Albania is one of those places that many people have heard of, but couldn’t exactly pinpoint it on a map or list of the top things to see and do here. Well to start, it’s surrounded by Italy, Greece, Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, the Adriatic Sea and it’s become a premier tourist destination in recent years.
Some of the historical sites that you see include ancient ruins, castles, bunkers, and remnants of the country’s Communist past. Butrint is a World Heritage Site, and there are museums to learn more about this fascinating history. However, some of the biggest draws here are the beaches, which are among the most beautiful in Europe. From remote and secluded to a bustling party scene, there’s a beach to suit every taste and mood here. The cities and transportation system are unique, and the scenery is always spectacular in this mountainous and affordable European country. Mediterranean and Muslim-inspired cuisine are traditional favorites here, especially lamb, fresh fish, and Greek salad.
So as you learn more about the region and begin to plan your itinerary, consider these top places to stay in Albania for your travel accommodations.
Hotel Tradita, Shkoder
Hotel Tradita is a boutique hotel in Shkodra that is in a restored 17th-century mansion. The guesthouse is full of traditional Albanian artwork and crafts and comfortable furniture. Enjoy breakfast in the on-site restaurant, which specializes in seafood and offers coffee and beer too. Parking and Wi-Fi are available, and cultural celebrations are occasionally held here with music, theater, and folklore. Traditional alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are served in the bar, such as wild quince juice, wild pear juice, walnut liquor, grape raki, and wines from the local Cobo Winery. There are cozy rooms here, including duplex rooms that are great for families. Borrow a touring bicycle from the staff to explore the city!
Hotel Mangalemi, Berat
For a comfortable and friendly place to stay in Berati, try the Mangalemi Hotel, which has spacious rooms and is very popular among visitors. There’s a wonderful restaurant at this family-run establishment too. This was the first hotel that opened up in Berat after the 1991 political transition, and it’s at the beginning of the old road that leads to the castle. Rafting and hiking are popular activities in the area that the hotel staff can give you advice on. Both standard and superior rooms offer air conditioning, a mini bar, free Wi-Fi, a built-in safe, and room service. The rooms are inside Ottoman-style houses and decorated with a traditional Albanian style and balconies with lovely views of the area.
Hotel Cajupi, Gjirokaster
This hotel is filled with lots of character and history, and it is located in the town square of Gjirokaster. This is a great place to stay while exploring the castles and taking a step back in time in the Ottoman-era streets and neighborhoods. There are shops, cultural heritage centers, and tourist information offices nearby too. Inside you’ll find interesting artwork and a sun terrace on the roof with a restaurant that serves Mediterranean, Italian, and Greek specialties. Single, triple, twin, double, and suite rooms are available.
Vlora International Hotel, Vlore
Another top place to stay in Albania is the Vlora International Hotel, which is just 160 feet from the sea. This is a popular pick among business travelers, as well as casual tourists because there are meeting rooms with audio/visual equipment, free parking, and fitness center facilities. There are multiple restaurants and bars, serving anything from Italian to Mediterranean cuisine. Breakfast is provided in the morning.
Rondos Hotel, Himare
Located in Himare, the Rondos Hotel is an ideal pick for beach lovers. The big draw here is the hotel’s prime location just steps away from the beach, but it’s also clean, comfortable, and affordable. Rondos is on a private beach that guests can use to soak up the sunshine. Ask for a room that has a view of the sea while staying here. There’s an onsite restaurant that serves seafood specialties, and there are some fun bars to visit in the city center of Himare nearby. Guests often arrange day excursions to Vlora and Saranda because there’s a bus stop conveniently located outside the hotel.
Theranda, Tirana
One highly-recommended boutique hotel in Tirana is Theranda, which is centrally located and just a few minutes away from the trendy Blloku area. This is a great pick for travelers who want to be in the middle of the action; however, the hotel itself is quiet and tucked away on a corner off the main streets. The interior design is modern and comfortable, and guests can walk to the bus in 10 minutes. A breakfast buffet is served each morning, which is best enjoyed in the garden on sunny days.
Hotel Rilindja, Valbona
This was one of the first hotels to embrace local tourism in Valbona back in 2005. It’s a great place to stay for travelers who like to be comfortable, pampered, and enjoy good food. Hotel Rilindja has a friendly atmosphere and has one room with private bathroom facilities. The other rooms onsite have shared bathroom facilities. This is in a peaceful setting just outside the village, but it is still close enough to be convenient for local sightseeing. The restaurant on site specializes in Northern Albanian cuisine, including goat roasted on a spit.
