Recently, Getaway Magazine from South Africa called Albania a secret Mediterranean destination.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Edi Rama shared the article on social media.
He wrote: “Albania, Europe’s tourism pearl, is now being talked about even in South Africa.”
Furthermore, Getaway Magazine praised Albania for its warm hospitality, breathtaking landscapes, and stone-carved cities.
As the article states: “Albania offers something rare—a true sense of discovery.”

Gjirokastra: A City Carved in Stone

To start your journey, head inland.
Here, history lives in stone walls and Ottoman rooftops.
Gjirokastra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, carries the name “Stone City.”
The old town spreads across the hill with grey rooftops and cobbled streets.
Next, visit the bazaar where artisans sell handwoven carpets, wood crafts, and copperware.
Then, climb Gjirokastra Castle to see the Drin Valley and its historic weapons collection.
Interestingly, the castle also displays a captured U.S. Air Force plane from the Cold War.
Additionally, don’t skip the Ethnographic Museum in Kruja.
Finally, stay in a guesthouse with historic walls and homemade breakfasts.

Berat and Butrint: Traces of the Past

After Gjirokastra, travel to Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows.”
White houses climb the hillside along the Osum River.
Berat is also a UNESCO site.
There, you can explore Berat Castle, where people still live today.
Meanwhile, enjoy coffee on the promenade while locals stroll by.

Further south lies Butrint.
This ancient site holds Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins.
Unlike many tourist sites, Butrint feels like a mini-Pompeii without the crowds.
Here, you can walk among amphitheaters, temples, and mosaic floors.
Moreover, shady paths and calm lagoons enhance its beauty.

The Albanian Riviera: Wild and Wonderful

Now, it’s time to head to the coast.
The Albanian Riviera stretches from Vlora to the Greek border.
It offers sunlit cliffs, olive groves, and quiet beaches with turquoise waters.

Ksamil:
Often called the “Maldives of Europe.”
The beach has white sand and crystal-clear waters.
Located south of Saranda and near Butrint, it attracts many visitors in summer.
However, it remains calmer than most Greek islands.

Dhërmi:
Next, visit Dhërmi, which combines traditional charm with crystal waters.
It offers pebble beaches, caves, and a scenic hilltop village.
Simply imagine the Amalfi Coast—without the high price.

Gjipe Beach:
Alternatively, explore Gjipe, a hidden paradise at the end of a canyon.
You can reach it by hiking or by boat.
As a result, it remains untouched and perfect for a digital detox.

Himara:
Moreover, Himara offers a peaceful vibe.
Soft sandy beaches and nearby coves invite kayaking and snorkeling.

Borsh:
Finally, for long beach lovers, Borsh is a dream.
It is the Riviera’s largest beach.
Surrounded by olive groves and ruins, its calm waters are perfect for swimming.

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