Albania is a land where rugged mountains meet turquoise coastlines, ancient ruins blend into bustling cities, and timeworn Ottoman towns perch quietly above valleys.
If you’re looking to step back in time and explore the Albania’s most beautiful old towns, the following destinations should be at the top of your list.
Gjirokastër: City of Stone
Located in the south, near the Greek border, Gjirokastër is known as the “Stone City.” It sits on a steep hill above the Drino Valley and is one of Albania’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Built almost entirely in stone, the town is famous for its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture and fortress. Gjirokastër is also the birthplace of Albania’s former dictator, Enver Hoxha — and its complex history is part of what makes this town so striking.
What to see and do in Gjirokastër:
Walk through the Old Bazaar and perhaps collect some traditional crafts
Visit Gjirokastër Castle for its stunning panoramic views
Explore the Ethnographic Museum
Try local dishes like qifqi (rice balls) in a traditional stone restaurant
You can join us in us in exploring Gjirokastër as part of our carefully curated cultural and culinary journey through Albania and Northern Greece.
Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows
Berat lies about two hours south of Tirana and is one of the best preserved old towns in Albania. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” its white Ottoman houses are stacked along the hillsides in two neighborhoods, divided by the Osum River. Berat is peaceful, proud, and deeply rooted in both Christian and Muslim heritage.
What to see and do in Berat:
Explore the Berat Castle, still home to local residents
Visit the Onufri Museum and see Orthodox icons from the 16th century
Walk the Gorica Bridge and the historic quarters on both sides of the river
Taste local wine — Berat is in one of Albania’s oldest wine regions
Berat, along with one of the region’s finest wineries, is another stop on our cultural and culinary journey through Albania and Northern Greece.
Shkoder: Albania’s Cultural North
Close to the border with Montenegro and the gateway to the Albanian Alps, Shkoder is one of Albania’s oldest cities. It’s known for its strong cultural identity, historic tolerance between religions, and Venetian influence. Shkoder blends the old and the new, with lively cafés, art galleries, and deep-rooted history.
What to see and do in Shkodër:
Visit Rozafa Castle, with views over three rivers and the city
Explore the Museum of Venetian Masks, showcasing handcrafted masks and carnival history
Stroll through the pedestrian zone lined with coffee shops and art spaces
Take a bike ride around Lake Shkoder, the largest lake in the Balkans
Krujë: The City of Skanderbeg
Just 40 minutes from the capital, Kruje is a small mountain town with big national significance. It was the stronghold of Gjergj Kastrioti, known as Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero. In the mid-15th century, he led a decades-long resistance against the Ottoman Empire, defending Albanian lands and uniting local leaders. Today, he symbolizes Albanian independence, courage, and identity.
What to see and do in Krujë:
Visit the Skanderbeg Museum, built inside the medieval castle
Walk through the Old Bazaar, one of the best places for souvenirs
Catch a stunning sunset from the Krujë Castle with views across the plain to the Adriatic Sea
You can visit Kruje with us, on our Unseen Balkans journey through Kosovo, Albania, and North Macedonia.
Albania is filled with small towns and villages, each with its own story and character.
Among all these treasures, Gjirokastër, Berat, Kruje, and Shkoder stand out as the crowning jewels of Albania’s rich history and culture. These four towns capture the essence of the country like no others: from ancient castles and Ottoman architecture to vibrant bazaars and breathtaking landscapes.
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