What to see in Albania?
Albania is a country which until now has only been known to a small share of travelers ... Despite its idyllic location on the Adriatic Sea, in northern Greece and opposite Italy, Albania still has the image of a corrupt and dangerous country like most of the other Balkan countries. However, the land of the eagles has many attractions. It is for example much cheaper and much less visited than the most popular European countries. Those who love wilderness, history, charm and Mediterranean air should definitely try a trip to Albania . However, we must act quickly: for the moment very calm, few people know the real treasures of this country. But he will not be shunned for very long. Here are some of the best places to visit in Albania .
1. Berat
The city of Berat is located by the Osum river in the heart of Albania. In the past, it was built as a fortress on a hill. The latter, which is called Kalaja, is still visible. The castle is home to many churches and mosques and is definitely worth a visit. Berat is nicknamed the “city with a thousand windows” for its typical houses which have large windows in storefronts. Thanks to them, the city is instantly recognizable. The old town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2008 and the traditional houses, monuments and the castle were brought together in an area called "City Museum"
The surroundings of Berat offer pretty little villages and a typical countryside, if you have time to enjoy the surroundings…
2. The Albanian Riviera
In the southwest of the country, there is a steep coastline which can be compared to the Italian Riviera, but which is much quieter and much less populated. The small beaches invite you to swim or to sunbathe. Tourism is gradually developing to attract tourists more and promise a great vacation.
The countryside is generally devoid of any development and behind the beaches there are mountains in which many small romantic villages hide, perfect for short stays.
3. Apollonie d’Illyrie (Apollonia)
Near the city of Fier are the ruins of an ancient Greek city, named after the god Apollo. Apollonia was the largest and most important of all the cities with the same name in Antiquity. The ruins are still impressive and bear witness to the original splendor. The remains of the largest archaeological park in Albania can be visited.
The historic site is very impressive and the view from the hills around the city is worth the detour.
4. Durrës
The big city of Durrës located on the coast of Albania is the most important port city of the country. And not only from an economic point of view; cultural too. Cultural events and festivals take place throughout the year. Thanks to its amphitheater, which is one of the most important attractions in the city, the second Albanian city can organize many events. The impressive old building could accommodate up to 20,000 people in the past and it's one of the best things to do here.
Durres is one of the tourist centers of the country and in addition to culture and history, the city has beaches and ensures a lively stay.
5. Gjirokastra (ou Gjirokastra)
This city in southern Albania was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005. This is due to the unique architectural style of most of the old buildings. The local architecture is Balkan style with stone houses which seem to be part of a mini fortress (turret houses) and which are of Turkish origin. These houses are intended to live there according to the seasons with a room to live the winter and another to live the summer. Gjirokastra is known as the "stone city".
It is very pleasant to stroll through the alleys of this small town, stopping to visit religious buildings, museums, theaters and other cultural attractions.
6. Kruja (ou Kruja)
Kruja is a town about 20 kilometers northeast of the capital. The most important building in the city is Kruja Castle, which is a national "sanctuary" for the Albanian people. It houses the Skanderberg Museum, which recalls the war in this region. On the outskirts of the city you can also see the tomb of Sari Saltik and the Qafë Shtama National Park. The city of Krujë has an important historical background and can easily be discovered from the capital Tirana in one day.
7. Tirana
Tirana is the capital of Albania and is also the economic and political epicenter of the country. Many important establishments are located here such as the Government or even the Parliament. But Tirana is much more than that. Built on the edge of several rivers, it is located 30 km from the coast and enjoys a beautiful panorama. When it was named capital of Albania in 1920, it was not very important, but since then, it has become a true cultural and modern center, with charming architectures. Do not miss the Skanderbeg Square and its equestrian statue, the museums, the Palace of Culture, the Et'Hem Bey Mosque ... The visit to Tirana is inevitable if you travel to Albania.
8. Shkodër (ou Shkodra)
Shkodra is a city in northern Albania and the fifth largest city in the country. It is located by the Lake Skadar on the border with Montenegro. Shkodra was affected by many battles and conquests and one can visit the citadel of Rozafa. Perched at an altitude of 133 m, at the top of the hill of Tepe, the citadel of Rozafa is one of the best preserved in the country. Do not miss the theater on site.