Travel Guide to Albania in Summer 2025

Albania is fast becoming Europe’s best-kept secret, well actually probably already became that last summer. A country of remarkable contrasts, where turquoise beaches meet rugged mountains, ancient ruins sit beside communist-era relics, and all of it remains remarkably affordable. If you’re looking for a summer trip that feels adventurous, cultured, and beautifully off the beaten path, Albania in 2025 should be on your list.

Getting There and Around

Most international visitors fly into Tirana International Airport (TIA), the main gateway to Albania. From the airport, you can reach the capital city via the affordable Rinas Express bus or taxi. While Tirana is well connected, Albania’s true magic lies outside its capital, and the best way to experience it is by renting a car. Roads have improved drastically in recent years, especially along the coast, allowing easy access to the Albanian Riviera and the northern mountain regions.

If you prefer not to drive, regional buses and minibuses (called furgons) connect major towns and cities. However, schedules can be loose, and comfort levels vary, so plan accordingly if you’re travelling without your own wheels.

Highlights by Region

Tirana

Tirana is vibrant, eclectic, and buzzing with new energy. Spend a day exploring Skanderbeg Square, visit the House of Leaves Museum to understand Albania's recent past, and grab a bite or cocktail in the Blloku district, once a restricted area for communist elites, now home to trendy restaurants and cafés. For panoramic views, ride the Dajti Ekspres cable car to the top of Dajti Mountain.

Berat and Gjirokastër

For a deep dive into Albania's Ottoman-era history, head to these two UNESCO World Heritage cities. Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows," is famous for its whitewashed homes stacked on a hillside. Walk up to the Berat Castle for views over the Osum River. Gjirokastër offers cobbled streets, slate-roofed houses, and an imposing hilltop fortress. Both cities give a sense of old-world Albania that remains largely untouched.

The Albanian Riviera

If you're dreaming of a Mediterranean escape without the Mediterranean price tag, this is your place. Stretching from Vlora to Ksamil, the Riviera is lined with clear waters, quiet coves, and dramatic cliffs. Dhërmi and Himarë offer laid-back charm and pebble beaches, while Ksamil boasts powdery sand and a view of the Greek island of Corfu. For a quieter, more secluded experience, Gjipe Beach is a hidden cove accessible via a scenic hike.

Theth and Valbona (The Accursed Mountains)

In the north, Albania's Accursed Mountains are ideal for hikers and nature lovers. The Theth-to-Valbona trail is one of the Balkans' most iconic hikes. Along the way, you’ll see alpine meadows, dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and the traditional stone houses of remote mountain villages. While infrastructure is still developing, there are a growing number of guesthouses offering warm hospitality and home-cooked meals.

What to Eat and Drink

Albanian cuisine is hearty, fresh, and varied. Expect a blend of Mediterranean and Balkan influences. Along the coast, seafood dominates menus - grilled calamari, fresh mussels, and whole baked fish are all affordable and delicious. Inland, you’ll find dishes like tave kosi (lamb baked in yogurt) and byrek (a savoury pastry filled with cheese or spinach). Try local wines, especially whites from Berat and reds from the north. A meal in a sit-down restaurant rarely exceeds €10, and a glass of wine or local beer is often under €3.

Where to Stay

From budget guesthouses to boutique hotels, Albania offers excellent value across the board. In Tirana and the Riviera, you’ll find stylish, modern accommodations for under €70 per night. In mountain villages, family-run guesthouses cost as little as €20–30 a night and often include dinner and breakfast. Booking in advance is recommended during July and August, as Albania's popularity continues to rise.

Practical Tips for Summer 2025

• Albania is not in the EU or Schengen zone, so check visa requirements if you're travelling from outside Europe.

• Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, but the official currency is the Albanian lek.

• English is increasingly spoken among younger Albanians, especially in Tirana and tourist hubs, but learning a few local phrases is appreciated.

• Visit in June or September for warm weather without the peak crowds and prices of high summer.

Why Visit Albania Now?

With flight prices rising across Europe, Albania remains one of the last truly affordable summer destinations. It offers diversity, authenticity, and beauty in abundance. Whether you're after a sun-soaked coastal escape, a rugged mountain adventure, or a cultural city break, Albania delivers, without the high cost. And with flight deals from under £60 return through Secret Flight Club, you can skip the hours of searching and jump straight to planning the fun part.

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