Albania's most beautiful beaches – Luxuria Travel guide

Albania has become one of Romanians' favourite summer destinations, and the figures speak for themselves: in 2024, the country welcomed approximately 11.7 million international visitors — a 15% increase on 2023 and nearly double pre-pandemic levels from 2019. The reason? A spectacular coastline, affordable prices and an authenticity that still resists mass tourism. In this guide I present Albania's most beautiful beaches, with verified practical information, so that your holiday is exactly as you want it: relaxing, safe and memorable.

The Albanian coast: over 350 kilometres of shoreline

Albania boasts a coastline over 350 km long on the Ionian Sea (West) and the Adriatic Sea (North), including small islands. This geographical diversity means beaches for all tastes: from peaceful bays with fine sand, perfect for families, to wild coves with white pebbles and turquoise waters, ideal for adventurers. The Adriatic part, in the North, offers wider and less rugged beaches, whilst the Albanian Riviera, on the Ionian coast, impresses with dramatic scenery, with mountains dropping steeply to the sea. If you're considering a complete holiday, our tours in Albania include both the coast and cultural attractions inland.

Blue Flag and exceptional underwater visibility

Water quality is an essential criterion when choosing a beach. In many places, the Blue Flag guarantees cleanliness and safety, and underwater visibility can exceed 20 m (perfect for snorkelling). This makes Albania an ideal destination not just for the beach, but also for exploring marine life. If you're passionate about diving or snorkelling, prepare to discover underwater caves, rocks covered with colourful algae and shoals of fish in the crystal-clear waters. Many beaches offer equipment hire at reasonable prices, and local guides can show you the most beautiful exploration spots.

Gjipe Beach and Borsh: two jewels of the Riviera

Gjipe Beach is hidden between spectacular limestone cliffs, accessible only after a hike of approximately 30 minutes or by boat from Jale. The effort is worthwhile: you arrive at an intimate bay, with turquoise water and absolute peace, far from the hustle and bustle of the resorts. At the opposite pole, stretching 7 kilometres, Borsh Albania beach is one of the longest on the Albanian Riviera. Here you'll find abundant space, traditional tavernas with fresh fish and scenery dominated by century-old olive groves. Both beaches illustrate the diversity of the Albanian coast: intimacy versus expanse, adventure versus comfort.

Practical information: documents, currency and ideal period

Romanian citizens may enter Albania, without a visa, with their identity card or passport, for stays shorter than 90 days within a 6-month period. The local currency is the Albanian lek (ALL), but the euro is accepted in most tourist locations. For advantageous exchange rates, I recommend exchange offices in towns, not the airport. The months of June and September are ideal: the weather is excellent, the water warm and the beaches less crowded. July and August are the peak months, with higher prices and busy beaches, but also with intense nightlife in resorts such as Saranda or Dhermi.

Frequently asked questions

Is Albania safe for tourists?

Yes, Albania is a safe destination, with a steady growth in the number of international tourists. Follow the general safety rules and you'll have a peaceful holiday.

Can I pay with euros in Albania?

The euro is accepted in most tourist locations, but for local shopping and better prices, it's useful to have Albanian lekë as well. Exchange offices in towns offer advantageous rates.

What is the optimum period for the beach in Albania?

June and September are the ideal months: the weather is beautiful, the sea water warm, and the beaches are less crowded than in peak summer season (July–August).

How do I get to Gjipe Beach?

Gjipe Beach is accessible after a hike of approximately 30 minutes from the road or by boat from Jale. It's a wild beach, without facilities, so prepare accordingly.

What documents do I need to travel to Albania?

Romanian citizens may enter Albania with a valid identity card or passport, without a visa, for stays of up to 90 days in 6 months.

Discover our tours too

If you wish to explore Albania without the worry of organising, our organised tours offer you comfort, a Romanian-speaking guide and carefully planned itineraries. Browse all our tours and the departure calendar to find the option that suits you. The Luxuria Travel team is at your disposal with personalised advice and full assistance.

Our departures in the coming period

All are organised by Luxuria Travel, with our own coaches and guides. Limited places.

New Year 2027

• Albania for New Year 2027 — Hotel Green Park, 6 days · departure 29 December
• Istanbul for New Year 2027 — 5 days · departure 30 December
• New Year in Maramureș 2027 — 5 days · departure 30 December

Latecomers' New Year

• Latecomers' New Year in Bucovina — 4 days · departure 21 January 2027
• Maramureș — Latecomers' New Year, with folk musicians, 4 days · departure 21 January 2027

February 2027

• Venice Carnival, by plane — Milan and Verona, 5 days · departure 4 February 2027
• Dubai for Valentine's Day, with visit to Abu Dhabi — 8 days · departure 9 February 2027

Christmas 2026

• Christmas Markets: Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava — 5 days · departure 2 December
• Christmas Markets: Alba Iulia, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu — 2 days · departure 12 December
• Maramureș — Traditional Christmas, 5 days · departure 23 December

See all departures → · Departure calendar → · Bookings: 031 419 00 21