South vs. north — the first decision. The Albanian Riviera (Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë, Dhërmi, Borsh, Qeparo) is where most first-time visitors from Romania head: Ionian-blue water, beach clubs and the shortest transfer from Corfu. The north — Theth, Valbonë, Shkodër and Lake Koman — is cooler, greener and built for hiking, not swimming. In between sit the cultural capitals: Berat and Gjirokastër (both UNESCO), Krujë for its castle and bazaar, and Tirana as the loud, cheap, fast-changing base you fly into.

When to go in 2027. The sea on the Riviera is swimmable roughly June to late September, warmest in July–August — also the most crowded and the only time Ksamil feels packed. For the best balance of warm water and space, aim for the first half of June or the second half of September 2027. The northern mountains are a summer story: the Theth–Valbonë trail is comfortable roughly mid-June to early October, with July–August the safest window for the high passes.

How long you need. A Riviera-only beach week works from a single base in Sarandë or Ksamil with day trips. To combine beaches with Berat or Gjirokastër, give it 10 days. The classic north loop (Shkodër → Koman ferry → Valbonë → Theth) is its own 4–5 day trip and doesn't mix well with a beach holiday in the same week.

Getting between regions. Distances look small but mountain roads are slow — Tirana to Sarandë is a full 4–5 hour drive, not two. If you're driving from Romania, most of the country opens up to you; without a car, furgon minibuses and the SH8 coastal road link the Riviera towns, while the north needs the Koman ferry and a 4×4 transfer. Use the guides below to pick your base, then drill into each destination for where to sleep, eat and swim.