When in Albania, skip these touristic destinations, and do these in stead.

Looking for a more authentic side of Albania? Here are a few places where we took the road less travelled—and didn’t regret it. 1. Skip Butrint, go to Apollonia instead There’s no doubt that Butrint is an impressive site, rich in Roman history and beautifully located. But it also draws large crowds, especially in peak season. We found Apollonia to be a perfect alternative—peaceful, atmospheric, and far less busy. It might not have the same fame, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into Albania’s ancient past, in a much more relaxed setting. 2. Skip Ksamil, go to Himarë instead Ksamil is often described as the Caribbean of Europe—but for us, it felt overcrowded and overhyped. Himarë, a bit further north, turned out to be a much better fit. It’s a great base for exploring the area’s beautiful, secluded beaches, and has a lively seafront lined with bars and restaurants. But what really charmed us was the old village tucked into the hills above the coast, with stunning views and a much quieter vibe. 3. Skip Bogovë Waterfall, go to Progonat Waterfall instead We actually visited both, so you don’t have to choose—but if you go to Bogovë, make sure to get there early. After 10 a.m., the crowds start rolling in and don’t stop. Ujëvara e Peshturës near Progonat, on the other hand, was a hidden gem. Located along a newly built road between Tepelenë and the coast (so new it’s not even on Google Maps yet), it was every bit as beautiful—and just as refreshing for a swim—but without the masses. You might need to ask locals for directions, but that’s part of the adventure. 4. Skip Mrizi i Zanave, stay at Traditional Guesthouse Përmet instead When planning our trip, I was really excited to stay at Mrizi i Zanave—so much so that we made a major detour just to spend a night there. And while the place is beautiful and the food excellent, it felt more like a well-oiled machine than the farm stay I had imagined. By contrast, our time at the Traditional Guesthouse in Përmet felt genuinely personal. The family welcomed us into their home, cooked amazing meals from their garden, and made us feel completely at ease. It was, hands down, one of the most authentic experiences of our trip.

@Mieke_Fonck

Family firstCulture crush

Add to soulmates

Add to soulmates