Albania sits between Greece and Montenegro. Today, it draws travelers from around the world. It offers peaceful beauty, still free from cruise ships and tourist buses. As Lee-Ann Steyn writes in *Getaway Magazine*, a popular South African travel magazine, Albania remains a hidden treasure.

First, the country welcomes visitors with open arms. Its mountains meet the sea in stunning views. Moreover, prices stay lower than most of the Mediterranean. Most importantly, Albania offers something rare: the feeling of discovery.

To begin, start your journey inland. Instead of the coast, head to the mountains. Here, history lives in stone walls and Ottoman-style roofs. Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as the Stone City.

The old town spreads down a hill. Grey rooftops, cobbled streets, and fortress views create a unique scene.

Next, visit the bazaar. Local craftsmen sell handwoven rugs, wooden carvings, and copperware.

Afterwards, head to Gjirokastra Castle. Enjoy panoramic views over the Drino Valley. Then, explore its mix of weapons and historical displays. Don’t miss the Cold War American airplane on display.

In addition, visit the Ethnographic Museum in Kruja.

For your stay, choose a guesthouse full of stories. In the morning, enjoy homemade fig jam and fresh byrek.

Meanwhile, while Gjirokastra is made of stone, Berat shines white along the Osum River.

Like Gjirokastra, it’s also a UNESCO site. Its houses climb the hill in endless rows of arched windows.

Then, visit Berat Castle. People still live inside its ancient walls. Or simply sit in a café along the promenade while locals pass by.

Further south, near Greece, lies Butrint. This ancient city holds Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins. In fact, you can think of it as Albania’s mini-Pompeii without the crowds.

Amphitheaters, temples, and mosaic floors rest between quiet lagoons and shady paths.

After exploring the mountains and museums, it’s time for the coast. The Albanian Riviera stretches from Vlora to the Greek border. Sunlight covers its cliffs, olive groves, and quiet beaches. The waters shine turquoise.

For example, Ksamil offers white sand and crystal-clear water. It sits south of Saranda, near Butrint. Although summer brings crowds, it stays quieter than the Greek islands.

Similarly, Dhërmi blends charm and beauty. It offers pebble beaches, sea caves, and a lovely old hilltop village. Think Amalfi Coast — but without the high prices.

In contrast, Gjipe hides at the end of a canyon. You can reach it with a short hike or boat ride. It remains one of Albania’s most beautiful and untouched beaches. It’s perfect for a digital detox.

Likewise, Himara offers peace, soft sandy beaches, and quiet bays. It’s ideal for kayaking and snorkeling.

Finally, if you love long beaches, Borsh is perfect. It’s the Riviera’s longest beach. Olive groves and ruins surround it. The calm waters invite swimmers.

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https://www.getaway.co.za/travel/albania-the-mediterraneans-best-kept-secret/