 Official logo used to promote tourism inAlbania. | |
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Tourism in Albania has been a key element of the country's economic activity and is constantly developing. Albania is characterized by its rich archaeological and cultural heritage dating back to theclassical period whenIllyrians andAncient Greeks inhabited the region. Over the course of history, the territory ofAlbania was occupied and populated byRomans,Byzantines,Venetians andOttomans. Notably the country features unspoiledbeaches, mountainous landscapes, traditionalcuisine,archaeological artifacts,unique traditions, low prices and the wild atmosphere of the countryside.
The country lies inSoutheastern Europe borderingMontenegro to the northwest,Kosovo to the northeast,North Macedonia to the east andGreece to the south. TheMediterranean Sea with theAdriatic andIonian Sea make up the entire west border of the country. The country's coastline length is about 481 km (299 mi) composed of both sandy and rockybeaches,bays,caves,cliffs,capes andlagoons.[1] Although the country features notable diversity with the landscape ranging from the snow-cappedAlbanian Alps,Sharr,Skanderbeg,Korab,Pindus andCeraunian Mountains to the sunnyAlbanian Adriatic andIonian Sea Coasts.
The country has a distinctlyMediterranean climate.[4] Across the country's territory there is a wide range ofmicroclimates due to differingsoil types andtopography. The warmest areas of the country are found at the coasts where the climate is profoundly impacted by the sea, while the coldest parts at thenorthern andeastern hinterlands, where snowy forested climate is prevalent.
With a total of 3.8 million visitors, Albania is the 25th most visited country inEurope.[5]Lonely Planet ranked Albania as the number 1 destination to be visited in 2011.[6] TheNew York Times ranked Albania 4th among 52 destinations to be visited in 2014.[7] Although still underdeveloped, Albania is set to prime its debut on the world scene as it celebrates a century of independence.[8] AHuffington Post article outlined 10 reasons for visiting Albania in 2013.[9] Recently, Albania has been given the official slogan "Go Your Own Way". Previously, it had the slogan "A New Mediterranean Love".[10] According to theAlbanian Institute of Statistics, around 4.73 million foreign citizens have visited Albania in 2016.[11] Foreign tourism in the country has boomed since 2019.[12]
A number of renowned international hotel chains are making their presence known in Albania, including Mariott, Hyatt, Maritim Plaza,Hilton Garden Inn, MK Hotels, andBest Western in Tirana, as well asMelia Hotels International in Durrës, while others are awaiting the green light to start operations mainly in Tirana, the Albanian Alps, and along the Albanian Riviera.[13][14]
The trend foragritourism is a form of tourism in the countryside which combinesagriculture andtourism and is exponentially developing in Albania.[15] Thegovernment of Albania has identified this form of tourism as an important andsustainable tourism opportunity and prioritised its development as a rural economic diversification concept within the country's100+ villages Programme.[15][16]
The northern region of the country is particularly known for its natural and cultural heritage, picturesque alpine mountainous landscapes, scenic highlands, glacial lakes, rich flora and fauna, curative sandy beaches, and historic regions with ancient traditions and delicious cuisine. It is underlain bykarstic rock, mainlydolomite andlimestone with associatedlakes andcave which has given rise to the most distinctive feature of its lakes and rivers.
TheAlbanian Alps are among the most valuable and unique features of the northern region of Albania. Its mountainous landscape with multiple contrasts, traversed by river valleys with crystal waters, gorges and mountain saddles with a rich biodiversity attracts both domestic and foreign tourists from all over the world.
Gashi River andRajcë are both aUNESCOWorld Heritage Site andNature Reserve.[17] They offers a fascinating and incredibly diverse picture of the original landscapes with less human impact. The river originates and flows through the Albanian Alps in the north until it reaches theValbona River.
BothValbonë Valley National Park andTheth National Park stretches within the Albanian Alps and offers a variety of opportunities for tourism, fishing, mountaineering and trekking. TheValbona Pass, standing at 1,795 ha (17.95 km2), separates the national parks. The Albanian traditions, hospitality, culture and culinary values of this region are strong elements that those parks offer for tourists.
The villages ofTheth are surrounded on four sides by numeroustwo-thousanders such asRadohima in the west,Arapi and Poplluka in the north andJezerca in the east. It is well known for its uniqueRoman Catholic churches, folk traditions but also its natural heritage.
Nikaj-Mërtur Regional Nature Park is an area of scenic alpine landscapes, deep river valleys, vertical cliffs, dense forests and small lakes. It lies within theDukagjin highlands and borders Valbonë Valley National Park in the northeast and Theth National Park in the north and northeast.
TheLake Koman within the Albanian Alps, a unique journey amidst spectacular mountain views, is considered one of the most popular ferry rides inSouthern Europe.[citation needed] Sometimes it reminds of theScandinavianfjords.[according to whom?]
Shkodër has been founded since the 4th century BC by theIllyrian tribes of theArdiaei andLabeates. Nowadays, it exerts strong influences in culture, religion, arts and entertainment of northern Albania. The city is dotted with numerous different structures. It retains its characteristic appearance with narrow streets with tall stone walls on both sides and tall gates. TheRozafa Castle, east of the city, is one of the most prominent architectural features on the region.
Lake Shkodër, the largest lake in Southern Europe, is a popular destination due to its natural richness and ease of access both from land and sea. The surrounding area around the lake is desirable for a vacation spent in peace and quiet. Other tourist attractions include sailing, fishing and other water sports.
Emerging agritourism areas includesPukë, the panoramicUlëz lake and the nearbyVau i Dejes,Barbullush andFishte villages inZadrima near the city ofLezhë, Katund i Vjeter in theMirdita region nearRubik, but alsoShishtavec nearKukës, and the alpine area ofNikaj-Mertur inLekbibaj region nearBajram Curri. Other emerging areas include fishing villages ofShiroka, Zogaj, and Grile or Omaraj along theLake Shkodër.
Northern Albania's main seaside towns includeShengjin andVelipoja, the former being a major port town and the latter known for its curative beach sand. Very popular during the summer months, Shengjin is becoming worldwide known for organizing electronic music UNUM Festival at Rana e Hedhun sand dune tourist attraction. Velipoja is known for its protected area of abundant pine trees and fauna species.
The central region of Albania alternates between archaeological sites, castles, caves, long stretches of curative sandy beaches and lagoons, perfect for bird-watching. It encompasses mostly the counties ofDurrës,Tirana,Fier andElbasan. In terms of geology, it is dominated by theMyzeqe Plain in the westSkanderbeg in the center andKorab Mountains in the east.
Tirana, the country's capital city, officially dubbed as 'The Place Beyond Belief' by local authorities[18] is known for its cultural heritage, religious diversity, the colourful buildings, Italian and Socialist architecture, and natural attractions such as Dajti Mt and parks around artificially created lakes. Tirana is also widely known for its stylish restaurant scene featuring particularly delicious food under theSlow Food lifestyle, and the traditional agritourism areas in the southern and eastern outskirts of the city towards Durrës, Elbasan, and Dajti respectively.[19][20] The city organizes many festivals, sports competitions, live music performances, and is home to several regionally known shopping centers.
Dajti National Park encompassesDajti, the capital'shausberg in the east. It is accessible all year round and can be reached on foot orcable cars. Climbing the mountain offers visitors views down into Tirana and over the mountains behind it, part of theMali me Gropa-Bizë-Martanesh Protected Landscape. Dajti has been referred to as the Balcony of Tirana because of its panoramic vista.
Krujë, the capital of thePrincipality of Arbër during theMiddle Ages, is called by locals as the Adriatic Balcony from the view that offers day and night. Due to the long and continuous history of the city, it is home to several archaeological sites and structures that are still evident.
Durrës is one of theoldest cities in the world and home to theDurrës Amphitheatre, which is among the largest in theBalkan Peninsula. Numerous elements of differentarchitectural styles from antiquity to present day are present throughout the city. The coastal waters offer beaches, bays, capes, fishing and sailing.
TheDivjaka-Karavasta National Park includes theKaravasta Lagoon, the largestlagoon in the country and one of the largest in theAdriatic Sea. The lagoon is separated from the sea by a narrow strip of sand. Itsmediterranean climate andgeology enables the presence of a wide range ofanimals andplants, which are fast becoming rare inSouthern Europe.
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Apollonia is one of the most popular archaeological sites in the country, which was inhabited by bothTaulantiis andCorinthians in antiquity. It is one of the most complete architectural and cultural features on theAlbanian Adriatic Sea Coast. The remains of the site have been investigated by archaeologists from 1916, still, much of the site remains unexcavated to this day.
Lura-Dejes Mt National Park is known for itstwelveglacial lakes, which were formed during theWürm glacial period. It provides striking scenery with intensive fissures and mountainous landscape without any human intervention, very rare inSouthern Europe.
Shtamë Pass National Park is mostly composed of dense forests, in which pine trees and oak dominate. Recently it is becoming an attraction forhiking.
Fir of Drenova National Park has a particular importance on the trans-boundary exchanges offlora andfauna elements, while it represents a key habitat and bio-corridor for a wide range of animals and plants. Tourists have often been attracted by the rock formations which are present and look unique.
Shebenik-Jabllanice National Park is one of the country’s newest national parks. It is particularly known for dwelling a number of different species that are fast becoming rare in theBalkans and hosting several glacial lakes within the mountains ofShebenik andJabllanica.[21]
Korab-Koritnik Nature Park encompasses the country's highest mountainKorab in the east which is shared with theRepublic of Macedonia. Although in terms of geology, it is strongly composed ofkarst andlimestone and high mountains. This has resulted in diverse topographic features within the boundaries of the park such as valleys, rivers, glacial lakes, caves and canyons.
Besides the beaches, the central region is abundant inlagoons and other natural ecosystems providing wonderful opportunities for those passionate about the study and observation of birds such as thePatoku Lagoon,Kune-Vain Lagoon andNarta Lagoon.
The southern region of the country is mostly mountainous and has become famous for itsmediterranean atmosphere, diverse landscape, scenic coastline and villages and towns by the shoreline. The presence of several mountain ranges such as theCeraunian andPindus Mountains has ultimately shaped the diverse landscape of the south of Albania.
Stretching in the southwest, theAlbanian Riviera is well known for its pure blue and turquoise beaches and has been a favorite destination for local and foreign visitors.[22] Aside from its beaches, it is also a destination for relaxation, tranquility, and nightlife with several music festivals such as Kala Festival and a number of renown nightclubs. Many villages and towns in the area are nationally known such asDhërmi,Lukovë,Palasë,Qeparo andBorsh.
Butrint is both aUNESCOWorld Heritage Site andNational Park.[23][24] The city lies in the south ofSarandë along the southernAlbanian Ionian Sea Coast. Historically, it was inhabited sincePrehistory but was founded as Greek and Roman colony during theBronze Age. Numerous monuments are well-preserved today such as the ancient city walls, a baptistery, a great basilica, a theatre and castles. The remains are all located within a great naturalwoodland with a complexecosystem andbiodiversity, which depends on the nearby freshwaterLake Butrint as well as the direct proximity to theMediterranean Sea. The combination of history, culture and environment makesButrint a unique place, a landscape with monuments as beloved of the tourists.
TheKaraburun-Sazan Marine Park comprises theKaraburun Peninsula along withSazan Island in southern Albania. Its terrain is characterized bymountains,caves,depressions,bays,canyons and widebeaches. Although it features ruins of sunken ships, a richflora andfauna, ancientinscriptions, secluded beaches and scenic views of both theAdriatic andIonian Sea.
Llogara National Park is well known for its diversified biodiversity and natural environment, which is relatively unaffected by human development. The mixture of refreshing high altitude mountain air at theCeraunian Mountains and proximity to theAlbanian Riviera makes it very attractive destination for tourists. The region is also important for the growth ofecotourism,hiking andparagliding.
Sarandë is a coastal town along the southernAlbanian Ionian Sea Coast situated on a horseshoe bay between mountains and hills. The naturally occurring phenomenon of theBlue Eye Spring and architectural treasures such asPhoenice, the ancient city walls, ruins of a synagogue, a monastery andcastle are among the most prominent attractions around the city.
Fir of Hotova-Dangell National Park is the country's largest national park and stretches within a remote mountainous region ofNemërçka andTomorr between theVjosa Valley in the west and theOsum Valley in the northeast. The narrow and deepLengarica Canyon inPërmet with numerous caves andthermal springs such as Banjat e Bënjës are among the most visited areas in the park.
Pogradec andLin straddles on the western shores ofLake Ohrid in the east. The lake is one of the mostancient lakes in the world and preserves a unique aquaticecosystem that is of worldwide importance.[25] Various monuments from differentancient civilizations are still evident in this region such as theRoyal Illyrian Tombs, theByzantine Churches ofLin andSt. Marina.
Tomorr National Park encompassesMount Tomorr in the south, which is inAlbanian folklore anthropomorphized and associated with the legendary figure ofBaba Tomor. Within theOsum Canyon, close to the national park, there are a number ofrock formations,caves andwaterfalls and are a spectacular natural attraction in the region.
Berat is one of the world'soldest continuously inhabited cities and is aUNESCOWorld Heritage Site.[26] The city is known as a museum and city and also referred as the city of thousands of windows. Today, the city bears witness to the coexistence of various religious and cultural communities down the centuries. Treasures from theIllyrians,Romans,Greeks,Byzantines andOttomans are still alive in the city. Among the attractions in the city and the surroundings areByllis,Apollonia,Bachelors' Mosque,Berat Castle and Citadel,Gorica Bridge,Lead Mosque,Red Mosque,St. Theodore's Church,St. Mary of Blachernae Church,Dormition Cathedral andArdenica Monastery.
Gjirokastër is listed with Berat as aUNESCOWorld Heritage Site.[26] The city is described as a rare example of a well-preservedOttoman town, built by farmers of large estate. Typical houses consist of a tall stone block structures which can be up to five stories high. There are external and internal staircases that surround the houses. It is thought that such design stems from fortified country houses typical in the region.
Korçë is known for its quarters, composed of low houses and villas and many architectural buildings of various styles such asHistoricism,Art Nouveau andNeoclassicism. Cultural elements from Albanians, Greeks, Italians and French merged within the city to create a unique culture. The largest carnival of Albania is here organized which takes place beforeOrthodox Easter. Among the most prominent sites in the city include the IllyrianKamenica Tumulus.
Voskopojë reached its peak in the 18th century and is nowadays considered a holy place by localOrthodox Christians. The remaining churches in the region are among the most representative of 18th-century ecclesiastical art in the Balkans.
Prespa National Park encompasses bothLake Prespa andSmall Prespa Lake in the border triangle of Albania, Greece and Macedonia. The island ofMaligrad, within the large Prespa, is dotted with amonastery and several caves, which are suitable for wildlife and a circular cliff. Hundreds of different species of animals and plants thrive in the national park.
Albania's scenic landscapes are dotted with castles, forts and citadels. Thecastles andforts of the country constitute treasures and legacy of the historic past of Albania. From the early antiquity to the medieval period, they were originally made of earth and wood and later of stone and comes in many styles of architecture and design. The majority of forts have been renovated throughout history and different epochs with changing rule and adaptations to war technology development.
Rozafa Castle is an ancient castle and one of the most prominent sites inShkodër. The castle is associated with a famous legend about a woman who was buried in the foundation of the castle. It stretches on a rocky hill and is trapped on three sides by the rivers ofBuna, Kir andDrin. Shkodër served in the 4th century BC as the royal capital of theIllyrian tribes of theArdiaei andLabeates. During that period, the castle was an Illyrian stronghold until it was captured by theRomans in 167 BC. Its current name, Rozafa, appeared for the first time in the earlyMiddle Ages. Later when theOttomans conquered theBalkans the castle then was turned into a mosque.
Petrelë Castle is a medieval castle close toTirana located on a hilltop overlookingPetrelë andErzen Valley. The castle has a triangular structure with two observation towers. The early fortifications probably date from the 3rd century, while in the 9th century it was expanded and served as a base forGjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu during its revolt against theOttoman Empire.
Prezë Castle is a small fortification while the construction of which started in the 14th century and was completed in the early 15th century. It played a strategically important role for the region, especially in the Middle Ages, as it controlled the road fromDurrës toKrujë and served as a point for the exchange of news between the castles ofPetrelë andKrujë.
Ali Pasha Castle was built within a small island along the mouth of theVivari Channel inButrint National Park and is named after the Albanian rulerAli Pasha of Ioannina, who ruled over thePashalik of Yanina and even attempted to rival theDey of Algiers in the seas. The castle is a small rectangular structure with battered walls, while along the corners, there are two battered round towers with cannons on its seaward side and two irregularly sized battered square towers equipped with firing loops or windows.
Rodoni Castle extend within theCape of Rodon at the direct proximity to theAdriatic Sea. The name is derived from theIllyrian god of Rodon. Following theFirst Siege of Krujë andLeague of Lezhë decided to increase the fortifications for use against the Ottoman Empire. Skanderbeg chose the cape of Rodon as the location of the castle and construction began in 1450.
Due to the varying geographic elevation,Albania features endless panoramic routes along the mountainous region inNorthern Albania as well as the Coastal region along the western lowland and the southern coast bordering both theAdriatic sea and theIonian sea. The roadways along the beach are mostly new and in good condition.
One of the most renowned routes is theNational Road 8 (SH8) fromVlorë toSarandë in southwestern Albania along theAlbanian Riviera starting from the port city ofVlorë into theLlogara Pass, being part of theLlogara National Park, and also along theCeraunian Mountains. Towards theLlogara Pass the view becomes very spectacular and is one of the most picturesque routes in theBalkan Peninsula.
TheA1 Motorway fromRreshen toKalimash, connectsAlbania withKosovo. It offers views of the Albanian mountains in the north along theFan River Valley. Other routes consist of the SH78 from Jergucat toDelvinë along the Muzina Pass overlooking the Dropulli Plain, and the SH75 fromKorçë toErsekë andPërmet. TheVia Egnatia served as a crossroad of important routes linking the Adriatic with Byzantium, today it is along the modern National Road 3 (SH3).
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1 withAustria,Belgium,Bosnia and Herzegovina,Croatia,Czech Republic,France,Germany,Italy,North Macedonia,Poland,Romania,Slovakia,Slovenia,Spain,Switzerland andUkraine 2 This is the extension of the site that has been inscribed in North Macedonia since 1979. The area around the town of Pogradec at the shores of Lake Ohrid was inhabited by the Illyrians in the 5th century BC, followed by the Romans and the Slavs. Traces of the Roman road Via Egnatia are evidence of an important passage route in the region. The ruins of the paleo-christian church of Lin together with its floor mosaics reveal the presence of Christianity. The historical centre of Pogradec represents an example of 19th to 20th century Albanian vernacular architecture. | ||
