Albania: What to see and do?
Albania is a country of breathtaking scenery, rich in history and tradition. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover or a culture enthusiast, Albania will charm you. In this guide, we'll introduce you to the country's main sights, as well as the best transport solutions for getting around with ease.
Start your exploration with a visit to the capital, Tirana. This modern city is packed with museums, art galleries and traditional restaurants where you can sample delicious Albanian cuisine. Be sure to visit Skanderbeg Square, the Et'hem Bey Mosque and the National History Museum to discover the country's rich heritage.
If you're a beach lover, Albania has it all. The Albanian Riviera, located along the Adriatic Sea, is full of magnificent beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear waters. Among the most popular are Dhërmi, Himara and Saranda. Soak up the sun, relax and why not go scuba diving to discover the region's marine treasures.
History buffs shouldn't miss out on a visit to the ancient cities of Butrint and Apollonia. Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an ancient Roman town that will impress lovers of ruins and relics. Apollonia, meanwhile, is one of the country's most important archaeological sites, home to an ancient theatre and numerous temples.
For nature lovers, the Theth National Park is a must. Located in the Albanian Alps, this park offers breathtaking mountain scenery, with waterfalls, lakes and hiking trails. Don't hesitate to explore the region's traditional villages for a complete immersion in Albanian culture and way of life.
Now let's talk about transport. The main transport options in Albania are bus, train and plane. Buses are the most common means of transport and connect most of the country's towns. The main bus companies are Furgon Trans and Rrota Dituria, which offer a regular and reliable service.
Trains are also an option, although the network is limited. Local trains connect Tirana with some towns, but it's important to check timetables as they can be infrequent.
If you prefer to travel by air, Albania has several international airports, including Tirana Airport, Vlora Airport and Saranda Airport. Many airlines, such as Air Albania and Wizz Air, serve these airports, making international travel easy.
Finally, don't underestimate the car-sharing opportunities in Albania. Car-sharing offers on Vivanoda allow you to find a ride with other travellers, which can be an economical and user-friendly option for getting from one city to another.
Albania is therefore a tourist destination that offers many sights. Whether you're interested in history, nature or culture, you're sure to find something to suit your tastes in Albania. Take time to explore the historic sites, relax on the beaches and admire the mountainous landscapes. And don't forget to take advantage of the various transport options, such as buses, trains, planes and car-sharing, to easily discover all the wonders this country has to offer.
Albania: How to get around the country?
If you're looking to get from one town to another in Albania, you'll be delighted to know that there are plenty of transport options to make your journey easy and enjoyable.
First of all, the most common and often the most convenient option is the bus. Bus services in Albania are well developed, with many companies offering regular routes between the main towns. The main companies include Albtrans, Sta Travel and Furgoneta. Buses are generally comfortable and affordable, making them an ideal choice for those on a tighter budget. However, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist periods.
If you prefer a faster mode of transport, you can opt for the train. Although the rail network in Albania is limited, there are regular connections between certain cities, such as Tirana, Durrës, Shkodër and Vlorë. Fares are also affordable, although trains can sometimes be less comfortable than buses.
For travellers in a hurry, flying may be an option to consider. Albania has several international airports, including Tirana, Vlorë and Saranda. Several airlines, such as Air Albania, Turkish Airlines and Alitalia, offer regular flights to and from Albania. However, internal flights between Albanian cities are still fairly limited.
Finally, a less common but equally interesting option is the ferry. Albania has direct access to the Adriatic Sea, which means that some coastal towns can be reached by ferry. This can be a particularly attractive option for travellers wishing to enjoy Albania's magnificent coastal scenery while moving easily from one place to another.
Whichever means of transport you choose, it's important to bear in mind a few tips to make your stay easier. First of all, it's a good idea to check timetables and availability in advance, especially if you're travelling during the peak tourist season. Punctuality is not always the order of the day in Albania, so it's a good idea to leave some time for your travels.
Another important tip is to keep an eye on your personal belongings when travelling. Although Albania is generally a safe place, you should always remain vigilant to avoid any risk of theft.
Finally, don't hesitate to ask the locals or your accommodation for specific information on the best means of transport to take you from one town to another. Albanians are generally very welcoming and will be delighted to help you plan your travel.
Albania: When to visit?
Albania is a country in south-eastern Europe with a great diversity of landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. If you're planning to visit this fascinating country, it's important to take into account the variations in climate throughout the year.
The best time to travel to Albania depends on your personal preferences and what you want to see and do. Spring, from March to June, is considered an ideal time because temperatures are pleasant, generally between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, and the countryside is green after the winter rains. This is also the time when the wild flowers are in full bloom, making mountain walks even more beautiful.
Summer, from June to August, is the hottest season in Albania, with temperatures easily reaching 35 degrees Celsius. This is the ideal time to enjoy the beaches of the Albanian coast, which are renowned for their beauty and crystal-clear waters. However, the beaches can be crowded during the peak tourist season.
Autumn, from September to November, is also a pleasant time to visit Albania. Temperatures start to drop slightly, but remain in the 15-20 degrees Celsius range. The landscapes take on magnificent autumnal colours, making it an ideal time for photography enthusiasts.
Winter, from December to February, can be a difficult time for travellers as temperatures often drop below zero and there can be heavy snowfalls, particularly in mountainous areas. However, if you enjoy winter sports or want to discover Albania outside the tourist season, this is a good time to visit the country's ski resorts.
Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons to travel in Albania, due to the mild temperatures and magnificent scenery. However, if you're looking for a seaside holiday, summer is the ideal time to enjoy Albania's beaches.
