After reading this title, you are either enticed or disbelieving. Albania remains clouded by negative stigma for many travellers, seemingly unable to shake its shadow of misconception. But, maybe you are aware of Albania’s beauty and ridiculous suitability to the luxury travelling sector. And, blessed with Mediterranean summers and a coastline to turn the Algarve green with jealousy, the Albanian Riviera is the perfect place to start.

From Vlore to Saranda, the Albanian Riviera stretches over some 130km of coastline. Whether you want immersion into Greek and Roman history, scenic beaches, or the cultural allure of larger cities – the Riviera has an answer. Pick a resort, rent a car, or book a multi-day tour to explore. Albania has the versatility to allow you to pick up the pace and unwind at your own beck and call.

If the Albanian Riviera is (rightly) sounding like a slice of Mediterranean heaven, do not worry. Here is Beau Monde Traveler’s exclusive guide to the Albanian Riviera, carefully curated to help you plan a trip of indulgence.

Albanian Riviera: What to See and Do

1. Visit the Butrint Archaeological Site and National Park

Albania has so many archaeological sites to offer that it would be criminal to start our list with any other attraction. If you are a history enthusiast, note the Butrint Archaeological Site and National Park, located just south of Saranda.

In 1992, Butrint became the first site in Albania for UNESCO to award World Heritage status. The city has evidence of occupation tracing back to 50,000 BC – being passed from the Greeks to Romans, to the Ottoman Empire, before becoming part of Albania. Those visiting can appreciate the diverse history and influences through concrete attractions. Butrint is home to the well-preserved ruins of the Ancient Theatre, Great Basilica, and Baptisterium. The Butrint Archaeological Site and National Park is the best place to begin a microcosmic introduction to Albanian history.

2. Have a seaside experience at Saranda

While seaside experiences are available across the Riviera, Saranda is conveniently located for attractions and a more typical seaside city. Stroll the Hasan Tahsini Boulevard, sit al fresco for a cocktail by the waves, or indulge in some freshly caught seafood. Saranda epitomises a blend of convenient tourist infrastructure and relaxed Mediterranean living.

3. Visit Ksamil and its Islands

One of the more well-known destinations in Albania, Ksamil is coined as the Maldivian no-longer-secret of the Riviera. And, just off its coast, it has four uninhabited islands that are perfect for exploring by swimming, jet skiing, or kayaking.

Famed for mussel tastings with white wine pairings and idyllic sandy beaches, Ksamil is a spot to spend and experience. If you want a town’s take on an exotic beach experience, you should consider adding Ksamil to your itinerary.

4. Take a day trip to Corfu.

Of course, if you base yourself in the South of the Albanian Riviera, your proximity to the Greek Islands becomes hard to resist. And, from Saranda, it is a quick half-an-hour ferry to the Greek Island of Corfu.

Basing yourself on the Albanian Riviera is a fantastic way to combine the best of both worlds – exploring Greece one day and Albania the next. Corfu is a fantastic day trip too, with the Old Town perfect for those who like to unwind with a slow shopping day.

5. Explore Qeparo Village.

In the North of the Albanian Riviera, Qeparo Village is the place to stop by for a taste of laidback village living. Think cobbled streets, hairpin mountain roads, and crumbling monasteries and settlements.

Experiencing village life is just as valuable as visiting larger cities and reaps a unique cultural immersion. Qeparo is known for agriculture, especially olive oil production. So the village is ideal for purchasing some local produce and souvenirs.

 Albanian Riviera: Where to Stay

If you are looking for a quieter atmosphere in the North of the Albanian Riviera, Himara is an excellent place to consider. And, when visiting Himara, we recommend the Miamar Hotel.

Miamar Hotel

The importance of private vistas continues at the Miamar Hotel property. Each room features views over the Ionian sea or the nearby ruins of Himara Castle. To splash on a little extra luxury, choose a suite to indulge in a marble en-suite bathroom with a free-standing bath. While you may wish to purchase a balcony room, the property’s expansive outdoor spaces mean this is by no means a necessity. When you aren’t exploring Himara, the Miamar Hotel has an infinity pool and open-air bar to catch your eye.

2. If you prioritise scenic beaches, Ksamil is the best place to stay for you. And, when visiting Ksamil, we recommend the Olive Hotel.

The Hotel Olive

The Hotel Olive understands the charm of private outdoor spaces. Each room features a balcony with extensive views over the Ionian Sea – creating a serene start to every morning. Opt from a deluxe double or twin room, a deluxe suite, or a deluxe family suite. The room varieties highlight The Hotel Olive as a versatile option for luxurious accommodation, no matter how large or small your group.

3. If you want a beach holiday with plenty of convenient tourist infrastructure, consider Saranda when visiting the Albanian Riviera. And, when visiting Saranda, we recommend the Hotel Butrinti.

Hotel Butrinti

The Hotel Butrinti is an excellent five-star property to base yourself when visiting Saranda. Guests can choose from a variety of deluxe rooms and junior suites, providing sea or city views. However, the property facilities are where Hotel Butrinti comes into its own.

Relaxation is a priority for guests and is reflected in the variety of health and wellness facilities. Guests can enjoy a full fitness suite and wellness spa, which features a full hammam, spa treatments, and a jacuzzi. Of course, you can also choose to unwind and relax outside. The Hotel Butrinti has a large outdoor pool with an adjacent bar and pizzeria – ideal for those slower days when you crave a sun lounger and vitamin D.

Albanian Riviera: Wining and Dining

1. Mare Nostrum Cuisine, Saranda

Centrally located on Saranda’s seafront, Mare Nostrum Cuisine is a great spot to taste anything seafood. Popular dishes include seafood linguine, swordfish fillet, paella, and octopus with spinach and white wine sauce. Pair your seafood dish of choice with a glass of white wine and enjoy under the shaded, tiled veranda.

2. Sea Breeze Seaside Bar and Grill, Ksamil

Dining on the beach is a luxury reserved for the most relaxing of holidays. And, at the Sea Breeze Seaside Bar and Grill, you can embrace the luxury of a laidback atmosphere and stellar service. The venue specialises in grilled food, perfect for comfort food cravings. Coincide your visit with the sunset for the ultimate, romantic dining experience.

3. Riviera Blu, Vlore

Located in the urban Vlore, the Riviera Blu is a great option for pasta, seafood, and tapas-style dining. The restaurant has an extensive appetiser menu, with warm and cold options to suit guest preferences. Choose from appetisers such as shrimps with porcini, crab kroket, and octopus salad.

The Riviera Blu also has inside and al fresco dining options. If ocean views are a must, opt for upstairs seating inside. While, if you prefer a sociable, breezy atmosphere, opt for outside seating on the shaded terrace.  

4. The Yacht Restaurant, Vlore

For an ultimate fine dining experience on the Albanian Riviera, we recommend The Yacht Restaurant in Vlore. The menu is filled with a creative, culinary medley featuring octopus with avocado cream, grilled salmon with passion fruit, and an impressive seafood platter. For cocktail connoisseurs, the alcohol menu is a gold mine to uncover. Sip a pina colada and take a moment to appreciate that you are dining on the treasure that is the Riviera.

Albanian Riviera: Best Beaches

1. Gjipe Beach

Gjipe Beach is popular enough to have a few beach bars and be safe to swim and snorkel. However, it still offers relative seclusion since visitors have to navigate the mountains to reach the beach. Gjipe Beach is also famed for its nearby canyon walk and caves, making it the perfect beach for scenery and further exploration.

2. Mirror Beach, or ‘Plazhi Pasqyra’

Mirror Beach coined its affectionate namesake from the eye-catching reflection of sunlight on its waters during the day. Known as one of Albania’s best beaches, Plazhi Pasqyra is a great option for those seeking a beautiful location to spend a beach day. There are a few facilities on the beach, like a small restaurant and sunbeds. However, it’s best to come prepared with refreshments and food as these facilities are limited and open unpredictably.

3. Livadi Beach

Situated in Himara, Livadhi Beach allows visitors to embrace the sun and sea away from most other tourists. With that said, the beach offers lots in the way of facilities. You will find oceanfront cafes, restaurants, and hotels at Livadi Beach. And, if you are feeling adventurous, you can rent out a jet ski to explore the coast from the water.

4. Borsh Beach

Borsh has a claim to fame as Albania’s largest beach. The sand stretches approximately 7km in length – highlighting it as a spacious sunbathing spot and place to unwind. Borsh Beach is ideal for those seeking to unplug and take a break from tourist infrastructure. It will also give you a closer glimpse into Albanian language and culture. The beach is surrounded by unspoilt shrubbery and olive trees, with a mountain range just inland. 

A visit to the Albanian Riviera blends Mediterranean beach culture, culinary indulgence, archaeology, and top luxury resorts. Albania is striding onto the luxury travel radar and, for sand and sea lovers, what better way to experience the country than from the Riviera? A slice of heaven? We agree.