If you’re like me, who hates spending time at the beach doing nothing for hours, I’m sure you know how exciting it is to find some cool activities to do instead. And with summer right around the corner, comes a list of interesting options available in the coastal cities of Albania, to fully enjoy your time and have the best experience ever. Let’s discover them together!
1. Cool Adventures in Durrës
Durrës, located just 55 minutes from Tirana, offers the perfect escape for those who’d like to try some new fun activities near the beach or enjoy a cup of coffee, along with some tasty ice cream at Gelateria Çela, a very popular spot there (they make the best ice cream I’ve tried in Albania).
ATV (All-Terrain Vehicle) Adventures
If you’re an adventure enthusiast looking for a thrill, hop on for a 1.5-hour ATV ride across Durrës’ varied terrain. It’s the perfect opportunity to satisfy your craving for adrenaline and explore the beautiful landscapes of the region.
Horseback Riding
For an amazing horseback riding experience, you have several options to choose from. Durrës Horse Riding Village and Durrës Riding School are fantastic alternatives to explore the countryside on horseback.
For guided tours, you might check options like this one.
However, if you prefer something “more relaxed”, have a look at Kodra Kuajve (Horse Hill), a popular restaurant in Durrës that delivers not only delicious meals, but also horseback riding experiences with breathtaking views over the coast. At Kodra Kuajve, you can enjoy guided horseback rides led by expert instructors and even take a tour of the farm to meet the beautiful horses. (Perfect for families with kids too.)
Volleyball at the Beach
Durrës has some of the country’s best beach volleyball spots. Because it’s close to Tirana, a lot of people go there during the weekend to enjoy a day off and spend some time with their friends. With plenty of beach volleyball courts along the shoreline, it’s a dream come true for sport lovers.
Other Activities to Consider Near Durrës
Day Tour to the Cape of Rodon
A day trip to the Cape of Rodon is perfect for anyone who wants to have nature and history all in one place. Named after an ancient God called Redon, the cape is home to Skanderbeg’s Castle, believed to have been built by the famous Albanian leader in the 14th century. After he passed away, the castle was taken over by the Vatican and surrounded by Catholic monasteries with special architecture. With the marks of the past still visible today, as you explore the cape, you’ll be amazed by the fascinating medieval sites like the Church of St. Anthony and Rodoni Castle.
Full-Day Mount Dajti Hiking Tour
If you’re in for a more challenging activity, prepare for an incredible day of hiking with the ultimate Mount Dajti Tour from Durrës (private transport included). The journey begins with riding up the mountain in a cable car gondola, where you’ll be presented with stunning views of the Albanian landscape.
Then it continues with a guided hike through Cherry Pass, which sits snugly between Mount Dajti and Mount Tujani. After reaching the peak of Tujani, the highest accessible point on the mountain, you can enjoy the breathtaking panorama of Lake Bovilla.
Karavasta Lagoon and Local Food Tasting Tour
The Karavasta Lagoon is Albania’s biggest lagoon and ranks among the largest in the Mediterranean Sea. Through this tour, you can explore the park, visit a pagan temple, and try some local culinary delights. The perfect day for nature and taste!
2. Vlorë, or The Adventurers’ Paradise
Vlora is a very popular coastal city in southern Albania, and much loved by expats. Apart from the perfect relaxation spot, there is a lot more you can do in Vlora if you’re looking for that extra dose of excitement.
Journey Across the Sea and Caves
A speedboat trip to Sazan Island and the mystical Haxhi Ali Cave on the Karaburun Peninsula is a top-rated adventure. The excursion reveals secret coves, stunning marine life, and the intriguing history of Sazan Island, once a military base during the Cold War.
A lot of tour guides like this one, are available and offer this kind of journeys.
“Fly” Above Vlora’s Landscapes
Paragliding in Vlorë is a fun and unforgettable experience for all those who love this type of adventurous activity. Check our their website for more details.
Spinera Fun Adventure Ride
High-speed water activities like the Spinera Fun Adventure Ride are the perfect combo of adrenaline and laughter, best enjoyed with a group of friends or family members.
Explore Off-Road and Underwater
For off-road enthusiasts, you can visit Orikum Park, the Marmiroi Church, and Old Tragjas, or the Amantia Archaeological Park and Brataj Bridge, to see the beauty of the region.
Dive into the Underwater World
Check out some scuba diving and snorkelling activities, that invite you to explore the underwater world of the Albanian Riviera.
Other Additional Activities
Birdwatching and Eco-Tours
the Narta Lagoon
Nature lovers can explore the Vjosë-Nartë Protected Landscape for a safari and birdwatching experience. The area’s biodiversity is exceptional, the perfect peaceful retreat for those seeking to connect with nature and take some time off.
Cultural and Historical Explorations
Tours to Berat, Apollonia, and the Monastery of Ardenica can take you on a journey into Albania’s heritage, while the Castel Trip to Kanina Castle, lets you step back in time.
3. Camping at Gjipe Beach
Gjipe Beach is a slice of paradise located along Albania’s Riviera, a very famous summer camping spot, perfect for sunbathing, and a gateway to adventures with its nearby canyon and waterfall.
Gjipe Canyon Adventure
Gjipe Canyon Adventure offers just the perfect amount of excitement hikers need. This journey that reconnects you with nature, is rewarded with the breathtaking sight of a stunning waterfall at the end of the hike.
Check out the top 10 hiking destinations in Albania.
Camping Under the Stars
If fire by the beach, good company and sleeping under the stars are your thing, then camping in Gjipe is a must-try experience! Going there with a group of friends, or booking a guided tour are both exciting options to socialize and make the most out of this experience. However, there’s a catch. Sleeping in a tent is not very comfortable. But, it’s worth the memories, isn’t it?
4. Boat Tours & More in Himarë
Himara is a beautiful small town located between Vlora and Saranda, perfect for those who prefer quiet beaches, and a more relaxing vibe, compared to the other crowded beaches near the area. However, there are some fun activities you can do there, especially if you love water sports.
Boat Tours
For those keen to explore the sparkling blue waters of the Albanian Riviera, boat tours are probably the best way to explore the area.
Himara Watertaxi
Himara Watertaxi is an excellent choice for exploring the hidden gems of the coastline, such as Grama Bay and its captivating caves.
Beach Hopping
If you prefer hopping from one beach to another, rather than just soaking in the sun for hours, tours like this are ideal for making the most out of summer in Albania.
Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding, stand-up paddling, snorkelling and more, are all available in and close by Himara. Check out Himara SUP rentals, or Albrafting for similar water activities in Porto Palermo, a beach near Himara.
5. Sarandë, The Water-Sports Hub
Saranda, a popular coastal town in southern Albania, is not just about sunbathing on its beautiful beaches; it’s a destination full of activities for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Here are some of the top beach activities to consider when visiting Saranda.
Paddleboarding Around Ksamil Islands
Going on a paddleboarding journey around the Ksamil Islands is a great way to start your adventure in Saranda. (Ksamil is a lovely village 26 minutes from Saranda, recently considered the Maldives of Europe.) With all necessary safety gear provided, including a leash, life jacket, and a waterproof bag, you’re all set for an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the Albanian Riviera.
Cruising to Corfu Town and Palaiokastritsa
If you’d like to get a taste of Greece, then you should consider a full-day cruise to Corfu Town and the village of Palaiokastritsa. Explore the Corfu’s Old Town full of little cute shops and quaint streets.
Later, you can wander through Palaiokastritsa, a village known for its beauty and the option to venture further into secluded coves by hiring a small boat. This group excursion exemplifies the ease of hopping between Greek and Albanian beauties.
A Few Moments in Peace at Kroreza Beach
If solitude and untouched nature are what you seek, Kroreza Beach is your sanctuary. Accessible only by boat or on foot, this secluded strip of white sand and azure waters is just a stone’s throw from Saranda.
Visit the Blue Eye
The Blue Eye in Albania is a breathtaking natural spring famous for its captivating blue color. The contrasting dark shades at its center (together with the blue around it) resemble a human eye, from where the place takes its name. The spring, with its crystal-clear waters and unique underwater cave, make it a must-visit destination when in Albania.
In fact, we have covered more details and valuable info about the Blue eye (if you’re planning a trip there), as well as some info about Butrint (a UNESCO Heritage Site in Albania worth a visit).
For more tips from natives and experts, feel free to contact us on our website, or join our community on Facebook.
Up Next:
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