The 7 Best Places In Albania To Visit During The Summer

Summer is the best season to visit Albania. The “land of the eagles” is home to some of the most spectacular beaches and coastal destinations in Europe. For those who want to spend their holidays trekking or hiking mountains, no need to panic: Albania has spectacular mountains, too.

1. Himara

Natural Feature

A view of the ocean from a day bed on Livadi Beach, Albania

Another not-to-miss place to visit in Albania during the summertime is Himara, the main village situated along the Albanian Riviera. Himara is mostly known for its intense nightlife and stunning neighboring beaches, like Livadhi and Spile. The best thing to do here, besides spending some time swimming in the crystal clear waters of the enchanting bays, is to head to the spectacular Ali Pasha Castle, a large fortress located 15 minutes from the town that offers breathtaking views over the sea.

2. Saranda

Natural Feature

Palm tree lined board walk along the sea and apartment buildings, Saranda, Albania

View Tours

Saranda is considered by most as the unofficial capital of the Albanian Riviera: it is the main town in southern Albania, with plenty of cool clubs and excellent restaurants, frequented by international tourists and surrounded by terrific beaches that are perfect for a beautiful Albanian holiday. For travelers who have extra time, the best thing to do is to organize a day trip to visit the stunning Blue Eye, a natural spring with multicolored waters located near the town.

3. Ksamil

Natural Feature

Aerial view of a beach and a red boat floating on top of a clear blue sea, Ksamil, Alabania

View Tours

Ksamil is the last beach along the Albanian Riviera and one of the best, too. Ksamil, also called “the Ionian pearl” because of its beauty, is an enchanting beach with three small islands reachable by boat or with a pleasant swim. Summer is a great time to visit Ksamil, but the best months are June and September; during July and August tourists from all over the world overcrowd the beach. A plus here is the presence of the archaeological park of Butrint, one of the three UNESCO sites in Albania.

4. Theth

Forest, Natural Feature

View Tours

The land of the eagles is home to spectacular mountains as well. For those who prefer to spend their holidays surrounded by nature and mountains, the perfect destination is Theth, the most famous and prettiest village in northern Albania. Theth is the right place for those who are looking for tranquility and relaxation, but also for people who love to practice outdoor activities, such as trekking, hiking or riding horses. Theth is home to the other Blue Eye of Albania, another natural spring with crystal waters, hidden in the middle of the forest.

5. Koman

Natural Feature

A ferry surrounded by mountains in Komani Lake, Albania

View Tours

From Shkodra, the main town in northern Albania, travelers can organize a trip to Lake Koman, one of the most beautiful places to visit in the country. Koman is an artificial lake that looks like a Norwegian fjord, built during the Communist regime, situated in northern Albania between Shkodra and Valbona National Park. There is nothing better to do during the summer than to book a boat trip to Lake Koman and then visit the Valbona valley.

6. Pogradec

Natural Feature

Lake Ohrid backing onto snowy mountains, Pogradec, Albania

View Tours

The last best place to visit in Albania during the summer months is Pogradec and Ohrid Lake. Nestled between Albania and Macedonia, Ohrid is the oldest and deepest lake in Europe. The main Albanian town is Pogradec, a lovely place that boasts restaurants, beaches, and cafés. Along the lake, there are three not-to-miss places to visit: Lin, which offers terrific views over the lake; Drilon, the summer resort of the former dictator Enver Hoxha; and Tushemisht, a nice hamlet near the Macedonian border.

7. Dhërmi

Natural Feature

Sea glistening on a rocky beach lined with straw umbrellas and sun loungers, Dhërmi, Albania

If there is one place in Albania that everyone should visit during the summer, it is Dhërmi. This enchanting coastal village located in the south of Albania, at the beginning of the famous Albanian Riviera, is one of the most spectacular places to see in the country, as well as in the Balkan Peninsula. Dhërmi is home to some of the best beaches of the Mediterranean, including Dhërmi Beach and Drymades, which is one of the most scenic bays in the country. A plus here is the presence of the lovely hamlet of Dhërmi, filled with traditional houses, Orthodox churches with blue domes, and secret alleys full of colorful bougainvillea.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.