Albania

Albania offers something for almost every type of traveller. Adventure seekers will find spectacular alpine scenery with stellar hiking and cycling opportunities in unspoilt mountains, while culture enthusiasts can explore the country's rich heritage spanning two and a half millennia. Must-see highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gjirokastra and Berati, outstanding archaeological sites, early mosques, Venetian castles perched on hilltops and coastal promontories, and Byzantine religious art in medieval churches and the museums of Tirana, Korça and Berati. For those seeking urban energy, Tirana delivers with shopping malls, fine dining, art galleries and historic architecture, while beach lovers gravitate towards the southern shores of Dhërmiu and Jali, popular with younger travellers for their vibrant music festivals. Beyond the cities, visitors can experience a simpler, traditional way of life in Albania's alpine villages, where residents continue age-old practices of tending goats and sheep, hand-spinning wool and crafting cheese and yogurt. Many villagers have opened their homes as guest houses, offering genuine opportunities to connect with local culture. Birdwatchers have long been drawn to Albania thanks to its diverse habitats and position on several migration routes, while wildlife enthusiasts can seek out Europe's largest population of brown bears, plus grey wolves, European wildcats and Eurasian lynx. Visiting Albania is increasingly convenient, with more airlines operating from western Europe and fast highways connecting major cities. This new edition reflects these developments while strengthening coverage of natural history and museums. Packed with unparalleled practical advice for the independent traveller, this guidebook remains your ideal companion for a rewarding Albanian adventure.