What to Do in Albania: 12 Unmissable Experiences

Albania is no longer Europe’s best-kept secret. With stunning beaches, ancient cities, and mountain landscapes, it offers a lifestyle few destinations can match—especially for those exploring real estate investment. If you're asking what to do in Albania, these 12 standout experiences will not only answer that question but give you a real sense of what life here can feel like.

1. Charter a Yacht from Himarë to Gjipe Beach

For a truly elite coastal experience, rent a private boat in Himarë and head south to Gjipe Beach. This secluded cove, accessible only by foot or sea, is framed by cliffs and crystal-clear water. Yacht charters are available from different companies or through private luxury brokers. It’s the kind of place where investors fall in love with the coast—and often start looking for nearby villas.

2. Explore Butrint National Park and Ksamil in One Day

Start your morning at Butrint, a UNESCO archaeological park just 20 minutes from Sarandë. Walk through ancient Roman roads, a Greek amphitheater, and a medieval fortress—all surrounded by lakes and sea views. Afterward, drive to Ksamil, Albania’s most famous beach destination. Book a cabana at one of the Beach Clubs, have fresh mussels at one of the many restaurants, and swim to one of the three nearby islands just off the shore.

3. Visit Gjirokastër Castle and the Cold War Tunnel

Drive to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-protected city made entirely of stone. Start with a tour of Gjirokastër Castle, perched above the city with sweeping views of the Drino Valley. Then head underground into the Cold War Tunnel, a government bunker with 80 rooms built to protect officials from nuclear attacks. The blend of history, architecture, and storytelling here makes the city a favorite for buyers seeking a second home with cultural access.

4. Stay in a Luxury Guesthouse in Theth National Park

Fly to Shkodër, then drive (or arrange a transfer) to Theth, a remote alpine village in the heart of the Albanian Alps. Book a night at numerous villas or bujtina you can find there, where you'll be welcomed with homemade raki and traditional dishes like baked lamb or corn-based fli. Hike to the Blue Eye of Theth, a natural turquoise spring, and visit the 19th-century Lock-in Tower. This is the kind of place that leaves a lasting emotional impression—ideal for wellness seekers and nature lovers looking for a retreat property.

5. Watch the Sunset from Llogara Pass

Take the SH8 highway south from Vlorë and ascend to Llogara Pass, a winding mountain road with panoramic views over the Ionian Sea. Park at the top and walk to one of the scenic viewpoints—sunsets here are unforgettable. You can stay overnight at a hotel or dine in a nice restaurant, where you can enjoy forest-to-sea views. Properties in this region are increasingly appealing to those looking to combine mountain serenity with coastal access.

6. Wine Tasting at Çobo Winery in Berat

Just 10 minutes outside Berat, the Çobo Winery is known for reviving Albania’s indigenous grapes. Book a tasting that includes Shesh i Zi, Puls, and the winery’s sparkling rosé. The setting is serene and intimate, surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. With nearby villas and agritourism-style estates on the market, this area is ideal for buyers interested in sustainable living with local charm.

7. Walk the Boulevard in Tirana and Explore Blloku

Spend a day in Tirana, Albania’s capital. Begin at Skanderbeg Square, then stroll down Boulevard Dëshmorët e Kombit toward Blloku, the city’s high-end district once reserved for communist elites. Here you’ll find boutique shops, rooftop lounges, and high-end restaurants. Investors looking for rental properties or modern apartments with strong ROI should explore downtown Tirana’s luxury developments.

8. Swim in the Thermal Waters of Benjë and Visit Lengarica Canyon

Near Përmet, the Benjë Thermal Baths offer natural hot springs beneath an ancient Ottoman bridge. The water is rich in minerals and believed to have healing properties. A short walk from the baths leads into Lengarica Canyon, a dramatic limestone gorge. This region is a growing hotspot for eco-resorts and countryside homes, with clean air, wellness potential, and low-density development.

9. Take the Ferry from Koman to Fierza Through the Albanian Fjords

Board the Koman Lake Ferry for a 3-hour trip through Albania’s “fjord-like” mountains. The route winds between steep cliffs, small villages, and emerald waters. Book in advance and travel in comfort, or go private with a chartered boat. This journey connects you with Albania’s most rugged terrain—and opens up the Valbonë Valley, one of the most unspoiled regions for back-to-nature retreats.

10. Spend the Night in a Traditional House in Vuno or Qeparo

On the Riviera coast, explore villages like Vuno and Qeparo, where stone houses and terraced gardens overlook the Ionian Sea. Many homes here are over 100 years old and built in the traditional style—thick stone walls, red tile roofs, shaded verandas. Several of these homes are available for restoration or purchase, offering a unique chance to blend luxury with heritage.

11. Drive the Coastal Route from Dhërmi to Sarandë

One of the most breathtaking drives in the Balkans is along the SH8 highway, winding from Dhërmi to Sarandë. Along the way, you’ll pass by beaches like Jalë, Borsh, and Lukovë—each offering its own unique charm. Some are home to elegant resorts, while others remain wild, untouched, and blissfully peaceful. This scenic journey often sparks something deeper. Many visitors find themselves imagining what it would be like to wake up to sea views every morning—and soon after, they begin exploring real estate opportunities along this captivating coast.

12. Celebrate Independence Day in Vlorë (November 28)

Vlora is where Albania declared its independence in 1912, and each November 28th, the city turns into a celebration of national pride. Watch parades, cultural performances, and fireworks from the Flag Square, or dine at one of the coastal restaurants that line the new promenade. It’s an ideal moment to witness modern Albania’s energy—and Vlorë’s growing appeal as a luxury property hub.

Why These Experiences Matter for Buyers

Each of these 12 experiences showcases a different side of Albania—from wild nature to sophisticated culture, from historic cities to luxury beach life. For international buyers, this variety translates into real lifestyle value. Because Albania isn’t just a place to invest in real estate. It’s a country you’ll want to invest in emotionally, personally, and for the long term.

Ready to Experience Albania Beyond the Brochures?

At Fundway, we specialize in connecting discerning buyers to the most exclusive properties across the Albanian Riviera and beyond. Whether you want modern coastal living, countryside serenity, or historic charm, we’ll help you find a home that fits the lifestyle you’ve just imagined. Contact us today and start your journey toward living the best of Albania.