Albania Hotels

Unveiling Albania: A Journey Through Timeless Castles and Hidden Lakes

Albania, a hidden gem on the Balkan Peninsula, boasts stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Explore the picturesque villages along the Albanian Riviera, where crystal-clear waters meet sun-soaked beaches. Discover the historic charm of Durrës, home to ancient ruins and vibrant seaside life. Venture into the Albanian Alps for breathtaking hikes and serene lakes. Don’t miss Skanderbeg Square in Tirana, a hub of culture and history. With its unique blend of natural beauty and warm hospitality, Albania invites travelers to uncover its secrets and create unforgettable memories off the beaten path. For the best hotel rates in Albania, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Albania

Some of the best places to stay in Albania are Tirana, Sarandë and Durrës. Albania offers a diverse travel experience, with Tirana's vibrant culture, Sarandë's stunning beaches, and Durrës's rich history. Tirana is ideal for first-time visitors due to its lively atmosphere and attractions. Accommodations range from luxury hotels with upscale amenities to budget-friendly options, providing something for every traveler. Expect boutique resorts in scenic areas, hotels with bars for relaxation, and various choices in each city that cater to different preferences and budgets. Enjoy your Albanian adventure! These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Albania:

1. TiranaOpens in a new window: Tirana is the vibrant capital city of Albania, known for its rich history and modern urban life. Visitors can explore significant landmarks like Skanderbeg Square and the Ministry of Defense, making it an ideal spot for travelers interested in culture and city life. The city offers a range of high-quality hotels, including Maritim Hotel Plaza TiranaOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5-star property that caters to business and family travelers with amenities such as a business center and child-friendly services. Another excellent option is Mak Albania HotelOpens in a new window, also a 5-star hotel, which welcomes pets and features comprehensive business facilities. Lastly, Hotel Boutique LasOpens in a new window, a family-friendly luxury hotel, provides a comfortable atmosphere with essential business amenities.
2. SarandëOpens in a new window: Sarandë is a stunning beach destination along the Albanian Riviera, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. With breathtaking spots like the Ksamil Islands and Mango Beach, this area is ideal for sun-seekers. For accommodations, consider Vila KalcuniOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel that offers direct beach access and a focus on wellness. Another great choice is El Primero HotelOpens in a new window, which provides dining options and entertainment facilities, ensuring a pleasant stay. Additionally, Oceanic Overview SuitesOpens in a new window is a beach-themed hotel that offers immediate access to the shoreline, perfect for those looking to relax by the sea.
3. DurrësOpens in a new window: Durrës is a coastal city steeped in history, featuring ancient sites like the Durrës Amphitheatre and the Byzantine Market. This location is great for travelers who appreciate culture and beach relaxation. Adriatik Hotel, BW Premier CollectionOpens in a new window is a lavish 5-star hotel offering direct beach access, ideal for families and business travelers alike, with extensive amenities such as meeting rooms and childcare services. For a more relaxed experience, Mövenpick Hotel Lalez DurresOpens in a new window is a 4-star property that focuses on wellness with its spa services and family-friendly features. Additionally, Melia Durres AlbaniaOpens in a new window is another luxury option with a full range of spa treatments and beach access, ensuring a rejuvenating stay.

What to do in Albania

Albania offers a captivating blend of picturesque villages and stunning landscapes, from the majestic Albanian Alps to serene lakeside retreats. Travelers can enjoy hiking, swimming, and shopping in vibrant cities like Tirana, while indulging in opera and roller skating against a backdrop of historic castles and charming small towns. Here are some of the top things to do in Albania:

• Visit Sarandë: Sarandë is a charming coastal city that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Its beautiful sandy beaches are ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while the scenic rocky landscapes provide fantastic opportunities for camping and exploration. Don't miss visiting the nearby archaeological site of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can marvel at ancient ruins that date back to Greek and Roman times. The lively atmosphere of the city, combined with its picturesque beachfront, makes it a wonderful spot to unwind after a day of adventure.
• Visit Tirana: As the bustling capital of Albania, Tirana is a cultural hub filled with museums, monuments, and architectural wonders. Spend a day exploring the National History Museum, which showcases the country's rich heritage, and visit the iconic Et'hem Bey Mosque. For a unique experience, try roller skating in the city's vibrant parks or enjoy a night out at the opera. The surrounding mountains offer stunning views and hiking opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the picturesque scenery of the region.
• Visit Durrës: Durrës is a lively seaside city known for its beautiful sandy beaches and rich history. Here, you can explore the impressive Durrës Amphitheatre, one of the largest in the Balkans, and visit the ancient Roman ruins scattered throughout the city. For adventure seekers, diving in the crystal-clear waters is a must, as Durrës offers some excellent spots to discover underwater life. After a day of exploration, relax at the beachside cafes and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere that this picturesque city has to offer.

5 tips to find a great Albania hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Albania is during January, February, and October, when hotel prices drop significantly. For international travelers, it's advisable to book your flight at least four months in advance to secure the best deals. To truly experience the highlights of this beautiful country, a stay of at least 3-4 days is recommended. While exploring Albania, you can enjoy great value for money at attractions such as museums, castles, and picturesque lakes, all of which make for a budget-friendly getaway.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Albania? You might discover fantastic prices and great rates on Hotels.com. To explore these offers, simply head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you could find budget-friendly options for your accommodations close to your travel dates. To ensure you stay in the loop about any flash sales or special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, helping you snag those cheap deals and lower reservation costs.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Therefore, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Albania.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the heart of major cities in Albania can provide unmatched convenience, with easy access to local attractions and vibrant culture. However, this prime location often comes with a steeper price tag. In contrast, accommodations in smaller towns and rural areas are more likely to be affordable, allowing travelers to save on lodging costs. While choosing hotels outside the city center may lead to lower rates, it’s important to note that this option may require additional travel to reach popular sites, potentially impacting your overall experience.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Albania. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Albania

Here are a few popular dishes in Albania:

• Tavë Kosi: This traditional Albanian dish is a delightful baked lamb and rice casserole that's mixed with yogurt and eggs, creating a creamy texture. It's often served during family gatherings and special occasions, showcasing the rich flavors of local ingredients.
• Byrek: A popular street food, byrek is a savory pastry filled with various ingredients such as cheese, spinach, or minced meat. These flaky pies can be found in bakeries and cafes, making it a convenient snack to enjoy while exploring the vibrant streets of Tirana.
• Fërgesë: This hearty dish combines peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, often with the addition of meat. It's typically served in a clay pot, emphasizing the rustic charm of Albanian cooking. Fërgesë is a staple in local restaurants, reflecting the communal spirit of Albanian dining.

Best time to go to Albania

Albania has a varied climate due to its size, so the best time to visit depends on the region and your preferences for weather and crowds. June to August are the peak travel months in Albania, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with dry to light rainfall. On the other hand, February, October, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.