Albania
© Ilir Tsouko/Lonely Planet
Overview
Albania's stunning mountain scenery, crumbling castles, boisterous capital and dreamy beaches rival any in the Mediterranean and continue to enchant.
Attractions
Must-see attractions
Albania
The evocative ruins of the ancient Illyiran city of Apollonia sit on a windswept hilltop some 12km west of the city of Fier. While a large part of the…
Berat
Hidden behind the crumbling walls of the fortress that crowns the hill above Berat is the whitewashed, village-like neighbourhood of Kala; if you walk…
Tirana
This fantastic conversion – from a massive Cold War bunker on the outskirts of Tirana into a history and contemporary art museum – is Albania's most…
Shkodra
With spectacular views over the city and Lake Shkodra, the Rozafa Fortress is the most impressive sight in town. Founded by the Illyrians in antiquity and…
Tirana
The largest museum in Albania holds many of the country's archaeological treasures and a replica of Skanderbeg's massive sword (how he held it, rode his…
Tirana
Tracing the relatively brief history of Albanian painting from the early 19th century to the present day, this beautiful space also holds temporary…
Gjirokastra
Gjirokastra's eerie hilltop castle is one of the biggest in the Balkans. There's been a fortress here since the 12th century, although much of what can be…
Albania
This rarely visited yet magnificent little monastery is remotely located on a hilltop between the towns of Lushjë and Fier. With your own transport it's…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
With its stunning beaches, breathtaking mountains, long but complicated history, and affordable travel, Albania is perfect for your next adventure.
Read articleBest Places to Visit
With gorgeous landscapes and a rich culture, it’s no wonder Albania is having a moment. Here’s where to go in this beautiful Balkan country.
Read articleBest Time to Visit
Plan your travels to Albania throughout the year with this seasonal guide.
Read articleThings to Know
Albania is neither dangerous nor “undiscovered“ – but it is fabulous. Read our crucial pointers and tips before you set off for your next trip there.
Read articleBest Road Trips
Small, beautiful Albania is an ideal place to explore by car. Here are five itineraries for seeing what the country has to offer.
Read articleSpending Diaries
A detailed account of how one writer spent three days in this vibrant European capital for under $400 per person.
Read articleGet Connected
From eSIMs and data to wi-fi and phone calls, here's how to keep your cell phone connected on your travels in Albania.
Read articleArticles
Latest stories from Albania
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Destination Practicalities
How to get your cell phone connected in Albania: eSIMs, wi-fi and mobile networksMar 26, 2025 • 7 min read
Tips & AdviceMontenegro vs Albania: how to choose between two Balkan beachfront countriesOct 4, 2024 • 7 min read
Budget TravelTotal Trip: what I spent over a (very) affordable long weekend in Tirana, AlbaniaAug 23, 2023 • 7 min read
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