The food in Albania is so good because of its rich and diverse culinary heritage. Influenced by Greek, Italian, Turkish, and Balkan cuisines, Albanian dishes are a delicious blend of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques. The use of fresh, locally …
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Backpacking Albania in 2025
A complete guide for backpacking in Albania with best places to go, best time to visit, what to bring and safety advice.
Visit Albania
Explore the hidden gem of Albania, where history, stunning landscapes, and affordability converge for backpackers. Pros? Wander through ancient ruins, relax on pristine beaches, and revel in the budget-friendly accommodations and food. Albania offers an authentic experience away from crowds. However, infrastructure can be less developed, and English may not be widely spoken. For the adventurous backpacker seeking a taste of the undiscovered, Albania's authenticity and untouched beauty make it a captivating destination, where each corner holds the promise of a unique and immersive experience.
Why to go?Why backpacking in Albania
Food
Cheap
The average cost for backpacking in Albania is relatively affordable compared to other European countries. Accommodation in hostels or budget guesthouses can range from $10 to $20 per night. Meals at local restaurants or street food stalls can cost …
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Scenery
Albania offers a diverse range of breathtaking sceneries that are worth exploring. The country boasts stunning coastal landscapes along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, with pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns like …
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Mountains
The Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, are a great destination for mountain exploration in Albania. With their rugged and untouched beauty, these mountains offer a unique experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Backpackers
The backpacker scene in Albania is vibrant and growing. The country has become an increasingly popular destination for budget travelers seeking adventure and unique experiences. Backpackers are drawn to Albania's stunning natural landscapes, …
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Beach life
Albania is great for beach life and snorkeling due to its stunning coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas. With its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and hidden coves, Albania offers a perfect setting for a relaxing beach vacation. …
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💡 HighlightsTop-5 things to do in Albania
- Visit the Albanian Riviera: Experience the stunning coastline of the Albanian Riviera, with its crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches. Explore charming coastal towns like Saranda and Himara, and relax on the pristine beaches of Ksamil.
- Discover the Ancient City of Butrint: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint, an ancient city that dates back to the 7th century BC. Wander through its well-preserved ruins, including a theater, a Roman bathhouse, and an impressive Venetian castle.
- Hike in the Albanian Alps: Embark on a hiking adventure in the breathtaking Albanian Alps. Discover stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and enjoy panoramic views of the Valbona Valley and Theth National Park.
- Explore Berat’s Historic Center: Visit the historic city of Berat, known as the ”City of a Thousand Windows.” Explore its well-preserved Ottoman-era houses, wander through the narrow cobbled streets of the Mangalem district, and visit the iconic Berat Castle.
- Experience the Vibrant Capital, Tirana: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Tirana, Albania’s capital city. Visit Skanderbeg Square, explore the colorful Blloku neighborhood, and discover the unique mix of Ottoman, Italian, and Communist-era architecture.
But Albania offers more...
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Albania
Traveled route: Kjafasan border crossing, Tirana, Llgora National Park, Maja Çikës, Dhërmi, Sarandë, Blue Eye, Gjirokastër Castle
🌤️ When to go?Best time to go backpacking Albania
The best time to visit Albania for backpacking is during the months of May to September. During this period, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country's natural beauty. Additionally, many tourist facilities and attractions are fully operational during these months. However, it is worth noting that July and August can be quite crowded, so if you prefer a quieter experience, it is advisable to visit in May, June, or September.
Risk level: low (33%)Safety advice for Albania
- Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorists have targeted European cities, including transport hubs and tourist locations. Take official warnings seriously.
- Political protests could take place in central Tirana. Most demonstrations are peaceful, but they can turn violent. Monitor local media for the latest updates.
- Theft from vehicles is common. Petty crime occurs. Take care of your belongings on public transport.
- Severe weather occurs from December to February and may cause flooding, particularly in northern Albania. Monitor the local media and stay in touch with friends and family.
source: smartraveller.gov.au
AlbaniaMy tips to get you on the way!Does Albania sound like your next backpacking destination? Use these steps to get you on the way.
Get inspiration 📚
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
While guidebooks used to be the backpacker’s holy grail for finding accomodation, nowadays that’s more conveniently accomplished online. However, guidebooks remain an excellent resource for familiarizing oneself with the country, gaining inspiration, and discovering itineraries. I enjoy reading them before my travels and then leaving them behind at home when I embark on my journey.
Prepare your trip ✅
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Albania. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Albania may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Before embarking on your journey, several essential checks are crucial: passport, visa, vaccinations and insurance. Some countries mandate that your passport remains valid for 3 to 6 months post your return. Additionally, it is important to verify the specific visa requirements for Albania. These differ per country of origin. While you can handle visa arrangements independently, online visa services streamline the process as they know exactly what’s needed for each country. Albania may require certain vaccinations. Make sure to timely check which ones you still need. Lastly, if you don’t have a travel insurance yet, Safety Wing is a good choice as they are tailored for backpackers.
Book your flight ✈️
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Albania, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
The flight may be the most expensive part of your trip. Therefore it’s worth spending a bit of time finding the right one. Flight search engines like Skyscanner and Kayak are the best to compare all possible options. A good tip is to be flexible with your exact travel dates. Traveling one or two days earlier/later may save you some bucks. Also booking about three months in advance can help making the best deal for you (though I’m not the best one myself to follow this advice as I tend to decide last-minute). A final tip would be to check airports in neighbouring countries. Not necessarily for cost saving but it can be intriguing to journey into Albania, travel overland to one of its neighbours and fly back home from there.
Book your first night(s) 🛌
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
Depending on your travel style, you can either plan a detailed day-to-day route and pre-book your accommodations, providing peace of mind, or opt to book them spontaneously, offering greater flexibility to adjust your plan. Personally, I am a big fan of the latter approach, but I always ensure to book the first night(s) in advance.
My personal packing list 🎒
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Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.
Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of packing minimally. It’s so much easier to jump on the back of a truck or squeeze yourself into the last spot of a minibus without that supersized backpack. If you’re headed to a warm destination, leave your winter jacket at home; for colder regions, opt for thin thermal underlayers. Instead of packing your entire wardrobe, bring just three sets of clothes, as laundry facilities are available everywhere.Money & Documents
Clothing
Electronics
Health
Others
Moneybelt
[Amazon]
“Best way to carry your important documents”
Quick dry pant
[Amazon]
“Nothing beats these quick dry and light pants when traveling”
Light rain jacket
[Amazon]
“Hiking in rainy season? These keep you dry”
Thermo underwear
[Amazon]
“Less weight and volume than bulky sweaters or jackets”
Quick dry towel
[Amazon]
“Normal towels get smelly and heavy when traveling”
Power bank
[Amazon]
“Pick a small and light one, with 10.000mAh or more”
Travel adapter
[Amazon]
“Needed as each country has its own electricity plugs”
Number lock
[Amazon]
“No chance of losing your key; handy for lockers in dormitories”
Packing cubes
[Amazon]
“Keep your wet or dirty clothes separate from the rest”
Travel pillow
[Amazon]
“Light and great for flights and long bus journeys”
last page update: 29 September 2024