The Republic of Albania is one of my favorite countries in Europe. It has the Unesco jewels of Berat and Gjirokastër and some of the best affordable mountain scenery at Valbonë. The walk from the village of Valbonë to Theth remains one of the most memorable experiences in the whole of Eastern Europe, rivalling the scenery of those in Switzerland, at a quarter of the price.
Albania, being one of the most affordable countries in Europe, has yet to be overrun with rampant tourism even with recent strong tourism growth. Touting is not common, even in the tourist areas. People are authentic, though there are signs where unlicensed guides are surfacing. Most attractions and accommodation options are still affordable with Shkodër being one of the most affordable and a base to visit the Accursed Mountains, also known as the Albanian Alps. I would love to return to Albania one day.
Republic of Albania articles
- Budget Itinerary Albania – 6 days
- Best things to do in Albania for free
- Things I wish I had known before reaching Albania
- Land border Crossings to Albania
- Affordable things in Albania
Architecture in the Republic of Albania
Albania is investing in architecture and pursuing the works of many starchitects. One of them – the Cloud, 2013 Serpentine Pavilion is by Sou Fujimoto. Sou Fujimoto is also the architect of the 2025 World Expo at Osaka Masterplan. as well as its grand ring which is the largest constructed timber structure in the world. Particularly in Tirana, malls and towers are being erected with more under planning.
Republic of Albania Heritage
Albania is also home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage sites. To the south of Tirana is Berat. Berat, also known as the museum city and the city of a thousand windows portray a picturesque composition of houses when viewed from the river banks. Climbing up to Berat Castle also offers aerial views and a different vantage point of these houses. Nearer to Greece would be another UNESCO world heritage site of Gjirokaster and the coastal resort town of Saranda.
Nature
To the north of Tirana are more sights. Kruja tells the story of Albania’s defence against the Ottomans in the 15th century. while closer to the border to Montenegro is the city of Shkodra. Due to the proximity of Shkodra to the Accursed Mountains, the city makes a good base to leave your bags to embark on a short 2 or 3 day trip to the Albania Alps for trekking. That said, the walk from Valbona to Theth is highly recommended and will no doubt be the highlight of any trip to the Republic of Albania.
Links
Return to:
©2021 to 2026 The Design Reviewer & Connoisseur. All Rights Reserved.