8 Reasons to Fall in Love with Albania: The Hidden Gem of Europe
If you're looking for a European destination that offers stunning beaches, wild mountains, delicious food, and a fascinating history, Albania should be at the top of your list.
This small but mighty country is full of incredible experiences. Albania has something for everyone, from the tropical coastline to the charming, centuries-old towns. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Albania will steal your heart. So, if you're ready to fall in love with a place that is still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, here are 8 reasons why Albania should be your next adventure:
It’s Europe’s own slice of tropical paradise
The drives are some of the best in the world
It has towns that feel like stepping back in time
Wild landscapes waiting to be explored
Raise your glass to incredible local wines
A food scene that blends the best of the Balkans
A rich history of resilience and reinvention
Campers will love the cozy, unique spots to rest
They call Albania "the Maldives of Europe," and honestly, it's easy to see why. If you've scrolled through Instagram or TikTok lately, you've probably seen the dreamy shots—crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and that tropical vibe that makes you want to book a ticket immediately. But here's the thing: while not every beach in Albania feels like a tropical escape, Ksamil is the real deal.
We stayed at the stunning Arameras Beach Resort, with charming bungalows, an infinity pool, and, most importantly, private beach access. Wanting to fully embrace the relaxed vibes, we decided to splurge on a more luxurious stay (at least by our standards) to avoid the crowds. And wow, was it worth it! The resort's secluded beach was like something out of a storybook. Nestled in a calm bay surrounded by tropical trees, it felt like a hidden oasis.
If you dream of a unique spot to unwind, soak up the sun, and enjoy tropical vibes without traveling halfway around the globe, Ksamil is the place to be. Trust me, it's pure magic.
2. the drives are some of the best in the world
A road trip is hands-down the best way to explore Albania. Not only does it give you access to hidden gems along the way, but the breathtaking views as you drive the coastline are worth the journey alone. Picture winding roads that hug the cliffs, turquoise waters, and plenty of charming spots to stop. Whether for a delicious lunch at a little seaside restaurant or a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters, the Riviera is just waiting for you to explore.
Our personal highlight? The Llogara Pass. This iconic stretch of road is often called one of the most spectacular drives in Europe - and for good reason. As you drive through the mountains, the sweeping panoramas of the coast below are nothing short of awe-inspiring. It's the kind of drive where you'll want to pause at every turn, only to discover the views somehow get better and better as you go.
3. it has towns that feel like stepping back in time
Albania's charm lies in its unique and picturesque towns, each full of history and culture. Our favorites were Berat and Gjirokastër, two places that offer a completely different yet equally captivating experience.
Berat is a true hidden gem and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow, cobbled streets are perfect for wandering, and surprisingly, it isn't as touristy as you might think. The hike to Berat Castle is a must-do - one of the most well-preserved and impressive castles we've seen so far. The panoramic views of the city and its iconic "thousand windows" are spectacular, especially at sunset. We had an outstanding dinner at Tradita e Beratit, where we sampled the best of Albanian cuisine. Their tasting platter is a must - prepare to be amazed by the flavors.
Gjirokastër, on the other hand, is a bit more popular with tourists, so we recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the evening when the crowds thin out. As another UNESCO World Heritage site, Gjirokastër is one of Albania's oldest towns, and walking its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a time capsule. We loved exploring the small shops selling handmade crafts and enjoying the town's many charming cafes, perfect for a relaxing break and some people-watching.
Both towns are a perfect mix of rich history, stunning architecture, and a true sense of Albanian charm.
4. wild landscapes waiting to be explored
While Albania's beaches might steal the spotlight, don't overlook its stunning mountains. Full disclosure: even though the roads in Albania are mostly well-maintained, there was one time when we tried to cross over a mountain pass in the Accursed Mountains (Bjeshkët e Nemuna) and had to turn back after about an hour. The paved roads quickly turned to dirt roads, and soon enough, they turned into… well, just dirt.
But we weren't about to give up on experiencing Albania's wild mountains, so we tried again the next day and finally made it to this remote and largely untouched region. After avoiding wild goats on the streets (yes, really!), we arrived at our unique campsite, Camping Shehu, tucked away in the middle of nowhere near Lekdush, a village in the heart of the Accursed Mountains. You can park your camper or book one of their traditional hay tents, which offer a memorable stay with a true sense of adventure. A lovely hike is nearby, leading to the stunning Ujëvara e Peshturës waterfall. While there wasn't much water during the summer months (so we didn't get to see the full magical experience you see in pictures), it was still well worth the hike.
No matter which part of the Albanian mountains you find yourself in, you're guaranteed an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views and a sense of wild beauty that's hard to beat.
5. raise your glass to incredible local wines
Did you know that Albania produces some truly excellent wine? Albania boasts a variety of unique wine regions, each offering distinct flavors influenced by the country's diverse landscapes. The Shkumbin River Valley, Korca region, and Përmet area are just a few of Albania's hidden gems for wine production.
During our travels, we discovered Albanica Wine, a charming vineyard in the Fier region, one of Albania's rising stars in wine production. At Albanica Wine, you can park your camper for free if you decide to enjoy their wine and food at the beautiful winery. After a peaceful stroll through the vineyards we settled at a cozy table and sampled a variety of delicious wines paired with locally sourced meze - a platter of small, flavorful dishes. The terrace offers stunning views over the surrounding vineyards, making it the perfect place to unwind.
6. Flavors to Savor: Why Albanian Food Deserves a Spotlight
Speaking of food… Albania truly offers the best of all worlds when it comes to flavors. Influenced by a rich mix of Mediterranean, Balkan, and Ottoman traditions, Albanian cuisine is a fusion of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and a love for simple, wholesome dishes. You'll find everything from Greek-inspired tzatziki to Turkish baklava, all with a unique Albanian twist.
The Mediterranean influence can be tasted in the fresh seafood along the coast, olive oil, feta cheese, and fresh vegetables. Meanwhile, the Balkan influence brings hearty meat dishes like cevapi and burek and love for grilled meats and stews. The Ottoman touch shines through in the delicate pastries and sweet desserts like baklava and revani.
Whether you're in a bustling town or a remote village, Albanian food is all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients and bold flavors. It's comfort food that tells a story of the country's rich cultural heritage.
7. embrace the freedom of camping
Albania is a dream destination for campers. We found locating fantastic and unique camping spots incredibly easy, even without planning ahead. This level of flexibility and charm is a huge bonus for us. Whether you're into riverside views, forest serenity, or cityscapes, there's a campsite to match every vibe.
Here are some of our top recommendations:
Shkodër | River Camping
This cozy spot offers a stunning view of Rozafa Castle and the Drin River. Take a dip, relax on the small island in the river, or enjoy a meal at the tiny on-site restaurant.Berat | River Side Camping
A short walk from the city center, this tiny campsite features a lovely garden, a laundry room, and all the essentials for a comfortable stay.Vlorë | Eco Camping Valona
Nestled in a quiet forest just 5 minutes from the beach, this campsite stands out. You can rent a tent or wood cabin, use the communal BBQ with fresh ingredients available on-site, and enjoy the hospitality of the creative and welcoming owners.Tirana | Turtle Farm
The turtles may be underwhelming, but this campsite offers free stays, breathtaking views, and delicious food. Watching the city lights at night is the ultimate bonus.
8. A Story Like No Other: Albania's Fascinating Past and Bright Future
Albania's history is one of Europe's most unique and fascinating stories. For 40 years, this country was completely cut off from the rest of the world. After World War II, Albania became a communist state under Enver Hoxha, who decided to keep the country isolated. This meant no outsiders were allowed in, and Albanians couldn't travel abroad. The country was practically unknown to the outside world during this time.
But in the early 1990s, everything changed. When the communist government fell, Albania opened up to the world for the first time in decades. This shift wasn't easy, but since then, Albania has been rapidly developing and welcoming visitors from around the globe.
If you're curious about this incredible transformation, check out this eye-opening video by one of our favorite YouTube channels, YesTheory: [Traveling to a Country That Was Closed for 40 Years](insert link). It gives you an insightful look at Albania's journey from isolation to an exciting future.
Albania may still be a bit of a secret, but its breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history make it one of Europe's most exciting destinations. Albania's story is one of resilience and reinvention—making it a truly special place to explore, with a bright future ahead. So, pack your bags, get ready to explore, and discover why this country will steal your heart.
- happy travels
