teeters over the edge of the forest with the Mills Trail below. Angled west, it offers a very nice view of the sun going down over Drymades Beach.

The plastic tables scattered in front of the glass railing appear to be shared between Sofia Bar and the neighbouring restaurants. Arrive early if you want to get a front row seat.

More things to do around Dhermi

Drive to the big bunker for sunset.

Located at the Dhermi-end of the Llogara Pass, the so-called Big Bunker is a 20-minute drive from the village and another excellent place to watch the sunset .

If you missed it on your way in, I highly recommend venturing up here one evening for the light show.

Gjipe Canyon & Beach

Continuing down the coast, the turnoff for Gjipe Canyon and Gjipe Beach is a short 4.5-kilometre drive from Dhermi. The junction is located in the village of Iljas, at this point .

The road into the canyon is unpaved and only suitable for 4WDs. At some point you have to abandon your car and continue by foot, navigating through the canyon for around 25 minutes to reach the secluded, cave-studded Gjipe Beach .

We were short on time and decided to skip Gjipe – but I have heard good things. If you have a spare morning in the area, it is worth the detour.

Take a side trip to Vuno, another charming village in Albania

Located 7.5 kilometres (around a 15-minute drive) further down the coast from Dhermi, Vuno is another delightful village with a very different feel.

Vuno feels more medieval, with thick stone walls that resemble fortifications and vaulted arches over some of the narrow streets. Some of the houses have been refurbished and white-washed, while others further up the mountain hang in a state of semi-decay.

Glory To The Martyrs Of The Village Vuno , the village’s war memorial, greets you as you enter. In the square at its foot, there is a popular cafe called Lula Bar-Restaurant (sadly it was closed at the time of our visit).

Vuno’s streets are extra narrow and steep. We parked at the square and continued on foot. Be sure to follow the village roads all the way up to the 16th-century St Nicholas Church . We had not researched it properly and had no idea what to expect – thus we were very taken aback to find a roofless church that has been completely hollowed out, but still has splendid frescoes in tact (below right).

Apparently the roof was removed in order to repurpose the tiles for a cowshed. I do hope plans for preservation are in the works, because it is truly a special church that desperately needs some TLC.

Where to go next: Onward travel from Dhermi

We departed Dhermi and headed down the coast, stopping at Vuno, Himara Castle and Porto Palermo before arriving at our next destination, Upper Qeparo .

If you are continuing by bus, note that drivers stop at this junction point in Dhermi to collect passengers.

More ideas for Albania

• The best things to do in Tirana , Albania’s quirky capital
• How to get from Tirana Airport to the city centre , a practical guide
• Exploring Upper Qeparo , a traditional semi-abandoned Albanian village
• Things to do in Lin , a beautiful village on Lake Ohrid
• Full guide to Berat , the castle city
• Full guide to Gjirokaster , the stone city
• Why you should visit Leskovik , home of one of Albania’s best boutique hotels
• Things to do in Korca , a lesser-visited city of culture
• Valbona National Park , hiking in the Albanian Alps
• My 2-week Albania road trip itinerary , for an epic Albania adventure

Albania Travel Guide

Discover insider tips, itinerary inspiration, and all the best things to see, do and experience in Albania!

Albania Essentials

My favourite resources and tools for planning a trip to Albania.

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Thank you for this guide to Dhermi. I took your recommendation and spent 2 nights at Roots Dhermi. I completely agree that it was a wonderful apartment and it was charming to stay in the (upper) village. However, you will do a LOT of walking and there are a lot of hills, cobblestones and stairs. The village is not close/convenient to restaurants. There are a couple of mini markets nearby with limited selection. It is a 45-minute walk to the beach. I read the reviews of the Mills Trail (poorly maintained) and opted to walk by the side of the road instead. The beaches are very nice, with pebbles (bring water shoes), the water is beautiful, calm and incredibly blue. A sunbed and umbrella (no towel) cost 15 Euros, at a fairly normal beach. A taxi back up to the village costs 10-12 Euros. I had a very nice lunch at Lucianos (great view of the water too), about 20 Euros. The beaches on either side of Lucianos look very nice. I did not have a car. I took the public bus from Sarande to Dhermi, and then from Dhermi to Tirana. The busses were very crowded, with people and luggage crammed into every available space. I had to stand in the aisle from Dhermi to Vlore (about 2 hours). It was very hot weather and the A/C was not very effective. The bus windows were also quite dirty, so we couldn’t really see the view. It’s a very windy road through the mountains, sometimes overlooking the sea. The busses are an experience, but it does detract (in my opinion) from the general tourist experience in Albania (and the only alternative is to rent/drive a car, taxis are expensive for one person).

Thank you Rachel for the trip report!

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Hidden Paradise: Discovering Albania's Riviera

Despite stiff competition Albania's Riviera has quietly emerged as one of Europe's most beautiful beach destinations.

Faith Katunga • Feb 27, 2024

Despite stiff competition from Greece’s buzzing coasts and Italy’s tourist-laden shores, Albania’s Riviera has quietly emerged as one of Europe’s most beautiful beach destinations . From the Llogara Pass all the way to the Greek border, this sun-kissed coast presents unparalleled nature and beaches. It’s a place where the Ionian Sea meets untouched hillsides. Then there are the ancient villages perched above azure waters. As a traveler to the Albanian Riviera, you can also experience the vintage side of the Mediterranean .

Albanian Beaches

The Riviera of Albania is a sight to behold, with its picture-perfect pebble beaches and flawless, turquoise waters. Ksamil, just a stone’s throw from the Greek island of Corfu, boasts alluring bays and secluded islands accessible by a short swim or paddle. Dhermi, a favorite among the younger crowd, combines eccentric nightlife with calm seaside views. This mix creates a setting perfect for relaxation and entertainment. But perhaps it’s the more secluded spots like Gjipe Beach, accessible only by a hike through a stunning canyon, that truly showcase Albania’s coastline’s beauty.

On top of that, the relative obscurity of the Albanian Riviera is one of its most endearing features. Beaches here are far less busy, and hotel complexes are much smaller than in the Mediterranean. You can have a more personal and genuine experience at one of the many quaint guesthouses. Or, you can feast at the family-run eateries lining the shore. Plus, thanks to the region’s relative lack of commercialization, sightseers can appreciate the Mediterranean undisturbed by the typical tourist traps.

The Future of Albania’s Riviera

Sustainable tourism is becoming more critical in Albania as the region’s Riviera becomes more well-known to protect the area’s environment and culture. Efforts are being made to balance growth and conservation, ensuring that the Riviera remains a secret paradise for future generations. As a visitor, you can help by respecting the natural environment, supporting local businesses, and learning about local cultures and traditions.

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Home > Albania Travel Guide > 22 Albanian Riviera Hotels & Top Albania Resorts In 2024

22 Albanian Riviera Hotels & Top Albania Resorts In 2024

Here is your guide on where to stay on the Albanian Riviera. We have the best Albanian Riviera hotels as well as the top Albania resorts.

To plan your visit to Albania, we’ve put together our list of the best hotels along the Albanian Riviera that have great access to Albanian tourist attractions.

Caesar was here. That’s a good enough reason for me to visit the Albania Riviera . What about you? I assume that’s a yes, as you’ve landed on a guide to show you the places to stay on the Albanian Riviera.

Did you know that when Ceasar landed on the Albanian Coast to pursue Pompey the Great, he crossed the Llogara Pass? This 1027-meter high pass has the most spectacular views of the Ionian Sea of the Albanian Riviera. It became famous after a Top Gear episode featuring a high-speed chase police chase here.

The Albanian Riviera is famous for its turquoise waters, long sandy beaches , UNESCO  heritage sites , and quaint old villages. July and August are peak seasons in Albania because of the warm sunshine, while Spring and Fall are the best time to visit , with average temperatures and lesser crowds.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Best Hotels In Albania Map

Neighborhood guide.

The Albanian Riviera offers several beautiful coastal towns and villages where you can stay. Here are some popular options:

This port city is just west of Tirana and is a history and beach lover’s dream. Check out the massive amphitheater dating back to Roman times and the 9th-century church for which the town is famous. Head to Durresi Beach and enjoy the clear water and golden sand. It’s about 3 hours from Saranda should you want to continue along the riviera.

Saranda is a bustling town with a lively atmosphere. It has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The town is known for its stunning beaches and proximity to attractions like the ancient ruins of Butrint.

Located near Saranda, Ksamil is a small village famous for its crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches. It offers a more tranquil and relaxing atmosphere compared to Saranda.

Himara is a charming coastal town with a mix of pebble and sandy beaches. It has a laid-back vibe and is popular among both locals and tourists. Himara is divided into the lower and upper parts, with different beach areas to explore.

Dhermi is a picturesque village nestled between the mountains and the sea. It boasts stunning beaches and is known for its vibrant nightlife. Dhermi attracts a younger crowd and offers various accommodation options.

Vlore is a larger city compared to the other options on the Albanian Riviera. It has a long coastline with beautiful beaches and a promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. Vlora also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like the Llogara National Park.

When choosing where to stay on the Albanian Riviera, consider your preferences for the atmosphere, beach access, proximity to attractions, and available amenities.

Best Hotels In Durres, Albania

Once the capital of Albania, Durres is located near Tirana , on the country’s coast. This is a very popular destination, meaning there can be gobs of people here spilling over from Tirana in the summer months.

With one of the largest ports of the Adriatic, the city is somewhat suffocated with development. However, there is a good stretch of beach where tourists and locals can enjoy many lovely beaches. And along the promenade, many restaurants offer delicious fresh seafood near the sand.

Over thousands of years, a war between Bulgarians, Greeks, Venetians, and Turks has made this city’s history-rich as its beaches . The impressive Roman amphitheater and the fantastic archaeological museum are among the biggest pulls to the city.

1. Klajdi Luxury Resort & Spa

Klajdi Resort & SPA is an elegant, 5-star accommodation featuring a contemporary design. With a private beach, 3 swimming pools (both indoor and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool), a spa center, and children’s playground, there’s something for everyone here.

Rooms and suites, some with balconies and sea views, are spacious and comfortable. Muted tones, natural lighting and gold accents give these rooms a sophisticated yet cozy vibe. 

Onsite, guests can enjoy a restaurant and bar, with lots of menu options, including kid-friendly meals.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

2. Hotel Villa Pascucci

This 5-star property is set less than 1 mile from Durres Beach, however guests may choose to never leave as the hotel offers an two outdoor swimming pools, pool bar, garden, terrace, sauna, hammam and hottub – an ultimate set of relaxing options.

Rooms are incredibly ornate and elegant, with bidets, rain shower heads, marble accents and fancy linens, along with the standard modern amenities you’d expect in a luxury accommodation.. You will feel completely spoiled!

The onsite restaurant offers many cuisine options, including a kid-friendly menu. Guests can also opt to dine in their rooms.

3. Mövenpick Hotel Lalez Durres

Just 500 metres from Lalëz Bay Beach, this is another 5-star option we highly recommend! Two outdoor pools, with one that’s adult only, along with a spa center offering all the wellness treatments you might want, you will find yourself relaxed in no time.

Spacious rooms feature cozy beds and contemporary design, with geometric artwork and lots of natural lighting. Family rooms and suites are available for larger groups if needed.

An onsite bar and restaurant are available for dining and guests can also rent bicycles to tour the area.

4. Sol Tropikal Durres

This 4-star beachfront property is perfect for a beach vacation. With private beach access and gorgeous outdoor pools along with an outdoor garden, there are plenty of spaces to soak up the sun.

Fresh, modern rooms are outfitted with plush bed linens, minbars and flat screen TVs. They offer balconies, some with sea views. Families will find plenty of space options, with family rooms and various styles and sizes of suites available. 

Breakfast is offered each morning, and guests can also enjoy refreshment at the hotel restaurant and bar.

Best Hotels In Saranda, Albania

The town that connects all towns, Saranda, is the unofficial main stop in the southern Riviera . Stay here to quickly access beautiful places like Ksamil, the Blue Eye, and Gjirokaster .

Saranda is the largest city in the region, a beautiful place to stay on the Albanian Riviera nestled in a wide gulf. Set between the coastal hills and the crystal-clear sea, with the Greek island of Corfu beckoning in the distance, Saranda is a dream-like beach destination in the Balkans.

Saranda still has a significant Greek population nowadays. Thanks to its long and rich history, which goes back to Ancient Greece, the city has its share of wonderful archaeological and historical sites . The city’s many cultural influences over the centuries are still visible today. And indeed, Greece is not too far away: it’s just a quick ferry ride to Corfu from Saranda.

Besides lots of history and culture, Saranda also has several excellent beaches. In summer, it can be pretty busy here, but one of Saranda’s main drawcards is its proximity to most other Albanian Riviera highlights. One of the most popular things to do in Saranda is not actually in the city; it’s going on day trips to gorgeous places like Butrint National Park, Dhermi, Llogara Pass, and Gjirokaster.

In short, Saranda is a great base to explore this stunning region in southern Albania. There are numerous excellent Albanian Riviera hotels to choose from here . Let’s check out some of the best.

5. White Residence Apartment

About 2 minutes from the beach, this accommodation on Butrinti Street on the Albanian Riviera is the perfect choice for staying away from the city. The apartment is elegantly furnished in white, offers world-class comforts, and the property has an onsite bar.

Each 69 m² apartment is wheelchair accessible and has a kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, dining area and kitchenware, and a balcony with good views. The apartments include air conditioning, heating, hairdryers , washing machines, flat-screen TVs, sofas, baby safety gates, clothes racks, and free WiFi.

This self-service Saranda, is a 5-star accommodation, is close to Mango Beach and Santa Quaranta Beach and within walking distance of restaurants serving Albanian and international food . Staying here is the perfect place for privacy on your Albania holidays.

6. Hotel Seaside Saranda

Just a 2-minute walk from Mango Beach, the Hotel Seaside Saranda has rooms for individuals and families of all sizes. It is just a 15-minute drive from the Greek border and a 30-minute boat ride to Corfu; it is one of the good Saranda Albania beach hotels. Seaside Saranda Hotel Albania organizes trips to Corfu upon guest request. There is also a bus stop in front of the hotel with easy access to Saranda city center.

The spacious rooms at this hotel in Albania Saranda include a balcony with either sea or city views. Rooms come equipped with air conditioning, heating, cable TV, minibars, safes, hairdryers , refrigerators, and closets. Triple and quadruple rooms are available for families.

The open-air restaurant atop the terrace of this Saranda beach hotel serves Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy dinner here overlooking the sea.

7. Hotel Butrinti & Spa

Ideally located, this 5-star hotel in Saranda, Albania , also has a seasonal swimming pool with a bar to enjoy cocktails. It is one of the best hotels in Saranda and is just 100 meters from the pebble-covered Saranda Beach.

Guests at Butrinti Hotel, Saranda , can enjoy continental breakfasts every morning. They also have access to free parking spaces. Spa facilities include a Jacuzzi, sauna, hot tub, fitness center, and spa lounge.

The soundproofed rooms at Hotel Butrinti, Saranda, feature free WiFi, air conditioning, heating, safes, minibars, telephones, desks, and flat-screen televisions. Some rooms have balconies and views of the city or the sea, where you can enjoy your morning coffee. Ask for rooms with views of the turquoise Ionian Sea !

8. Villa Erdeti

Subtle and darker shades mix to beautify the rooms at this cheap hotel in Saranda , Albania. Right next to the sandy Saranda beach , Villa Erdeti is one of the cheap hotels in Saranda.

The rooms here have TVs, air conditioning, sea-view balconies, refrigerators, dishwashers, and closets.

The nearest airport is the Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport in Corfu . This hotel in Saranda Albanian is excellent for a stay with a small budget , quiet surroundings, and lovely hosts.

9. Bouganville Bay Hotel

With a fantastic salt-water infinity pool that appears to stretch out into the endless ocean, this is one of the best 5-star hotels in Saranda. The Bouganville Bay Hotel boasts a seasonal outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a private beach, while watersports such as canoeing, diving , and snorkeling can be arranged at a charge. At an additional cost, guests also have access to a spa and wellness center with a steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, hammam , and wellness packages. There are also outdoor and indoor play areas to keep the little ones entertained.

Butrint National Park and Ksamil are 11 km away, while Lekursi Castle is 7 km away. Bouganville is one of the best hotels in Saranda, within a 15-minute walk of the city. If you’re driving down, private parking is available onsite for 10 EUR per day.

Soundproofed rooms and suites have minimalist decorations and include all amenities; free WiFi, minibars, safety deposit boxes, air conditioning, refrigerators, flatscreen TVs with cables, telephones, tumble dryers, and clothes racks. Larger 63 m² duplex suites and family rooms can sleep up to 4 adults. Ask for a room with a sea view!

10. Hotel Vila Kalcuni Sarande

This 4-star property, right on the beach, offers lots of luxury and stunning sea views.

Rooms and suites have a modern decor, with plush linens and lovely, natural light from large windows and walk-out balconies. 

Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool by the sea, private beach access, and excellent service at the 24-hour help desk.

Grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the sea views on the outdoor terrace and you sip.

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Best hotels in ksamil, albania.

Ksamil, the “Ionian Pearl,” is a village far south of the Albanian Riviera. This is it if you’re looking for somewhere to stay on the Albanian Riveria with perfect sandy beaches, aquamarine waters, and proximity to heritage sites and national parks . Ksamil is a short distance south of Saranda and is part of a national park .

The village is in Butrint National Park, one of Albania’s most fantastic historical attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Around Ksamil, you can visit numerous archaeological sites dating from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages, including impressive Roman ruins.

Additionally, this is one of the best places to stay on the Albanian Riviera for nature, history, and beaches. The area has some of the most fantastic sandy beaches on the Albanian Riviera, such as Pasqyra Beach and Manastir Beach. In contrast, Ksamil’s waterfront has restaurants and a wonderful walking path. The iconic Ksamil Islands are visible, too.

Here are some of the best hotels on the Albania Riviera at Ksamil beach.

11. Poseidon Hotel

Just 100 meters walk from the Ionian Sea ; this is one of the 5-star Ksamil hotels with mountain views from the balcony of every room. The best hotel in Ksamil, the Poseidon hotel, has a garden and a terrace and offers guests free WiFi.

The air-conditioned rooms in this hotel’s luxury Ksamil are 30 m², soundproofed, and include one large bed and one bunk bed. Rooms also have flat-screen TVs, heating, dining table, mosquito nets, closets, clothes racks, bathtubs, refrigerators, ovens, and free WiFi.

The hotel is within walking distance of supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. Butrinti Lake is 0.6 km away, while Mt. Sotira is just a km away.

12. Hotel Sole Mare

Opened in June 2018, this is not a Ksamil beach resort . But the 4-star Hotel Sole Mare has been meeting guests’ expectations for quite some time.

Guests are treated to a continental breakfast in a nearby hotel and can avail of free parking on site. All of the rooms have a balcony, with some featuring incredible views of the Ionian Sea .

Every room is compact and well-decorated in pine colors with marble flooring. The soundproofed rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TVs, minibars, desks, slippers, clothes racks, hairdryers, and free WiFi.

Pick a room with sea views to wake up to shades of beautiful blue. This is the perfect accommodation on the Albanian coast that is close to the best beaches in Ksamil!

13. Villa Klinti

Located about 500 meters from Ksamil beach, Albania, the Villa Klinti is an excellent choice for budget travelers . The restaurants and supermarket are all within 200 meters of this 3-star villa hotel , while the Butrint National Park is 2.4 km away.

The triple rooms are 35 m², the 4-person rooms are 45 m², and the 5-person rooms are 50 m². The rooms or suites can accommodate between 3 to 5 guests. The triple rooms feature a balcony, closet, bathtubs, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, cutlery, a small dining table, electric kettle, kitchenware, coffee machine , and clothes rack. The junior suite also includes a seating area.

BBQ facilities are available, along with free parking and free WiFi.

Best Hotels In Himare, Albania

Built in and around the ruins of old towns, Himare has a lot to offer, from castle ruins to charming village settlements. Also spelled Himara, the town of Himare is in the northern part of the Albanian Riviera. So, this would be a great place to stay for a few days and immerse yourself in this part of the region. There is a lot to explore and experience here.

First, there are amazing beaches in and around Himare. The town has its own beaches, which are great spots to hang out and relax in the morning or afternoon. Other nearby beaches that are worth checking out are Filikuri Beach to the south and Livadhi Beach to the north.

Just behind and above Spile Beach sits the old town of Himare. Home to historic buildings, winding lanes, coffee houses, old churches, small shops, and the impressive Himare Castle, this area is entertaining to explore on foot.

Within an easy drive from Himare, you’ll find incredible destinations like Porto Palermo, Dhermi, and Llogara National Park. Trips to Saranda and Ksamil are possible as well.

If you’re picking quiet and charming Himare as your place to stay on the Albanian Riviera, we’ve got some recommended hotels for you below.

14. Castle Hotel Himare

The beachfront Castle Hotel Himare has a bar that overlooks the sea. The guests love the rooftop bar and the dinners at the Castle Hotel Himare.

The air-conditioned rooms have a balcony, free WiFi, and free onsite parking. They include amenities such as flat-screen TVs with cable channels, bathtubs, closets, and baby safety gates. The rooms either have views of the mountains, the garden, or the ocean.

The Castle hotel Himare is one of Albania’s best beach hotels that’s light on the pocket and has easy access to the beach.

15. Stone Beach

On the western slopes of Mount Gjivlash, Qeparo, are the Stone Beach apartments. These apartments are great for private holidays in Albania. Apart from free WiFi, all apartments have a sea view, including a kitchen and access to one of Albania’s best beaches.

The soundproofed apartments include air conditioning, heating, flat-screen TVs, sofas, well-equipped kitchens, dining areas, outdoor furniture, and access to a small private pool. The apartments range from 65 m² to 114 m² in size and can accommodate up to 6 individuals.

The Stone Beach apartments are accommodation on the Albanian coast that includes both privacy and gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea.

16. Miamar Hotel

This chic, 5-star hotel features a private beachfront on Livadhi Beach in addition to two outdoor swimming pools and a lovely sun terrace.

The rooms are beautiful and thoughtfully designed, with little extras and accents that make them feel like home. Marble bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows bring the wow factor. 

A buffet breakfast is available each morning along with a dine-in restaurant offering Italian and Mediterranean fare.

17. Himara Hostel

Set in a traditional house with a garden, the Himara Hostel is one of the best Albanian Riviera hostels to spend your time in. It’s just an 8-minute walk from Himare Beach and has all the necessary amenities. Each room extends either onto a patio or terrace. Guests can access shared bathrooms and a shared kitchen to prepare their meals.

Rooms include free WiFi, parking, hairdryers, fans, and heating. Cheaper dormitory rooms are also available. Restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets are nearby. The sea is a 400-meter walk away, while the nearest beaches are Spille beach, Livadhi beacH, and Potam beach.

Best Hotels In Dhermi, Albania

With turquoise waters and beautiful secluded beaches, the beautiful landscape of Dhermi in summer attracts young Albanians from all over the country. Not only the beaches, but Dhermi is also the epicenter of lively nightlife, another reason the young people flock here when school’s out.

The city is situated on a hill overlooking the sea and offers spectacular sunsets. Take a drink in one of the many bars and restaurants at sunset; it is always an excellent way to spend the neon evening in Dhermi.

Although this place offers a cheerful and festive atmosphere , with lively beach bars scattered throughout, there are more than enough beaches for a quiet place to sit and enjoy the Albanian Riviera landscape.

18. Drymades Resort, Dhermi

Colored blue and white, this lovely 4-star residence in Dhermi is often listed on the best places to stay in Albania lists. Guests at this Albanian Riviera hotel can enjoy the onsite restaurant serving Greek, Italian and Mediterranean dishes.

Rooms are air-conditioned, heated, and soundproofed. They include free WiFi, balconies, minibars, showers, radios, flat-screen televisions with cable and satellite channels, hardwood floors, mosquito nets, dryers, hypoallergenic linen, and clothes racks. Family rooms or bungalows are also available.

A stay at the Drymades Resort is perfect for watching the sunset! Guests have access to a bar, garden, pool, children’s playground, and lounge beds on the beach. They also love the proximity to the beach, local restaurants, and markets.

19. Llogora Tourist Village

If you want to stay in Llogora National Park, this accommodation is for you! Nestled inside the park limits, it’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy nature on holiday. Only 15km from the beach, you can still get in all the beach time you want!

Guests can choose to stay in a private bungalow or in rooms in the main hotel building, some with mountain views.

Onsite, a Turkish bath, saunas and an indoor pool are all available for guest use. Additionally, guests have access to a game room, lounge, children’s playground and various sporting options.

The restaurant serves up tasty traditional Albanian dishes, so don’t skip out on a meal or two when staying here!

20. Elysium Hotel

Another of the great place to stay in Albania is the Elysium Hotel. It’s one of the 5-star hotels in Albania on Dhermi Beach, nestled behind the olive groves. Located just 500 meters from Dhermi beach, Albania, the hotel offers free parking for guests and the use of the large outdoor swimming pool.

The rooms at this Albanian Riveria accommodation have wooden parquet floors that match their curtains. They also include air conditioning, heating, soundproofing, minibars, TVs, refrigerators, safes, laptop safes, dryers, sofas, and clothes racks. WiFi is also free!

The hotel also has larger 30 m² double rooms with a sofa bed that can accommodate two children. The buffet breakfast is well stocked. The hotel offers free parasols and sun loungers on the beach nearby. Guests can also use the onsite bar for recreation.

This is one of the best Albania resort hotels to stay at!

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Best Hotels In Vlore, Albania

In 1912, the independence of Albania was declared in Vlore. Vlore holds a special place in the hearts of all Albanians. That is why the Museum of Independence is located in this small town .

If you are a huge history buff looking to engulf yourself in Albanian history, you can go to the ancient Kanina Castle. According to local projections, the castle dates back to the 3rd Century B.C.

If you are interested in nature and the beautiful Albanian environment, you can visit the Bay of Vlora. You can enjoy the gentle sea breeze and simultaneously observe the bay’s fauna. There are many species of animals in the area, some of which you may not be familiar with or have ever imagined seeing in Europe.

21. Maritim Marina Bay Resort & Casino

This 5-star resort accommodation is just meters from Liro Beach.  Two outdoor swimming pools and an outdoor infinity pool are available for guests of all ages. A pool bar along with sun loungers and umbrellas make the space one you can relax at all day.

Spacious rooms are decorated with earthy tones and come in a range of sizes from doubles to deluxe family suites.

Evening entertainment, kid’s club, casino, nightclub with DJ, live music, water sports, spa facilities, restaurants, and more make this resort an entire vacation package in one!

22. Hotel Paradise Beach

The Paradise Beach Hotel is a luxurious accommodation with modern amenities on the gorgeous southern Albanian Riviera. The area is known for its steep mountains immersed in front of the brilliant blue-turquoise sea.

The coastal road between Vlora and Saranda has been described as one of the most impressive in Eastern Europe , and while staying in Vlora, the Paradise Beach Hotel is the ideal place to check it out. 

Two on-site local restaurants offer traditional Albanian cuisine and French and Italian dishes, all prepared by highly qualified professional chefs and paired with a wide selection of the best local and international wines.

Best Resorts In The Albanian Riviera

Okay, so now that we’ve covered the best hotels in each popular part of the Albanian Riviera, let’s shift our focus slightly. Maybe you’re not looking for accommodation in any specific town in the Riviera, per se? Perhaps instead, you want to stay at a fantastic  beach resort somewhere on the Albanian Riviera? If that’s the case, we’ve got the ultimate list of Albanian Riviera best beach resorts for you here!

• Onassis Residences, Qeparo
• Folie Marine Beach Hotel & Club – Soleil Resort, Jala
• Bougainville Bay Resort, Saranda

What airport is closest to the Albanian Riviera?

Tirana’s international airport is closest, and once there you can rent a car or take a bus down to the coast. Here’s the info to get there via Tirana.

Alternatively, Corfu’s airport in Greece is actually closer than Tirana, with a 70 minute ferry ride across the sea. Here’s the info to get there via Corfu.

How can I get around in the Albanian Riviera?

If you want the most flexibility, renting a car is definitely a good choice. However, public buses are a great option too.

What are the best towns to stay in along the riviera?

What is the best town in the albanian riviera to stay in for a good mix of nature, history, and beaches.

Ksamil – close to archaeological sites, national parks and home to aquamarine waters & sandy beaches, it’s the perfect combo.

What is the best town to stay in for exploring the Albanian Riviera region?

Saranda – as a central spot, one of the highlights of staying here is going on day trips to gorgeous places like Butrint National Park, Dhermi, Llogara Pass, and Gjirokaster.

What is the best town to stay in for a quiet beach holiday on the Albanian Riviera?

Himare – it’s quieter than Ksamil and Saranda and holds so much charm.

What is the best town to stay in for nightlife along the Albanian Riviera?

Dhermi – this town is known to attract a younger crowd, so it offers a healthy nightlife scene.

What town in the Albanian Riviera is best for families?

Saranda is great for families with its central location, beach offerings, restaurants and day trip opportunities. There are also a lot of budget and luxury hotel options from all price ranges, making it affordable for families.

What To See In Albania

Here’s a quick list of what to see in Albania during your trip to the Albania Riviera.

• Stay in Ksamil, the “Ionian Pearl”
• Visit the nearby Syri i Kalter or Blue Eye
• Walk among the ruins of Himara Castle
• Visit Butrint National Park and the UNESCO Roman ruins within
• Visit the town and fortress of Gjirokaster
• See the beautiful Panormos or Porto Palermo Castle
• Spend some time in the charming Qeparo village
• See Borsh, Albania’s longest beach at 7 km
• Visit the secluded Kakome Beach and Gjipe Beach
• Enjoy the nightlife in Dhermi and Sarande
• Paraglide Llogara Beach. Enjoy paragliding from Llogara Pass down to Palasa Beach
• Drive along the Llogara Pass
• Hike or spend the night in Llogara National Park
• Discover the rich plant life at Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park
• Gorge on byreks, baklava , and tave kosi, and drink raki

If there are other Albanian Riviera hotels you’d suggest, please let us know in the comments below.

• Things To Do And Places To Eat Along The Albanian Riviera
• How To Rent A Car In Saranda
• 19 Things To Do In Saranda
• Getting From Saranda To Corfu & Back
• Things To Do In Himare Albania
• Visiting The Blue Eye In Albania

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The Best Beaches in Albania for Uncrowded Shores and Idyllic Resorts

While a number of different mountain ranges run along the eastern side of Albania , its southwestern coast is home to paradisiacal beaches where the sun shines, umbrellas provide some needed shade for beachgoers, and the Mediterranean laps the shore. While its sandy stretches were long a secret compared to more popular neighbors like Croatia and Greece , increasingly the world is getting out. The beaches of Albania could become a summer romance that you’ll never forget.

Small and captivating, with fine white sand, Grama Bay is hidden between steep cliffs and surrounded by lush vegetation. The easiest way to visit it is by sea given its remote and isolated location. It offers exactly what you’d want to find on your Albanian beach vacation including the glistening turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea. Don’t miss the ancient inscriptions on nearby rocks that date back to Roman and Greek times.

Plazhi i Ri and Uji i Ftohtë beaches, near Vlorë

These two beaches are the gateway to the Albanian Riviera—at its northern end—and a fitting start to this roundup of the best beaches in Albania .

Vlorë, located just over 90 miles from the Albanian capital, Tirana, is a port town where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet and miles of sand and cliffs run along the coast. The town attracts a variety of tourists who find different beaches and atmospheres for every taste. If you are looking for a lively party scene, the beach bars of Plazhi i Ri await. If you prefer something less crowded then head to the charming and more secluded Uji i Ftohtë.

Llaman, in Himarë

Himarë, the next village on the Riviera as you head south, has two very different sides. In addition to being a popular beach resort, there’s a quiet village where life goes on as it long has, with fishermen gathering in traditional tavernas after a day at sea. It’s a true reflection of the best of Albania—open to international travelers but not forgetting about its roots.

The best place to enjoy the sun and sea near Himarë is at Llaman, a beach that’s very popular with locals. Nestled between two hills, this pebbly cove is an ideal spot to put down your towel and then marvel at the Mediterranean.

Buneci sits in the shadow of Sarandë and many travelers skip it, drawn to the bright lights and festive atmosphere of its southern neighbor. Those who choose to spend a few days in Buneci, however, will find an almost deserted white pebble beach that is as beautiful as any near Sarandë.

While it has some basic tourist infrastructure, this beach town remains relatively undeveloped. There are a few traditional cafes and a hotel, but you’ll still be able to hear the lapping of the waves—and who needs anything more than that?

In Drymades you will find fine sand, white pebbles, and centuries-old olive trees, but also colorful sun loungers and umbrellas, trendy beach bars, and a range of accommodations, from modest bungalows to five-star hotels. It is considered by many to be the coolest beach in Albania.

Although its name may not be familiar to those who haven’t visited Albania yet, Dhërmi is one of the most famous beaches in the country. It was long a secret guarded by locals who enjoyed the miles of sands here to themselves. This urban beach is also one of the largest in Albania and even in the middle of August you won't have a hard time finding a space to put down your towel.

Adventurous spirits will also want to explore the coves and caves nearby, including Drymades, one of the few that can rival Ksamil’s claim to the title of Albania’s most beautiful beach .

The big kahuna of tourism on the Albanian Riviera, Sarandë, is also one of the most popular destinations in the Balkans with an atmosphere that often feels similar to that found in many of Spain ’s Mediterranean resorts. The city is experiencing a construction boom, and the hills behind the sea are dotted with hotels and apartment buildings in the process of being built.

A little over four miles of undisturbed beach is the main appeal of Borsh. Just south of Qeparo, the route to Borsh is dazzling, punctuated by cliffs and coves on one of the country’s most dramatic coastal roads.

The beach, surprisingly one of the least visited in Albania, is surrounded by olive trees and gentle hills. It’s a glimpse of a Mediterranean of yesteryear, which has managed to survive in its pure, untouched state.

Ksamil Islands

If we had to draw up a list of the best of the best of Albania’s beach destinations, the Ksamil Islands would at least be among our top three, if not in the top spot. This archipelago, 12 miles from Sarandë, is more than just a postcard image. Instead it feels like something from a dream: four wooded islands in the middle of an unbelievable turquoise sea.

While you likely will be won over after viewing them from a distance, wait until you reach the white-sand beaches (a rarity in an area where pebbles are more common). As you look out at the horizon, you’ll see a number of other islands that appear so close that you’ll want to reach out and touch them.

Qeparo is one of the most under-the-radar and least visited beaches on the Albanian Riviera. This photogenic village has two cliffs with views of the Mediterranean and it’s a scene that’s waiting to be captured on canvas—or on Instagram with, of course, no filter needed.

While word is getting out about Albania’s beaches, Qeparo’s beach manages to remain a secret. If you travel there you may find that you won’t come across any other tourists from beyond the region.

Do not be scared off by the size of Durrës, the second most populous city in Albania. In addition to including some notable Roman sites, like the amphitheater, the baths, and the aqueduct, it is blessed with a stretch of beach about six miles long—you’re guaranteed to find a sun lounger where you can lay your towel.

On Albania’s southern coast, near the village of Dukat, you’ll find a little-known beach called Gjilekë. The fact that it is so hard to get to has helped to preserve its pristine and uncrowded atmosphere. It is only accessible by boat or walking for almost half an hour along a path that starts in the village of Gjilekë and crosses an imposing canyon. Once you arrive, you’ll sit below its high cliffs with crystal-clear waters in front of you.

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15 amazing beaches in Albania you can’t miss

• Post author: Andrew D'Amours
• Post published: August 16, 2024
• Post category: Travel inspiration / Trip itineraries & destination discoveries
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Missed out on a European beach summer vacation? Prepare one for next year! You should consider Albania, an increasingly popular destination thanks to its breathtaking coastline, vibrant culture, and affordable prices. I loved this country, which is located just north of Greece, both times I visited it, and it has a unique history of being closed off from the world for decades.

The country’s gorgeous coastline is more or less 380 kilometers long, with 284 km on the Adriatic Sea and 96 km on the Ionian Sea. Albania’s beaches are beautiful — I can’t deny that — but as I’m not a beach person, I found even more enjoyable to explore the rest of this awesome country on my epic Albania road trip itinerary . 

There’s so much to discover in Albania, so I highly recommend exploring beyond the beaches, too, in order to discover the best destinations in Albania . 

Here are 15 amazing beaches in Albania you can’t miss.

1. Ksamil Beach

Ksamil Beach is located near the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint and is one of the most popular beach destinations in Albania. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy shores, picturesque small islets, and a wide range of amenities (plenty of restaurants, bars, and accommodation), it’s easy to understand why Ksamil is often considered the best beach in Albania . 

This summer destination is for sure the most highly frequented by families but also other travelers (especially during peak season) who go there to sunbathe, snorkel, and take boat trips to the islets . The village of Ksamil is a dreamy location in Albania that you should not miss! 

2. Gjipe Beach

Located on the Albanian Riviera, Gjipe Beach is a secluded beach that is really worth the detour if you’re searching for tranquility and peace of mind. Its location between massive cliffs creates an intimate atmosphere away from the crowds and the noise. Gjipe is accessible via a scenic hike through a canyon or by boat. 

Camping on Gjipe Beach is permitted so many people bring their tents and stay overnight to enjoy the beautiful scenery in the early hours of the morning. Swimming there feels like in a dream. There are caves at the far end of the beach if you are feeling a little adventurous but be careful of the tide.

3. Dhërmi Beach

Dhërmi Beach is a large beach on the Albanian Riviera coast located south of Dhërmi, between the towns of Vuno and Himara. With the mountain on the backdrop and lots of sun loungers and umbrellas, it’s a lovely spot to soak up the sun or partake in a variety of water sports.

On clear days, you can even see the Greek island of Corfu (approximately 2 kilometers away)!

4. Drymades Beach

Also on the Albanian Riviera, near the village (and main beach) of Dhërmi, Drymades Beach is famous for its incredible sunsets and idyllic blue waters. It’s also close to Saranda, making it more accessible and popular with visitors. On the beach, you’ll find white pebbles as well as golden sand.

It’s a great place for kayaking , scuba diving , and paddle boarding. Restaurants and cafés in the area serve delicious seafood dishes and traditional Albanian cuisine. You’ll also find beach clubs where you can dance the night away. 

5. Palasa Beach

Palasa Beach is the northernmost beach of the Albanian Riviera, a beautiful place where the sea meets the mountains. The water is among the clearest you’ll ever see! Of course, several businesses are now using such a stunning place to please travelers, but there is still a free public beach.

Palasa Beach is a bit far from everything, about 8 km from Dhërmi and 78 km from Saranda. During the summer months, it hosts music festivals and beach parties.

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6. Jale Beach

If you find yourself in Southern Albania, more precisely near Himarë , Jale Beach is worth a visit! It’s also not too far from Gjipe Beach and the Llogara Pass . Go early (the earlier the better) because it tends to get crowded in the afternoons. There too, the water is crystal-clear and the beach bars serve tasty food and delicious cocktails. 

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Diving enthusiasts can explore underwater caves and rock formations. There are hotels, guesthouses, and even designated camping areas nearby. The region is also known for hosting nice summer music festivals. 

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7. Borsh Beach

Borsh Beach is surrounded by mountains and is quieter than others on the Albanian Riviera. It’s 7 km long (it’s the largest beach in the south of the country) so there is plenty of space for everyone. Looking up, you can spot Borsh Castle from there. 

A few beach bars are open in July and August, but services are more limited when it’s not summertime. It’s the perfect place for long walks to unwind or to watch the sunset. You can also rent a jet ski or go on a boat trip.

8. Pulëbardha Beach

Pulëbardha Beach is found between Saranda and Ksamil. You can easily reach it by taking a bus that runs every hour between Saranda and Butrint. It’s a 20-minute walk from the bus stop. For an amazing view of the clear turquoise water, you should try the Pulëbardha Beach restaurant . You can even spot Lekursi Castle in the distance.

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Down on the beach, hidden behind the rocks, there’s another really nice beach bar. You can also rent beach beds and umbrellas there. Arrive early because the beach is not very big and it tends to become crowded. 

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9. Livadhi Beach

Livadhi Beach is a large beach in Himara on the southern coast of Albania. It’s located down the hill from the old town of Himara Fshat . The beach can be reached by car and there is parking available for visitors. There is a public part of the beach as well as privately operated areas.

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The beach is very popular among locals and travelers for its natural sand and beautiful surroundings. Located on a bay, it offers a nice view of the green hills all around, with Himara Castle visible on top of one of the hills. If you’re planning to spend the night, there are various accommodation options available, such as hotels, guesthouses, and campsites.

10. Himara Beach

The town of Himara is located between Saranda and Vlora in the Albanian Riviera. The town has not 1 but 4 beaches stretching around the entire bay: Spile Beach , Marachi Beach , Prinos Beach , and Potam Beach . 

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Spile is the main public beach directly in front of the town with many bars and restaurants. There is a pier from which you can jump into the water as well as do boat tours. Marachi Beach is popular for water sports and Prinos Beach is equipped with sunbed rentals and beachside cafés. Potam Beach is more secluded.

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11. Qeparo Beach

Qeparo Beach is the only beach in the village of Qeparo, surrounded by olive groves and magnificent views. It’s located between Porto-Palermo and Borshi Beach . A pedestrian promenade runs along the beach, lined with numerous restaurants on its opposite side. Everything is nearby! 

If you want a calm day chilling by the ocean, visit this location when the peak season is over! On the beach, you can rent beach beds with umbrellas or bring your own towel to claim a spot on the public beach.

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12. Rana e Hedhun Beach

Rana e Hedhun Beach is situated only 3-4 kilometres from Shëngjin. Access to the beach is typically done by foot from the nearby village. The name “Rana e Hedhun” translates to “Thrown Sand” in English. It refers to the impressive dunes that you’ll find there.

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These dunes rise to 50 meters high and are a result of strong winds blowing sand from the shore towards the mountain. Going to the top of this hill is a great workout and the view is amazing, especially at sunset.

13. Filikuri Beach

Situated close to Himara, Filikuri Beach can only be reached by boat (you can rent one from different places) or via a hiking path from Potam Beach in Himara. You’ll find this gem between the beach of Potam and the beach of Llaman. 

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If you want to spend an entire day in Filikuri, make sure to bring enough food and plenty of water with you because there is no shop on the beach.

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14. Spille Beach

Located near the town of Kavajë, Spille Beach is a very long sandy beach surrounded by a pine forest. The waters are shallow, clear, and calm, making it ideal for swimming, especially for families with children.

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Several beachside restaurants and bars offer local and international cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Albanian dishes. Sunbeds and umbrellas are also available for rent.

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15. Narta Beach

You’ll find Narta Beach near the city of Vlora in southern Albania. If you’re hoping for fine golden sand and clear, shallow waters, you’re in luck! The Narta Lagoon is perfect for birdwatching, with species like flamingos and pelicans.

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Nearby attractions include the historic Zvernec Monastery on Zvernec Island, accessible by a wooden footbridge.

FAQ — Frequently asked questions about Albanian beaches

Here are a few commonly requested answers.

Where is Albania located?

Located in the western part of the Balkan Peninsula, Albania shares a border with Greece, North Macedonia, Kosovo, and Montenegro.

The country is nicknamed “Land of the Eagles” and has a population of 2.8 million (about half of British Columbia) and a land area of 29,000 km² (a bit more than half of Nova Scotia).

Which part of Albania has the best beaches?

The southern part (especially the Albanian Riviera) is famous for having the best beaches in the country. 

But Albania has plenty of beautiful beaches, from the smallest to the liveliest seaside towns, from the most popular spots to the most hidden coves. It’s actually quite a challenge to find out the exact number of beaches in this nation. 

Which beach in Albania has the clearest water?

Ksamil Beach is often cited as having some of the clearest turquoise water in Albania. It is located close to the town of Saranda and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint. Other beaches known for their crystal-clear waters include Gjipe Beach, Palasa Beach, and Jale Beach. 

Is it better to stay in Ksamil or Saranda?

You should stay in Ksamil if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed beach holiday with stunning landscapes. Saranda is perfect for those who want a vibrant atmosphere with more dining, shopping, nightlife, and entertainment options. 

What is Albania like for a beach holiday?

Albania is gaining popularity as a beach holiday destination, with countless beaches including popular and secluded ones. If you love water sports and nightlife, you won’t be disappointed. 

The local culture and hospitality, combined with the low cost of living, add to the overall nice experience.

Which Albanian beach looks like the Maldives?

Ksamil Beach in Albania is frequently compared to the Maldives because of its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and charming small islands located near the coastline. It’s a piece of tropical paradise in Europe!

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Albanian beaches are renowned for their white sand, crystal-clear waters, and scenic mountain views. It’s a perfect destination for a memorable beach vacation!

What would you like to know about the most amazing beaches in Albania? Tell us in the comments below.

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Featured image: Ksamil, Albania (photo credit: Polina Rytova)

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Secret Europe: The dreamy coastal gem tourists haven't discovered - yet

The world is waking up to the charms of this new hotspot on the Ionian Sea.

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It's party time on the Albanian Riviera. Colourful beach clubs stretch along the sand as far as the eye can see, a dazzle of umbrella-shaded sun loungers, slouchy bean bags and thatch-roofed bars. As the sun dips into the ocean, hundreds of twinkling fires are lit in braziers along the beach. The flames seem to dance in time with the pulse-raising beats of DJs as the night cranks into gear.

Welcome to Dhermi, the crucible of a country on the cusp of change.

It was a tantalising line on social media - "the Bali of Europe" - that did it. My Australian family's quest for a southern European beach holiday in a place magically off the mass tourism radar had seemed doomed. And then the coastal gem of Dhermi went viral thanks to the image-savvy young folk telegraphing its beauty to the world.

In this instance, the travel unicorn is not a myth. Sipping a crisp Peja beer, watching the kids splash in the hyper-realistically blue waves of the Ionian Sea, feels light years removed from Albania's recent past as the hermit of Europe under the harsh regime of Stalin-styled dictator Enver Hoxha.

Nestled between Greece and Croatia, the mountainous country on the Balkan peninsula has been shyly opening up since the 1990s. In terms of tourism, it's still in the courtship stage. Visitors are yet to go steady with its lively capital Tirana, hillside villages, alpine parks, and glorious swathe of Adriatic and Ionian coastline. Throw in other Riviera region wonders like the bubbling turquoise waters of the Blue Eye spring and the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site of Butrint and I'm calling it a win for the early adopters.

Cheap flights arrive in the capital Tirana each day from Athens and other nearby capitals, but we hop across over the water from Corfu. Just 35 minutes on the hydrofoil deposits us in Saranda, the unofficial capital of the south-western coastline's Albanian Riviera, where high-rises line the waterfront esplanade and things immediately seem to hail from a different era, including the plumes of cigarette smoke wafting from cafes (anti-smoking campaigns seem like a quaint notion here) and a freewheeling approach to road rules.

The coastal road from Saranda to Dhermi is only 70 kilometres long but is likely to take more than two hours, depending on your appetite for hair-pin bends and the number of tractors puttering between villages. Winding above pristine yet amazingly deserted beaches, it passes timeless whitewashed towns and dozens of the mushroom-domed concrete bunkers the famously paranoid Hoxha built to protect against invasion.

The township of Dhermi was settled more than 500 years ago by Ottomans who, like Hoxha, strategically prioritised the high ground over the sea. Stacked along the thigh-burning clifftop gradients, the old town is a classic Balkan vision of terracotta-roofed white houses and dozens of churches (one for every 20 residents, they say), including the pretty Church of Saint Spyridon with its sky blue cupola.

It makes for a gorgeous, sky-blocking backdrop to the beach, where the "new" Dhermi of sleek modern hotels, restaurants and bars has sprung up along a three-kilometre promenade.

Practically lapped by the waves, the La Brisa Boutique Hotel hits its crowd-pleasing KPIs with sleek modern suites - ours has a balcony overlooking the ocean - and a rooftop pool that rivals the sea in dazzle factor. Down on the beach, we flit between bars, each dreamier than the last, with canopied day beds, swings and hammocks. It's like 1970s Bali and 1980s Ibiza fell in love and made the perfect beach destination.

Seafood dominates the restaurants found along the promenade: crackingly fresh tuna carpaccio and chargrilled sea bass; some great Japanese sushi even makes an appearance. Prices are notably more wallet-friendly than Greece, although it's a rookie error to assume everything is going to be thrillingly cheap (a decimal place mix-up when ordering lobster at La Brisa's upmarket beach bar is a lesson painfully learned).

The array of choice keeps our family of four happy, but it would be a shame to miss the legendarily hearty, protein-centric Balkan fare. It makes the perfect excuse to explore the old town before dinner at the atmospheric taverna Sofia, where spicy sujuk sausages, fried potatoes and tarator (a thick tahini-based sauce that goes with everything) rule the menu and cash (the Albanian lek) remains king.

There are more viral travel moments waiting in the Dhermi neighbourhood. Sandwiched between steep cliffs at the mouth of a deep and brooding canyon eight kilometres away, Gjipe beach is having its moment in the social media sun. There's a catch, however: the 45-minute walk in on a treacherously rocky path. Like the Albanian roads, it's slow going, compounded by the kids' litany of complaints (too hot, too steep, too far from Pepsi Max). It's hard not to look enviously at the clever folk puttering around the headland by boat. But finally planting foot on sand makes the pain worth it. It's the wild west answer to Dhermi beach, with a few tumbledown bars and groups of youngsters camping out in an Albanian version of Alex Garland's The Beach . Oh, to be in my 20s again (sorry, kids).

For those planning their own holiday, Albania's hard launch is well under way. A backhander to the idea that southern Europe has been "done", it leaves us wanting to discover more of this mysterious country, and the excuse to revisit Dhermi in the way we once returned like migratory birds to Positano. "It's the new Croatia," declares my partner. "It's just really fun," says my 11-year-old boy. As for my 15-year-old daughter with her eye on the tantalisingly near future, "I want to come back for schoolies."

Getting there: Albania's capital, Tirana, is serviced by multiple flights daily from major European cities, while Saranda is easily reached by hydrofoil from Corfu. An international airport is set to open in Vlora (50 kilometres from Dhermi) next March.

Staying there: The waterfront Hotel La Brisa has direct beach access and a daily breakfast buffet. Rooms start from $115 in the low season and $325 in the high season. labrisa.al

Getting around: Dhermi is 3.5 hours' drive south from Tirana, and about two hours north-west from Saranda. Public buses are plentiful but a hire car is a good idea.

Explore more: albania.al

The writer travelled at her own expense.

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