Located on the south-eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea, Albania is a small country bordered by Yugoslavia and Greece. The country has witnessed many vicissitudes in its eventful history-from fleeing refugees and blood vendettas, to years of dictatorial rule. Yet, Albania manages to offer tourists the traditional Mediterranean charm and a heady blend of different religions, cultures and landscapes.
Albania is the poorest country of Europe and one of the least visited by travelers. This is partly because travel infrastructure is far from extensive. But Albania does have a few things to offer to the visitor. Rough scenery, a beautiful coast, authentic villages that have survived the communist period to name a few.
Tirana, the capital city, is a small and compact place that is best explored on foot. Its architecture bears considerable influence of Italian as well as Turkish monuments, lying as it does exactly between Rome and Istanbul. The Skėnderberg Square is a huge open space in the centre of the city while Mt. Dajti, at 5,030 ft, towers over the eastern side. Tirana is dotted by many museums.
Durrės (also Durazzo) is a historical city founded by the Greeks. You are unlikely to miss the magnificent Roman Amphitheatre and the King Ahmet Zog Palace, both of which stand on a hillside.
Shkoder and Butrint are two places that would be of much interest to a history buff. Shkodra is one of the oldest cities in Europe while the ruins of Butrint are a treasure trove of antiquities relating to the Illyrians and Greeks.
Among the lesser-known places, Berat, Gjirokastra, Elbasan, Korēa, and Kukės are worth exploring. Also, Albania has some of the finest beaches in Europe. Hiking, trekking and cycling are some other options in Albania.
Since Albania experiences scorching summers and cool winters, the best months to visit the country are September and October, when the days are long and the climate quite pleasant.
Albania is the poorest country of Europe and one of the least visited by travelers. This is partly because travel infrastructure is far from extensive.