Thanks to its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty—from ruined castles to idyllic beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters—Albania is rapidly gaining attention among travelers, writes Belén Afonso in an article published in the Spanish travel magazine Viajar.

Most tourists, when planning a trip to Albania, think of the same popular destinations: the idyllic beaches of Ksamil, Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastër, and perhaps the Albanian Alps.

But in this beautiful European destination, there is a coastal gem that stands out as one of the country’s most stunning attractions.

If you are traveling along the Albanian Riviera toward Sarandë, a castle perched on an island is bound to catch your eye: the Castle of Ali Pasha.

A View Like No Other

Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, the castle evokes the famous Mont Saint-Michel in France. This is the coastal village of Porto Palermo.

The History of Porto Palermo Castle

Located in the Vlorë region, the castle is not medieval, although its stone façade might suggest otherwise. It was built in the early 19th century at the request of the Ottoman governor of the area.

It is believed that the castle, with its triangular ground plan and round towers, was constructed on the site of an old Venetian building. The design was drafted by a French military engineer who, after completing the project, was executed to prevent him from revealing the fortress’s weaknesses.

Most visitors to Porto Palermo Castle are drawn by the panoramic sea views from the rooftop. But what truly makes this site special is the freedom with which it can be explored—a feature common in Albania but almost unheard of in Spain.

Visitors pay a nominal entrance fee and can freely wander through the castle, exploring every corner, from underground dungeons to partially ruined rooms. It is a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Albanian history and experience the castle’s past.

Inside the rooms, signs indicate your location, and informational panels provide additional context about the area. Visitors can see the old kitchen, the soldiers’ sleeping quarters, and even the dark prison where Ali Pasha’s wife was held.

Porto Palermo Beach

The entire Albanian coastline boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters reminiscent of a secluded cove in Mallorca.

The sandy strip at Porto Palermo, gently kissed by the clear waters and stretching up to the hills, is the perfect destination for enjoying the pleasures of coastal life.