Places to Visit in Albania
Albania has been under the rule of many different empires and states throughout history, and in the process has accumulated a rich cultural and architectural heritage. One of the first settlements in the region was established by the ancient Illyrians, who established trading colonies on the Adriatic Sea coast. The region then came under the rule of the Roman Empire and the Byzantine Empire, during which time various castles, fortifications and living quarters were built. After the long rule of the Romans and Byzantines, Albania became part of the Ottoman Empire, and after the collapse of the empires, it charted its own path, witnessing both cultural and political revolutions, and eventually evolving into a modern democracy.
This historical process left Albania with an important architectural heritage that can still be observed today. Traces of Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman cultures coexist throughout the country, making Albania a unique cultural mosaic.
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Albania is one of the Balkan countries that offers its visitors a rich discovery experience with its historical and cultural heritage. The country's past has brought many important historical structures that bear the traces of different civilizations to the present day. This wealth, ranging from ancient castles to Ottoman-era mosques, from Roman amphitheaters to historical city squares, offers an unforgettable travel opportunity for both history enthusiasts and those interested in cultural tourism. The historical places to visit in Albania shed light on the country's deep-rooted past and are also admirable in terms of architecture.
Skanderbeg Square
One of the most popular destinations in Albania, Skanderbeg Square is located in the heart of the capital Tirana. Offering a different magnificence both during the day and at night, this square is considered the center of the city. This area, which was home to various buildings during the Albanian monarchy, underwent some structural changes during the socialist period. The square, which was last reorganized in 2012, has gained its modern structure today.
Skanderbeg Square, which houses important structures such as the monument that bears his name and the National History Museum, has become one of the most visited places by tourists coming to Tirana. The square, which also draws attention with its wide walking paths, is an attractive stop, especially for visitors who enjoy walking.
Akçahisar (Kruja) Castle
Akçahisar (Kruja) Castle is located in the Albanian city of Kruja and has played an important role in history, especially as the center of the rebellion that Skanderbeg started against the Ottoman Empire in 1444. Built on a strategic hillside with an aesthetic structure, the castle took its Turkish name from the white stones used in its construction. There are many important structures to visit in the castle: Bektashi lodge, Skanderbeg Museum, the ruins of the Fatih Sultan Mehmed Mosque, the ethnography museum and a bathhouse are part of this historical structure. Akçahisar Castle is an important destination that takes its visitors on a journey through time with its historical and cultural depth.
Tirana Clock Tower
Tirana Clock Tower has become one of the symbols of the city as the second important work that Hacı Ethem Bey brought to Tirana. This 35-meter-high tower is located right next to the Ethem Bey Mosque and stands out among the structures that have survived from the Ottoman period. The clock tower, which stands out with its angular architecture, is not only a part of the historical texture of Tirana, but also maintains its symbolic importance by being featured on the official logo of the Municipality of Tirana today. A popular stop for tourists visiting the city, Tirana Clock Tower attracts attention with both its historical value and the aesthetics it adds to the city's silhouette.
Rozafa Castle
Rozafa Castle, located in the city of Shkodra in Albania, has existed in the same strategic location for thousands of years, according to archaeological findings. Dating back to the 4th century BC, this castle has been captured and used by many different civilizations, from the Illyrians to the Romans, from the Byzantines to the Serbian Kingdom and the Ottomans. Located between the Drin and Bojana rivers, this castle fascinates its visitors not only with its historical importance but also with the magnificent views it offers. With both its historical texture and natural beauty, Rozafa Castle stands out as one of the most important destinations in Albania in terms of cultural tourism.
Durrës Amphitheatre
The Durrës Amphitheatre, located in the Albanian city of Durrës, was built in the 2nd century AD during the reign of Roman Emperor Trajan. This structure from the Roman period is one of the most important historical heritages of the country. The amphitheater, which attracts the attention of both local and foreign tourists with its magnificent ruins, is estimated to have had a capacity to accommodate 20.000 people in the past. With its magnificent structure that has survived to the present day, the Durrës Amphitheatre stands out as a unique cultural value in Albania.
Berat Old City
The Albanian city of Berat has an Old Town that stands out with its historical and cultural richness. The Old Town consists of the Mangalem, Gorica and Kale neighborhoods and contains many historical buildings from the Ottoman period. This area, which was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2008, is of great importance with its intact architecture that carries traces of the Ottoman period to the present day. The Old Town of Berat is an indispensable stop for those who want to see Albania's past up close, located approximately 100 kilometers from Tirana and is a destination worth exploring for tourists.
Berat Castle
Kale Mahallesi, one of the historical neighborhoods of Berat city, takes its name from Berat Castle, which was built by the Byzantine Empire on the foundations of the old castle in the 13th century. Berat Castle, which can still be visited today, is home to both Byzantine churches and mosques, reflecting Albania's rich and multicultural past. This castle is considered an important symbol of the country's historical and cultural mosaic that has been preserved to this day.
Bastova Castle
Although there are different opinions about the construction of Bastova Castle, some sources claim that it dates back to the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, while others claim that it dates back to the Venetian control of the region in the 15th century. The castle, which has a strategic location close to the sea and the river, attracts attention with its quadrangular structure. Although its towers and walls are in a very different state today than they were in the past, its strategic importance in the Middle Ages is evident. Conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1478, the castle underwent some architectural changes during the Ottoman period.
Venice Tower
The Venetian Tower in Durrës has great historical importance and there are several main factors that give it this value. The fact that it is part of a Byzantine castle, considered one of the strongest castles on the western coast of the Adriatic Sea, is one of the main reasons for this importance. The tower, which was damaged in the earthquake that occurred in 2019, was restored with renovation works. Today, the Venetian Tower, which is positioned in harmony with modern buildings and roads, also reveals the strategic importance of the city of Durrës throughout history. There is also an area in the tower where you can experience the atmosphere of the ancient period with artificial reality glasses.
Skenduli House
Located in the old quarters of Gjirokastra, the Skenduli House, built in 1823, is one of the best preserved buildings with a 200-year history. This house, one of the most beautiful examples of 19th century Albanian architecture, has 9 fireplaces, 4 baths, 12 rooms, 44 doors and 64 windows. These details reflect the tradition of evaluating the wealth of a family, especially according to the number of fireplaces in the house.
Guided by Nasip Skenduli, the heir of the Skenduli family, this historical house reveals traces of daily life in 19th century Albania. This unique place offers visitors the opportunity to experience the past, like a time machine, and is among the must-see places.
Lekuresi Castle
Lekuresi Castle is a structure from the Ottoman period and was ordered to be built by Suleiman the Magnificent to defend the region against the Venetians. Completed in 1537, the castle is located on a strategic hill in the city of Aysaranda. The square-planned castle has two towers. Today, there are cafes and restaurants with similar architectural styles around the castle. When you climb up to Lekuresi Castle, you can both watch the magnificent view of Aysaranda from the top and spend some enjoyable time in these facilities.
Visiting historical sites in Albania not only provides a glimpse into the country’s past, but also provides a deeper understanding of the impact of different civilizations and cultures on these lands. From Skanderbeg Square to Berat Castle, each structure and site forms an important part of Albania’s historical heritage. These unique destinations offer visitors both a visual feast and a rich historical experience. A trip to Albania will take you on a journey through time, building a bridge between the past and the present.
Albania has been a point of intersection of different beliefs and civilizations throughout history, and this diversity is reflected in the country's religious architecture. Mosques, churches and cathedrals in Albania stand out as structures that bear the traces of history and attract attention with their artistic richness, beyond being just places of worship. Religious structures in the country show the deep influence of different belief systems, such as Islam and Christianity, and have also made a great contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage. The religious structures to be discovered in Albania offer visitors both a spiritual and historical journey.
Ethem Bey Mosque
The Ethem Bey Mosque is one of the most important historical structures of Tirana and was completed in 1822-1823. Despite the political changes that Albania has gone through throughout history, the mosque has managed to survive without any damage and draws attention with its unique architecture. The construction of this mosque, which was started by Molla Bey but did not live long enough to complete, was finished by his son, Hacı Ethem Bey, and is named after him.
The elegant porticos at the entrance of the mosque and the fine hand-drawn decorations in its interior are considered to be among the most beautiful examples of handicrafts. The decorations inside the dome in particular offer visitors an admirable visual feast. The Ethem Bey Mosque, together with the Tirana Clock Tower, which is located right next to it and was also built by Hacı Ethem Bey, is a historical heritage that must be seen by those who come to Tirana.
Durrës Grand Mosque
The Great Mosque of Durrës was built in 1931 by order of King Zog I of Albania in Durrës. The foundation of the mosque was laid on the ruins of an older mosque built during the Ottoman period. Known as the largest mosque in Albania at the time of its construction, this structure was closed and its minaret was demolished by the communist regime of Enver Hoxha in 1967. However, it was reopened for worship in 1993 with the support of various foundations.
The mosque attracts attention with its unique architecture, which resembles rectangular prisms placed on top of each other, trees in front of it and water fountains. This mosque, which is one of the most important historical buildings of Durrës, attracts the attention of visitors to the city with its magnificent structure.
St. Stephen Cathedral in Shkodra
Built in 1867, the Cathedral of St. Stephen in Shkodra was dedicated to the city's patron Saint Stephen. The cathedral's architectural history has been quite eventful. Its roof, originally made of wood, was in danger of collapse in 1897, but has survived to the present day with renovations. The cathedral's clock and bell tower were damaged during a major earthquake in the early 20th century and the Montenegrin army's siege of Shkodra. The clock and bell, gifted by the Kakarriki brothers, were re-gifted to the cathedral after the siege. However, in 1967, due to the communist regime, the cathedral's activities were stopped and the clock and bell stopped working.
Re-opened for worship and visits in 1990, Shkodra's St. Stephen Cathedral is a must-visit for those who want to experience both 19th-century cathedral architecture and Albania's turbulent history.
Albania’s religious buildings are important stops not only for worship but also for understanding historical and cultural values. From the elegant architecture of the Et’hem Bey Mosque to the story of the Durrës Grand Mosque from the past to the present and the turbulent history of the St. Stephen Cathedral in Shkodra, each building reveals the artistic and cultural characteristics of its period. These religious buildings reflect the multicultural structure of Albania and offer visitors the opportunity to witness the country’s religious and historical depths. Every religious site discovered in Albania offers a fascinating experience with its spiritual atmosphere as well as its deep-rooted past.
Albania offers a unique experience that sheds light on the country's past thanks to its museums that stand out with their historical and cultural riches. These museums, which have a wide range of history from ancient times to the communist period, provide visitors with the opportunity to both take a deep historical journey and get to know the country's cultural heritage up close. From the National History Museum to the Apollonia Archaeological Museum, each museum tells a different period and story, allowing you to discover Albania's history step by step.
National History Museum
The National Museum of History in Tirana was founded in 1981 and covers a large area of 27 thousand square meters. 18 thousand square meters of this area is used for the museum's various exhibitions. The museum is also interesting for its exterior design; in particular, a large wall mosaic called "Albanians" is located on the front of the museum. This mosaic depicts figures from different eras in order to draw attention to both old and new periods of Albanian history. The interior of the museum is divided into chronologically organized sections such as Ancient and Middle Ages, Renaissance, Iconography, Independence, Anti-Fascist War and Communist Terror, which allows visitors to discover Albania's history step by step.
Gjirokastra Castle and Museum
Located in the city of Gjirokastra in Albania, Gjirokastra Castle is among the important historical structures from the Ottoman period. This castle, which is larger and more magnificent than other castles, attracts great attention from tourists. With its strategic location, the castle offers visitors a commanding view of the region, and also hosts a museum where local history is exhibited. Watching the magnificent views of the surroundings from the viewing areas of Gjirokastra Castle offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
Skanderbeg Museum
Located in Akçakale and opened to visitors in 1982, the Skanderbeg Museum is an important place that sheds light on Albania's history. The architecture of the museum was designed by Pirro Vaso and Pranvera Hoca, the daughter of Enver Hoca. This museum, where various works from Skanderbeg's period are exhibited, has a structure resembling a fortress, just like Akçakale. The museum, named after Skanderbeg, who resisted the Ottoman Empire until 1468, also attracts visitors with its walls decorated with Byzantine-style frescoes. In addition, the museum provides both Albanian and English guide services, making it easier for visitors.
Apollonia Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Apollonia, located in Fier, Albania, is home to an ancient heritage dating back to the 6th century BC. Founded by the Illyrian Tribe, Apollonia takes its name from Apollo, meaning “land of Apollo.” Initially playing an important role as a trading colony, Apollonia existed for nearly a thousand years and was abandoned in the 4th century AD. Today, this ancient settlement opens its doors to visitors as a park and museum.
The excavations that began after World War I lasted for about thirty years and the museum was opened in 1958. The Hellenistic period remains found during the excavations were exhibited in the museum, but the museum was closed in 1991. The Apollonia Archaeological Museum, which reopened in 2011, has a rich collection from ancient times and has taken its place among the valuable museums worldwide.
Elbasan Ethnography Museum
Elbasan Ethnography Museum, located in Elbasan, Albania, is housed in a two-story mansion dating back to the 18th century and displays the cultural and folkloric riches of the city from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum displays local clothing of the period, examples of crafts such as blacksmithing, bell making and saddle making, and takes visitors on a journey into the past with both its interior and exterior atmosphere. The museum offers an impressive visual experience of Elbasan's history.
Marubi National Museum of Photography
The story of the Marubi National Museum of Photography in the city of Shkodra begins with the Marubi Photography Studio founded by Italian sculptor, painter, architect and photographer Pietro Marubi in the 19th century. After being exiled from Italian lands, Marubi continued his work in the Ottoman Empire and undertook important projects in the field of photography for his time. Marubi, who died in Shkodra in 1903, left his studio to his student because he had no children or wife.
Over time, this studio has become an important museum that promotes Albanian photography to the world. The Marubi National Museum of Photography was transformed into a national museum with various funds and today offers an interactive experience consisting of thousands of negatives. The museum also serves as an active cultural center in the field of photography, organizing photo exhibitions, talks and conferences.
Bunker
One of the most interesting stops in Tirana is the Bunkart Museum, located underground. Built by Enver Hoxha during the communist era, these huge bunkers have now been transformed into a museum and experience area. Visitors can explore the underground rooms where military equipment is exhibited, the tunnel system and photographs from the period. Bunkart serves as two separate museums, and you can visit one after visiting the other. These bunkers offer a unique environment for those who want to experience Albania's recent history and the Cold War period up close.
Museums to visit in Albania are a great attraction not only for history and art lovers but also for anyone who wants to make a cultural discovery. Each one offers important clues about a different period and cultural richness of the country, providing visitors with an educational and unforgettable experience. From the historical atmosphere of Gjirokastra Castle and Museum to the impressive exhibitions of the Bunkart Museum dating back to the Cold War, Albania's museums allow you to understand the soul and past of the country in the deepest way.
Albania is a Balkan country that draws attention with its historical and cultural riches as well as its fascinating cities. Each of these cities has its own unique character and charm, offering visitors both natural beauty and historical heritage. While the capital city of Tirana is the heart of Albania with its modern texture, coastal cities such as Durrës and Vlore offer a peaceful holiday by the sea. The cities to be visited in Albania promise an unforgettable travel experience with both their historical atmosphere and unique landscapes.
Tyrant
Tirana, the capital of Albania, was founded in 1614 by the then Governor of Shkodra, Suleyman Pasha. Although mosques and complexes were built during the Ottoman period, only a few of these structures have survived to the present day due to the erosion of time. Growing rapidly from the early 18th century onwards and becoming an important trade centre, Tirana was freed from Ottoman rule during the Balkan Wars in 1912 and declared the capital of independent Albania in 1919. Tirana is one of the most striking cities in Albania with both its historically important points and cultural riches.
Durres
Durrës is one of the ideal destinations for a day trip when you are in Tirana. With its long coastline, this city is preferred by those who want to have a seaside holiday and get a taste of the seaside air, and is a popular place frequently visited by Albanians. Durrës can be added to your list as a stop worth exploring not only for its sea but also for its historical and cultural heritage.
Vlore
Vlore, Albania's second largest port city, fascinates visitors with its beautiful coastline, olive trees and delicious seafood. ItalyLocated close to the Salento coast of , Vlore attracts attention not only with its natural beauty but also with its lively and fun lifestyle. Being one of the attraction centers of tourism, this city is a great destination for those who want to both relax and explore.
Albania’s cities offer a different discovery, each with its own story and atmosphere. The cultural dynamism of Tirana, the coastal delights of Durrës and the natural beauty of Vlore are some of the best examples of the diversity that Albania has to offer. Spread across the country, these cities offer visitors a relaxing and educational journey with both their historical depth and modern life. No matter which city you visit in Albania, you will encounter a rich cultural mosaic and fascinating natural landscapes waiting for you.
Albania is a country that offers nature lovers a unique opportunity to discover with its natural beauties and fascinating landscapes. This vast natural wealth, extending from mountains to lakes, national parks to coastlines, contains many beauties waiting to be discovered in every corner of Albania. From the fascinating waters of the Blue Eye to the impressive depths of the Osum Canyon, from the historical texture of the Butrint National Park to the crystal clear beaches of Ksamil, the parks and natural beauties to be visited in Albania offer an unforgettable experience for both nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Blue Eyes
Located in the village of Mesopotam, in the Albanian province of Vlorë, the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) stands out as an impressive water source that fascinates nature lovers. The deep blue and green tones combined with the lush trees and vegetation surrounding it justify the metaphor of the “blue eye” that gave this natural beauty its name. The clear and bright blue of the source offers an impressive image similar to the human eye and fascinates visitors.
Ksamil
Ksamil is one of the unique villages of Albania, quite different from traditional villages. This place, famous for its beaches, is the center of attention of both Albanians and foreign tourists with its clear turquoise waters and stunning nature. Ksamil, described as the pearl of the Adriatic Sea, offers breathtaking beauty with its pristine beaches and small islands around it. This visual feast offered by nature brings together every shade of blue, turquoise and lush green vegetation. Ksamil's beaches are so beautiful that you can't pass without entering the sea and it is a must-see destination in Albania.
Great Tirana Park
Opened in 1956 in Tirana, the Great Tirana Park stands out as a reflection of both the natural and cultural riches of the capital. The park includes important structures such as an artificial lake, the Church of St. Procopius, monuments to important figures in Albania, and the Presidential Palace. This vast green area, which can be described as the heart of the city, is a perfect stop for both nature lovers and those who want to explore the cultural heritage. As one of the main places to visit in Tirana, the Great Tirana Park offers its visitors a peaceful and enjoyable environment.
Butrint National Park
Located in the Aysaranda region of Albania, Butrint National Park is a region that draws attention with both its natural beauty and historical importance. Lake Butrint, its ancient amphitheater and rich flora and fauna within the park offer fascinating views to visitors. This site, which was added to the World Heritage List by UNESCO in 1992, officially gained national park status in 2000. Ideal for hiking, trekking and bird watching, Butrint National Park also hosts the remains of ancient works. The Byzantine churches and mosques in the park are also a great source for architectural comparison studies.
Osum Canyon
One of the most impressive natural wonders of Albania, Osum Canyon is located in the south of the country and offers a fascinating view with the Osum River flowing through it. Especially in the spring months, when the snow melts, the waters of the river gush out and make the depth and beauty of the canyon even more impressive. Osum Canyon, which is a favorite of nature lovers with its two sides surrounded by greenery, is an ideal destination for trekking, hiking and rafting. The natural beauty of the canyon with its lush river waters offers many reasons to visit this region.
Dajti Mountain and National Park
Located east of Tirana, Dajti Mountain stands out with its 1613-meter-high Ramno peak and was declared a national park in 1996. The park covers a vast area of approximately 29.384 hectares, with cable cars to reach the summit. A popular destination for both locals and tourists, Dajti Mountain and National Park offers an ideal environment for many outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, mountaineering and paragliding. This natural wonder welcomes its visitors as one of the most popular tourist areas in Albania.
Llogara National Park and Pass
Located in the city of Vlorë in Albania, Llogara National Park and Gorge fascinates its visitors with its magnificent views of the Adriatic Sea. This natural wonder is one of the indispensable addresses for nature lovers with its lush vegetation and impressive panorama that expands as it rises. Its zig-zag roads offer a pleasant journey, especially for those traveling by car, while tree species such as Bulgarian pine and black pine in the park make the region even more attractive.
If you are planning to hike in Llogara National Park, don't forget to explore the famous Llogara Pass as well as Caesar's Pass, where Julius Caesar is said to have passed. An ideal area for trekking, hiking and picnicking, Llogara National Park is one of the most remarkable destinations among the natural beauties in Vlorë.
Rhineland Park
Located in Tirana and only 500 meters from Skanderbeg Square, Rinia Park offers a relaxing area in the city center. Established in 1950 with large-scale infrastructure works after World War II, this park is an ideal place for those who want to get away from the city crowds and relax. The park offers many social opportunities to its visitors with its kiosks and surrounding restaurants and cafes. With the end of the communist regime in Albania in 1991, significant structural changes were made around the park and today it stands out as one of the most popular recreational areas in Tirana.
Lake Shkodra
Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans, has an area of 370 to 530 km², depending on the state of water resources throughout the year. The lake, located between Albania and Montenegro, is particularly notable for hosting more than 270 species of birds. The fact that the last pelicans living in Europe are also found in this lake makes Lake Skadar a special attraction for bird watchers. The green areas around the lake are as interesting as the variety of birds and offer a great environment for those who want to do activities such as hiking and trekking.
Lake Koman
Lake Koman, located in the north of Albania, is a natural wonder surrounded by densely wooded hills, steep slopes, deep gorges and narrow valleys. Fed by the Şala, Valbona and Drin rivers, the lake has a surface area of 34 km² and is located at an altitude of 115 meters. Its natural structure and water resources also enrich the biodiversity around the lake; Europe Mammals such as badgers, golden foxes, pine martens and birds such as quails and kingfishers live in this region.
Lake Koman offers an excellent area for activities such as water sports, trekking and bird watching, as well as an ideal environment for picnics. The green of the forests and the blue of the river waters create a fascinating landscape around the lake.
For those who want to be in touch with nature in Albania, there are many different routes and beauties to discover. Whether hiking on Mount Dajti or bird watching at Lake Shkodra, each natural area offers visitors moments of peace and excitement. The unique nature of the country proves that Albania is a destination worth discovering, not only for its historical heritage but also for its natural wonders. These fascinating parks and natural beauties of Albania invite every visitor to a fascinating nature adventure.
Albania stands out as a fascinating destination not only for its historical and cultural richness but also for its natural beauty. These natural wonders, ranging from the beaches on the Adriatic coast to the lush national parks, offer nature lovers and holidaymakers a variety of experiences. From the peaceful and tranquil coast of Lukova to the wide sandy areas of Durrës Beach, the parks and natural beauties to be visited in Albania are ideal spots that offer visitors the opportunity to both relax and explore.
Lukova Beach
Lukova Beach is located in a quiet and peaceful corner of the Albanian Adriatic Sea. Featuring fine white sand and crystal clear blue sea, this beach offers ideal conditions for snorkelers. Known as one of the most popular swimming spots in Albania, Lukova Beach is a perfect getaway for those looking for a peaceful holiday, with its natural beauty and clear waters.
Durrës Beach
Durrës Beach is known as one of the largest and most popular beaches in Albania. This beach, which is about 10 kilometers long, attracts visitors with its magnificent views and cleanliness. Many tourists come here, not only from Albania but also from neighboring countries, who want to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic.
Dirrac Beach, which stands out with its sandy beach and clean sea, offers both public beaches and private beaches that offer more facilities. Although private beaches generally offer more comfort, those looking for an economical option can choose public beaches.
Albania’s parks and natural beauties offer a true paradise for those who want to be alone with nature. There are ideal destinations for everyone, from those who want to enjoy the sea and sand to those looking for peaceful walks with natural landscapes. Beaches such as Lukova and Durrës take the pleasure of the sea to the top with their crystal clear waters and peaceful atmospheres, and these natural beauties are among the unique treasures of Albania that must be discovered.
Places to visit in Albania offer fascinating experiences for both history buffs and nature lovers. The country offers a wide range of destinations to explore, from the pristine beaches of the Adriatic to historic castles and rich cultural heritage. Historical structures such as Skanderbeg Square, Rozafa Castle and Durrës Amphitheatre bear witness to Albania’s deep-rooted past, while natural wonders such as the Blue Eye and Osum Canyon offer breathtaking views. Albania invites its visitors to an unforgettable journey of discovery where culture and nature intertwine.