Here is your guide on where to stay on the Albanian Riviera. We have the best Albanian Riviera hotels as well as the top Albania resorts.
To plan your visit to Albania, we’ve put together our list of the best hotels along the Albanian Riviera that have great access to Albanian tourist attractions.
Caesar was here. That’s a good enough reason for me to visit the Albania Riviera. What about you? I assume that’s a yes, as you’ve landed on a guide to show you the places to stay on the Albanian Riviera.
Did you know that when Ceasar landed on the Albanian Coast to pursue Pompey the Great, he crossed the Llogara Pass? This 1027-meter high pass has the most spectacular views of the Ionian Sea of the Albanian Riviera. It became famous after a Top Gear episode featuring a high-speed chase police chase here.
The Albanian Riviera is famous for its turquoise waters, long sandy beaches, UNESCO heritage sites, and quaint old villages. July and August are peak seasons in Albania because of the warm sunshine, while Spring and Fall are the best time to visit, with average temperatures and lesser crowds.
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Neighborhood Guide
The Albanian Riviera offers several beautiful coastal towns and villages where you can stay. Here are some popular options:
Durres
This port city is just west of Tirana and is a history and beach lover’s dream. Check out the massive amphitheater dating back to Roman times and the 9th-century church for which the town is famous. Head to Durresi Beach and enjoy the clear water and golden sand. It’s about 3 hours from Saranda should you want to continue along the riviera.
Saranda
Saranda is a bustling town with a lively atmosphere. It has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. The town is known for its stunning beaches and proximity to attractions like the ancient ruins of Butrint.
Ksamil
Located near Saranda, Ksamil is a small village famous for its crystal-clear waters and secluded beaches. It offers a more tranquil and relaxing atmosphere compared to Saranda.
Himara
Himara is a charming coastal town with a mix of pebble and sandy beaches. It has a laid-back vibe and is popular among both locals and tourists. Himara is divided into the lower and upper parts, with different beach areas to explore.
Dhermi
Dhermi is a picturesque village nestled between the mountains and the sea. It boasts stunning beaches and is known for its vibrant nightlife. Dhermi attracts a younger crowd and offers various accommodation options.
Vlore
Vlore is a larger city compared to the other options on the Albanian Riviera. It has a long coastline with beautiful beaches and a promenade lined with cafes and restaurants. Vlora also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like the Llogara National Park.
When choosing where to stay on the Albanian Riviera, consider your preferences for the atmosphere, beach access, proximity to attractions, and available amenities.
Best Hotels In Durres, Albania
Once the capital of Albania, Durres is located near Tirana, on the country’s coast. This is a very popular destination, meaning there can be gobs of people here spilling over from Tirana in the summer months.
With one of the largest ports of the Adriatic, the city is somewhat suffocated with development. However, there is a good stretch of beach where tourists and locals can enjoy many lovely beaches. And along the promenade, many restaurants offer delicious fresh seafood near the sand.
Over thousands of years, a war between Bulgarians, Greeks, Venetians, and Turks has made this city’s history-rich as its beaches. The impressive Roman amphitheater and the fantastic archaeological museum are among the biggest pulls to the city.
1. Klajdi Luxury Resort & Spa
Klajdi Resort & SPA is an elegant, 5-star accommodation featuring a contemporary design. With a private beach, 3 swimming pools (both indoor and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool), a spa center, and children’s playground, there’s something for everyone here.
Rooms and suites, some with balconies and sea views, are spacious and comfortable. Muted tones, natural lighting and gold accents give these rooms a sophisticated yet cozy vibe.
Onsite, guests can enjoy a restaurant and bar, with lots of menu options, including kid-friendly meals.
2. Hotel Villa Pascucci
This 5-star property is set less than 1 mile from Durres Beach, however guests may choose to never leave as the hotel offers an two outdoor swimming pools, pool bar, garden, terrace, sauna, hammam and hottub – an ultimate set of relaxing options.
Rooms are incredibly ornate and elegant, with bidets, rain shower heads, marble accents and fancy linens, along with the standard modern amenities you’d expect in a luxury accommodation.. You will feel completely spoiled!
The onsite restaurant offers many cuisine options, including a kid-friendly menu. Guests can also opt to dine in their rooms.
3. Mövenpick Hotel Lalez Durres
Just 500 metres from Lalëz Bay Beach, this is another 5-star option we highly recommend! Two outdoor pools, with one that’s adult only, along with a spa center offering all the wellness treatments you might want, you will find yourself relaxed in no time.
Spacious rooms feature cozy beds and contemporary design, with geometric artwork and lots of natural lighting. Family rooms and suites are available for larger groups if needed.
An onsite bar and restaurant are available for dining and guests can also rent bicycles to tour the area.
4. Sol Tropikal Durres
This 4-star beachfront property is perfect for a beach vacation. With private beach access and gorgeous outdoor pools along with an outdoor garden, there are plenty of spaces to soak up the sun.
Fresh, modern rooms are outfitted with plush bed linens, minbars and flat screen TVs. They offer balconies, some with sea views. Families will find plenty of space options, with family rooms and various styles and sizes of suites available.
Breakfast is offered each morning, and guests can also enjoy refreshment at the hotel restaurant and bar.
Best Hotels In Saranda, Albania
The town that connects all towns, Saranda, is the unofficial main stop in the southern Riviera. Stay here to quickly access beautiful places like Ksamil, the Blue Eye, and Gjirokaster.
Saranda is the largest city in the region, a beautiful place to stay on the Albanian Riviera nestled in a wide gulf. Set between the coastal hills and the crystal-clear sea, with the Greek island of Corfu beckoning in the distance, Saranda is a dream-like beach destination in the Balkans.
Saranda still has a significant Greek population nowadays. Thanks to its long and rich history, which goes back to Ancient Greece, the city has its share of wonderful archaeological and historical sites. The city’s many cultural influences over the centuries are still visible today. And indeed, Greece is not too far away: it’s just a quick ferry ride to Corfu from Saranda.
Besides lots of history and culture, Saranda also has several excellent beaches. In summer, it can be pretty busy here, but one of Saranda’s main drawcards is its proximity to most other Albanian Riviera highlights. One of the most popular things to do in Saranda is not actually in the city; it’s going on day trips to gorgeous places like Butrint National Park, Dhermi, Llogara Pass, and Gjirokaster.
In short, Saranda is a great base to explore this stunning region in southern Albania. There are numerous excellent Albanian Riviera hotels to choose from here. Let’s check out some of the best.
5. White Residence Apartment
About 2 minutes from the beach, this accommodation on Butrinti Street on the Albanian Riviera is the perfect choice for staying away from the city. The apartment is elegantly furnished in white, offers world-class comforts, and the property has an onsite bar.
Each 69 m² apartment is wheelchair accessible and has a kitchenette with a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, dining area and kitchenware, and a balcony with good views. The apartments include air conditioning, heating, hairdryers, washing machines, flat-screen TVs, sofas, baby safety gates, clothes racks, and free WiFi.
This self-service Saranda, is a 5-star accommodation, is close to Mango Beach and Santa Quaranta Beach and within walking distance of restaurants serving Albanian and international food. Staying here is the perfect place for privacy on your Albania holidays.
6. Hotel Seaside Saranda
Just a 2-minute walk from Mango Beach, the Hotel Seaside Saranda has rooms for individuals and families of all sizes. It is just a 15-minute drive from the Greek border and a 30-minute boat ride to Corfu; it is one of the good Saranda Albania beach hotels. Seaside Saranda Hotel Albania organizes trips to Corfu upon guest request. There is also a bus stop in front of the hotel with easy access to Saranda city center.
The spacious rooms at this hotel in Albania Saranda include a balcony with either sea or city views. Rooms come equipped with air conditioning, heating, cable TV, minibars, safes, hairdryers, refrigerators, and closets. Triple and quadruple rooms are available for families.
The open-air restaurant atop the terrace of this Saranda beach hotel serves Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy dinner here overlooking the sea.
7. Hotel Butrinti & Spa
Ideally located, this 5-star hotel in Saranda, Albania, also has a seasonal swimming pool with a bar to enjoy cocktails. It is one of the best hotels in Saranda and is just 100 meters from the pebble-covered Saranda Beach.
Guests at Butrinti Hotel, Saranda, can enjoy continental breakfasts every morning. They also have access to free parking spaces. Spa facilities include a Jacuzzi, sauna, hot tub, fitness center, and spa lounge.
The soundproofed rooms at Hotel Butrinti, Saranda, feature free WiFi, air conditioning, heating, safes, minibars, telephones, desks, and flat-screen televisions. Some rooms have balconies and views of the city or the sea, where you can enjoy your morning coffee. Ask for rooms with views of the turquoise Ionian Sea!
8. Villa Erdeti
Subtle and darker shades mix to beautify the rooms at this cheap hotel in Saranda, Albania. Right next to the sandy Saranda beach, Villa Erdeti is one of the cheap hotels in Saranda.
The rooms here have TVs, air conditioning, sea-view balconies, refrigerators, dishwashers, and closets.
The nearest airport is the Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport in Corfu. This hotel in Saranda Albanian is excellent for a stay with a small budget, quiet surroundings, and lovely hosts.
9. Bouganville Bay Hotel
With a fantastic salt-water infinity pool that appears to stretch out into the endless ocean, this is one of the best 5-star hotels in Saranda. The Bouganville Bay Hotel boasts a seasonal outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a private beach, while watersports such as canoeing, diving, and snorkeling can be arranged at a charge. At an additional cost, guests also have access to a spa and wellness center with a steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, hammam, and wellness packages. There are also outdoor and indoor play areas to keep the little ones entertained.
Butrint National Park and Ksamil are 11 km away, while Lekursi Castle is 7 km away. Bouganville is one of the best hotels in Saranda, within a 15-minute walk of the city. If you’re driving down, private parking is available onsite for 10 EUR per day.
Soundproofed rooms and suites have minimalist decorations and include all amenities; free WiFi, minibars, safety deposit boxes, air conditioning, refrigerators, flatscreen TVs with cables, telephones, tumble dryers, and clothes racks. Larger 63 m² duplex suites and family rooms can sleep up to 4 adults. Ask for a room with a sea view!
10. Hotel Vila Kalcuni Sarande
This 4-star property, right on the beach, offers lots of luxury and stunning sea views.
Rooms and suites have a modern decor, with plush linens and lovely, natural light from large windows and walk-out balconies.
Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool by the sea, private beach access, and excellent service at the 24-hour help desk.
Grab a drink at the bar and enjoy the sea views on the outdoor terrace and you sip.
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Best Hotels In Ksamil, Albania
Ksamil, the “Ionian Pearl,” is a village far south of the Albanian Riviera. This is it if you’re looking for somewhere to stay on the Albanian Riveria with perfect sandy beaches, aquamarine waters, and proximity to heritage sites and national parks. Ksamil is a short distance south of Saranda and is part of a national park.
The village is in Butrint National Park, one of Albania’s most fantastic historical attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Around Ksamil, you can visit numerous archaeological sites dating from the Iron Age to the Middle Ages, including impressive Roman ruins.
Additionally, this is one of the best places to stay on the Albanian Riviera for nature, history, and beaches. The area has some of the most fantastic sandy beaches on the Albanian Riviera, such as Pasqyra Beach and Manastir Beach. In contrast, Ksamil’s waterfront has restaurants and a wonderful walking path. The iconic Ksamil Islands are visible, too.
Here are some of the best hotels on the Albania Riviera at Ksamil beach.
11. Poseidon Hotel
Just 100 meters walk from the Ionian Sea; this is one of the 5-star Ksamil hotels with mountain views from the balcony of every room. The best hotel in Ksamil, the Poseidon hotel, has a garden and a terrace and offers guests free WiFi.
The air-conditioned rooms in this hotel’s luxury Ksamil are 30 m², soundproofed, and include one large bed and one bunk bed. Rooms also have flat-screen TVs, heating, dining table, mosquito nets, closets, clothes racks, bathtubs, refrigerators, ovens, and free WiFi.
The hotel is within walking distance of supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes. Butrinti Lake is 0.6 km away, while Mt. Sotira is just a km away.
12. Hotel Sole Mare
Opened in June 2018, this is not a Ksamil beach resort. But the 4-star Hotel Sole Mare has been meeting guests’ expectations for quite some time.
Guests are treated to a continental breakfast in a nearby hotel and can avail of free parking on site. All of the rooms have a balcony, with some featuring incredible views of the Ionian Sea.
Every room is compact and well-decorated in pine colors with marble flooring. The soundproofed rooms feature air conditioning, flat-screen satellite TVs, minibars, desks, slippers, clothes racks, hairdryers, and free WiFi.
Pick a room with sea views to wake up to shades of beautiful blue. This is the perfect accommodation on the Albanian coast that is close to the best beaches in Ksamil!
13. Villa Klinti
Located about 500 meters from Ksamil beach, Albania, the Villa Klinti is an excellent choice for budget travelers. The restaurants and supermarket are all within 200 meters of this 3-star villa hotel, while the Butrint National Park is 2.4 km away.
The triple rooms are 35 m², the 4-person rooms are 45 m², and the 5-person rooms are 50 m². The rooms or suites can accommodate between 3 to 5 guests. The triple rooms feature a balcony, closet, bathtubs, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, cutlery, a small dining table, electric kettle, kitchenware, coffee machine, and clothes rack. The junior suite also includes a seating area.
BBQ facilities are available, along with free parking and free WiFi.
Best Hotels In Himare, Albania
Built in and around the ruins of old towns, Himare has a lot to offer, from castle ruins to charming village settlements. Also spelled Himara, the town of Himare is in the northern part of the Albanian Riviera. So, this would be a great place to stay for a few days and immerse yourself in this part of the region. There is a lot to explore and experience here.
First, there are amazing beaches in and around Himare. The town has its own beaches, which are great spots to hang out and relax in the morning or afternoon. Other nearby beaches that are worth checking out are Filikuri Beach to the south and Livadhi Beach to the north.
Just behind and above Spile Beach sits the old town of Himare. Home to historic buildings, winding lanes, coffee houses, old churches, small shops, and the impressive Himare Castle, this area is entertaining to explore on foot.
Within an easy drive from Himare, you’ll find incredible destinations like Porto Palermo, Dhermi, and Llogara National Park. Trips to Saranda and Ksamil are possible as well.
If you’re picking quiet and charming Himare as your place to stay on the Albanian Riviera, we’ve got some recommended hotels for you below.
14. Castle Hotel Himare
The beachfront Castle Hotel Himare has a bar that overlooks the sea. The guests love the rooftop bar and the dinners at the Castle Hotel Himare.
The air-conditioned rooms have a balcony, free WiFi, and free onsite parking. They include amenities such as flat-screen TVs with cable channels, bathtubs, closets, and baby safety gates. The rooms either have views of the mountains, the garden, or the ocean.
The Castle hotel Himare is one of Albania’s best beach hotels that’s light on the pocket and has easy access to the beach.
15. Stone Beach
On the western slopes of Mount Gjivlash, Qeparo, are the Stone Beach apartments. These apartments are great for private holidays in Albania. Apart from free WiFi, all apartments have a sea view, including a kitchen and access to one of Albania’s best beaches.
The soundproofed apartments include air conditioning, heating, flat-screen TVs, sofas, well-equipped kitchens, dining areas, outdoor furniture, and access to a small private pool. The apartments range from 65 m² to 114 m² in size and can accommodate up to 6 individuals.
The Stone Beach apartments are accommodation on the Albanian coast that includes both privacy and gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea.
16. Miamar Hotel
This chic, 5-star hotel features a private beachfront on Livadhi Beach in addition to two outdoor swimming pools and a lovely sun terrace.
The rooms are beautiful and thoughtfully designed, with little extras and accents that make them feel like home. Marble bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows bring the wow factor.
A buffet breakfast is available each morning along with a dine-in restaurant offering Italian and Mediterranean fare.
17. Himara Hostel
Set in a traditional house with a garden, the Himara Hostel is one of the best Albanian Riviera hostels to spend your time in. It’s just an 8-minute walk from Himare Beach and has all the necessary amenities. Each room extends either onto a patio or terrace. Guests can access shared bathrooms and a shared kitchen to prepare their meals.
Rooms include free WiFi, parking, hairdryers, fans, and heating. Cheaper dormitory rooms are also available. Restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets are nearby. The sea is a 400-meter walk away, while the nearest beaches are Spille beach, Livadhi beacH, and Potam beach.
Best Hotels In Dhermi, Albania
With turquoise waters and beautiful secluded beaches, the beautiful landscape of Dhermi in summer attracts young Albanians from all over the country. Not only the beaches, but Dhermi is also the epicenter of lively nightlife, another reason the young people flock here when school’s out.
The city is situated on a hill overlooking the sea and offers spectacular sunsets. Take a drink in one of the many bars and restaurants at sunset; it is always an excellent way to spend the neon evening in Dhermi.
Although this place offers a cheerful and festive atmosphere, with lively beach bars scattered throughout, there are more than enough beaches for a quiet place to sit and enjoy the Albanian Riviera landscape.
18. Drymades Resort, Dhermi
Colored blue and white, this lovely 4-star residence in Dhermi is often listed on the best places to stay in Albania lists. Guests at this Albanian Riviera hotel can enjoy the onsite restaurant serving Greek, Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
Rooms are air-conditioned, heated, and soundproofed. They include free WiFi, balconies, minibars, showers, radios, flat-screen televisions with cable and satellite channels, hardwood floors, mosquito nets, dryers, hypoallergenic linen, and clothes racks. Family rooms or bungalows are also available.
A stay at the Drymades Resort is perfect for watching the sunset! Guests have access to a bar, garden, pool, children’s playground, and lounge beds on the beach. They also love the proximity to the beach, local restaurants, and markets.
19. Llogora Tourist Village
If you want to stay in Llogora National Park, this accommodation is for you! Nestled inside the park limits, it’s the perfect spot for those looking to enjoy nature on holiday. Only 15km from the beach, you can still get in all the beach time you want!
Guests can choose to stay in a private bungalow or in rooms in the main hotel building, some with mountain views.
Onsite, a Turkish bath, saunas and an indoor pool are all available for guest use. Additionally, guests have access to a game room, lounge, children’s playground and various sporting options.
The restaurant serves up tasty traditional Albanian dishes, so don’t skip out on a meal or two when staying here!
20. Elysium Hotel
Another of the great place to stay in Albania is the Elysium Hotel. It’s one of the 5-star hotels in Albania on Dhermi Beach, nestled behind the olive groves. Located just 500 meters from Dhermi beach, Albania, the hotel offers free parking for guests and the use of the large outdoor swimming pool.
The rooms at this Albanian Riveria accommodation have wooden parquet floors that match their curtains. They also include air conditioning, heating, soundproofing, minibars, TVs, refrigerators, safes, laptop safes, dryers, sofas, and clothes racks. WiFi is also free!
The hotel also has larger 30 m² double rooms with a sofa bed that can accommodate two children. The buffet breakfast is well stocked. The hotel offers free parasols and sun loungers on the beach nearby. Guests can also use the onsite bar for recreation.
This is one of the best Albania resort hotels to stay at!
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Best Hotels In Vlore, Albania
In 1912, the independence of Albania was declared in Vlore. Vlore holds a special place in the hearts of all Albanians. That is why the Museum of Independence is located in this small town.
If you are a huge history buff looking to engulf yourself in Albanian history, you can go to the ancient Kanina Castle. According to local projections, the castle dates back to the 3rd Century B.C.
If you are interested in nature and the beautiful Albanian environment, you can visit the Bay of Vlora. You can enjoy the gentle sea breeze and simultaneously observe the bay’s fauna. There are many species of animals in the area, some of which you may not be familiar with or have ever imagined seeing in Europe.
21. Maritim Marina Bay Resort & Casino
This 5-star resort accommodation is just meters from Liro Beach. Two outdoor swimming pools and an outdoor infinity pool are available for guests of all ages. A pool bar along with sun loungers and umbrellas make the space one you can relax at all day.
Spacious rooms are decorated with earthy tones and come in a range of sizes from doubles to deluxe family suites.
Evening entertainment, kid’s club, casino, nightclub with DJ, live music, water sports, spa facilities, restaurants, and more make this resort an entire vacation package in one!
Best Resorts In The Albanian Riviera
Okay, so now that we’ve covered the best hotels in each popular part of the Albanian Riviera, let’s shift our focus slightly. Maybe you’re not looking for accommodation in any specific town in the Riviera, per se? Perhaps instead, you want to stay at a fantastic beach resort somewhere on the Albanian Riviera? If that’s the case, we’ve got the ultimate list of Albanian Riviera best beach resorts for you here!
- Onassis Residences, Qeparo
- Folie Marine Beach Hotel & Club – Soleil Resort, Jala
- Bougainville Bay Resort, Saranda
What airport is closest to the Albanian Riviera?
Tirana’s international airport is closest, and once there you can rent a car or take a bus down to the coast. Here’s the info to get there via Tirana.
Alternatively, Corfu’s airport in Greece is actually closer than Tirana, with a 70 minute ferry ride across the sea. Here’s the info to get there via Corfu.
How can I get around in the Albanian Riviera?
If you want the most flexibility, renting a car is definitely a good choice. However, public buses are a great option too.
What are the best towns to stay in along the riviera?
- Saranda
- Ksamil
- Himare
- Vlore
- Dhermi
What is the best town in the Albanian Riviera to stay in for a good mix of nature, history, and beaches?
Ksamil – close to archaeological sites, national parks and home to aquamarine waters & sandy beaches, it’s the perfect combo.
What is the best town to stay in for exploring the Albanian Riviera region?
Saranda – as a central spot, one of the highlights of staying here is going on day trips to gorgeous places like Butrint National Park, Dhermi, Llogara Pass, and Gjirokaster.
What is the best town to stay in for a quiet beach holiday on the Albanian Riviera?
Himare – it’s quieter than Ksamil and Saranda and holds so much charm.
What is the best town to stay in for nightlife along the Albanian Riviera?
Dhermi – this town is known to attract a younger crowd, so it offers a healthy nightlife scene.
What town in the Albanian Riviera is best for families?
Saranda is great for families with its central location, beach offerings, restaurants and day trip opportunities. There are also a lot of budget and luxury hotel options from all price ranges, making it affordable for families.
What To See In Albania
Here’s a quick list of what to see in Albania during your trip to the Albania Riviera.
- Stay in Ksamil, the “Ionian Pearl”
- Visit the nearby Syri i Kalter or Blue Eye
- Walk among the ruins of Himara Castle
- Visit Butrint National Park and the UNESCO Roman ruins within
- Visit the town and fortress of Gjirokaster
- See the beautiful Panormos or Porto Palermo Castle
- Spend some time in the charming Qeparo village
- See Borsh, Albania’s longest beach at 7 km
- Visit the secluded Kakome Beach and Gjipe Beach
- Enjoy the nightlife in Dhermi and Sarande
- Paraglide Llogara Beach. Enjoy paragliding from Llogara Pass down to Palasa Beach
- Drive along the Llogara Pass
- Hike or spend the night in Llogara National Park
- Discover the rich plant life at Karaburun-Sazan National Marine Park
- Gorge on byreks, baklava, and tave kosi, and drink raki
If there are other Albanian Riviera hotels you’d suggest, please let us know in the comments below.