2025 Albania Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

Ultimate Balkan Peninsula Travel Guide covering Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Albania, blending luxury experiences with in-depth exploration. Budget references included at the end. --- **Trip Highlights** **🏰 Cultural Epic Route** **Mostar** (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Exclusive early-morning photography rights at the Old Bridge, experience Ottoman-era coppersmith workshops **Sarajevo** (Bosnia and Herzegovina): Private guided tour near Latin Bridge uncovering WWI history, VIP explanation at the War Tunnel Museum **Bay of Kotor** (Montenegro): Midnight climb to the city walls for stargazing, private yacht exploration of the Blue Cave **🌿 Natural Wonders Chapter** **Durmitor National Park** (Montenegro): Helicopter aerial view of Black Lake, stay in forest treehouse hotels **Perast** (Montenegro): Chartered boat to Our Lady of the Rocks Island, exclusive access to the 16th-century church **🍷 Gourmet Luxury List** **Novi Sad** (Serbia): Century-old cellar tasting at Petrus Winery, Michelin-recommended Project 72 by the Danube **Zemun** (Serbia): Private dining at Saran Restaurant, savoring premium Danube sturgeon caviar --- **Top Accommodation Picks** 1. **Kotor, Montenegro** - **One&Only Portonovi** • The only six-star resort on the Adriatic, featuring private beaches + ESPA Spa • Reference rate: €1,500/night 2. **Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina** - **Hotel Mepas** • Infinity pool suspended over the Neretva River Canyon, executive suites with Old Bridge viewing terraces • Reference rate: €700/night 3. **Belgrade, Serbia** - **Square Nine Hotel** • Member of Relais & Châteaux, rooftop lounge overlooking Saint Sava Temple • Reference rate: €900/night --- **Exclusive Experience List** - **Sarajevo**: Intimate "Coffee & Stories" dinner hosted by Bosnian War survivors (€150/person) - **Budva Old Town**: Hire an archaeologist for a guided tour of 15th-century Venetian walls (€300/3 hours) - **Albania**: Jeep expedition through Theth to Valbona's hidden trails, picnic with freshly made shepherd’s cheese --- **Aesthetic Moments Guide** **🌅 Best Photography Spots** • Silhouette of divers at Mostar Old Bridge (daily at 14:00 in summer) • Morning mist over Perast’s twin islands (arrive at western reefs by 5:30) • "Tears of Tara River" waterfall in Durmitor National Park (best at noon when sunlight pierces the water curtain) **🎨 Artistic Easter Eggs** • "Invisible Sculpture" at Novi Sad’s Liberty Square: Touch bronze poetry plates to trigger light installations • Kotor Bay’s Shipwreck Bar: A 1940s warship wreck transformed into an underwater bar --- **One-Week Budget Reference (Luxury Edition)** | Category | Cost (EUR) | Details | |---------------------|-------------|------------------------------| | Round-trip Int’l Flights | 2,500 | Business class direct to Belgrade/Dubrovnik | | 7 Nights Luxury Hotels | 7,000 | Includes signature suites & butler service | | Private Transfers/Helicopter | 3,500 | Cross-border Mercedes V-Class + Kotor Bay helicopter tour | | Michelin & Private Dining | 1,800 | Winery VIP tastings + live seafood cooking at fish markets | | Exclusive Guides & Experiences | 2,000 | Includes war historians/artists as companions | | **Total** | **17,000** | Better value for two travelers | --- **Pro Tips** 1. Border Optimization: Travel counterclockwise from Belgrade to avoid Montenegro-Albania land border congestion 2. Seasonal Key: Visit in May or September to avoid crowds and enjoy lavender/grape harvest seasons 3. Hidden Perk: American Express Black Card holders can request special underground concerts at Lipa Cave, Montenegro For customized daily itineraries or special requests (e.g., castle proposals, film location tours), in-depth planning services are available. This land’s beauty lies in its untamed romance and profound history—may you encounter moments more captivating than *Lonely Planet*’s pages.

1. Address - Lake Komani Highlights - absolutely beautiful lake. Such beautiful caves whilst you’re walking on the coastline or on a boat. You can rent a boat there for €5 for an hour ! Rating - 100/10 2. Address - Sarande 🏖️ Highlights - south of Albania is so stunning. I definitely recommend renting a car so you can drive from different cities and enjoy different places - beach places but also more town places. Rating - 100/10 3. Address - Berat Old Town Highlights - Berat is located in the middle of Albania, near beautiful mountains and beautiful scenery. The people are so nice and down to earth - also everything is sooo cheap here! Souvenirs, food, drinks - everything! Rating - 10/10

Why should you visit Ksamil in the summer of 2025?!☀️🏖️🌊 Located in southern Albania, Ksamil is a gem of the Albanian Riviera and an ideal summer destination. Here are some reasons to visit Ksamil in the summer: 1. Enchanting beaches Ksamil is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, often compared to tropical destinations. The small islands near the coast are easily accessible by boat or swimming, offering a tranquil getaway. 2. Relaxed atmosphere Unlike some overcrowded Mediterranean hotspots, Ksamil retains a more laid-back vibe. It's a great place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of major tourist centers. 3. Fresh seafood and traditional cuisine Ksamil's restaurants serve delicious, fresh seafood and Albanian specialties like byrek and Tave Kosi. Dining by the sea adds to the charm. 4. Proximity to Butrint National Park Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is just a short drive from Ksamil. The park combines ancient ruins, natural beauty, and fascinating history, making it a perfect day trip destination. 5. Affordable paradise Ksamil offers an affordable alternative to other Mediterranean destinations. You can enjoy high-quality services and experiences at a fraction of the cost. 6. Perfect for water activities Summer is ideal for activities like swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The calm and warm Ionian Sea is perfect for exploration. 7. Stunning sunsets Ksamil's sunsets are magical, with vibrant colors reflecting on the clear waters. You can enjoy them at a beach bar or while dining al fresco. 8. Convenient location Ksamil is close to other popular destinations like Saranda and Corfu (accessible by ferry), making it easy to explore the region. Visiting Ksamil in the summer allows you to fully experience its beauty and charm, ensuring you have an unforgettable trip!

It was a trip to Tirana, Albania 🇦🇱 We arrived in Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania, excited to explore its mix of history, culture, and unique modern charm 🙌 Our first stop was Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city. The large open space, surrounded by impressive landmarks like the National History Museum with its striking mosaic and the Et’hem Bey Mosque, offered us the perfect opportunity to capture some iconic shots 📸 The morning light here is absolutely beautiful, with the square bustling with locals going about their day ✨ 📍Skanderbeg Square, Tirana, Albania We then explored Mount Dajti National Park. To reach the summit, we took the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car 🚠 The panoramic views of Tirana from the top were simply breathtaking, especially around midday when the sun ☀️ highlights the surrounding mountains ⛰️ and the sprawling city below. We captured the best photos here, a must-visit for anyone who enjoys stunning nature views paired with urban landscapes. 📍Dajti Ekspres, Rruga e Dajti, Tirana, Albania We also made our way to the colorful Blloku District, an area once restricted to communist officials but now one of the most lively parts of the city. We wandered the trendy streets lined with cafes ☕️ boutiques, and murals. The vibrant colors and artistic vibe made it a perfect spot for photos 📸 especially in the late afternoon when the light casts a warm glow on the buildings. ✨ We even stumbled upon some hidden gems, like small art galleries and quirky cafes☕️ 📍Blloku, Tirana, Albania We also visited the Pyramid of Tirana, an intriguing structure that was originally built as a museum dedicated to Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former communist leader. Though it’s now in a state of decay, the pyramid remains a fascinating subject for photography 📸 especially during the golden hour when the light casts dramatic shadows across its surface. I would recommend exploring this site if you’re interested in history and quirky landmarks 🙌 📍Pyramid of Tirana, Rruga e Dajti, Tirana, Albania Tirana is a city full of life, contrasts, and beauty , a perfect blend of history, nature, and modernity that makes it an excellent destination for photography. I would highly recommend visiting the city for anyone looking to capture a unique side of Albania 🙌🙌🙌 #europetrip #vacation #travel

Albania is an incredible country, so easy to travel to many places by bus! I stayed at Bearded Dad Hostel, the best hostel I have ever stayed at and made so many new friends. Many days trips are organized by the hostels, so keep an eye out of that! Seeing of the eyes, I went to Blue Eye at the mountains of Theth in Skoder, that was a beautiful time. A little cold for this time of the year, but so worth it! You can celebrate finishing the hike with a classic shot of Raki ! #albania #tirana #skoder #localguides #trip #instatravel

The Declaration of Independence or the Declaration of Independence is the declaration of independence of the Albanian Vilayets from the Ottoman Empire. Albania declared itself independent in Vlora on November 28, 1912 by Ismail Qemali. The declaration of independence was attended by 83 delegates from all Albanian territories. Immediately after the declaration of independence, the Assembly of Vlora formed the first government of Independent Albania led by Ismail Qemali and the Elders. The international recognition of independence and the demarcation of Albania's borders took place a year later at the Conference of Ambassadors in London, whose decision was the declaration of sovereign Albanian Independence by the Ottoman Empire under the supervision of the International Commission of Control and leaving half of the territories the newly formed state outside its administrative borders, because the Albanian nation was endangered by neighboring countries because it had a great geographical and strategic value. Albanians were as interested as the other oppressed peoples of the Balkans in liberating themselves from the Ottoman yoke. Their representatives tried to ally themselves with their neighbors in the joint anti-Russian war, but these attempts failed due to the fault of the leaders of the Balkan Alliance, who did not want to have the Albanians as equal parties in this alliance. because they had agreed among themselves on the partition of Albania. Therefore, the Albanians did not enter into an alliance, the leaders of which intended to use them as meat for dogs in the war against the Ottoman Empire. The participation of Albanians in this alliance, without officially recognizing their rights, would be a suicide.👐 #mynovgetaway #thanksgiving #mynovgetaway#thanksgiving

#tripaway Thethi is located about 70 km from Shkodra, in the heart of the Albanian Alps. For its climatic and biodiversity values, Thethi has been declared a National Park, which is also part of the joint project of the "Peace Park", which includes a cross-border region of "Namuna Mountains" between three countries: Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro. The surface of the national park includes an area of ​​2 630 hectares and lies at an altitude of 600 - 2 570 meters above sea level. Here there is a dense cover of trees where 90% is represented by dense beech forests, but also maple, ash, hornbeam, etc. The fauna of the park consists of 50 species of birds, 10 species of reptiles and 8 species of amphibians. There are also different species of woodpeckers, golden eagles, alpine salamanders, as well as a variety of colorful butterflies. In the waters of the river Shale that meanders in the middle of Thethi, there is also marble trout. Thethi has the appearance of a basin 800 meters above sea level. It is located between a crown of steep peaks, such as: Radohima, Arap Peak, Alise Peak, which stand out for the rare beauties throughout the Alps. The Shala River flows through the village, with its abundant, fast-flowing water, crystal clear and ice-cold. Cataracts and waterfalls descend from the mountains noisily and furiously. #visitalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Mirdita, one of the most virgin and beautiful provinces in Albania, with all-round above-ground and underground resources, with enviable mountain springs and climate, with rich flora and fauna, invites and welcomes friends, as it knows how to wait. The Durrës-Morinë highway, about 70 km of which cross the territory of Mirdita, is also a chance that creates opportunities for the use of mountain tourist resources that Mirdita has. Also the numerous works of art, give rare beauty to the whole valley of the Little Fan that traverses it. The relief of this area in the whole geographical belt, from the mountains of Kaçinar, Munella, Zepa, Bjeshkët e Oroshit, Valmor, Kroi i Bardhë to the top of Kunora, is distinguished for a diverse development of karst processes. The most special is the Uraka Stream Valley (a tributary of the Mat River), on the slopes of which are some of the most important caves. There are dozens of caves in this belt, each more interesting than the other and very complicated. Archaeological finds belonging to the Neolithic period have been discovered by chance by non-specialists in the Mercury cave, but unfortunately these findings have not aroused interest among specialists in the field. The exception is the Kusia cave of Ndue Gjoni between Mërkurth and Kurbnesh, on the left of the Uraka Stream, which was discovered and studied in 1994 by a group of Roman speleologists, together with Albanian speleologists. The study is not yet complete. According to researchers, the cave has great scientific, cultural, didactic and tourist values. It has therefore been declared a natural monument. #visitalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Albanian alps One of the most attractive and fascinating territories of the Albanian territories with many natural beauties and great tourist assets, are the Albanian Alps. One of the most attractive and fascinating territories of the Albanian territories with many natural beauties and great tourist assets, are the Albanian Alps. Represented by a mountainous relief with many contrasts, crossed by river valleys with crystal clear waters, gorges and mountain passes to intrigue you to continue exploring nature, with a rich vegetation, the Albanian Alps represent a gem of values unique for Albania even in the world. The Alps resemble a dome with a high peak Jezerca 2694 m from which emerge in the form of rays mountain ranges with sharp peaks and steep slopes. There is no way not to attract the attention of visitors the numerous karst, glacial, fluvial forms etc. with a mystical beauty where nature has compromised with itself and with man. The mountain peaks in this territory seem to reach the sky. Their stunning beauty is reflected in the clear waters of rivers such as Shala, Valbona, Curraj, Cemi, Moraça, etc. as well as in such glacial lakes as those of Peja, Jezerca, Dobërdol, Sylbica etc. offer a fabulous tranquility and an adrenaline level which changes in every moment you enjoy the many beauties of this space. Mountains such as Radohima, Iron Peak, Arabian Peak, Shkelzen Peak, etc. serve as triangulation points, offering a different panorama which tempts the adventurous spirit of every visitor to see the natural beauties around them. To this very rich natural offer which can be used for tourist purposes is added the diversity of flora and fauna. The four floors of vegetation and the edaphic conditions as similar as they are different in this space have conditioned the existence of a series of endemic plants and animals which are not only of study interest but also enrich its tourist decoration. #visitalbania #beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway If you are planning to visit not very famous, special and unique places, Albania with its beauties will leave you speechless. Numerous European and world tourism portals talk about this "secret" country of Europe that is best preserved and that boasts of the beauties that nature has forgiven. With its many natural monuments, it is the ideal destination for everyone, not only for foreign tourists, but also for the Albanians themselves who want to know their country in all dimensions. And this has been best revealed by special tourist guides, as well as nature and photography enthusiasts. Followed by the passion for photography, but also by the desire to know more about Albania, they remain a unique guide. Afrim Tahiraj for more than two years on his social networks brings images of an Albania that adds to the desire to be the next visitor tomorrow. Below we present the 15 photos that IntoAlbania has chosen for you. #visitalbania #beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Home to one of the most beautiful national parks in Albania, Lura National Park, the Dibra region is rich in natural beauty, mountainous landscapes, glacial lakes, countless rivers, and dense forests. Lura’s majestic beauty has been praised by the likes of Edith Durham while the great Albanian poet Gjergj Fishta has said “He who has not seen Lura, has not seen Albania.” Still, to be discovered, the region’s unadulterated nature hides natural thermal springs, surrounded by pines, along with the high altitudes of its mountainous terrain. These mineral-rich waters are some of the most amazing natural wonders in the country, beautiful to behold, and providers of serious health benefits. Albania owes much of its famous culinary delights to Dibra’s indelible traditional cuisine, most notably including the buttery jufka, Albania’s own version of tagliatelle, and sheqerpare, a rich and scrumptious dessert. #visitalbania#beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway For years, Shengjin has been at the top of the preferences for local and foreign vacationers. All this from the good work that has been done in urban development and systematization, cleaning the beaches, improving the infrastructure, services for tourists, etc. The city of Shengjin, with its beaches and lagoons, quality hotels and restaurants and entertainment facilities are the main destination for vacationers. The Virginity of the Cast Sand 1.0 THE SAND THREE The beach of the Cast Sand in Shengjin, is one of the most beautiful areas to spend the summer holidays and is considered by the locals as an "Adriatic oasis". This environment starts from Guri i Marka Nikës to Guri i Camës. It has a length of 3 kilometers. It starts with a small sand dune (sand dune) that reaches a height of 2-3 meters, followed by a Mediterranean pine forest. They create a green belt at a length of 500 meters. Further, the pine belt is interrupted. In the form of a pyramidal site are the dunes that go up to 5 meters, where the mountain slope in a large area is "covered". The highest dune reaches from 80 meters to 100 meters, located on the western slope of the hills of Mount Rrenc. This is a wonderful place, with somewhat coarse, clean sand, untouched by human hand. Here besides the sea and the sun, you can also enjoy the relaxing landscape, the blue sea in the spaces up to Cape Rodon. In this environment for the summer season serves a cafe-restaurant. The road to Rana e Hedhun (Thrown Sand) is: Shengjin-Navy road-former military anti-aircraft unit in the northwestern direction along the Rrenc mountain. The extension of the road leads to Velipoja-Shkodra Beach. #visitalbania#beautifulalbania #tripaway

#tripaway Tropoja is a typical mountainous area. As a united part of the Albanian Alps, the largest area for the area of ​​its district is higher. The average altitude of the district of Tropoja is among the highest in Albania - 1105 m above sea level. The characteristic features of poor relief are: Shkëlzen - Kollatë ridge, which lies between the Valbona valley and the Tropoja pit, which is over 2000 m high, surrounded by sharp swords. Other auxiliary parts of the ridge are: Shkelzen Peak (2407 m), Radesha Mountain (2314 m), Gashi River Valley and Kollata Block. The Jezerca block, which lies in the center of the Albanian Alps, is surrounded by pits, valleys and deep valleys. In addition to the peak of Jezerca (2694 m), which is the second highest peak in Albania, there are 35 other peaks with an altitude of over 2200 m in the district school. Glacial valleys and karst pits predominate, where vegetation is sufficient. Gashi Highlands, which is composed of igneous rocks and is distinguished for its rugged terrain and other glacial lakes, forests and alpine pastures. Among the main necks in Tropoja are: Neck of Prush, Vranica, Bor, Morina and Valbona. Their district valleys are: Valbona Valley, Gashi Valley, Sylbica (Tropoja) Valley, Bardhë River Valley and Curraj Valley. Other additional units to facilitate in the district of Tropoja are: Sylbica Plateau, Dobërdol Plateau, Markofçe Plateau, Upper Curraj Plateau, Tplan Plateau and Bytyç Plateau. Valbona Valley is one of the unique wonders of Albanian alpine nature. This valley is located in the northernmost part of the country east of the mountain massif of the Alps that includes the district of Tropoja. Valbona Valley starts from Qafa e Valbona in the west and ends in the Drini valley in the southwest, very close to the dam of the Fierza hydropower plant. Its length from the Valbona Pass to the Drin River is 50.6 kilometers. Valbona Valley is the most visited tourist area in the district of Tropoja, even one of the

If you're planning a trip to Greece, why not add North Macedonia and Albania 🇦🇱, located in the Balkan Peninsula, to your itinerary? 【Plan】 1. Skopje → Ohrid 2. Ohrid → Tirana 3. Tirana → Kruja → Tirana 4. Tirana → Berat 5. Berat → Saranda → Butrint → Saranda 6. Saranda → Gjirokastra Traveling in the Balkan Peninsula mainly involves bus transportation. The accommodations are chosen in cities with good accessibility and plenty of lodging options. 【Skopje】A fascinating contrast between the old town and the new town 【Ohrid】A pearl-like town by Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage site 【Tirana】A mysterious city that was isolated until 1990 【Kruja】Enjoy the view from Kruja Castle; the castle town is a treasure trove of handicrafts where you can shop affordably 【Berat】A UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful Ottoman-era architecture, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows" 【Saranda】A resort town; you can also take a one-hour ferry to Corfu Island in Greece 【Butrint】A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient Greek and Roman ruins 【Gjirokastra】A UNESCO World Heritage site with a unique stone-built town spreading below Gjirokastra Castle Despite being in Europe, the low cost of living is another great advantage ♥

Amazing trip to Albania loved the place and food.

amazing #nature

🌊 Discover the Hidden Gem of Albania – Lake Komani 🇦🇱 Tucked away in the Albanian Alps, Lake Komani is one of the most breathtaking places you’ll ever see. Picture turquoise waters winding through towering cliffs and lush green mountains — it feels more like a scene from a fairytale than real life. ✨ ⛴️ The ferry ride across the lake is a must-do experience, often compared to the fjords of Norway — but far less crowded and just as magical. Whether you're up for a peaceful boat ride, some kayaking, or just soaking in the views, Lake Komani offers raw, untouched beauty that stays with you long after you leave. 📍 Located in northern Albania, it’s the perfect escape if you’re craving nature, serenity, and something truly special off the beaten path. Would you visit this hidden paradise? 💙 #LakeKomani #AlbaniaTravel #HiddenGems #NatureLovers #BalkanAdventure

#backpackeressentials Europe’s Hidden Gem on a Budget! Albania is a dream come true for budget backpackers — from stunning beaches to rugged mountains and charming towns, all without the Euro price tag. If you’re chasing Mediterranean vibes without draining your wallet, this is the spot. ⸻ 🎒 What to Pack: 🛏️ Travel towel & sleep sheet – Hostels may be basic, and beach stops are frequent 👟 Good walking shoes – You’ll be hiking trails, castle steps, and wandering old towns 💳 Cash (lek) – Albania is still mostly cash-based; always carry small bills 🌞 Sun protection – Summer sun hits hard, especially along the Riviera 📶 Local SIM card – Super cheap with great coverage 🚰 Reusable water bottle – Tap water is generally safe, and eco-friendly is always a win 🗺️ Offline maps – Some rural areas have limited signal ⸻ 🎯 Budget-Friendly Things to Do: 🏖️ Albanian Riviera – Ksamil, Himarë, Dhërmi = turquoise water without the crowds 🏰 Gjirokastër & Berat – UNESCO-listed towns with cobblestone streets and ancient castles 🥾 Theth to Valbona hike – Epic mountain views and authentic guesthouses 💦 Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – Crystal-clear natural spring, perfect for a refreshing dip 🏛️ Tirana’s museums & bunkers – Bunk’Art and House of Leaves are a must ⸻ 💡 Money-Saving Tips: 🚍 Use furgons (minibuses) – Cheap, local transport that runs everywhere 🏠 Stay in guesthouses – Affordable, warm hospitality, and often include home-cooked meals 🍽️ Eat like a local – Try byrek, qofte, and tavë kosi from small eateries and bakeries 🎟️ Free walking tours – Available in Tirana and major towns 🧼 Laundry services are cheap – Pack light and wash on the road

👇🏻Here’s a streamlined travel guide for these 8 countries, featuring must-try experiences and practical tips: --- **1. Morocco🇲🇦 (North Africa)** *💕*Top Experiences:* -✅ **Marrakech**: Explore Jemaa el-Fnaa night market, stay in a traditional Riad 🏜️- **Sahara Desert**: Camel trek in Merzouga, overnight in desert camps under starry skies 💙- **Chefchaouen**: Get lost in the maze-like blue streets 💝*Tips:* Negotiate camel tour prices in advance, carry small cash for tips. --- **2. UAE🇦🇪 (Middle East)** ❣️*Top Experiences:* 🏜️- **Dubai**: Burj Khalifa, desert dune bashing, Gold Souk 🌱- **Abu Dhabi**: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (dress code required) ⭐*Tips:* Avoid summer (45℃+), metro is more efficient than taxis. --- *📍*3. **Barbados (Caribbean)** *☀️*Top Experiences:* ❣️- **West Coast**: Snorkel with turtles in Carlisle Bay, relax on white-sand beaches 🌟- **Bridgetown**: Explore colonial architecture, try rum-based Pina Colada -❄️ **Friday Night**: Join the Fish Fry seafood party at Oistins *⭐*Tips:* Visa-free! Best during dry season (Dec-Jun), excellent bus system. --- **4. Singapore🇸🇬 (Southeast Asia)** ❣️*Top Experiences:* ✅- **Marina Bay**: Light shows, Cloud Forest dome ✅- **Little India/Chinatown**: Curry fish head, Hainanese chicken rice ✅- **Sentosa**: Universal Studios rides, S.E.A. Aquarium *💝*Tips:* No smoking/gum chewing, carry a light jacket for air-conditioned spaces. --- **5. Albania🇦🇱 (Balkans)** *💕*Top Experiences:* -⭐ **Tirana**: Colorful buildings, Bunk’Art underground museum 🌟- **Saranda**: Blue Eye spring, Ksamil’s white beaches ❣️- **Gjirokastër**: Ottoman-era stone town (UNESCO site) 🥳*Tips:* Ultra-low prices! Drive carefully on mountain roads—Chinese license accepted for rentals. --- **6. Malaysia🇲🇾 (Southeast Asia)** 💜*Top Experiences:* 💓- **Kuala Lumpur**: Petronas Twin Towers, Chinatown night market 💖- **Penang**: George Town mural hunt, char kway teow noodles ❣️- **Semporna**: Dive at Sipadan coral reefs, stay in water villas ⚠️*Tips:* E-visa is quick, durian season is Jun-Aug. --- **7. Serbia🇷🇸 (Balkans)** 💕*Top Experiences:* -⭐ **Belgrade**: Kalemegdan Fortress, Sava River night cruise -✅ **Novi Sad**: Petrovaradin Fortress music festivals 💙- **Zlatibor**: Ride the Šargan Eight vintage train ⭐*Tips:* Visa-free! Budget-friendly with vibrant café culture. --- **8. Thailand🇹🇭 (Southeast Asia)** 💕*Top Experiences:* 🥳- **Bangkok**: Grand Palace, Khao San Road, IconSiam floating market ✅- **Chiang Mai**: Doi Suthep sunset, Sunday Market, elephant sanctuaries 🏝️- **Islands**: Phuket island-hopping, Full Moon Party in Koh Samui 💖*Tips:* Best during cool season (Nov-Mar), keep change for tips (optional). --- ⚠️ *Trip Planning Tips:* ✈️- **Regional Combos**: Singapore + Malaysia (1h flight); Albania + Serbia (land border) ✅- **Thematic Trips**: Beach lovers—Barbados + Thailand; culture seekers—Morocco + UAE. ❣️❣️*Visa:* Barbados/Serbia/Albania are visa-free; others offer easy e-visa/on-arrival. 💰*Budget:* Southeast Asia & Balkans are affordable; UAE & Singapore are pricier. 🌟🌟Each country highlights "Top 3 Must-Dos" and key tips for efficient planning! 🌍✈️

Ever dreamed of exploring a country where history, nature, and culture collide — without the tourist crowds? Albania surprised me in the best possible way, and here is the 7-day itinerary that helped me see the absolute best of it. Bookmark this for your next Balkan adventure! 📍 Day 1: Tirana – The Quirky Capital Start in Tirana, Albania’s vibrant heart. 🛬 Land at Tirana International Airport (TIA). ✨ Must-sees: BunkArt 2 for Cold War vibes Skanderbeg Square for local life New Bazaar for souvenirs & local food 🍴 Food Tip: Try Tavë Kosi, Albania’s signature lamb dish. 💡 Pro Tip: Tirana’s cafes rival those of Paris — do not skip a coffee break! 📍 Day 2: Shkoder – Northern Gateway Just 1.5h drive from Tirana, Shkoder is artistic, chill, and close to nature. 🎨 Explore the Marubi Photography Museum 🏰 Climb to Rozafa Castle at sunset 🚲 Rent a bike and cycle around Lake Shkoder 🏡 I stayed in a local guesthouse — warm hosts and homemade breakfast! 📍 Day 3: Kruje – Medieval Charm A short detour to Kruje is worth it for history lovers. 🛍 Wander through the Ottoman-style bazaar 🏰 Visit the Skanderbeg Museum & Castle 📸 Incredible views of the valley below 💡 Kruje is a great spot for handcrafted souvenirs like traditional rugs and copperware. 📍 Day 4: Berat – City of a Thousand Windows Drive south to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 🏘️ Explore the white Ottoman houses stacked on the hillside 🏰 Visit Berat Castle (locals still live inside!) 🍷 Wine tasting at a local winery like Cobo Winery 💤 Tip: Sleep inside the old Mangalem Quarter for an unforgettable night. 📍 Day 5: Gjirokaster – Stone City & Legends Another UNESCO gem! 🏠 Visit Enver Hoxha’s House and Skenduli House for traditional interiors 🎭 The castle houses a weapons museum & even a Cold War-era prison 🌄 The architecture is stunning — bring walking shoes! 📍 Day 6: Blue Eye & Sarandë – Nature & Coastline Start your day with a stop at the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër) — surreal turquoise water you have to see to believe. Then head to Sarandë, Albania’s southern beach town. 🏖️ Walk the promenade, enjoy fresh seafood, and catch the sunset! 📸 Best light for photos at the Blue Eye? Before 11 AM! 📍 Day 7: Ksamil – The Albanian Maldives Finish with a bang in Ksamil, 20 minutes from Sarandë. 🏝️ Crystal-clear beaches with white sand and islands you can swim to! 🚤 Rent a kayak or boat for the best views 🌅 Have a drink with a sunset view over the Ionian Sea 💡 Visit in shoulder season (May or September) for fewer crowds and warm waters. ✅ What I Wish I Knew Before Going: Card payment is not common — carry cash (LEK) Roads can be narrow and winding — drive carefully or hire a driver Albanian hospitality is REAL — you’ll often be treated like family

This unpopular European country Prices are 1/3 of Italy but the scenery is not inferior to Greece Chinese passports are directly in vain! ✈️ Transportation Guide: ▪️No Schengen Sign: Luton, London → Tirana (2h) ▪️With Schengen visa: Corfu, Greece → Salanda (1h boat ride) ⚠️Airport Warning: Tirana Airport is small like a passenger terminal 🌊Three must-visit places: 1️⃣Ksamil Beach 💎Jelly Sea Plain Replacement Santorini 🚣‍♀️ Pedal boat 10 euros/hour (remember to bargain) 2️⃣ Ginocastle 🏰Stone City + Millennium Castle 📸 Ottoman architecture from "Thousand and Away" 3️⃣Theth National Park ⛰️ ``Alpine Eastern European Minutes'' 💦Blue Eye Spring (Hiking Lovers Paradise) 💰 Price Shock Record: ▪️ Seafood feast 15 euros full to cry ▪️Four-star hotel 50 euros/night ▪️ Coffee 1.5 euros and what bike 🚗 Traffic Blood and Tears History: ▪️Bus system = no system ▪️ Rent a car and drive yourself (more mountain roads) ▪️Tirana → Salanda recommends taking the night bus ⚠️Safety Guide: ▪️Asian faces will be noticed (pure curiosity) ▪️ Girls are recommended to go together ▪️Avoid remote alleys (less street lights) 💡 Trivia: 1️⃣ You can wear short sleeves in December (Mediterranean climate is great) 2️⃣ Hocha's former residence has Chinese explanation 3️⃣ Locals do not accept coins (prepare notes)

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips

This small and unpopular country, known as the "Eagle Country", is said to be the poorest country in Europe. It has the same coastline as its neighboring countries Italy and Greece, but the prices are more than half cheaper. transportation 1. London Luton Airport to Tirana 2. Fly to Corfu Island in Greece, which is half an hour away from Saranda by express boat and one hour by ordinary boat. You don’t have to go through the capital Tirana. Before traveling, you can check the hidden trains in the UK and Europe + railcard ! Tirana Airport is small and public transportation is chaotic, so be prepared I was a little worried before coming here because there were so few guides and the reviews were as polarized as the gap between the rich and the poor in this country. After I went there myself, I felt that the people and the scenery were nice, but the transportation was really bad. It is recommended to rent a car, it will be much more convenient The average temperature in December is 15 degrees. It is really comfortable to wear short sleeves and a jacket. Asians are rare in the area. You will be stared at when you walk. Remember to bring an umbrella. Personally, I feel that compared to other European cities, thieves are not that rampant. After arriving at the airport, I quickly went to Saranda, which was a 4-5 hour drive away. It seemed to be the most popular city. There were many European tourists, so the prices were a bit higher, but still lower than other European countries. Ksamil: One of the most beautiful beaches, not far from the center of Saranda, a 20-minute drive The water is very good and clear, the depths are very blue, and you can rent pedal boats Gjirokaster: The world cultural heritage is also the hometown of Hoxha, an "old friend of the Chinese people". The town has an Ottoman Turkish style. Theth: An isolated small village with Alpine scenery along the way. The famous Blue Eyes Spring is here (low-end Jiuzhaigou) Recommended for hiking enthusiasts, not recommended for children The capital can be put last. If you have time, go there. If you don’t have time, forget it. The attractions are not that amazing. !Local electronic payment is not very popular, you need to prepare cash, Euros and US dollars are acceptable

🏖️Ambiance/Facilities:

I went to the city of Berat, a World Heritage Site in Albania. About 2.5 hours from the bus terminal in Tirana. It takes about an hour to walk from the bus terminal in Berat to the town of Berat, but there are local buses. Bus terminal 📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rZR1dxA9N5657fAH7 You can walk around the town in 2 hours, but the night lighting is beautiful, so I recommend staying there for a night. Cheap hotels are available from 1,000 yen per night. The view from the top of the mountain in the old town is spectacular. 📍 Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fDzU7ua1kTLHnb1s6 #0yentripFebruary2025#Berat #Albania

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