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ALBANIAN RIVIERA FAQ`S
The Albanian Riviera runs along the coastline of Southwestern Albania between the cities of Vlore and Sarande. It is located along the Northeastern part of the Ionian Sea, which itself is part of the Mediterranean Sea.
How do I get to the Albanian Riviera?
The easiest way to get to the Albanian Riviera is to fly into the Greek island of Corfu and take a ferry over to Sarande/Saranda, Albania. During peak season there are normally over 10 boats a day running to Sarande, so you don't have to stay overnight on Corfu itself if you don't want to.
Prices during peak season starts from around €19 one-way on the slower ferry boats or from €24 one-way on the quicker boats. The slower ferries take around 70 minutes to get from Corfu to Sarande whereas the quicker boats make the journey in just 40 minutes.
If you decide to make your way from Corfu to Sarande then be aware that the Greek Island is one hour ahead of Albania, so make sure you plan accordingly.
Unfortunately, the Albanian Riviera has no international airport. The other main way to get to the area is to fly into the capital of Tirana and travel down the coast from there (about a 5 hour drive). Construction is due for an international airport in Vlore (due to open in April 2024).
Note: This information was accurate when it was published but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details before planning your trip.
To discover the full beauty of the Albanian Riviera it is best to rent a car. Renting a car allows you to travel around more freely and visit places that aren't as easily accessible by public transportation.
Driving in Albania is perfectly safe, and the roads are in good condition, so it's easy enough to get around.
Public transportation in the Albanian Riviera isn't always the most reliable as buses don't stick to a strict schedule. This means that taking a day trip to beaches and towns can be an issue if you don't have a car.
Summer is the best time to visit the Albanian Riviera, as the beautiful sunshine and weather gives you the chance to make the most of the gorgeous beaches. The weather is best during July and August as temperatures can exceed 85 degrees F. This is also the busiest time of year to visit. The Albanian Riviera is increasingly popular with tourists, and so July and August are very much a peak season in the area.
During the peak season the beaches are at their busiest and accommodations prices are at their highest, but thankfully are still more reasonable compared to other European destinations.
If you visit during the shoulder season months of June and September, the weather is typically still good and the beaches will not be as crowded. Saying that, you can still get an influx of tourists at beaches during these months too, but it will not be as busy as July and August.
It is best to avoid visiting the Albanian Riviera from October to March as the weather is cold. April and May can be good times to visit as temperatures can reach up to the mid 70's F at times. This makes it a good time to visit if you want to avoid crowds as well as the warmest months of the year.
Yes, not only does Albania have some of the best beaches in all of Europe, but most of the country's best beaches are in the Albanian Riviera. There are popular beaches, party beaches and secluded hidden gem beaches.
All resort places in Albania can be divided into several categories: party place, such as Durres or Saranda, where there are many clubs and beach parties; quiet-small resort villages of the Albanian Riviera (Dhermi, Himara, Qeparo, Borsh, Lukove); places for recreation with children, for example, the bays of Vlora, Ksamil, where there is entertainment for children and a comfortable family vacation is expected.
One of the best things about traveling to the land of the eagles is that wherever you go you will be welcomed by the locals. Albania is one of the friendliest countries, and the locals will welcome you with kindness. So, if you travel to Albania, don't be afraid to ask for help; there will always be someone to help you find what you're looking for, whether it is accommodations, a place to eat, etc.
Is Albania a safe place to visit?
Albania is a very safe place to travel. Health problems and crime are low even in large cities. As we mentioned above, the locals are very hospitable, and they will make sure that you feel at home.
As always when traveling, keep your wits about you. Be aware of pick pockets and theft, so don't flash around your valuables.
Albanian cuisine is fantastic! The best dishes are delicious and affordable. Be sure to try as many dishes as possible during your stay such as Fegese (slow-cooked stew made with peppers, onions, spices, tomatoes, and cottage cheese). Other traditional meals include Tave Kosi (lamb and rice baked with yogurt and egg), Byrek (phyllo flake dough stuffed with savory fillings), Speca me Gijze (pepper in cotage cheese), Baklava (sweet puff pastry covered with syrup).
And for an authentic drink, try the raki. Raki is an intense aromatic liqueur, very similar to grappa. Although its origin is Turkey, raki can be found throughout Albania and the Balkans.
The official language in Albania is Albanian. Unlike all of the languages north of Albania, the Albanian language has nothing to do with the Slavic ones. It is rather hard to learn. Many older people won't speak too much English throughout the country, but the young kids really have a great level of English. Being in a more "touristy" area in the Riviera though, you'll find that many people are able to speak English along the Albanian Riviera.
What is the currency in Albania? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency used in Albanian is the Albanian Lek. Euros can actually be used pretty much everywhere, and you'll find that the exchange rate is typically better than using lek. However, it is quite rate to find Euros in Albania, so we suggest brining as many euros as you can before your arrival.
Also worth noting, many places only take cash, even in larger and fancier establishments. Cahs is key in Albania.
The tipping culture in Albania is pretty flexible. Most people tip in bars by just rounding up, while in restaurants leaving 100-200 lek (between $1-2) is common. However, if you don't receive great service, you are not obligated to tip.
In an emergency dial 112 is the general emergency services number or 114 for hearing assistance.