Albania’s Untouched Interior and Emerging Beach Destinations Draw Travelers

Albania is promoting travel beyond its famed Ionian Riviera, highlighting interior regions such as the UNESCO‑listed towns of Gjirokastra and Berat, the rugged valleys of Përmet, the Vjosa River – one of Europe’s last free‑flowing rivers – and remote gorges like Nivica. The lake of Prespa, where Albania meets Greece and North Macedonia, is also presented as a trans‑border natural reserve with historic cave churches.

At the same time, the country’s southern coast is being marketed for its top beaches. Highlights include Jale near Sarandë, the secluded Aquarium Bay, Plazhi i Ri, Uji i Ftohtë, Llamani near Himarë, Lukove between Dhërmi and Sarandë, and the island‑dotted Ksamil beach. These sites offer clear turquoise waters, snorkeling, kayaking and a mix of traditional tavernas with modern resorts.

Together, the interior heritage and the newly popularised shoreline aim to broaden Albania’s appeal to tourists seeking both cultural depth and seaside leisure.