Cities

Albania’s cities are like different countries in miniature: lively, modern Tirana, the port and beaches of Durrës, seaside Sarandë on the Ionian, the stone UNESCO towns of Berat and Gjirokastër, and Shkodër at the gateway to the Alps. This section has city guides: what to see, where to eat honestly, how to get there, and where to stay.

Cities are a handy starting point for planning: routes branch out from them, attractions are nearby, and this is where you book accommodation, pick up a car, and sort out connectivity. That’s why in the city guides we link to related sections — food, routes, and rental — to put your whole trip in one place.