Albania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Though it increases in popularity each year, the country is largely ignored by tourists, who still think of it as a post-communist backwater (as if the world hasn’t changed in the last 30 years). Yet this is a land of untouched natural beauty, with a rich history dating back to the ancient Illyrians. It has become a solid favorite of backpackers looking for an affordable, off-the-beaten-path destination to explore.
This travel guide will help you with all the important information you need to know for planning the perfect trip.
Where is Albania Located?
Albania lies in South-Eastern Europe. Its neighbours are Greece to the south, Montenegro to the north and Kosovo and Macedonia to the east(ish).
Albania sits on the coast of the Adriatic Sea and is home to some of the best beaches in Europe. Some of the best beaches are found in the Albanian Riviera which stretches from the city of Vlora (Vlore in Albanian) and the popular tourist city of Saranda (Sarandë in Albanian).
Flying To Albania
There are 2 international airport in Albania, the biggest one is in Tirana and the other one is in Kukes. Currently there is a third airport being built in Vlora which is going to open soon. Flights in and out of Tirana are usually normal to expensive. The airport is owned by a private company who are controlling the prices and availability.However there are some cheap companies like Wizzair, where you can find cheaper prices.
Ancient History of Albania
Many only discuss communism and the civil war as the history of Albania but the real history dives way older than that. If you move to Albania, you will find yourself in many conversations with locals about ancient Albania and the Illyrians who many believe are the same/ older than the ancient Greeks.
There is so much that hasn’t been uncovered and publicized about Albania’s ancient history.
The ancient site of Apollonia which is in Fier and is a popular site to see if anyone who loves ancient history, is less than 5% excavated.
One of the biggest ancient graves have been found near Korca in 2018 which archaeologists believe are more than 5000 years old!
Language of Albania
Shqip is one of the most fascinating languages I have come across and one of the hardest to learn (in my eyes!). It’s an Indo-European language that relates to no other language in the world, it has its own roots.
The North and South speak different dialects. In the south they speak Tosk, and, in the north, they speak Gheg.
Usually, the two different parts can understand each other a little. I found myself in a hostel in Kosovo with a girl from the north and a girl from the south and they were speaking English together because they could not speak Albanian together!
The younger generation in Albania mostly knows some English as they are taught in school. The older generation you will find speak none such as the adorable Albanian grandmothers.
Food In Albania
There are many delicious foods you should try during your time in Albania. Albania’s cuisine is fresh and very delicious. They use a lot of olive oil, white (feta) cheese and eat lots of fruit. Albania also does great Italian food. Many Albanians moved to Italy after communism and the civil war, and brought back their skills of Italian pizza and pasta. In the south and along the coast of Albania they eat a lot of seafood. What I love about Albanian food is that everything is fresh and comes from the local garden, so you always feel full and amazing after a meal!
Transportation
The most popular way of getting around is by bus. You can also hire a car if you feel comfortable enough to drive. Backpackers quite often hitchhike through the country which is completely safe. Albanians often hitchhike themselves so it’s very common.
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