Explore Albania: beaches, mountains, and historic cities year-round

The prestigious travel magazine Lonely Planet has published a new analysis on the best time to visit Albania, highlighting that the country offers tourist experiences year-round, but the most favorable periods remain spring and autumn.

Albania has been one of the hottest destinations in recent years. The Balkan country boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear water, UNESCO heritage cities with enchanting streets, and amazing hiking opportunities, such as those in the Accursed Mountains, among many others, CE Report quotes ATA.

Most travelers visit Albania during the high summer season (June to August), when the beaches are warm and the mountains are free of snow. This is a great time to visit, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

Ideally, travel to Albania during the shoulder season – May or October – when there are fewer crowds and milder temperatures. However, note that May may not be ideal for swimming, as the water is still quite cold.

Most tourist attractions outside the major cities and along the coast close in winter (December to March). The tourism industry typically reopens after the Bektashi spring holiday, Nevruz Day, on March 22. If you go during winter, stay in the capital, Tirana, or in the northern city of Shkodër, which hosts a winter carnival.

The Albanian Riviera in the south has been called the “Maldives of Europe” — a reputation that, although slightly exaggerated, makes sense when you consider the blue waters near and around Ksamil.

Recently, beach development in Albania has led to crowded sunbeds and umbrellas.

To avoid the busiest crowds, rent a car and hop along the coast to beaches like Borsh and Gjipë.

You can also take a boat tour from Himara to secluded beaches where it’s just you and the open sea.

Or follow the music to Dhërmi for the Kala music festival in June. If you can wait until September, you’ll experience some of the best coastal temperatures with fewer crowds.

In general, Albania’s interior has fewer visitors year-round, though the lack of sea breeze can cause extreme heat in July and August, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).

Things are cooler in the Accursed Mountains, where average summer temperatures range between 17°C and 22°C (63°F and 72°F).

May and October – the best periods

According to the article, May and October are ideal for tourists, offering mild weather, fewer tourists, and more reasonable prices for accommodation and services.

During these months, visitors can explore historic cities like Berat and Gjirokastër without summer heat or large tourist crowds.

Summer – beach season

The months June–August are the peak of tourism, especially along the Albanian Riviera. Beaches like Ksamil and Dhërmi fill with European tourists, and temperatures rise above 30°C.

This period is perfect for beach holidays, but comes with higher prices and more traffic.

September–October – tourists’ secret

The article highlights that early autumn is among the best times to visit Albania: the sea remains warm from summer, while crowds decrease and the weather becomes cooler.

This period is suitable for mountain visits, such as Theth National Park, and for walks in cultural cities.

Winter – for cultural tourism

From December to March, tourism along the coast declines, but cities like Tirana and Shkodër offer cultural and gastronomic activities, with lower prices for tourists.

Albania on the rise as a destination

Lonely Planet notes that Albania is gaining increasing international attention for its combination of beautiful beaches, historic cities, and competitive prices, making it one of the most attractive destinations in the Balkans.

Summary

• Best time to travel: May, September, October

• Beach season: June–August

• Cheaper: Spring and autumn

• Winter: for culture and city tourism