24 Most Beautiful Places in Albania for Photos (Complete Photography Guide)
If you love photography, then get ready – because Albania has it all. Before visiting, we knew about the turquoise beaches along the Riviera, but we had no idea just how much variety the country had to offer. Between the mountains, waterfalls, canyons, lakes, and historic towns, this country is a true photographer’s dream.
While places like Ksamil and the Blue Eye have become famous for their beauty, they’re only the beginning. Some of our favorite photos came from quiet river bends, scenic hiking trails, and viewpoints that we’d never even heard of before planning our trip.
In this guide, we’re sharing the most beautiful places in Albania, along with photography tips to help you make the most of each stop. Whether you’re traveling with a camera or just your phone, these are the places we think are the most worth photographing.
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The Basics of Photographing the Most Beautiful Places in Albania
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect before you start exploring Albania’s most photogenic destinations.
📸 What Photography in Albania Looks Like
Albania is a country with great variety to it, but it truly shines when it comes to landscapes. Think gorgeous beaches, dramatic peaks, and crystal clear waters.
Albania does also have some beautiful historic sites and towns, making for a good mix of photography styles. The country experiences 4 seasons, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of settings for photographers to enjoy.
❣️ What Is the Most Beautiful Part of Albania?
There’s no single answer to this question because each region offers something completely different.
If you’re looking for beaches and turquoise water, the Albanian Riviera is hard to beat. The north is known for dramatic mountain scenery, especially around Theth and Valbona Valley National Park. Central Albania is home to impressive canyons and lakes, while the south combines historic towns with natural attractions like the Blue Eye and Bënjë Hot Springs.
We’d recommend exploring a mix of regions if you have the time. Some of our favorite photos came from places we hadn’t originally planned to visit.
🚁 Drones in Albania
Albania is an incredible destination for drone photography. Many of the country’s most beautiful places are surrounded by mountains, rivers, or coastline, making them even more impressive when seen from above.
Drones are legal in most places, but certain protected areas and zones near airports, military bases, or national parks are typically restricted. We recommend double checking in each place, and avoiding flights over crowded beaches during peak season, and being respectful of wildlife and other visitors.
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The Most Beautiful Places in Albania to Photograph
There are so many incredible photo spots across Albania! We spent 15 days exploring the country, and these were our favorite spots we visited, along with a few special recommendations from locals.
1. Ksamil
If you’ve seen photos of Albania on social media, there’s a good chance they were taken in Ksamil. Known for its crystal-clear water and small islands just offshore, it’s one of the most photographed places in the country and one of the highlights of the Albanian Riviera.
We spent hours walking along the coastline, and every beach seemed to have a different perspective. Whether you’re photographing the tiny islands from above, capturing the turquoise water from the shore, or hopping on a kayak for a different angle, there are plenty of ways to photograph Ksamil.
Ksamil has changed a lot through the years, and there are fewer stretches of sand than there used to be. Now covered with beach resorts, you’ll find different photo opportunities than you will at larger more spread out beach areas, many of which are at the areas to relax. the beaches get extremely crowded during the summer, so we recommend visiting early in the morning if you’re hoping to capture empty spots of sand or calm water.
💡 If you have a drone, this is one of the best places in Albania to fly, as the contrast between the white beaches and vibrant blue water creates some incredible aerial shots.
2. The Blue Eye (Theth)
The Blue Eye in Theth is one of the most unique natural attractions in northern Albania. After a scenic hike through the Albanian Alps, you’ll reach a vivid blue spring surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush forest.
With crystal clear waters and different shades of blue, along with a cascade as a backdrop, the Blue Eye is truly one of the most gorgeous areas, surrounded by lush greenery and striking peaks as a bonus. The surrounding mountains make it an incredible place for both landscape photography and close-up shots of the vibrant water.
If you’re comfortable flying a drone, you’ll get one of the best perspectives of the spring’s circular shape and the surrounding valley. Otherwise, try photographing from the rocks above the water to capture both the spring and the alpine scenery in the background.
3. Blue Eye (Southern Albania)
One of the most unique places to photograph in Albania is Syri i Kaltër, also known as the Blue Eye – which is different than the one in Theth! Located between Sarandë and Gjirokastër, this natural spring is famous for its incredibly clear water and vibrant shades of blue that seem to change depending on the light.
As you walk through the forest toward the spring, the water gradually becomes more and more vibrant until you reach the Blue Eye itself. Looking down into the center of the spring, it’s easy to see how it got its name. The deep blue middle is surrounded by lighter shades of turquoise, creating an almost hypnotic effect.
While the Blue Eye is the main attraction, don’t put your camera away once you’ve snapped a few photos. The wooden walkways, rushing river, and lush greenery surrounding the spring make the entire area worth exploring. We found ourselves stopping several times on the way back to capture different angles of the water as it winds through the forest.
💡 If you’re visiting during the summer, we’d recommend arriving early in the morning. Not only is the light softer for photos, but you’ll also have a better chance of enjoying the Blue Eye before the crowds arrive.
4. Theth Waterfall
While you’re visiting the Blue Eye, make sure to also add Theth Waterfall to your itinerary. Just a scenic 40-minute walk from the center of Theth, this waterfall is another one of the area’s highlights and one of our favorite places to photograph in the Albanian Alps.
The trail itself is part of the experience, passing a charming red bridge, traditional stone houses, and a great little spot to stop for a drink along the way. Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll find a beautiful cascade surrounded by lush mountains, making it well worth the hike.
Suggested Read: A Guide to Theth: Albania’s Mountain Paradise
5. Valbona Valley National Park
If you have the time, we highly recommend continuing your adventure from Theth to Valbona Valley National Park. The famous trek between the two is considered one of the best hikes in the Balkans, taking you through the heart of the Albanian Alps with incredible views the entire way.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to complete the hike ourselves, but it’s high on our list for our next trip to Albania. If you’re hoping to photograph some of the country’s most dramatic mountain scenery, this trek is hard to beat.
💡 Keep in mind that reaching Valbona from Theth can only be done via a 5-8 hour trek, so it’s best suited for travelers who aren’t driving, or who don’t mind doing the trek there and back.
6. Osum Canyon
Osum Canyon is known as the “Grand Canyon of Albania”, so it’s no surprise that it is one of the most visually striking destinations in the country.
With towering cliffs, winding rock formations, waterfalls, and emerald-colored water, Osum Canyon is one of the most impressive landscapes to photograph in Albania. From above, the viewpoints give you incredible panoramic views of the canyon as the river cuts through the dramatic landscape below.
For a completely different perspective, you can also explore the inside of the canyon by rafting, swimming, or joining a canyon tour. The narrow passages, rock walls, and waterfalls look completely different when you’re surrounded by them. Our favorite photos were ones we took deep in the canyon from swimming there!
Suggested Read: Osum Canyon: The Grand Canyon of Albania
💡 You’ll want to bring a waterproof camera or a dry bag if you plan on capturing photos from the water.
7. Holt Canyon
While it may not be as well known as some of Albania’s other natural wonders, Holt Canyon is a unique place to capture. Located between Berat and Lake Ohrid, this small canyon stands out because of its natural thermal waters, which have a beautiful milky blue color that contrasts with the rocky landscape surrounding it.
One of our favorite things about Holt Canyon is that it still feels relatively undiscovered. When we visited, there were only a few other people there, making it easy to take photos and enjoy the scenery without the crowds. After exploring the canyon, you can also relax at the nearby resort-style club, which is a great place to grab a bite or spend some time by the pool.
8. Bovilla Lake
Just outside of Tirana, Bovilla Lake is one of the most impressive viewpoints in Albania. This artificial lake is surrounded by dramatic mountains and can be admired from above, where the bright blue water creates an incredible contrast with the rugged landscape around it.
The viewpoint is what makes Bovilla Lake especially worth photographing. After a short 5-10 minute walk up the stairs, you’ll reach a panoramic overlook with views stretching across the lake and surrounding cliffs.
We absolutely loved flying our drone here1 Until we flew it into a mountain that it. We’d recommend using some extra caution if you’re flying your drone in the this area!
💡 Google Maps can be misleading when trying to reach this spot, so make sure to navigate to “Bovilla Rock Climbing Line” or “Bovilla Restorant” instead.
9. Lumi i Shales
Hidden deep in the Albanian Alps, Lumi i Shalës is one of the most unique landscapes to photograph in Albania. The journey here is part of what makes it so special, as the boat ride down the Shala River takes you through turquoise waters surrounded by giant green mountains and dramatic rock formations.
Once you arrive, the scenery completely changes as the river opens into a small beach area with crystal-clear water, wooden bridges, and mountain views in every direction. We loved that there were so many different perspectives to capture, from the boat ride through the canyon to the vibrant blue water at the beach itself.
💡 Make sure to bring a waterproof camera or phone pouch, as swimming and kayaking are some of the best ways to experience the area.
10. Dhërmi & Drymades Beaches
The Albanian Riviera is filled with incredible coastal views, but Dhërmi and Drymades Beaches stand out for their mix of natural beauty and stylish beach clubs. Beyond the turquoise water and mountain backdrop, these beaches have a fun, modern atmosphere with colorful umbrellas, cabanas, swings, and beachside decor that make them especially fun to photograph.
We loved that the beach clubs here feel like more than just places to grab a drink. From boardwalks stretching out over the water to cozy seating areas right on the sand, there are so many small details that add personality to your photos.
Whether you’re capturing the coastline, the sunset, or the laid-back Riviera lifestyle, Dhërmi and Drymades are two spots that showcase our favorite areas of the Albanian Riviera.
Suggested Read: The Albanian Riviera: A Gem to Add to Your European Bucket List
11. Window Caves of Palasë
Other than the trendy beach clubs and turquoise waters, there’s another treasure just down the beach.
Hidden along the coastline between Drymades and Palasë, the Window Caves of Palasë are one of the Albanian Riviera’s most unique photography spots. Carved into the cliffs overlooking the Ionian Sea, these natural openings frame the bright blue water below, creating one of the most distinctive coastal views in the country.
One of the things we loved most about this stretch of coastline was that it felt like an adventure. As we explored the area, we came across tiny secluded beaches and small caves tucked away between the cliffs, making it a fun place to wander with a camera. If you’re willing to venture a little beyond the main beaches, you’ll be rewarded with some of the Riviera’s most unique scenery.
💡 Bring a wide lens to capture the full window effect of the caves.
12. Grama Bay
Tucked away along the Albanian Riviera, Grama Bay is one of the most incredible coastal landscapes in Albania to photograph. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and accessible mainly by boat or a challenging hike, this secluded bay has remained much more untouched than many of the country’s other beaches.
We originally booked a boat tour from Himarë just to see Grama Bay, but the entire experience ended up being one of our favorite days along the Riviera.
The boat ride itself is a huge part of the adventure, with stops at hidden beaches, caves, and other scenic spots along the coastline. Once you arrive at Grama Bay, the turquoise water, rocky cliffs, and viewpoint above the beach make it easy to see why it’s one of the most beautiful places in Albania to take photos of.
💡 Bring a drone to get a cool shot from above!
13. Gjipe Beach
Tucked between towering limestone cliffs along the Albanian Riviera, Gjipe Beach is one of the most unique beaches to photograph in Albania. What makes it special is that it’s not just about the turquoise water. The beach sits at the mouth of a canyon, with dramatic rock formations, hidden caves, and a rugged landscape that makes it feel completely different from the other coastal spots nearby.
We loved that there were so many different perspectives to capture here. From above, you can photograph the contrast between the bright blue water and the surrounding cliffs, while down at the beach you can explore the caves, paddle through the coastline, or hike into Gjipe Canyon for a completely different view. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an entire day and keep finding new angles to photograph.
14. Butrint National Park
If you’re looking to photograph something beyond Albania’s beaches and mountains, Butrint National Park offers a completely different setting. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to ancient ruins surrounded by lush greenery, creating a unique mix of history and nature that’s unlike anywhere else in the country.
While we personally found it a bit overpriced and more crowded than we expected, it’s still worth visiting if you enjoy photographing archaeological sites. We recommend arriving right when it opens to experience the ruins with fewer people and softer morning light, especially since it’s just a short drive from Ksamil.
15. Gjirokastër
Known as the “Stone City,” Gjirokastër is one of the most photogenic towns in Albania. Its steep cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses, and hilltop fortress create beautiful viewpoints around every corner, making it a place where you’ll constantly find yourself stopping for another photo.
We loved the local atmosphere here just as much as the scenery. Wandering through the Old Bazaar, photographing the historic architecture, and taking in the views from the castle were some of our favorite experiences.
If you decide to spend the night, we highly recommend Hotel Kodra, where you can enjoy incredible views over the city right from the property.
16. Bënjë Hot Springs
Just outside of Gjirokastër, Bënjë Hot Springs is one of the most beautiful places in Albania to both relax and photograph. The natural thermal pools are scattered along a river beneath a gorgeous Ottoman stone bridge, creating a landscape that’s just as enjoyable to capture as it is to relax in.
One of the things we loved most about Bënjë is that you can wander between the different pools and viewpoints, with plenty of opportunities to photograph the river, bridge, and surrounding mountains. We recommend arriving early in the morning, as this peaceful spot becomes much busier later in the day.
17. Vjosa River Bend
Just a short drive from Bënjë Hot Springs, the Vjosa River Bend is one of the most impressive viewpoints in southern Albania.
From above, the river winds through the valley in a series of dramatic curves, creating a landscape that’s especially striking from a wide-angle perspective.
One of the best things about this viewpoint is how easy it is to reach. After parking along the side of the road, it’s only a 5 to 10-minute walk to the overlook, where you’ll be rewarded with one of the most unique river landscapes in Albania.
18. Vjosa River Suspension Bridge
If you’re already visiting the Vjosa River Bend, it’s worth making another quick stop at the suspension bridge over the Vjosa River. While the river bend showcases the Vjosa from above, this viewpoint lets you experience it from a completely different perspective, with the bridge stretching across the river’s striking blue water.
We loved the contrast between the suspension bridge, the surrounding mountains, and the vibrant river below. It’s a simple stop, but one that makes for a beautiful photo and fits perfectly into a road trip through southern Albania.
💡 Bring a drone to get some fun bird’s eye shots.
19. Berat
Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is one of the most photogenic cities in Albania. The best view is from across the Osum River, where you can capture the white Ottoman houses stacked up the hillside with the historic neighborhoods and castle rising above them. It’s easily one of the country’s most iconic cityscapes.
While the famous viewpoint is reason enough to visit, we also loved wandering through the old streets and soaking up the local atmosphere. We were lucky enough to visit during a beer festival in July, which made the city feel even more lively and gave us the chance to capture a different side of Berat beyond its historic architecture.
20. Shkodra Lake
Shared between Albania and Montenegro, Shkodra Lake is one of the best places in the country to photograph peaceful natural landscapes and wildlife. We actually explored the lake from the Montenegrin side, but the scenery extends across both countries, with calm waters, mountain backdrops, and plenty of opportunities to spot birds along the shoreline.
One of our favorite experiences was kayaking through a trail of lily pads, which gave us a completely different perspective of the lake. If you enjoy nature photography, this is a great place to slow down and capture a quieter side of Albania.
21. Lake Ohrid
Here’s another beautiful place sharing borders – stretching between Albania and North Macedonia, Lake Ohrid is another beautiful destination that offers a completely different landscape from the rest of the country. Its crystal-clear water, lakeside villages, and mountain scenery make it a peaceful place to photograph, whether you’re exploring from the shore or out on the water.
We visited Lake Ohrid from the North Macedonian side, but you can also experience the lake from Albania. If you’re planning to include it in your itinerary, it’s an easy addition when exploring eastern Albania.
22. Ujëvara e Peshturës (Progonat)
Hidden in the mountains near Progonat, Ujëvara e Peshturës feels like something out of a fairytale. After a short but steep hike over rocky terrain, you’ll reach a peaceful pool beneath the waterfall that’s surrounded by lush greenery.
Unfortunately, the waterfall was dry when we visited, but the scenery was still worth the trip. Even without the cascading water, the vibrant colors and natural setting made it a beautiful place to stop and photograph.
23. Ujëvara e Sotirës
If you’re looking for one of Albania’s most spectacular waterfalls, Ujëvara e Sotirës deserves a spot on your list. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it ourselves after learning from a local that the route was much more challenging than we expected, requiring a 4×4 vehicle just to reach the trailhead.
From everything we researched, the hike leads to one of the country’s most impressive waterfalls, and it’s certainly one of the most beautiful places in Albania. If you’re hoping to photograph it, we’d recommend visiting with a local guide or an organized tour rather than attempting it on your own.
24. Ujëvara e Bogovës
If you’re visiting Osum Canyon, Ujëvara e Bogovës makes an easy addition to your itinerary. Just a short walk from the parking area, this beautiful waterfall is tucked away in a peaceful forest, making it one of the most accessible waterfalls to photograph in Albania.
The combination of the waterfall, crystal-clear pool, and surrounding greenery creates a completely different landscape from Osum Canyon, making it well worth stopping if you’re already exploring the area. It’s the perfect way to break up the drive from Berat, and is a stunning photo stop.
How to Capture the Most Beautiful Places in Albania
Now that you know all of the most Instagrammable spots in Albania, let’s help you capture the moments with the best gear and photographers you can hire.
📸 Capturing the Best Photo Spots in Albania Gear (& What We Use)
Want to capture photos similar to ours? Here is the gear we used in the different locations around Albania.
Photographing the Most Beautiful Places in Albania: Final Thoughts & What’s Next
There are so many beautiful places in Albania that you can capture! From charming villages to breathtaking landscapes, this is definitely an underrated country when it comes to photography.
We recommend taking a road trip around Albania, as this will allow you to capture most of these in the early morning before the crowds and harsh lights hit. While we didn’t get the chance to, we’d also recommend spending a night camping out in nature and taking some astrophotography shots.
We also recommend having a car charger, carrying an extra battery, and giving yourself extra time since there are a lot of surprises waiting to be discovered!
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👀 What’s Next?
Now that you know all of the most beautiful places in Albania to visit, let’s dive a bit deeper! Here are our other Albania travel guides:
🤩 The best places to visit in Albania
🏙️ How to spend one day in Tirana
💎 How to visit Lumi i Shales
🏔️ Theth travel guide
🏞️ How to visit Osum Canyon
🏖️ Albania Riviera travel guide
🌊 How to visit Gjipe Beach
📖 Complete guide to planning a trip to Albania
So are you ready to experience the most beautiful places in Albania? We know that wherever you choose to go, you’ll fall in love with this stunning country just as much as we did. It truly is a photographer’s dream, and has a great deal of variety to enjoy.
Want to learn more about visiting Albania? Don’t miss out on our other Albania travel guides! Also, we have more guides coming every week, so be sure to subscribe to our newsletter to receive the latest article updates, as well as exclusive discounts.
Ready to start planning your trip? We’re here to help! Scratch Your Mapa now offers customized travel planning services, so that you can sit back and relax, while we do the work. We can book your flights, find you unique accommodation, and even build you a full customized itinerary. Take a sneak peak at our different travel planning packages, or simply shoot us an email for your free consultation.
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