Albania – Europe’s Undiscovered Jewel

Tucked between Greece and Montenegro, Albania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. A land of unspoiled beaches, ancient castles, and warm Mediterranean charm. With its stunning Adriatic and Ionian coastlines, Ottoman-era towns, and alpine landscapes, Albania offers travellers a refreshing blend of authentic culture, history, and natural beauty.

At Journeys Vista, we bring you Albania’s essence, from the turquoise waters of the Albanian Riviera to the cobbled streets of Berat, creating journeys that are luxurious, enriching, and unforgettable.

🌆 Top Tourist Destinations in Albania

Tirana – The Colorful Capital

Vibrant and full of energy, Tirana is Albania’s beating heart, a city that perfectly blends its communist past with a creative, youthful spirit.

Highlights:

Skanderbeg Square: Central hub surrounded by museums and historic buildings.
Et’hem Bey Mosque: A symbol of Tirana’s rich cultural heritage.
Bunk’Art Museum: Fascinating underground museum dedicated to Albania’s Cold War history.
Mount Dajti Cable Car: Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and countryside.

Tirana’s growing cafe culture, modern art scene, and nightlife make it a great starting point for exploring Albania.

Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Berat is one of the most picturesque towns in the Balkans.

Highlights:

Berat Castle: Ancient citadel with still-inhabited stone houses.
Mangalem & Gorica Quarters: Historic neighbourhoods separated by the Osum River.
Onufri National Museum: Showcasing exquisite Byzantine art.

Berat’s scenic beauty and historic charm make it ideal for photographers and heritage travellers alike.

Gjirokastër – The Stone City

Another UNESCO-listed gem, Gjirokastër is known for its stone houses, cobbled lanes, and Ottoman architecture.

Highlights:

Gjirokastër Castle: Dominating the skyline with incredible valley views.
Ethnographic Museum: Birthplace of former dictator Enver Hoxha, now a museum.
Old Bazaar: Perfect for handmade crafts and local delicacies.

Saranda & Ksamil – The Albanian Riviera

Located along the Ionian Sea, Saranda and Ksamil offer sun-drenched beaches and crystal-clear waters that rival Greece’s famous islands.

Highlights:

Butrint National Park (UNESCO site): Ancient Greek and Roman ruins in a lush setting.
Ksamil Islands: Small idyllic islets with turquoise lagoons, reachable by boat.
Lekuresi Castle: Panoramic views over Saranda and Corfu.

This region is perfect for families, honeymooners, and beach lovers seeking beauty without the crowds.

Shkodër – The Cultural Capital

One of Europe’s oldest cities, Shkodër lies near Lake Skadar and offers a window into Albania’s artistic soul.

Highlights:

Rozafa Castle: Overlooking the lake and city below.
Shkodër Cathedral & Marubi Photography Museum: Rich cultural landmarks.
Cycling & Boating: Popular activities along the scenic lakeshore.

The Albanian Alps – Valbona & Theth

For nature lovers and adventurers, Albania’s northern mountains are a revelation.

Highlights:

Valbona Valley National Park: Alpine meadows, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
Theth Village: Traditional stone houses and pristine nature.
Perfect for hiking, photography, and eco-tourism experiences.

🌅 Unique Experiences in Albania

Cruise across Lake Koman, often compared to Norway’s fjords.
Enjoy local vineyards and culinary tours in Berat and Durres.
Explore ancient ruins of Apollonia near Fier.
Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine with Albanian hospitality.
Attend summer music and cultural festivals in Tirana and Gjirokastër.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Albania

Season	Months	Climate & Highlights
Spring	April – June	Mild weather, ideal for sightseeing and nature trails
Summer	July – September	Warm and sunny, perfect for beach holidays
Autumn	October – November	Cooler climate, fewer tourists, great for cultural trips
Winter	December – February	Snow in the mountains, mild on the coast

Ideal Travel Months: May to September for coastal trips; April to June or September–October for culture and hiking.

✈️ Flight Connectivity from India

There are no direct flights from India to Albania, but convenient one-stop connections are available through major European hubs.

Popular Routes:

Delhi / Mumbai → Tirana via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines)
Bengaluru / Chennai → Tirana via Doha or Dubai (Qatar Airways / Emirates)
Average Duration: 11–13 hours

Tirana International Airport (TIA) is the main gateway to Albania, located just 17 km from the capital.

🛂 Visa Information for Indian Travellers

Albania offers simple and traveller-friendly visa options for Indian citizens.

E-Visa for Tourism

Apply online via Albania’s official e-visa portal.
Processing Time: 10–15 working days.
Validity: Up to 90 days per visit.
Requirements:
- Valid passport (6 months)
- Travel itinerary and hotel confirmation
- Return flight ticket
- Financial proof and travel insurance

Visa Exemption (for certain travellers)

Indians holding valid multiple-entry visas or residence permits from the US, UK, or Schengen countries can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days.

Note: Journeys Vista offers visa assistance services to ensure a smooth and stress-free process for our travellers.

🍽️ Food & Indian Dining Options

While Albania’s cuisine is a Mediterranean delight, featuring grilled meats, olive oil, seafood, and local cheeses. Indian travellers will also find a few familiar flavours in Tirana and Saranda.

Popular Options:

Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant, Tirana
Ginger Indian Fusion, Tirana
Curry House, Saranda

Journeys Vista also arranges custom dining experiences and private group meals with Indian or vegetarian menus upon request.

🏨 Recommended Hotels

City / Region	Recommended Properties	Highlights
Tirana	The Plaza Tirana, Maritim Hotel Plaza, Xheko Imperial	Central, elegant, great for families and business travellers
Berat	Hotel Mangalemi, Portik Hotel	Heritage charm & boutique comfort
Saranda / Ksamil	Bougainville Bay Resort, Santa Quaranta Premium Resort	Beachfront luxury & sea-view rooms
Theth / Valbona	Guesthouses & Eco-lodges	Authentic mountain hospitality