Top 15 Things to Do in Albania: History, Heart & Hidden Beauty

From Tirana’s bunkers to Berat’s thousand windows, discover the top 15 things to do in Albania. I’ll even steer you to some hidden gems to explore.

When I first arrived in Albania, I felt like I had stumbled into a secret—a land where mountains meet the sea, where cobblestone alleys whisper history, and where every cat in a café seems to want to adopt you. This Balkan treasure rewards the solo traveler with authenticity, affordability, and adventure.

Here are my Top 15 Things to Do in Albania—and a deeper look at what makes every place unforgettable.

1. Tour Tirana (Capital of Albania)

Tirana pulses with energy. Begin your journey underground at Bunk’Art 2, once a Cold War bunker and now a haunting museum of Albania’s communist past. Then climb the Tirana Pyramid, a relic of Enver Hoxha’s era turned creative hub. From the top, the city spreads below—mountains, murals, and modernist buildings.

“The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places.”—Ernest Hemingway

Bunk’Art 2 was initially built to shelter political leaders from potential attack. Today, it’s a bold act of remembrance. I spent about two hours exploring Bunk’Art 2, viewing the artifacts and exhibits from Albania’s communist regime, particularly the Sigurimi (secret police). I saw historical documents, TV videos, and surveillance tools. It was heartbreaking to see how individuals were persecuted.

The Pyramid, once a museum for Hoxha, now symbolizes Albania’s transformation—from repression to expression. I almost didn’t climb the pyramid, as the sun was at its highest point and I really wanted a coffee break. But thankfully, I ignored my lazy inclination and ran up the steps.

Symbolically, the panoramic view from the top gave me a forward view of Albania’s capital. (Check out my video of the panoramic view on my YouTube channel.)

I also loved the colorful box-like structures that surround the Pyramid. These buildings were added during the Pyramid’s redesign to house a mix of public and private functions, including free educational workshops for teens, and rental spaces for cafes, studios, and start-up offices.

2. Stay on Lake Ohrid in the Resort Town of Pogradec

In Pogradec, time seems to move with the ripples of Lake Ohrid. Wooden boats drift by, children laugh along the promenade, and the reflection of North Macedonia glimmers across the water. It is a 2.5-hour drive from Tirana.

A short midway stop at a lakeside cafe offered the kind of peace solo travelers crave. I met a black-and-white restaurant cat who paraded around the outdoor terrace, entertaining everyone.

After I settled into Hotel Pogradeci, I went walking along the boardwalk at sunset to see the families on parade. Children ran in circles chasing balls and picking up rocks. Many dogs took their masters for a walk. The striped umbrellas were tightly wound so they didn’t fly away. Beach recliners stood empty.

I was reminded of the poet Lasgush Poradeci, born in Pogradec, whose poetry evokes the city’s stunning natural setting on Lake Ohrid.

“The lake within the mountains’ clasp. Reflected far down in its deeps. The night is drowned with empty gasp.”—Lasgush Poradeci 

I wish that I had taken a boat tour or cruise on Lake Ohrid to see the sights. But the rowboats were empty of passengers at sunset.

3. Make Friends with Stray Cats and Dogs

In Albania, strays are part of the community—lounging in sun-drenched squares or following you to the restaurant or bakery. Carry a little compassion (and maybe a snack). Their gentle eyes tell stories of resilience and grace.

I fell in love with a black-and-white kitten who serves as a cat concierge at the Argjiro Hotel in Gjirokaster. The bellman told me that the kitten walks into the lobby, jumps into the laps of waiting hotel guests, and meows for attention. I found her outside, waiting at the entrance to greet people who walked by.

Some Albanian towns now host local animal welfare volunteers who feed and care for these furry wanderers. Examples include Durrës (Jeta NGO), Vlorë (Protect Me Albania), and Shkodër (Animals Need Me).

“Every stray animal matters, each one has a story worth saving and a life worth cherishing.”—Animals Need Me

But I visited too many towns and cities where I was worried about the packs of dogs that I saw wandering in Korce. Although I love pets, I was concerned about getting rabies.

My guide said the high number of stray dogs in Korçë is due to people abandoning their pets, a lack of spaying and neutering, and cultural norms. It is a bad problem. People who are scared of being bitten by a dog will not want to visit a city. My heart ached for the dogs, who I could see were sick or threatened by other canines.

4. Tour Korçë, the Largest City in Southeast Albania

At the base of Moravia Mountain lies Korçë, known for its red-tiled roofs, Orthodox cathedrals, and cultural festivals. The city has an artistic heartbeat — poets, painters, and beer brewers mingle in its lively cafés.

Korçë is Albania’s “Little Paris,” celebrated for its early 20th-century architecture and café culture.

In the 18th century, Korçë became an important center of trade and handicrafts; it is now known as the city of museums.

I visited the National Museum of Medieval Art, home to more than 7,000 icons and Byzantine relics from the 12th to 14th centuries, many of which were collected from rural churches.

5. Soak in the Hot Springs of the Gramos Mountains near Përmet

Deep in the Gramos Mountains, the Benja Thermal Baths invite travelers to unwind. Steam rises through stone arches, and the Kadiut Bridge, an Ottoman relic, frames turquoise pools beneath. When our group arrived, we found the parking lot packed with cars, vans, RVs, and buses.

Swimmers walked along the rocky road to reach the mineral springs. I almost didn’t cross the stone bridge over the hot springs in Benja because I was terrified of slipping. There are no rails. You just grab another person’s arm and hope you make it to the other side.

“The cure for anything is salt water—sweat, tears, or the sea.”—Isak Dinesen

These mineral springs have been used since Roman times for their healing powers. Locals claim the waters soothe everything from joint pain to heartbreak. Soak, breathe, and let the mountains mend you. 

6. Eat Albania’s Traditional Recipes

Albanian cuisine is the language of hospitality. Feast on tavë kosi, fërgesë, and byrek, and always accept the raki offered with your meal. Every bite carries the warmth of a shared table. (Check out my other articles on cuisines, including Sicily Food Odyssey and Dublin Food by Foot Tour.)

“One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.” —Virginia Woolf

My favorite meal was fresh-caught grilled fish, served with fresh thyme and roasted potatoes. The Greek-style salad included cheese, tomatoes, red onions, and kalamata olives. But I can also recommend the asparagus risotto.

When possible, I always ordered byrek, a flaky pastry pie with various fillings, such as cheese, spinach, leeks, or meat. It’s a common street food.

7. Explore the Medieval Castle of Gjirokastër

Perched high above the Drino Valley, Gjirokastër Castle dominates the skyline. Inside, an open-air stage, armory, and relics from WWII whisper tales of resilience. Built in the 12th century, the fortress once guarded the region from invaders.

Outdoors, I saw a large field near the Watch Tower. Once, this field was full of houses. In the 17th century, Ottoman travel writer Evliya Celebi described this area as a bustling neighborhood with a broad street.

The annual National Folk Festival transforms its courtyard into a celebration of Albanian song and dance. Although the field was quiet when I visited, it comes alive when Gjirokastër Castle hosts the festival.

“Music, dancing, and bright costumes are all on display as Albanians come from across the Balkans and around the world to perform here in the castle.”

8. Tour Skenduli House (UNESCO Site)

I visited Skenduli House late in the evening, as the guide had back-to-back appointments. As our group waited outside on the terrace, we watched the amusing antics of a little kitten. In fact, a family of felines has apparently adopted this historic house!

When we finally climbed the stairs inside the Skenduli House, we saw a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Each room is adorned with carved ceilings, hidden passages, and lace-curtained windows. During the communist period, it operated as the original Ethnographic Museum. But the house has now been returned to the original owners, who keep it open for tourists to see.

The Skenduli family still cares for the home, welcoming visitors with tea and tales. Built in the 1700s, it reflects Gjirokastër’s golden age as a merchant city. 

9. Visit Butrint National Park (UNESCO)

Ruins and reeds intertwine at Butrint, a living museum of civilizations — Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian. Amphitheaters lie half-submerged in reflection.

Founded in the 8th century BCE, Butrint was once a Roman colony and later a medieval bishopric. Its survival is a miracle of preservation.

10. Watch Paragliders Over Llogara Pass

Driving to the UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park, we stopped at the Llogara Pass. I believe it is one of Albania’s most scenic drives. The winding mountain roads offered spectacular views of the coast and mountains. 

Llogara Pass, situated at 3,423 feet, is a high mountain pass in the Ceraunian Mountains in Albania. We arrived near sunset, so tourists crowded around Llogara Pass. I wandered around the circumference to make a video.

To my surprise, when I circled back, I looked down to see a paraglider jumping off the landing. The breeze ballooned its sails, then it pushed it over the sea. No one spoke. The magic unfurled before us. (Check out my video of the paragliders on my YouTube channel.)

“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it.”—J.M. Barrie

Fun Fact: Llogara sits along the Albanian Riviera, where Caesar’s army once crossed in pursuit of Pompey.

11. Walk in Julius Caesar’s Footsteps at Apollonia

Olive trees shade marble columns at Apollonia Archaeological Park, where Caesar’s troops once trained. Silence reigns where empires once spoke.

I spent two hours wandering the park’s grounds. (Check out my video of Apollonia on my YouTube channel.) This ancient city boasts extensive ruins, including a Greek theater, Roman baths, a triumphal arch, and the foundations of temples and stoas.

“The past is never dead. It’s not even past.”—William Faulkner

Founded by Greek settlers in 588 BCE, Apollonia became a center of philosophy and art. The site’s monastery and museum offer a serene glimpse into classical grandeur.

I enjoyed touring the Byzantine Monastery of Saint Mary to see the Greek and Roman artifacts, including pottery, statues, and jewelry unearthed from the site.

12. Explore Berat, the City of a Thousand Windows

Whitewashed homes stacked on a hillside reflect sunlight like mirrors. Berat’s Ottoman architecture has earned it a UNESCO designation — and every visitor’s heart.

This site was inscribed in 2008 and is recognized for its rare example of an Ottoman-era town with well-preserved historic buildings, including many traditional houses.

I loved touring historic museums and looking out the second-story windows. Every window tells a human story.

I highly recommend staying two nights in Berat, because there are so many things to see. I did a walking tour in Old Town Berat. I visited historic churches, wandered down alleyways, and climbed around the walls of Berat Castle. If you have vertigo, don’t look down!

The Berat Castle is the crown jewel. It’s uphill, so you should wear your runners. Your calves will feel the strain, but your reward is the panoramic view at the top.

I trailed a brown-and-white kitten who led me across the rocky walls to see the sunset.

13. Drink Raki and Watch Traditional Dancing at House of Cac Dollani

At the House of Cac Dollani, time stands still. This house-museum is located within the historic city walls of the UNESCO-listed Berat.

Our group visited the House of Cac Dollani in the morning. We toured individual rooms, looked at family photographs, and examined traditional costumes.

I sipped homemade raki and ate dessert while my guide Artur twirled in his traditional embroidered vest. He raised his arms as he circled our museum host. The individual movements showed a strong rhythm and intricate footwork.

The Dollani family has preserved Berat’s traditions for generations. Sitting in their large living room felt like becoming part of Albania’s extended family.

14. Walk the Beach and Tour the Roman Amphitheatre in Durrës

Durrës offers a balance of seaside leisure and ancient wonder. Stroll along the promenade before stepping into a 2nd-century Roman amphitheatre hidden amid city blocks. It is the largest structure of its kind in the Balkans. 

Once part of the Roman Via Egnatia trade route, Durrës has seen empires rise and fall. Its amphitheatre once held 20,000 spectators. Now it hosts visitors who walk into dark caverns and along passageways to learn about Roman history. The Albanian government has applied for the amphitheatre to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I highly recommend eating a meal at one of the restaurants located beachside. Sip a glass of wine and watch the waves roll onto the beach.

15. Walk the Cobblestone Streets of the Old Bazaar in Krujë

Krujë, the ancient capital, is where Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg fought for freedom. The Old Bazaar hums with vendors selling clothes, rugs, and carved olive wood. (Check out my video on my YouTube channel.)

Even if you don’t buy any of the traditional clothes or shoes, you’ll want to leave a few hours to wander into each stall. I watched an artisan demonstrate how he sews the felt slippers. Wander into a rug store to learn about the craft of sewing on a loom. (Take a virtual tour of the Old Bazaar on my YouTube channel.)

Kruja Castle is the most significant historical tourist attraction of Krujë. I walked through the Old Bazaar and then up a steep hill to reach the castle and its gardens. Due to its strategic location under Kruja Mountain, the 15th-century Albanian nobleman and military leader Skanderbeg (born Gjergj Kastrioti) chose it as his residence. (Fun fact: The Great Warrior Skanderbeg (a 1953 Soviet-Albanian biopic) won the International Prize at the 1954 Cannes film festival.)

Sitting high on a rock, the castle offers panoramic views of the city below and the Adriatic Sea. Inside the castle, I toured individual rooms to see weapons.