How to Visit Albania’s Lesser-Known Treasures from Corfu

Things to Do in Albania

Apart from being the birthplace of Mother Teresa, Albania is famous for its medieval and Ottoman history and breathtaking beaches. Because of its rich history, Albania is the rising star of Mediterranean destinations, known for its interesting landscapes, delicious cuisine, welcoming people, and small historic towns. This Balkan gem offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking an authentic and less touristy experience.

Albania’s appeal lies in its diversity—from the rugged Albanian Alps to the sun-kissed Albanian Riviera, the country offers something for every type of traveler. Its history, shaped by Illyrian, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, is evident in its ancient ruins, castles, and vibrant traditions. The cuisine, a delightful mix of Mediterranean and Balkan flavors, features fresh seafood, hearty stews, and unique desserts like ballokume. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in local festivals, Albania promises an unforgettable journey.

Events and Festivals

While you can visit this beautiful country just about any time of the year, visiting Albania during special occasions is a great way to get the most out of your travels. It also allows visitors to experience the local culture and cuisine while celebrating traditions that have been passed down through generations. Albania’s festival calendar is packed with events that showcase its rich heritage, music, dance, and culinary delights.

One such local festival (and national holiday) is Spring Day, or Dita e Veres, celebrated on 14th March. This pagan celebration, with origins in Roman, Greek, and Albanian religions, marks the transition from winter to spring and emphasizes nature’s renewal. It’s celebrated throughout the country, especially in Tirana and Elbasan, where the streets come alive with festivities.

During the celebrations, these destinations are filled with local acrobats, musicians, and other performers who entertain both locals and tourists. The celebrations start weeks before, with red and white bracelets called ‘Verore’ hung from trees and worn by young people for good luck. The traditional delicacies called ballokume, delicious corn flour cookies, are enjoyed by Albanian communities worldwide during this festival, adding a sweet touch to the festivities.

• An important festival you can enjoy during your trip to Albania is the spring equinox festival, also known as Nowruz, celebrated on 22nd March. This ancient Persian festival, observed by Albania’s Bektashi community, marks the first day of spring and the Persian New Year. It’s a time for renewal, with families gathering to share meals, exchange gifts, and participate in rituals like jumping over small fires to symbolize purification.
• The National Festival of Urban Folk Songs, celebrated in March, is one of the biggest celebrations in the country. Held in Elbasan, this festival features local musicians and artists presenting traditional music in a modern setting. The event includes a large concert with performers from across Albania, showcasing the diversity of Albanian folk music, which varies from village to village, accompanied by traditional instruments like the çifteli.
• Next, we come to the biggest celebration of the year, the Korca Beer Festival. Held in August in the town of Korça, this event is one of the oldest and most passionately celebrated festivals in Albania. It brings together music, food, dance, international bands, and, of course, beer. The festival transforms the streets of Korça into a lively party, with local vendors serving traditional Albanian dishes like byrek (savory pastry) and grilled meats, alongside a variety of beers.
• Taking place in September every four years, the Gjirokaster Folk Festival is a highly anticipated event that you don’t want to miss if your visit coincides with it. Recognized by UNESCO as an “intangible cultural event,” this festival features over one thousand performers and artists from Albania, the Balkans, and beyond. Held in the historic town of Gjirokastër, it showcases traditional music, dance, and costumes, offering a deep dive into Albanian heritage.
• For the more refined folk, the Tirana International Film Festival and the International Festival of Modern and Contemporary Dance are cultural highlights. The former, held every November since 2003, combines short films and feature-length titles from around the world, including many local Albanian films. The latter, held in October in Durrës, focuses on contemporary dance, bringing international performers to Albania to modernize the country’s cultural scene while celebrating its traditional roots.

From Peaks to Beaches

It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Albania is home to some of the least explored landscapes in all of Europe. If you’d like to experience local towns, villages, and natural wonders that haven’t been overrun by tourists, Albania has earned a spot on your bucket list. This is one of the few places where you can still experience local culture, lifestyle, and cuisine that hasn’t changed for centuries, despite historical challenges like blood feuds and wars.

A trip to Albania will take you through the awe-inspiring Albanian Alps, a rugged mountain range in the north that’s perfect for hiking and camping. The Theth National Park, located in the heart of the Alps, is a haven for nature lovers, with its stunning waterfalls, fish-filled lakes, and dramatic valleys. Trails like the Theth to Valbona hike offer breathtaking views and a chance to camp among magical pine and beech forests, immersing you in the untouched beauty of the region.

If you feel like heading to the beach, the Albanian Riviera offers plenty of options. Gjipe Beach, nestled between Dhermi and Vuno, is an unspoiled haven of yellow sand and translucent waters, accessible by a short hike through a canyon, adding a sense of adventure to your visit. Pasqyra Beach, near Saranda, is known for its magnificent sunsets and calm, reflective waters, while Drymades Beach, near Dhermi, offers a mix of sandy and pebbly shores with vibrant beach bars. Kroreza Beach, further south, is a secluded spot perfect for a quiet dip in the Ionian Sea.

Porto Palermo Beach, located just southeast of Himare, is almost hidden from view, offering a tranquil escape with its pebbly shore and clear waters. The highlight of Porto Palermo is the Venetian fort, fortified by Ali Pasha in the early 19th century, which still stands today. The fort, also known as Ali Pasha’s Castle, overlooks the bay, providing a stunning backdrop for your beach day and a glimpse into Albania’s Ottoman history.

Museums and Major Landmarks

Albania has a lot to offer in terms of major landmarks and museums, reflecting its nearly 2000-year-old history. The famous Bunk’Art Museum in Tirana is exactly what the name suggests—a full-blown bunker built by former dictator Enver Hoxha, who was so paranoid about nuclear war that he constructed thousands of bunkers across Albania. The largest, designed to protect the communist elite, has been converted into a museum called Bunk’Art. It offers a fascinating look into Albania’s communist era, with exhibits on the regime’s surveillance tactics, propaganda, and daily life under Hoxha’s rule.

Another intriguing museum in Tirana is the Museum of Secret Surveillance, also known as the House of Leaves. This newer addition to the museum scene is housed in a building once used by the Gestapo during World War II and later by the communist regime’s secret police. The museum displays cutting-edge (at the time) surveillance equipment, offering a chilling insight into the oppressive tactics used to monitor citizens during the communist era.

Those who want to learn more about Albania’s history can visit the Skanderbeg Museum in Kruja, dedicated to the national hero Gjergj Kastrioti Skanderbeg, who resisted Ottoman rule in the 15th century. The Ethnographic Museum in Berat showcases traditional Albanian life through exhibits of clothing, tools, and household items, while the National Education Museum in Korça explores the history of Albanian education and literacy, including the development of the Albanian alphabet. For a closer look at history, visit landmarks like Petrela Castle near Tirana, Preza Castle with its panoramic views, Bashtova Castle near Kavaja, the Resurrection Cathedral in Korça, Berat Castle in the “City of a Thousand Windows,” or the Castle of Porto Palermo, which you can explore after a day at the beach.

Best Times to Visit Albania

Albania is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich culture and history, making it a popular yet still relatively undiscovered tourist destination. While the country is on the rise as a European travel hotspot, it retains a subsistence of authentic culture that lingers, offering a genuine experience without the crowds. Albania can get busy during the summer months, particularly in July and August, when temperatures soar, and popular spots like the Albanian Riviera are bustling with visitors.

It’s best to visit Albania during the spring and autumn months—March to April and September to October—to experience its beauty and rich heritage without navigating large crowds. These seasons offer pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), making it ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and beach activities. Visiting during these months also saves you from the bitter cold of winter, when temperatures in the mountains can drop below freezing, or the scorching heat of summer, when coastal areas can exceed 35°C (95°F). Go off the beaten path and try cave diving at Viroi Lake, white water rafting on the Vjosa River, hiking in the Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps), or paragliding from the Llogara Pass down to the Ionian Sea.

Albania’s rich history is evident in its incredible city architecture, with buildings from the Byzantine, Roman, and Ottoman eras. Stroll through the beautiful capital, Tirana, and admire the historic Et’Hem Bey Mosque, with its stunning frescoes, the pedestrian-friendly Rruga Murat Toptani, and the famous Pyramid of Tirana, a former museum turned cultural symbol. You can also explore UNESCO heritage sites like Apollonia, an ancient Greek city with Illyrian roots; Butrint, a 3rd-century BC archaeological site; Berat, known for its Ottoman architecture; and Gjirokastër, a stone city with a well-preserved castle and traditional houses.

How to Get to Albania from Corfu: A Quick and Easy Guide

Getting from Corfu to Albania is quick and easy, thanks to the two countries’ proximity. Your unforgettable Albanian getaway begins on the enchanting Greek island of Corfu, nestled in the sparkling embrace of the Ionian Sea. This verdant paradise is a magnet for travelers, whether they arrive by air at Corfu International Airport or by sea from mainland Greece.

Corfu, also known by its Greek name, Kerkyra, proudly hosts the largest jewel in its crown—Corfu Town. This vibrant hub is not only the island’s bustling heart but also its maritime gateway. As you set foot on this alluring island, you’ll discover that Corfu Port is a mere stroll away from the charming Old Town. A leisurely 15-minute walk promises to transport you from one enchanting world to another. However, if the sun blazes high or the weight of your baggage bears down, a taxi ride, priced at around €10, might be a more inviting option. Be aware that Corfu’s intricate network of winding, picturesque streets may deter buses from venturing deep into the heart of the Old Town, so plan accordingly.

Should your journey lead you to seek passage to Albania, you’ll need to head to the international ferry terminal at the new port, about 1 km from the domestic terminal. Here, passport control awaits, but if hunger strikes, a quaint café within the terminal offers snacks and drinks. For those needing to charge devices, look for hidden power outlets—they’re available but may require some searching. The journey to Saranda, a coastal gem on the Albanian Riviera, is a short one, making it perfect for a day trip or a longer stay.

When planning your island adventure, whether you choose Finikas Lines or Ionian Seaways, the booking window spans from 90 days to 24 hours before your voyage. While there’s a chance to secure tickets on the day at a ticket office, it’s wise to book ahead, especially during peak season (June to September). Booking in advance with either company can also save you a 10% discount on your fare, a perk for savvy travelers.

Choose between a graceful ferry or a nimble Flying Dolphin speedboat. A leisurely ferry voyage to Saranda takes about 70 minutes, allowing you to savor the journey with views of the Ionian Sea. For those seeking a faster pace, the Flying Dolphin cuts the sea in a half-hour dash, perfect if you’re short on time. Both options are operated by Finikas Lines and Ionian Seaways, with up to 10 daily crossings in summer (reduced to 1-2 in winter). The cost ranges from €20 to €35 per person one-way, depending on the season and vessel type. Note that Greece is one hour ahead of Albania, so adjust your plans accordingly.

Ionian Seaways

Since 1979, Ionian Seaways and its sister company, Ionian Cruises, have offered high-quality service to their customers. They provide a variety of ferry services, cruises, and excursions in both Saranda (Albania) and Corfu (Greece). Ionian Seaways connects the Greek island of Corfu with Saranda on the southwest coast of Albania, with daily departures year-round. In high season, there are up to six departures per day in each direction, while in mid-season, there are three, and in low season, there is one.

Ionian Seaways operates a fleet of high-speed hydrofoils that can take you from Corfu to Saranda in as little as 30 minutes. If you want to bring your car, opt for the car ferry service, which takes about 70 minutes. The fleet, in partnership with Finikas Lines, consists of six vessels—four for passengers and two for cars—with capacities ranging from 124 to 300 travelers. Once in Saranda, you’ll need a reliable way to explore Albania’s diverse landscapes.

Finikas Lines

Finikas Lines has been providing services between Saranda and Corfu since 1994. The frequency of services across the Ionian Sea depends on the season, with up to six daily departures in each direction during high season, three in mid-season, and one in low season. The journey duration varies depending on the vessel: high-speed hydrofoil passenger ferries take 30 minutes, while car ferries take 70 minutes. Finikas Lines operates a fleet of six vessels in partnership with Ionian Seaways, with capacities ranging from 124 to 300 travelers.

Albania: Experience the Best of Both Worlds

No more having to compromise between a beach holiday or a mountain getaway—Albania has both. If you’re a savvy traveler, you already know the importance of hiring a reputable car rental service to make the most of your picturesque trip to Albania. Since Albania is not in the EU, ensure your documentation is in order before you travel. You’ll need a valid passport, and non-EU citizens may require a visa (check current requirements, as policies can change).

You’ll also need a green card, a document that proves you have valid vehicle insurance while driving from Corfu to Albania. This can be purchased from Royal Car Rental and must be shown to border control officers when crossing into Albania. The green card ensures your vehicle is insured in a non-EU country, avoiding potential legal issues. Royal Car Rental can also advise on the best vehicle type for your trip—opt for a 4-wheel drive for the rugged Albanian Alps or a sedan for city explorations in Durrës, Kruja, or Berat.

Getting from Corfu Airport to the Ferry Service

Why waste time finding a car or hailing a cab at Corfu? Royal Car Rental is a reputable car rental company located at Corfu Airport. Visitors can rent a car upon landing and drive to the cruise port, where ferries or Flying Dolphins to Albania await. The drive from the airport to the port is about 3.5 km, taking 10-15 minutes, and costs €20-25 by taxi if you prefer not to drive immediately. After your unforgettable trip to Albania, rent a car from Royal Car Rental’s port office in Saranda and drop it off at their reserved parking at Corfu Airport. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)