Locals Guide to the Albanian Riviera 2023
Last Updated on April 16, 2023
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The Albanian Riviera is fast becoming one of the most popular spots in Europe and for a good reason – especially if you want to enjoy a beach vacation in Albania.
The abundance of beautiful beaches, incredible scenery, delicious food, and more than hospitable locals, means the Albania Riviera should be at the top of your must-see travel list.
In my experience, almost everyone who holidays in Albania, falls in love with it, especially the Albanian Riviera.
But finding any information on the internet about Albania can be a headache.
That’s why I decided to create this comprehensive Albanian Riviera guide as a reference for you!
Whether you’re looking for an Albania family holiday, or you want to check out the best Albanian Riviera resorts (or both!), this guide will help you get the most out of your experience!
In this Albanian Riviera guide, I cover:
- Transportation and how to get to the Albanian Riviera
- What to see along the Albanian Coast and the best beaches in Albania
- Where to stay in Albanian Riviera and the best beach hotels in Albania
- Other highlights you shouldn’t miss during holidays to the Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera runs from a city called Vlore, down south to the city of Saranda. The Riviera has one of the most beautiful coastal drives I have ever experienced.
Although the region is full of history and beauty, it is the ideal spot for relaxing Albania beach holidays.
📚 P.S. Grab access to my Travelling Albania Guide on Amazon to get a comprehensive insight into the best places to visit in Albania (including secret spots that are not recommended in the usual guides!)
If you’re a total beach bum like me, I also have a 10 day itinerary of South Albania so you can get the most out of your Albanian Riviera holidays.
Clearly, there is plenty to see and do here so let’s get into it and help you plan your ultimate Albania beach vacation!
Table of Contents
How to Get Around the Albanian Riviera
Public buses and minibuses are the most popular option for many travellers coming to Albania.
The main annoyance is the Albanian bus timetables are always 100% accurate, so the best way to find out when a bus will leave is by asking a local.
9 times out of 10 the bus driver will be a cousin of the person you’re asking – this has happened to me more times than I can count (not even kidding).
Another great way of getting around Albanian during any Albanian Riviera holidays is to hire a car.
This way you get the freedom of where to stop off, and especially since there are many hidden spots within the Albania Riviera, you will make plenty of unexpected spots I’m sure.
But the negative of hiring a car in Albania is the actual driving. Driving in Albania is unpredictable. Half of the population speeds excessively and no one really sticks to any sort of rules.
This can make it dangerous for foreign drivers as you may not be used to this sort of driving, and it can affect your choice of where to stay in Albania Riviera.
One of the most popular ways of getting around in the Riviera and all-around Albania is in fact hitchhiking.
It’s extremely common practice between locals and foreigners, many of whom spend their Albania Riviera holidays making new friends with people who give them a ride.
Most people never have to wait for more than 10 minutes to find a ride. And it’s completely safe.
Albanians are extremely friendly people and are always willing to help. You can read more about safety in Albania here.
Best Places to Visit in the Albanian Riviera
1. Palase Beach: Secluded Beach Paradise
Palase beach will absolutely take your breath away. This 1km beach will be a fantastic start to your Albania beach holiday in the Riviera.
It is also said that Julius Caesar and his troops arrived in Palase during the Roman Civil War in 48 BCE.
You can still find archaeological evidence of this today! Not only a beautiful place but lots of interesting history here too.
Like many south Albania beaches, this is one of the best Albanian Riviera beaches you will come across!
Palase beach is the first beach as you come off the Llogara Pass which is mentioned below.
There is a new development here in Palase so there can be quite a lot of construction going on, unfortunately. But there is a road leading all the way to the beach.
There are also a few restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a bite to eat or have a drink on the beach. Sunbeds are also available to rent.
Where to stay in Palase: Although Palase is beautiful I wouldn’t recommend staying there!
If you are wondering where to stay in Albania, you are much better staying in one of the nearby towns.
Not only will you have some of the best beach resorts in Albania to choose from, but you’ll find good choice of restaurants and nearby places to see.
Palase is a great option for camping if you have a tent or campervan, however.
2. National Park of LLogara
If you have the time, you should explore more of what Llogara park has to offer. There are great hiking options, restaurants, and log cabins. You can even take part in paragliding!
The Llogara pass is a fantastic drive and at the top of the pass, you get the most magnificent breath-taking view.
It is from Llogara that you can start hikes for Karaburun Peninsula – a completely untouched and undeveloped part of the Albanian Riviera (for now).
Hiking here is not easy and takes around 4-6 hours one way so you have to be prepared! If you don’t want to hike you can catch a boat to the beaches.
Where to stay in Llogara: There are lots of great places to stay in the park itself including Guesthouse Alberti and Llogara Tourist Village which are both some of the best Albanian resorts.
3. Dhermi
Most people would say that no Albania beach holiday is complete without at least a visit to Dhermi!
Dhermi has beautiful beaches, coves and hidden bays. One of the most picturesque is Drymades which is my personal favourite.
In fact, this has been named one of the top beach hangout spots in the Albanian Riviera, and hosts one of the top festivals in Albania.
There are plenty of good Albanian Riviera beaches in Dhermi but this one especially!
The village is a great base to explore the surroundings as there are plenty of restaurant options and bars on the beach.
One of the most popular hangouts is at Drymades Bungalow.
During the summer they have Kometit Kafe (which is an awesome bar in Tirana) make the trip from Tirana to Albanian Riviera, set up on the beach and serve drinks.
It’s a fun little place to hang out with bean bags, fairy lights, and the like.
Where to stay in Dhermi: Dhermi has its share of popular Albania beach resorts, but one of the most highly recommended places to stay is Drymades Bungalows, famous for its bright blue cabins!
Another one of the best Albanian Riviera hotels is Sofo Hotel. It’s near Dhermi beach and comes with a continental breakfast.
4. Himare
This sleepy beach town is one you should plan to stay in for a few days at least. Himare is one of the best coastal towns in Albania, and also has some stunning beaches nearby.
If you want a fantastic view over Himare and the surrounding area, then make your way towards the castle. From here you get a stunning view!
You can read my full travel guide on Himara for more ideas on what to see and do.
📦 PACKING TIP: Don’t leave home without a solar powered battery pack so you can keep your devices connected at all times.
Where to stay in Himara: There are loads of great Albania beach resorts to stay at in Himare. My favourite is ARXONTIKO, an Albania luxury beach resort right on the water!
Another top Albania accommodation in Himara is Ionian Terrace which is a superb bed and breakfast which is again, right on the water!
If you’re a backpacker then stay at Himare Hostel!
5. Porto Palermo Castle
Why not improve your Albanian coast holiday with a trip to a castle?
The impressive Porto Palermo Castle is regularly said to be built in the 19th century, but the site may be far older than that.
It has been found that this castle was mentioned by ancient Greek and Roman authors in text dating back to the 5th century BC.
The exact date is unknown but nevertheless, it is worth the stop. Nearby is a tunnel that was used during communism as a submarine bunker.
The castle is located only a few km from the town of Himarë.
Where to stay near Porto Palermo: Palermiti Luxury Rooms is only a hop, skip, and a jump from the castle.
It is possibly the best beach resort in Albania for luxury, and if you’re lucky you will stay in the rooms where you can get a beautiful view of the castle!
The hotel is located within walking distance of some beautiful Albanian Riviera beaches.
6. Borsh
This is the longest strip of unbroken beach in the Albanian Riviera. So if you’re looking for a bigger scale beach for your Albania beach holidays, then try this one!
There are a few great restaurants along this beach, as well.
I highly recommend visiting Borsh Castle which is on the hill overlooking the beach.
Not a lot of tourists bother to visit or even know about this castle, which is a real shame because I found it to be one of the most beautiful – even if it is mostly in ruins.
Borsh is a contender for the best area to stay in Albania for a mixture of great food, beach space and historical sites.
Where to stay in Borsh: The Sole Luna hotel is a great option which is right on Borsh beach. There are also plenty of places to camp if that’s your thing!
7. Lukove
Lukove is worth a stopover if you’re visiting the Albania Riviera. The village itself is small but the beach is lovely, and you can catch some of the best sunsets from here.
The beach is called Shpella and is about a 5-10 minute drive from the village downhill.
Where to stay in Lukove: There are no Albania seaside resorts here. However, there is lots of room for camping here as there’s a field with trees behind the beach.
8. Kakome
Kakome is one of the most beautiful beaches along the Albanian Riviera but there are some issues with accessing it by road as the road is marked ‘private’.
Luckily, you can easily reach the beach via boat from Saranda!
Near Kakome there is another beautiful beach called Krorez Beach but also a monastery to check out too. You can only access the beach by boat, hike, or by horseback.
9. Saranda
I am currently based in Saranda and I absolutely love it, it is definitely one of my favourite places in the whole Albanian Riviera and definitely one of the best Albanian Riviera cities.
In the summer months its extremely busy because a lot of cruise ships dock here and use it as a base to explore the surroundings.
Although it is most popular in summer, there are tons of fun things to do in Saranda year-round.
The city has the best nightlife in Albania during the summer months, and some nice beaches if you search other than the centre.
There are also many great restaurants in Saranda. Don’t forget to try the seafood – it’s mouth-watering. Actually, Albanian food, in general, is delicious!
I might be biased, but I think any Albania beach holiday is complete without visiting Sarande.
Make sure you read my complete guide on Saranda here.
Where to stay in Saranda: Illyrian Boutique Hotel is one of the best resorts in Albania and a great choice as it’s right in the centre and has a really great rooftop bar.
Another great option is Glow Boutique Hotel and Suites if you’re looking for a boutique hotel with a pool!
If you’re a backpacker be sure to stay at Hasta La Vista – it might be the best place to stay in Albania Riviera if you’re travelling light!
10. Ksamil
Only 20km from Saranda is Ksamil, the place with the busiest beaches in all the Albanian Riviera in my opinion.
Many consider Ksamil to be the best place in Albanian coast, which means that during July and August, this place is absolutely packed.
So if you’re hoping for a quiet, relaxing Albania beach holiday I would recommend avoiding it and picking somewhere nearby.
Ksamil is absolutely stunning though with its (artificial) sand beaches. You can also swim in the nearby 3 islands.
The beaches in the centre are beautiful but you should also explore the other beaches nearby such as Mirror beach and Monastery beach.
You can read my full Ksamil travel guide here.
Ksamil is super close to Corfu, Greece for even more amazing beaches. Check out my guide on accommodation in Corfu if you want to plan an overnight trip.
Where to stay in Ksamil: Ksamil has some of the best beach hotels in Albania. But my top recommendation is Hotel Mira Mare.
This hotel is a fabulous option as it is right on the water and has a beautiful view! It is definitely one of my favourite beach resorts in Albania!
💡 PACKING TIP: Make sure you bring a good snorkel, water shoes and a fast-drying towel for all of the beach-going you’re about to do!
11. Butrint
Only 20km from Saranda is the UNESCO site Butrint, which dates to prehistoric times.
This has been the site of a Greek colony, a Roman city, and a bishopric. If you want a taste of Mediterranean history, then you need to see Butrint during your trip to the Albanian Riviera.
Nearby Butrint is Ali Pasha’s fortress which is actually one of my favourite secret spots around Saranda.
Read my full guide on the Ali Pasha Castle to get all the details on where exactly Ali Pasha is and how to see one of the best places in Albanian Riviera!
12. Upper Qeparo
This is a new favourite village of mine and one well worth including in any holiday in Albania. Upper Qeparo is located on top of a mountain overlooking the Albania coastline and the sea.
The village is unique because it’s half abandoned. After communism fell many Albanians fled the village and the country leaving the buildings to crumble and become derelict.
Nowadays some properties have been refurbished but many still lay there soul-less. It’s a really incredible place to get a peek into a traditional Albanian village.
The views are incredible and there’s a lot of history within the crumbling walls. Qepara is one of the most unique places to visit along the Albania Riviera and definitely worth a visit!
Read my full guide on Old Qeparo.
Where to stay in Qeparo: I highly recommend staying at Hotel Riviera which is located in lower Qeparo right on the beach and is one of the best places to stay in Albania.
13. Vuno
Vuno is a sleepy village that sits on the edge of a hill. This is not one of the many Albania beach towns in the Riviera, but it has incredible views and is possibly the most quaint Albanian village ever.
If you want to experience Albanian life and get off the tourist trail then stop here for a night or two.
There are Albania Riviera beaches close by which can be accessed by public transport or hitchhiking.
The village has recently undergone beautiful renovations so nearly all the houses are white with yellow shutters and it’s stunning!
Where to stay in Vuno: I recommend checking out Airbnb for accommodation as it’s very limited.
14. Gjipe Beach
Gjipe is a sort of hidden beach which can only be accessed by foot or by 4×4. The beach is unique because it is formed within a canyon.
I would highly recommend a stop here during your holidays in Albania. Read my full guide to Gjipe Beach to plan the best trip here.
Where to stay in Gjipe: There are no hotels in Gjipe but if you love camping then this is a great spot to do so!
15. Jale
Jale is slowly becoming more popular as it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway in the Albanian Riviera.
Tourism for Jale has grown fast so the main beaches in the summer will be a little crowded.
The best thing to do is to hire a kayak and explore the secluded beach coves. You can also kayak to Gjipe beach from here!
🧳 MUST-HAVE: Before you head out on your trip, make sure you have travel insurance. My #1 recommendation is SafetyWing!
Where to stay in Jale: Folie Marine Beach hotel is a great option for luxury travellers looking for top-notch Albania beach hotels.
Otherwise, you can camp at the likes of Social Camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Albanian Rivieira runs along the coastline of Southwestern Albania between the cities of Vlore and Sarande. It is located along the Northeastern part of the Ionian Sea, which itself is part of the Mediterranean Sea.
I recommend a minimum of at least 3 days. However, you can easily spend a 10-day beach holiday in Albania here, let along all the other other amazing activities in the area.
Yes! Not only does Albanian have some of the best beaches in all of Europe, but most of the country’s best beaches are in the Albanian Riviera. There are popular beaches, party beaches and secluded hidden gem beaches.
Let me know if this guide convinced you to visit the Albanian Riviera or spend any of your upcoming holidays in Albania!
If you have any questions, then do leave them below and I will try and answer them as best as I can for you.
Other articles you will love:
- Albania Weather: Best time to Visit Albania
- Unique Things to do in Albania
- Incredible Cities in Albania to Explore
- Important Tips Before You Travel to Albania
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The Comments
Paola Enrico
Hello Anita,
My name is Paola I am from Peru. My family and I are plannig a trip to Albania next July( I friend of mine suggested we discover this wonderful country) we have been to Dubrovnik before and was easy looking for info. but I am finding hard to find villas by the sea or hotels on the cliffs so we can jump right in the water.
Could you recommend any hotels , we are traveling with children ages 10 to 13 years old and are looking for quiet and secluded beaches.
What would ve the best town to stay in the Albamian Riviera?
We are also interested in hiring a boat for aprox. 5 daays to sail around the Ionian sea of Albania.
Hope you can help us.
Kind regards
Paola
Lavinia Dieac
Hello, and thanks for this! Is it easy to find camping along this way?
Anita Hendrieka
> Lavinia DieacYes, there’s lots of camping to be had in the Albanian Riviera. Most camping is wild, however, there are also a few campgrounds along the way. In Gjipe I heard there’s a good one called Eco campground.
Ella
Hey! I am currently in vlore and we are here for one more night. Do you have anything you could recommend us to do? I was thinking of hiring bikes and riding down to bora bora beach and then leaving the next day to go further down the Riviera. I love your blog so much it has really helped me so far! Xo
Sam Eccles
Hello Anita – you have got be SO excited about Albania, thank you
I am travelling, as a single mum with two teenage children (13 &14) at the end of June/early July 2022.
I am assuming I will be fine, won’t need to wear a wedding ring etc.
Reading your blog, I am thinking it will probably be best for me to hire a car, and I am thinking about the following itinery. Does it seem sensible to you?
Would you stay in Jal at start or end?
Do you think I can get to Jal to Corfu in one go – or would you do an overnight in Saranda?
Would you spend 1 or two nights in Permet – would love to do the horse tour
– Corfu unless can get straight across (1 night)
– Saranda with day trips out (4 nights)
– Permet (try and stay at Funky guesthouse) (2 nights)
– Himara (3 nights)
– Gjirocaster (2 nights and try and stay at kerculla resort
– Jal (4 or 5 nights and stay in Folie Marine)
Sorry to have so many questions – excited but equally nervous as a single mum. Many Many thanks, for such an amazing blog!
L
Hi! I am thinking about driving to the Albanian Coast via car ferry from Bari, and then spending 3 nights over there. What town would you recommend staying in as a sort of “home base” for exploring the Riviera?
Thanks for your post!