Albania is a small country located in the Balkans region of Europe. One of Europe’s best kept secrets, it’s known for its rich history and culture, with ancient ruins, historic cities, and beautiful natural scenery.
Visitors to Albania can explore the country’s fascinating past, from the ancient city of Butrint to the Ottoman-era castle of Berat. Albania has an extensive archeological heritage: it was part of Ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, and the Ottoman Empire before its first declaration of independence in 1912. It’s also one of the few traditionally Muslim nations in Europe.
The country is also home to a range of outdoor activities, from hiking in the Albanian Alps to lounging on the country’s sandy beaches.
With its unique history and beautiful scenery, Albania is a destination that offers a range of experiences for visitors.
The Albanian Riviera, to the north of Saranda, is one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Ionian Sea. There were few positive outcomes from Albania’s isolation and poverty under communism, but this pristine coastline was one. A few small resorts, provide families with the opportunity to spend a fortnight or so at the beach. Because of the submarine base at Porto Palermo, the coastal road between Himara and Borsh was a closed military zone. Himara was a sleepy village, and Saranda was only a small, low-rise city. However, during the last 20 years, the Albanian Riviera’s beautiful beaches have …
Southwestern Albania features several must-see sights, including the magnificent archaeological site and national park of Butrint, the majestic Ottoman city of Gjirokastra, and the Riviera’s gorgeous beaches and crystalline seas. The Greek name for the town, Ayia Saranda, is related to a story about 40 Christian legionaries who were executed in the 4th century. A pilgrimage church dedicated to the 40 saints was built on a hill behind modern Saranda Albania in the 5th century, rebuilt in the early 9th century, and unfortunately used as a base by German troops during the Battle for the Liberation of Saranda in 1944, …
Berati or Berat Albania is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in the Balkans. The panorama of its white cottages descending the mountain to the citadel is one of the country’s most iconic sights. The fortress walls enclose the whole summit of the hill. There are eight medieval churches inside, one of which has an exceptional collection of icons painted by the 16th-century artist Onufri. Berat Albania also contains an excellent Ethnographic Museum and a number of other significant structures, including two of Albania’s oldest mosques. Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that …
After you have seen all there is to see in Shkoder, my advice is that you book a Komani Lake ferry ride. Bookings can be arranged via your host (at least that’s how it was at the Wanderers Hostel). You will actually pay for a trip on a small bus to the lake plus the boat ride itself. You can book one-way or return tickets. Bus ride to Komani Lake You should have your breakfast early in the morning and be ready when the bus arrives. Make it a light breakfast, though, as you’ll be off on a bumpy ride! …
After checking in at the Wanderers Hostel and having a coffee on its terrace, I went with Ana to shortly visit Shkoder Albania and find something to eat. Continue reading to discover the best places for eating, drinking, and exploring when you visit Shkoder Albania. Where to eat in Shkoder The city center is mostly Rruga Kole Idromeno, a pedestrian area with some lively terraces. It was just 5 minutes away. Thus, we found ourselves at a table, with a drink, waiting for some food in no time! By the way, if you’re a vegetarian, Albanian cuisine should be to your liking, as you will find …
