Albania Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)

Let the Christmas begin🎄🌟

#christmastrip 📌"Skanderbeg Square" Sheshi Skënderbej 📍Tirana, Albania Every year at the beginning of December in Tirana, in the center of Skanderbeg Square, it is time to welcome the Christmas season. Enjoy colorful streets and historic squares decorated in an astonishing way with lights and pretty ornaments. A large tree stands in the middle of the square, and ornate bows adorn the various government buildings in the vicinity. Shops and bars are beginning to put up their own decorations and Christmas trees, some of which even remain in place long after Christmas and the New Year have passed! #christmas #season #winter #lights #warm #beautiful #xmastree

Great Atmosphere

A fabulous place, especially if you catch the beer and food festival on a weekend. Friendly vibe, many nice cafes and restaurants, shops and park areas. Perfect 👌

Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

In the Albanian capital of the socialist country of Europe, the ancient Skanderbeg Square is also like the Tiananmen Square in China. Although it is not so grand, it is a place where local people gather daily. Scandpe is the democratic hero of Albania. In order to commemorate his great achievements, he built a 11-meter-high bronze statue in the square. and in front of the historical museum not far from the square, with a strong socialist style Marseille murals across the sky, the murals highlight the self-confidence of the Albanian people. As we walk through the colorful buildings that have been remodeled, all the time, the atmosphere of socialism, the inexplicable familiarity, the streetscape and the architecture seem to have met, it seems to have been here at some time. .

Incredible Castle of Gjirokastra

Getting There - From Sarrande it takes around 30-40 minutes with a car. From the capital of Albania, Tirana it takes up to 4 and a half hours to get there Attractions - The castle is very big and it is possible to spend a full day at this Attraction. it is very affordable. One of the main attractions is the US Air Force Airplane which happens to be at the castle bit nobody exactly knows why. There are many different theories from different parties. Hotels - there are many hotels in town Food & Restaurants - There is a nice restaurant with a beautiful view over the town on the top of the castle Shopping - There are many shops around #tripblazers #bucketlistreboot

12th century castle!

this castle located in this historical city - Gjirokastër, Albania. this is one of the UNESCO sites in Albania, we paid 400 lek each for the entrance fee. once you enter the castle, you will have the view of the city. this 12th century castle overlooking the city, where you are able to find the clock tower, a church and a museum. it’s actually quite big, we spent almost 2 hours walking around, and there is an old airplane where you are able to take a nice picture. there are certain tunnels where you are able to walk, it was a nice hideout from the sun especially when it’s sunny. and the central plaza is beautiful, we read the history,apparently that’s where they host events overall, this is a must visit place#passionpassport #staycation #gooutside #mountainview #unesco

Gjirokastër Castle.

During my trip to the Gjirokastër Castle in Albania, I was immersed in an atmosphere of magic and history. I explored the mighty walls towering above the old town and enjoyed the splendid views of the surrounding landscape. I ventured into the streets of the castle built with traditional stones and wandered between houses and museums that tell ancient stories about the lives of the locals. I delighted in tasting local cuisine at traditional restaurants, experiencing the authentic flavors of Albanian culture. My journey to Gjirokastër Castle was a magical and thrilling experience that left an indelible mark on me.

Gjirokaster Fortress

#falltrip 📌Castle of Gjirokastra 📍Address: 34FQ+4M9, Street Elvia Celebi, Gjirokastër, Albania The second biggest fortress in the entire Balkan area, Gjirokastra Castle (Kalaja e Gjirokastrës) is a gigantic landmark standing on the hilltop above the city of Gjirokastra. The most popular attraction in Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the castle, which is a protected monument. In pictures you can see: Artillery Gallery🔽 Retracing your steps past the door leads you into the castle's catacombs, where a lengthy gallery holds a variety of artillery weapons. All of the artillery in the artifacts, which are World War II relics, was either abandoned or taken prisoner by German and Italian forces. They consist of tanks and guns. American Airplane🔽 An ex-military aircraft from the United States, a Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star, is on display at the top of the castle. After the pilot left the aircraft behind and flew to the United States, the aircraft arrived at Tirana Airport in 1957. It was transported to the castle in 1970 to be on exhibit as a component of the Arms Museum. Two versions of the story circulated at the time, though: the American version said that the pilot made an emergency landing because he was low on fuel and the weather was bad, while the Albanian version said that the Albanian army had intercepted the plane and forced the pilot to land what they called a "spy plane." #castle #museum #sights #landmarks #history #culture #stonecity

#tripaway Butrint is strategically located in the eastern part of the Strait of Corfu in the extreme south of the country. It sprawls across a peninsula that is surrounded by Lake Butrint and Vivari Channel. The channel connects the lake to the Ionian Sea through a narrow sandy bar. Located in the direct proximity to the sea, the park experiences mild mediterranean climate. This means that the winters are mild and the summers are hot and dry. The archaeological heritage of Butrint is one of the most important archaeological sites in the country, containing different artefacts and structures, dating from the Iron Age up to the Middle Ages. Numerous monuments are still extant including the city walls, a late-antique baptistery, a great basilica, Roman theater and two castles. The ancient city is situated within a natural woodland with a complex ecosystems which depends on the nearby lake and channel. Nevertheless, it is this combination of cultural monuments and natural environment which makes Butrint such a unique place. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the park as Category II. In 1992, the archaeological site joined the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The lagoon has been further recognized as a wetland of international importance by designation under the Ramsar Convention. Nevertheless, Lake Butrint is an Important Bird and Plant Area, because it abundant to significant bird and plant species of international importance. #visitalbania #beautifulalbania #tripaway

Butrint National Park.

During my trip to Butrint National Park in Albania, I immersed myself in the beauty of the wild nature and the rich history that surrounds the area. I wandered among the ruins of ancient cities and beautiful Roman and Greek temples that constitute part of humanity's heritage. I truly enjoyed watching the birds and wildlife that inhabit the nature reserve around the region. I was deeply impressed by the tranquility and stillness that filled the atmosphere, and I contemplated the beauty of the Adriatic Sea overlooking the garden. Visiting Butrint Park was a wonderful and impressive experience, leaving me with unforgettable memories and a deep connection with nature and history.

Exploring History Amidst Nature

#2024wish Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of the last stretch of Albania, just before the embrace of Greece, lies the enchanting Butrint Archaeological Park. My journey through this historical haven left an indelible mark, combining the beauty of nature with the echoes of centuries past. As I wandered through the park, I marveled at the harmonious coexistence of historical ruins from various epochs, each telling a unique tale of the ancient civilizations that once thrived here. The setting, surrounded by lush greenery, added a serene backdrop to the remnants of times gone by, creating a magical atmosphere that transported me through the ages. Some of the ruins were partially veiled by the encroaching foliage, giving the site an air of mystery and adventure. It felt as though I was uncovering hidden treasures as I explored the pathways that led me deeper into the heart of this archaeological gem. The climax of this historical journey was the Butrint Museum, housed in a small castle that seemed frozen in time. Inside, artifacts and exhibits illuminated the rich history of Butrint, providing a tangible connection to the ancient stories told by the surrounding ruins. The museum served as a fitting conclusion to a day filled with exploration and discovery. As I reflect on this captivating experience, my mind drifts to future travels. In 2024, my wish is a new adventure – a trip to Phuket. #2024wish

Butrint national archeological park

When visiting Sarenda, take the bus to the last stop and you will find the Butrint national park. Entry costs 1000 LEK for adults, and is 800 LEK for groups of 12 or more. Inside you will find a stunning remnant to a time long gone. Roman ruins, Byzantine ruins and Ottoman history too. There are approximately fifteen major sites that include Roman mosaics. There is also a small museum that you can visit inside the main basilica. #Albania

U never know what you will find.....

The beauty of travelling is you never know what you will find whether they are old cars, street art or MR BEAN!

The view from the Observation Deck

#tripblazers 📌"Berat Castle" 📍Address: Rruga Mihal Komnena 5001, Berat, Albania Berat Castle, a fortress landmark in the city of Berat, Albania, lies high above the Osum River. After many centuries of stone reinforcement, the exterior (perimeter) was enlarged slowly over time, under Byzantine conquerors, in the 5th, 6th, and 13th centuries. The castle is currently in restoration due in part to a UNESCO World Heritage Site acknowledgement. But when I went to visit it I highly recommend to everyone the view from Berat Castle because it is one of its highlights, and the observation deck is the best place to admire Berat’s scenery. Directly below you is the Mangalem Quarter and the splendid Church of St. Michael. You can see the famous Gorica Bridge leading to the Gorica Quarter, and the vibrant blue waters of the Osumi River. In fact, almost the whole of Berat can be seen from this very platform.

You are welcome to visit Berat Castle!

#tripblazers 📌"Berat Castle" 📍Address: Rruga Mihal Komnena 5001, Berat, Albania Churches, stone walls, and fortresses are part of the castle, which makes the Berat castle unique and beautiful. Out of all the churches in Berat, the Holy Trinity Church is the one that will most likely catch your eye. The church, perched atop a hill with winding steps going down it, overlooks Mount Shpirag and the Osumi River below. A trip up to Berat Castle is worthwhile only to see the Holy Trinity Church. Situated just a short distance above Holy Trinity Church, the main castle appeared to serve as a hub for everyone. It's a great spot to visit and see everything that goes on inside the castle walls. Most of the Byzantine-era buildings may be seen inside Berat Castle's walls. But the remnants of the Red Mosque serve as a reminder that the Ottoman Empire also had a significant impact here. According to records, the mosque is most likely among the oldest in Albania. One of the best ways to recall the castle's rich past is to watch the minaret soar into the sky.

Grapes, flowers, olives and figs in Berat!

As someone who loves to eat fruits discovering juicy and fat fruits are my favourite. Walking along the stone streets in Berat, you will find loads of olive trees, grapes, prunes and figs! I didnt know that some species of figs which are coloured green are actually ripen and ready to eat.

From Montenegro to Albania, the poorest country in Europe, you can clearly feel the gap. This is really the most boring country I have ever seen. The pyramid in Tirana in the capital is the third pyramid I have ever been to. Egypt and Mexico are simply incomparable. If it is not for the ring, Albania can skip it.

The colorful capital of Albania, Tirana, is full of charm

Albania is not large, covering an area of about 28,000 square kilometers, which is roughly 1/3 the size of Chongqing, and has a population of less than 3 million, less than 1/10 of Chongqing's population. The terrain is mainly mountains and hills, with the west bordering the Adriatic Sea and the south connecting to Greece. It is less than 100 kilometers from Krujë to the Albanian capital of Tirana. Tirana is the capital and the largest city of Albania, as well as the national center of economy, culture, and transportation. Must-visit spots: 1⃣ Skanderbeg Square A famous cityscape, it is a great place to experience local festivities, with children zooming around the feet of tourists in orange plastic cars, and the Skanderbeg equestrian statue in the southern part of the square is a symbol of the square. 2⃣ National History Museum It is the largest museum in Albania, housing most of the country's ancient artifacts. The front of the museum is decorated with Albanian murals, reflecting all the victories achieved by Albania from the Illyrian era to World War II. 3⃣ Pyramid of Tirana This peculiar 'pyramid', designed and built by Hoxha's daughter during Hoxha's era, was originally used as a museum commemorating Hoxha. After the fall of Hoxha's government, the building was abandoned. Today, this massive structure can be considered an alternative landmark of Tirana, becoming a gathering place for local youth. If you are brave enough, you can climb to the top of the building along its sloping side. In front of the building, there is also a 'Peace Bell', which commemorates the great turmoil that occurred at the end of the 90s. ❤️ Warm Tips: Albania is not as poor as some people think, nor is its economy so backward that it needs a lot of aid. From the various characteristic buildings in Tirana and the expressions and lifestyles of the locals enjoying their leisure time, it is evident that they live quite happily. I was quite shocked to find that Albania turned out to be the second happiest and most suitable country to live in during my trip through 10 Eastern European countries, which was quite unexpected! Here comes the question~ Can you guess what building is in picture 4 without looking it up? (Answer to be seen in the comments section the next day) In the city's tree-lined streets and parks, there are beautiful Italian buildings from the 1930s, as well as street markets and mosques, and numerous bunkers left over from history (according to incomplete statistics, there are over 360,000), making Albania known as 'the country with the most bunkers per capita'! I also personally visited a bunker in the city center, which was quite well-made and sturdy, difficult to dismantle! Thinking about how most of these materials and many other items and technologies were unconditionally aided by China in the 60s and 70s (it was said that the aid exceeded 9 billion ¥), I felt quite emotional.

Tirana

tirana nice place Getting There - Attractions - Hotels - Food & Restaurants - Shopping -

One of the more special attractions in Tirana was the pyramid designed by the former dictator Hocha, which took two years to build and was built to become the most expensive building in Albania at the time, only to show political achievements. In 1988, it was also used as the Hoxha Museum. Since Hoxha was overthrown, the place became an unmanned place, the walls were painted with graffiti, and occasional theatrical performances were held at night. The characteristics of the pyramid make it a place for teenagers to play. They use the pyramid as a huge landslide body. They ran to the top at the sunset and then slid down. We also learned that they ran up and really stood on the top to see the underground. When I felt so high, it was thrilling when I slipped down. This is the activity that I will experience when I come to Tirana. The mountain eagle is a symbol of Albania. In the center of the crimson flag of Albania, there is a black double-headed eagle. The eagle is considered to be the national hero of the 15th century against the Ottoman invasion. Symbol. Not only on the national flag, but also the eagle logo is popular among the people. We found a lot of locals in Tirana, and when we took pictures, we used both hands to compare the appearance of the eagle. This became very interesting in Albania. One of the phenomena.