Winter in Albania brings a contrast of weather that surprises many travellers. Along the coast, cities enjoy mild, breezy winters. But head toward the mountains, and you’ll find a totally different scene, with fresh snow covering peaks and creating beautiful winter views.
So, if you’re planning on visiting Albania soon but don’t know what to expect, this blog post has some tips.
Key Takeaways
- The average winter weather in Albania ranges from 0C to 5C during its milder months.
- The harshest weather is experienced in regions like Valbona, Boboshtica, Korça, and Theth.
- Calmer weather is seen in areas like Tirana, Shkodra and Vlora.
Average Winter Climate In Albania
The winter season falls between December and February in Albania. Throughout the year, the average weather does not exceed 35 °C. Take a look at the average weather as listed below:
- October: 11C low and 20C high
- November: 4C low and 15C high
- December: 2C low and 11C high
- January: 0C low and 8C high
- February: 2C low and 11C high
- March: 5C low and 15C high
Also, most precipitation occurs during the winter months, from November to February. It continues into March and April.
Cities you should visit during winter in Albania
Tirana
Winter in Tirana is relatively mild compared to other parts of Albania. Temperatures range between 5 C to 12 C, though it can get colder during the night. Snow is rare in the city, but it often covers the nearby Dajti mountains, just a short distance from the capital.
On the other hand, Tirana experiences frequent rain showers, making the city feel overcast and damp.
Tirana enjoys pleasant winter temperatures (minus the rainy days), making it easy to explore without the need for heavy winter gear. The city’s vibe, full of people and lively cafes, creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere that its citizens look forward to every year.
KorÇa
Korça turns into a winter wonderland that attracts many visitors each year. Temperatures range between -5°C and 5°C, and walking around the city is a bit uncomfortable under these conditions, so I suggest you explore the cafes and restaurants in the Old Bazaar. They’re warm and cosy, and you can try hearty traditional food and enjoy the atmosphere, which is usually accompanied by traditional music!
Note: Winter is one of the busiest times here, so it’s a good idea to book early to secure a place.
Shkodra
Due to its proximity to the mountains, Shkodra experiences a cooler winter season. Temperatures typically range between 2C and 10C. Snowfall is more common in nearby mountainous areas.
Shkodra is also known for having one of the highest rainfall rates in Albania.
The nearby Accursed Mountains offer opportunities for winter hikes, snowshoeing, and skiing.
Vlora
Vlora has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters, ranging from 8C to 15C. The winters here can be rainy and windy due to its coastal location.
Vlora’s winter season is peaceful, making it ideal for travellers craving a quieter, coastal experience. An excellent place to visit nearby is the Llogara National Park, often blanketed in snow.
Valbona
Valbona experiences a continental Alpine climate. This means partaking in crisp, cold days with clear skies once the snow settles. Perhaps the coldest weather I experienced in Valbona was during January. The climate drops as low as -0.5 C during nighttime.
Heavy snowfall is extremely common in Valbona, blanketing the valley. It begins snowing in early November and ends during spring.
Travellers can take advantage of the snow-covered slopes for exhilarating split boarding, snowshoeing, and skiing adventures. Also, the Valbona Valley National Park’s winter trails are perfect for catching a scenic evening stroll.
Boboshtica
Boboshtica is a quaint village near Korça, in southeastern Albania, at the foot of the Morova Mountains.
The average weather in Boboshtica ranges from -1C to 4C. The nights are often colder, with temperatures dipping below freezing.
Boboshtica receives regular snowfall so the surrounding mountains are blanketed in snow. Snowfall begins in early November and lasts throughout February or March.
Apart from being a great place to stay in Albania, Boboshtica is a haven during the winter. You can learn about the Centennial Trees or witness the Traditional Handloom Craftsmanship. Also, you can visit the Historic Bridges and Churches in the area.
Theth
Theth is a remote village in the heart of the Albanian Alps. It becomes an absolutely stunning snow-covered wonderland during the winter months.
However, it’s also a challenging destination due to its isolation and harsh winter conditions.
Theth experiences a continental alpine climate characterised by thick layers of snow. The average weather can range between -3C to 7C. Meanwhile, nighttime temperatures drop significantly, oftentimes to -10C.
Theth is known for its isolated beauty, becoming an enchanting winter escape. Travellers can discover the historical significance of the Isolation Tower that’s located there.
Some other activities? Warm up with hearty home-cooked meals. Or, interact with hospitable locals and learn about the cultural nuances of Albania.
Conclusion
Experiencing winter in Albania can be a fun challenge. Areas like Valbona, Theth, Boboshtica, and Korça are among the best places to visit in Albania to get the most out of the charm the country has to offer.
Got any questions? Feel free to reach out to Magic Towns Albania.
Thank you for reading, and I hope it helps you plan your next winter adventure.
Good job! Please give your positive feedback
How could we improve this post? Please Help us.
