Albania
Albania has been having a serious moment, and it's not hard to see why. Rugged mountains, turquoise beaches, ancient ruins and some seriously good food make this one of Europe's most exciting backpacking destinations. Add in friendly locals, affordable prices and plenty of places that still feel wonderfully off the beaten track, and Albania is well worth getting to before everyone else catches on.
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Editor's PickThe 5 Best Hostels in Albania
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Albania Best Hostels in Albania Now if you’re wondering where to stay in Albania, fear not…
Editor's PickThe BEST Hotels in Albania
Selection Criteria Right, before I get into the real juicy part of the article, I think we should look at a few…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Tirana – The Best Places to Stay and Areas to Visit
Tirana Neighbourhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Tirana The Best Areas to Stay in Tirana My expectations for Tirana were…
Editor's PickBest Hostels in Tirana (Insider Guide)
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Tirana What to Expect from Hostels in Tirana So, you’re backpacking through the Balkans and find…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Ksamil (Best Places)
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Ksamil? If you’re travelling to Albania and are torn on where to stay but…
Editor's PickWhere to Stay in Gjirokaster (Best Places)
Where is the Best Place to Stay in Gjirokaster? There are plenty of options for neighbourhoods and places to stay. If I…
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Albania Travel FAQs
Is Albania good for hiking?
Absolutely. The Albanian Alps in the north are the big draw, with spectacular mountain scenery and trails around Theth and Valbona. You can also find plenty of hiking opportunities further south, so it's not just a beach destination.
Is Albania still cheap for backpackers?
Albania can still be relatively affordable compared with many Western European destinations, particularly for food, accommodation and local transport. The popular Riviera can get considerably more expensive in summer, though, so don't assume the whole country is dirt cheap.
What is the Albanian Riviera?
The Albanian Riviera runs along the country's southern Ionian coast and is home to some seriously beautiful beaches. Places like Himarë, Dhërmi, Borsh and Ksamil are popular stops, with turquoise water, mountain scenery and plenty of opportunities to escape the busier resorts. The coast can get very busy in July and August, so travelling outside peak summer can give you a more relaxed experience.
What is Albania's Blue Eye?
The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) is one of Albania's most famous natural attractions, a striking freshwater spring surrounded by lush forest near Sarandë. The water is an almost ridiculous shade of blue and bubbles up from a deep underwater source. You can't swim in the spring itself, but it's well worth visiting for the scenery and a wander through the surrounding area.