Europe

Albania

Europe

Albania

Updated Jan 04, 2025
Albania

Overview

Albania, a hidden gem in the Balkans, offers a unique blend of natural wonders and rich history. Explore the stunning Albanian Riviera, with its crystal-clear waters and secluded coves. Wander through charming Ottoman-era towns like Gjirokastër and Berat, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Hike the rugged Albanian Alps, known as the 'Accursed Mountains,' for breathtaking views. Tirana, the vibrant capital, surprises with its colorful buildings and buzzing café culture. Don't miss the ancient ruins of Butrint, a testament to Albania's diverse past. With warm hospitality and affordable prices, Albania promises an unforgettable adventure off the beaten path.

Best time to visit. Visit Albania from May to September for ideal weather. Summer (June-August) is perfect for beach holidays, while spring and early fall offer comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and hiking, with fewer crowds and lower prices.

Cities

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Month
January52°F - 39°F
49°F - 35°F
Partly Cloudy7:15 am5:00 pm13 days
5.5 in
2 days
0.6 in
7 mph
February55°F - 41°F
52°F - 37°F
Partly Cloudy6:45 am5:35 pm11 days
4.9 in
1 days
0.2 in
7 mph
March61°F - 45°F
59°F - 42°F
Partly Cloudy6:00 am6:10 pm11 days
4.5 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
April68°F - 52°F
67°F - 50°F
Partly Cloudy5:15 am6:45 pm11 days
3.7 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
May75°F - 59°F
75°F - 58°F
Partly Cloudy4:45 am7:20 pm9 days
3.1 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
June82°F - 66°F
84°F - 66°F
Sunny4:30 am7:45 pm6 days
2.0 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
July88°F - 70°F
91°F - 70°F
Sunny4:45 am7:40 pm4 days
1.2 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
August88°F - 70°F
91°F - 70°F
Sunny5:15 am7:10 pm4 days
1.4 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
September81°F - 64°F
82°F - 63°F
Sunny5:45 am6:20 pm7 days
2.8 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
October72°F - 57°F
71°F - 55°F
Partly Cloudy6:15 am5:30 pm9 days
3.9 in
0 days
0.0 in
4 mph
November63°F - 50°F
61°F - 47°F
Partly Cloudy6:45 am4:50 pm12 days
5.9 in
0 days
0.0 in
7 mph
December55°F - 43°F
52°F - 39°F
Partly Cloudy7:10 am4:35 pm14 days
6.3 in
1 days
0.2 in
7 mph

NameDateDescription

Travel rating

Closure rating

Recommendation
New Year's DayJanuary 1Nationwide celebration marking the start of the new year with fireworks and festivities
Avoid travel, most places closed
Summer DayMarch 14Ancient pagan festival celebrating the end of winter and arrival of spring with outdoor events
Festive atmosphere, some closures
NevruzMarch 22Spring festival celebrated by Albanian Bektashi community with outdoor gatherings and picnics
Minimal impact, interesting cultural events
Catholic EasterVaries (March/April)Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' resurrection, observed mainly by Catholic minority
Limited impact, some religious events
Orthodox EasterVaries (April/May)Major Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' resurrection, observed by Orthodox majority
Some closures, religious celebrations
May DayMay 1International Workers' Day celebrated with parades and events honoring labor rights
Some closures, festive atmosphere
Mother Teresa DayOctober 19Commemorates the beatification of Mother Teresa, an ethnic Albanian born in North Macedonia
Minimal impact, some cultural events
Independence DayNovember 28Celebrates Albania's declaration of independence from Ottoman Empire in 1912
Major holiday, expect closures
Liberation DayNovember 29Marks the liberation of Albania from Nazi occupation in 1944 during World War II
Some closures, patriotic celebrations
Christmas DayDecember 25Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' birth, observed by Catholic and Orthodox minorities
Some closures, festive atmosphere

1
Greet locals with 'Përshëndetje' (hello) or 'Mirëdita' (good day). Albanians appreciate when visitors make an effort to use basic phrases in their language.
2
Tipping is not mandatory but is becoming more common in Albania. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 10% for good service.
3
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Cover shoulders and knees, and women should cover their heads in mosques.
4
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon, especially in rural areas. Keep physical contact to a minimum in public spaces.
5
Be prepared for Albanian hospitality. It's common for locals to offer food, drinks, or even invite you to their homes. Politely accept if comfortable.
6
Avoid discussing politics, especially related to Kosovo or communism. These topics can be sensitive and may lead to uncomfortable situations.
7
Respect local customs during Ramadan if visiting during this time. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
8
Learn to navigate the head nod system. In Albania, nodding up and down means 'no', while shaking side to side means 'yes' - opposite to Western norms.