Do you want to make new discoveries? Be fascinated by the historical and cultural assets of Albania, writes the French travel magazine "Voyage Prive".

Explore its still virgin landscapes, visit archeological sites steeped in history and feel pampered by hospitable locals… Completely open to the world, Albania is a Mediterranean country with a rich past to discover before this territory was turns into an ultra-tourist destination. Albania offers you the opportunity to experience an unforgettable adventure and discover treasures still unknown to the general public. Welcome to the enchanting heart of the Balkans, where antiquity intertwines with breathtaking landscapes and vibrant local culture.

Traveling to Albania will give you the opportunity to discover the beauties of a hidden gem of the Mediterranean. Explore Durrës, a beautiful coastal city, stroll the streets of Berat, the "city of a thousand windows", relax in Ksamil and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Saranda.

An unforgettable adventure awaits you in Albania. Below we recommend the main places that you must visit during your trip to Albania. We tried it and loved it.

First day: Arrival in Tirana - Durrës

Arrival in Tirana. Pick up a rental car from the airport and check into the coastal town of Durrës.

Second day: Durres - Apolloni - Vlora

Visit the city of Durrës, the largest port city in Albania. In the 2500nd century BC, the largest amphitheater in the Balkan Peninsula was built in this city. Visit the magnificent Roman amphitheater and Venetian tower and stroll along the Byzantine city walls. Also discover the ancient remains of many historical sites such as the archaeological site of Apollonia. More than XNUMX years ago, the Greeks established a colony there in honor of Apollo. Also take a trip to Vlorë, a port city in southern Albania, located on the Strait of Otranto, the narrowest place in the Adriatic Sea.

Third day: Vlora - Llogara National Park - Saranda

You can leave Vlora via the scenic coastal road that runs south along the Albanian Riviera. A unique landscape awaits you in the National Park of Llogara. On the way to Saranda, we recommend you to stop in Himara, a real gem of Southern Albania. Enjoy traditional dishes such as pie, meatballs and fresh seafood, a delicious cuisine with Mediterranean and Balkan influences. You can enjoy freshly caught fish right by the sea. On the Porto Palermo peninsula, we recommend a stop to explore and photograph Ali Pasha's triangular castle. Then continue the journey to the coastal city of Saranda.

Fourth day: Sarandë - Butrint - Ksamil - Sarandë

Visit Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Many ancient buildings were discovered during the excavations. Some of them are still surprisingly well preserved. A wonderful colored mosaic in the baptistery shows two peacocks and a vase of grapes. On the way back to Saranda, stop at an alternative organic farm nearby. You will be able to appreciate the quality of organic products. Also make a short stop in Ksmail and return to Saranda.

Fifth day: Saranda - Berat - Tirana

Visit the 'city of a thousand windows', Berat and its still inhabited fortress, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll the streets of the city, a fascinating place with well-preserved Ottoman architecture. The return to the capital is via Elbasan, along the ancient Roman road "Via Egnatia".

Sixth day: Tirana - Return journey

If you still have time before your flight, we recommend you take a tour of the Albanian capital. Visit Tirana, the European capital that offers a lively atmosphere with cafes, restaurants, museums and nightlife. Also get to know the Historical Museum, Skënderbej Square with Italian-style buildings and the former official residence of Enver Hoxha.