I landed in Albania with a mix of curiosity and excitement in March 2024. As a female solo traveler, I’ve learned that the best adventures often come from the places we least expect.
I don’t understand why Albania isn’t as well-known as other European destinations. How has a country with such stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm-hearted people remained such a well-kept secret? Before visiting, I had heard whispers about its beauty, but nothing prepared me for the experience I was about to have.
Albania, often overshadowed by its Mediterranean neighbors, turned out to be one of the most welcoming and breathtaking destinations I’ve ever explored. As a solo traveler, I was welcomed with open arms, treated like family, and had one of the best adventures of my life. Now, I want to share that experience with you.
First stop : Tirana the city that never stops moving
My journey started in Tirana, a city bursting with energy. From the moment I stepped into Skanderbeg Square, I could feel the pulse of a capital that’s evolving yet deeply rooted in its history.
It was pouring rain that day, and to make matters worse, someone had stolen my jacket in Montenegro. I stood at the crosswalk, shivering and waiting for the light to turn green so I could dart across the street and buy an umbrella. Just then, a kind woman appeared by my side, silently extending her umbrella over me. She walked with me to the nearest shop, making sure I stayed dry while I picked out my own. That small act of kindness set the tone for my time in Albania—I knew I was in a country where people genuinely look out for one another.
Once I was warm and dry again, I wandered through the colorful streets of Blloku, a neighborhood that was once off-limits to the public during the communist era but is now buzzing with trendy cafés and bars. I found a cozy spot, ordered a coffee, and watched the city wake up. There’s something special about mornings in Tirana—the air is filled with chatter, the smell of fresh bread drifts from bakeries, and the city hums with possibility.
If you’re traveling solo like me, Tirana offers free walking tours throughout the year. It’s the best way to meet fellow travelers and dive into the city’s history. The tours run daily at 9 AM, 10 AM, 2 PM, and 4 PM, making it easy to fit one into your schedule. I highly recommend joining—you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the city and, if you’re lucky, a few new friends. Here is the link of the tour : https://tiranafreetour.com/
Second stops: Kruja, The Birthplace of Albanian Heroism
Kruja is a town steeped in history and national pride. As the birthplace of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, it holds a special place in the hearts of Albanians. The medieval Kruja Castle stands proudly on the hillside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Inside, the Skanderbeg Museum tells the story of Albania’s fierce resistance against the Ottoman Empire.
I wandered through the old bazaar, a charming maze of cobbled streets lined with vendors selling traditional handicrafts, carpets, and antique treasures. It felt like stepping back in time. A local shop owner invited me in for a cup of tea, and we chatted about life in Kruja—another warm reminder of Albanian hospitality. If you want to immerse yourself in history while enjoying one of the most picturesque views in the country, Kruja is an absolute must. As I don’t have my driver’s license yet, I know shame shame, this place is accessible by public transportation from the Bus station central, you will see Kruja written on a small “bus”.
Berat , A Fairytale in White and Stone
A few hours south, Berat felt like stepping into a living postcard. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” this UNESCO-listed gem captivated me with its white houses cascading down the hillside.
As I made my way up to Berat Castle, the golden-hour light bathed the entire valley in shades of orange and pink, creating one of the most magical sunsets I’ve ever seen. This city became the highlight of my trip to Albania, I felt an instant connection to it. The people in this small town were by far the nicest I met during my Balkan journey.
Later, I visited a local salon for an Albanian haircut, which, of course, I ended up regretting because my hair wasn’t quite aligned the way I wanted. But it was a memorable experience that added to the charm of my Balkan adventure.
Gjirokastër, Where History Meets Charm
If Berat is a fairytale, Gjirokastër is its mysterious sister. This stone city, with its fortress looming over cobbled streets, carries the weight of Albania’s past. I spent an afternoon getting lost in its winding alleys, stopping for homemade byrek in a tiny family-run bakery.
Why Albania Should Be on Your Solo Travel List
As a female solo traveler, I felt safe, welcomed, and constantly surprised by the kindness of strangers. Albania is still an undiscovered gem, meaning you get all the beauty of the Mediterranean without the crowds or high prices. Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, or simply a moment to yourself by the sea, Albania is the place to be. Stay tuned to discover the best beaches in Albania for your summer holidays.
If you’re thinking about your next trip, take a chance on Albania. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
