Albania Beach Holidays: 12 Top Coastal Destination to Visit

For the Best Holidays in Albania, especially if you seek a luxury holiday with beautiful beaches and a turquoise sea, you must visit Albania. We explored Albania by bike with a tent on the roof, and it revealed itself as a beautiful country full of contrasts. When you know where to go, Albania offers exotic sandy beaches with warm, clear water, and budget accommodation. Let’s explore the best beach resorts in Albania and discover where to go for an unforgettable seaside holiday.

Best Time to Visit Albania: Weather

The ideal months for swimming in Albania are June, July, August, and September. The coldest months are January and February, with water temperatures between 10-15°C and air temperatures between 5-10°C. The hottest period is during the summer, specifically in July and August, when water temperatures range from 27-32°C and air temperatures from 22-27°C.

How to Travel to Albania Without a Travel Agency

You can travel to Albania by car, fly to Tirana, or fly to Corfu and take a ferry to Albania.

Traveling by Car to Albania – What You Should Know

At the border, you’ll need a small technical license. An international driving license isn’t strictly required, but it’s advisable to carry it with you.

Traveling to Albania by Air

Driving can be long, so the easiest way to reach Albania is by flying to Rinas Mother Teresa International Airport, 20 km from Tirana. From there, you can rent a car through RentalCars.

If you’re heading to Ksamil, the easiest route is to fly to Corfu and then take a ferry to Sarande. Ksamil is just 14 km from Sarande.

Learn how to get cheap flights for your trip.

Where to Rent a Car in Albania

For car rentals in Albania, we recommend using RentalCars at the airport. We’ve never had any issues with them, and we’ve rented cars through RentalCars all over the world.

Albania Holidays: Where Are the Most Beautiful Beaches?

Albania boasts over 300 km of stunning sandy beaches. The most beautiful ones are found in the south around Dhermi, Vlore, and Ksamil. Ksamil is particularly popular on Instagram and TikTok due to its water, which resembles that of the Maldives.

However, not everyone may prefer Ksamil’s atmosphere. Let’s explore other seaside holiday destinations in Albania, listed from north to south.

Where Are the Most Popular Places to Visit the Sea in Albania?

Here are the top resorts:

• Durres (Drac): Experience luxury at the Villa One Beach Hotel.
• Vlora (Vlára or Valona): Stay at Ames Hotel & SPA.
• Himara (Himare): Enjoy Aphrodite Garden Rooms & Apartment.
• Ksamil: Choose between Apartment Erjon or Villa Melina.

What is the Albanian Riviera?

The Albanian Riviera, known locally as Bregu, is a beautiful stretch of coastline along the northeastern Ionian Sea. It starts at Vlore and extends through Sarande to Butrint National Park on the Greek border. The Riviera is famous for its breathtaking beaches, with Sarande often considered its unofficial capital.

Albania Beach Holidays: 12 Tips for Best Beach Resorts and Beaches

If you’re looking for the best beaches in Albania, here are some top tips to help you discover the most beautiful and peaceful spots along the coast:

Resort Durres: While Durres is popular, we recommend heading further south to find pristine white sands and turquoise waters. The beaches in Durres can be more crowded and less clean, leading many travelers to prefer the southern beaches.

Vlora, Albania – Best Beaches

Vlora (Vlára or Valona) is a rapidly growing port town that increasingly resembles Croatia. If you arrive by car from the north, you’ll quickly notice it is more orderly than Durres.

New businesses, hotels, and apartments are continually emerging, making it easy to find accommodation at great prices near the sea. For the best experience, focus on hotels and apartments with private beaches, as public beaches can be crowded.

Where to Stay

For an exceptional stay, consider the Ames Hotel & SPA, one of the best beach resorts in Albania.

Drymades Beach

Discover Drymades Beach, one of the best beaches in Albania, and experience its tranquility and beauty for yourself. Located 200 km southeast of the capital Tirana, Vlora boasts one of the most beautiful sandy beaches in Albania. While the sand is coarser, the turquoise water is stunning, and the beach is quieter with fewer tourists than other Albanian beaches. As with many parts of Albania, there is significant construction, but it doesn’t detract from the beach’s charm.

In a few years, this area is likely to become one of the most luxurious, with luxury hotels and businesses being built similar to those in Tulum, Mexico.

Where to Stay

By the beach, you will find a wonderful restaurant and the Summer Dream Hotel, where you can check in and enjoy a very peaceful holiday.

Dhërmiu Beach in Dhërmi

Dhërmiu Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Albania due to its crystal-clear water and sun-drenched shores. Located just outside the village of Dhërmi in southern Albania, many travelers regard this area as paradise on earth. Administratively, it belongs to the Vlora district.

Gjipe Beach

If you prefer less touristy places, Gjipe Beach is perfect for you. Situated 65 km south of Vlore between Drymades and Himarë, this remote, quiet beach is accessible only to the most passionate travelers with a proper car. The dirt road is rough, requiring a four-wheel drive. Administratively, it belongs to the Vlora district.

Beach Resort Himare

Himare, located between Sarande and Vlora, is the second-largest city on the Albanian Riviera after Sarande. Once a quieter resort, Himare has seen a lot of construction lately, attracting those looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas like Ksamil. Surrounded by beautiful green hills and rocky mountains, Himare offers long, clear turquoise beaches. It’s also quite affordable compared to other destinations.

Where to Stay:

For a comfortable stay, try booking the Aphrodite Garden Rooms & Apartment.

Livadhi Beach (Himarë Resort)

In Himarë, you will find the large Livadhi Beach, one of the most beautiful and best-rated beaches in the area. However, it can get quite crowded in the afternoon, and parking can be difficult. Arriving early is recommended, especially if you’re staying in the center of Himarë at places like the Aphrodite Garden Rooms & Apartment, as it takes almost an hour to walk there.

Discover the best beach resorts in Albania and explore these stunning beaches for an unforgettable seaside holiday.

Sfageio Beach (in Himarë)

Sfageio Beach is a charming smaller sandy beach located right in Himarë. It’s popular with both tourists and locals, featuring several restaurants and cafes where you can relax after a swim. If you’re spending your holidays in Himarë, don’t miss the sunset at Sfageio Beach.

Where to Stay

For convenient accommodation, consider staying at the Aphrodite Garden Rooms & Apartment, if available.

Llamani Beach

Llamani Beach is one of the best beach resorts in Albania, offering a luxurious private beach experience with free parking and a beautiful beach bar. Located about 10 minutes by car from Himarë, be prepared to buy a sun lounger and umbrella, as is common practice.

If you’re looking to spend the entire day at the beach and prefer a quieter spot, Llamani Beach is an excellent choice.

Where to Stay:

For highly-rated accommodation, try the Aphrodite Garden Rooms & Apartment if it’s available.

Borsh Beach Resort

Our favorite beach in all of Albania is Borsh Beach. It’s perfect for those looking to escape the touristy areas. This beach is also popular among vanlifers with campervans, as you can camp here for free. If you find a spot near the river, you can even rinse off in the evening.

Borsh Beach is expansive, giving you the flexibility to either rent a bed or a sun lounger or simply lay your own blanket on the sand and set up your umbrella. Everyone can find their own piece of paradise here.

Where to Stay:

For a comfortable stay, consider the Guest House Luiza.

Sarande

The Albanian port city of Sarande is a fantastic summer holiday destination. Located in the south of Albania, just a short distance from the northern Greek border and almost directly opposite the island of Corfu, Sarande is often reached by ferry from Corfu.

Despite its proximity to Greece, Sarande maintains a distinctly Albanian character. The town is set in a bay with sandy beaches that offer stunning views of Corfu’s silhouette. The southern tip of the town provides a more open view of the sea, making it a popular spot for watching sunsets. Beaches stretch all along Sarande’s coastline, providing plenty of options for sunbathing and swimming.

Most hotels and apartments in Sarande are conveniently close to the sea. While visiting Sarande, don’t miss a trip to the nearby ancient UNESCO site of Butrint.

Where to Stay:

For luxury accommodation, Sea Breeze Villa is a top choice, although it is often fully booked.

Ksamil: The European Maldives

If you’ve seen photos of turquoise beaches with white sand from Albania on social media, it was likely one of the many beaches in Ksamil. Often referred to as the “European Maldives,” Ksamil is considered one of the best beach resorts in Albania and is located south of Sarande. It is arguably the most touristy and rapidly developing resort in the country.

The main street in Ksamil, bustling with bars and restaurants, is lively, but don’t let that deter you. With a little exploration, you can find secluded beaches that offer peace and quiet even during the peak season.

We recommend visiting Ksamil as soon as possible, as it is becoming increasingly popular and prices are rising each year.

Where to Stay:

For accommodation, consider Apartment Erjon or Vila Melina if they are available.

What Are the Prices in Albania?

In some areas, prices in Albania are significantly lower, about a third of what you’d pay in Croatia. For instance, in Ksamil, you can expect to pay around 6 euros for a Pizza Margherita, 10 euros for a deck chair for the whole day, and 30-100 euros per night for accommodation in an apartment. However, prices can vary widely across the country.

What Currency Is Used in Albania?

In Albania, the official currency is the Albanian lek (ALL). However, euros are commonly accepted everywhere and are even preferred in some places.

Safety in Albania: What to Watch Out For

Albania is generally considered a safe country for travelers. While some areas may have increased crime, it is rarely directed at tourists, and seaside resorts are considered safe.

One thing to be cautious about is the traffic. Albanian drivers can be quite reckless, so be prepared for unpredictable driving behavior. Additionally, some roads are not in the best condition, although many have been improved in recent years.

In coastal areas, avoid drinking tap water as it is often filtered from the sea and not always safe to drink. Opt for bottled water instead.

Albania Guide: Where to Camp?

Campsites in Albania are relatively cheap, ranging from 13-25 euros per night depending on the location. Near the sea, expect to pay around 20-25 euros per night for two people. However, cleanliness can be an issue. In Ksamil, we recommend Ksamil Caravan Camping, which offers potable water and clean toilets and showers.

How to Travel with Dogs in Albania

If you’re traveling with dogs, Albania is a great destination. Albanians love dogs and were always eager to pet ours. Dogs are welcome on most beaches, where they can swim and relax with you on sunbeds. The only place we encountered restrictions was in Ksamil, where a few beaches had signs prohibiting dogs.

Wild dogs are common in Albania, particularly around campsites. While they are mostly tame, it’s important to be cautious. Before your trip, make sure to give your own dogs a treatment for parasites.

Italy vs. Albania

Italy is celebrated for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine. Cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence are cultural epicenters filled with art, historic landmarks, and culinary delights that draw millions of tourists each year. The coastal regions, such as the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, offer breathtaking landscapes and luxury experiences. Italy’s well-developed tourism infrastructure ensures high-quality services and cleanliness throughout your stay. The food in Italy is unparalleled, offering a culinary experience that is difficult to match.

In contrast, Albania presents a more rugged and less polished option. The country, particularly in urban areas, can appear dirtier, with more garbage and less consistent services compared to Italy. However, what Albania lacks in infrastructure, it makes up for with its natural beauty and affordability. The beaches in southern Albania, especially around Ksamil and Himare, boast crystal-clear waters that often surpass those found in Italy. These beaches are less crowded and much cheaper, offering a serene escape without the high costs. Despite its challenges, Albania provides a unique and affordable Mediterranean experience with some of the clearest waters and most beautiful beaches in the region.

Croatia vs Albania

Croatia is renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and excellent service. The coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split are picturesque and offer a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. The roads in Croatia are excellent, making travel easy and convenient. However, as Croatia’s popularity as a tourist destination increases, so do the prices. Each year, it becomes a more expensive place to visit, with higher costs for accommodation, food, and activities.

On the other hand, Albania offers a more affordable alternative with equally stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, particularly in the south around Ksamil and Himare. While Albania can be dirtier and the infrastructure less developed compared to Croatia, the country’s affordability makes it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. Despite its rough edges, Albania is rapidly developing, with new hotels and resorts springing up quickly, offering great accommodations at lower prices. For those looking to enjoy beautiful beaches and pristine waters without breaking the bank, Albania is a fantastic choice.

Frequently Asked Questions