Magnificent nature, picturesque beaches of the Ionian and Adriatic seas, unique attractions and hospitable locals - all this is united by one country, Albania. And the Mediterranean climate with hot summers allows you to enjoy the sea, which warms up to 25 ° C.
Cities and sights of Albania
In Albania, you can visit many cities to stroll the streets and see the many attractions. You can start from the capital of Tirana, because it is here that there are museums of national culture, natural history, an art gallery - what could be better to learn everything about the country, which began to be popular with tourists not so long ago.
In the ancient city of Shkoder, located on the shores of Lake Skadar, you can see the Sheikh Zamil Abdullah Al-Zamil Mosque, visit the Public Museum, which has collected a rich collection of unique photographs and archaeological finds. Not far from Shkoder are the Lead Mosque and the Rozafa Fortress.
If you go to the south of the country, you can visit the city of Gorokastra, the highlight of which is the Bazaar Mosque, the 14th century citadel and ancient Turkish baths.
Durres is the second largest city in Albania. It was founded by the Greeks, who created a magnificent amphitheater here. There are Roman ruins in the city, and the Venetian towers, and the Archaeological Museum, and the Palace of Ahmet Zog - one of the kings.
Popular with guests of Albania and the city of Berat with a fortress of the XIV century, the Muslim quarter of Mangal, the churches of the Holy Trinity and Evangelists. Berat is also known as the city of a thousand windows. This name is explained by narrow streets with old houses that adorn the windows in huge numbers. The most spectacular sight is the sun at sunset, reflected in these windows.
National cuisine
The national cuisine is diverse. It was influenced by both the traditions of the Balkans and European culinary specialties. The favorable climate allows you to grow many vegetables and fruits, without which not a single table can do. The most popular dishes are lamb or lamb, which are baked with spices, lemon and olive oil. Seafood is no less loved. One of the unusual dishes to try in Albania is tarator - a soup based on yogurt or kefir. Among the desserts, Albania boasts baklava, puddings and sharklore ice cream. After a meal, it is customary to drink strong coffee, and from alcoholic beverages, it is better to give preference to the herbal tincture of Fernet or brandy.
Albania beaches and outdoor activities
The beaches of Albania are sandy, but there are also pebble beaches. The best beaches are near large hotels, but since their length is more than 300 kilometers, you can always find a piece of paradise for yourself. On the Ionian coast, the Riviera of Flowers resort is famous for its beauty - small clean beaches with old mansions, many of which have been converted into hotels. The sea breeze and clean mountain air have the most positive effect on the body. The best beaches on the Ionian coast are Durres, Golemi, Velipoya, Divyaka and Deja. The coast of the Adriatic Sea is no less picturesque - crystal clear water, golden beaches with fine sand, clean air. Fans of outdoor activities can not only spend time at sea, but also go mountaineering in the mountains, which have a lot to offer to speleologists - just get into one of the many caves.
Souvenirs and keepsakes
After a vacation in Albania, not only memories and photographs should remain, but also a variety of souvenirs that can be found both on the streets of any of the cities and in specialized stores. These are nice things made of copper, and embroidery, and national instruments, as well as handicrafts.
