15 PLACE TO VISIT WHEN YOU CAN ENJOY IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC
Things to Do in Czech Republic
Landlocked between Poland, Germany, Slovakia, and Austria, the Czech Republic shares in the region’s long history of castles, beer, and bavarian culture. This former Soviet Union satellite country peacefully freed itself from that totalitarian regime in the aftermath of the collapse of the Berlin Wall. It didn’t take long for tourists to discover the breathtaking natural scenery and medieval fortresses that gave rise to one of Europe’s most fascinating histories. But where do you go and what do you do? Our list of the 15 best places to see in Czech Republic will not disappoint.
1. Prague Castle
Topping our list of places to see in Czech Republic is Prague Castle. This sprawling complex of majestic buildings was under construction for more than 1,100 years, from 870 to 1929. Not only is it the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic, it is listed by the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest ancient castle in the world. Its footprint is estimated to be 70,000 square meters.
If you’ve never been to the Czech Republic, put this on your bucket list. The country is not large, so the odds are good you’ll be able to check off at least several of the items on this list. Good luck!
2. Pilsner Urquell Brewery
An hour from Prague lies the town of Plzen. Back in 1838 the town had a beer problem – too many brewers. More than 250, in fact, and their product was of greatly uneven quality. Eventually the town decided to create a single brewery that would brew the best beer possible. The pilsner lager was invented at this brewery in 1842. Tours include a stroll through medieval tunnels and subterranean beer cellars.
3. Theresienstadt Concentration Camp
Not the happiest of places, the prison facilities in Terezin hold a place of great historical significance since World War II. With the Nazis in charge, Terezin was conscripted to serve as a Jewish ghetto and concentration camp. People of all nationalities, but with the common sin of resisting Hitler, were interned behind these walls, eventually to be dispersed to extermination camps of such as Auschwitz.
4. Mutenice Wine Region
The four villages of Mutenice, Dubnany, Ratiskovice, and Milotice make up the most lauded wine production region in the Czech Republic. Though a few larger companies own property in the area, the majority of the vine product comes from small farmers working the vineyards and bottling their own wine. Far from the tourist mecca of Prague, plan to set aside two or three days to visit the Mutenice area. Don’t worry. The locals are friendly and eager to share the fruits of their labor with visitors.
5. Hluboka Castle
Yes, another castle and this one goes high on the list of places to see in Czech Republic. Many say this is the finest example of castle-building in the entire country. Located just outside the city of Ceske Budejovice, Hluboka Castle was originally built in the 13th century, though the current configuration took shape in 1660, and has since been extensively remodeled in the English Windsor Castle style. Other attractions on the grounds are impressive hedge mazes and an extensive art collection of major Czech artists.
6. Konopiste Chateau
Fifty kilometers southeast of Prague lies the Konapiste Chateau, a structure lauded both for its beauty and history. Dating back to the 13th century, this French-styled palace was the final home of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand. History buffs will remember it was his assassination that sparked World War I. On display is Ferdinand’s 300,000 strong collection of animal trophies as well as the bullet that killed him.
7. Glassmakers of Karlsbad
Returning to the spa setting of Karlsbad for a moment, the city has also been renowned for the last century and a half as the European epicenter for glassmaking. In particular, stop by the Moser Visitor Centre to ogle displays from the company acknowledged as the foremost producer of decorative glass in the world. Take a tour of the facility and even drop by the factory floor to watch local glassblowers create their art. When it comes to places to see in Czech Republic, this one is up there with the best.
8. The Libraries of Prague
If you’re the bookish sort, or just like hanging out in quiet places, Prague has three of the oldest and most beautiful libraries in Europe: Clementinum (the National Public Library), and the Strahov Monastery (housing the Philosophical Library and Theological Library). These repositories feature ancient manuscripts housed in beautifully decorated – and very old – buildings. If you like painted frescoes and stucco ceiling art from the Baroque period, you might as well go ahead and book your flight because this is a can’t miss.
9. The Spas of Karlovy Vary
Often referred to as Karlsbad, the natural hot spring spas are a long time draw for those craving an authentic spa experience. Ever since 1358 the global elite, including Peter the Great, have traveled to Karlsbad to bathe in the 13 main springs. However, you don’t need to be a celebrity like Beethoven or a high-ranking potentate to partake in the relaxing splendor. The town is also home to several art galleries and museums, as well as host of an international film festival.
10. Bone Church
Of all the things to do in Czech Republic, this might be the creepiest. The Gothic All Saints Chapel (aka “Bone Church”) has on display the remains of 70,000 people who died in the 14th through 16th centuries. Not content to simply lay the bones out, creators of this “display” incorporated coats-of-arms, chandeliers, bells, and chalices to an interesting effect. No self-respecting Czech Republic travel guide would leave this stop out. You’re welcome.
11. Charles Bridge
When is a bridge more than just a bridge? How about when it’s more than a thousand years old and serves as one of the biggest tourist draws in a city (Prague) with more than a few of them. The Charles Bridge’s 520 meter length spans the River Vltava. Perfect for a spot to catch a scenic view of a sunrise or sunset view, the bridge is also famous for its statue collection that includes such famous historical figures as Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and John of Nepomuk – the latter was drown in the river for refusing to divulge the Queen’s secrets.
12. Litomysl Castle
Also in Bohemia, this time on the eastern side, Litomysl Castle anchors the small town (10,000) of the same name. The castle is listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site and features two international opera festivals each year. While the structure’s age is not exactly known, it has been traced back to at least 981 as protector of an important trade route. The town is small enough to explore on foot without getting too tired, though you may prefer to spend more time examining the arcade-style castle which was based on Italian design but adapted to the local environment. Put this on your list of places to see in Czech Republic!
13. Bohemian Paradise
Nature enthusiasts take heed. This protected area in North Bohemia is a destination all to itself for those who like to hike or bike. In particular, Trosky Castle offers twin towers perfect for climbing and taking in as breathtaking a view as you’re likely to find anywhere in Europe. The city of Turnov is a good entry point into the Bohemian Paradise region. This protected geopark was expanded in 2005 and now covers 700 square kilometers.
14. Brno
This city (pronounced Bern-o) serves as the capital of the south Moravia region. While so much of Czech Republic tourism focuses on medieval remnants, Brno just happens to have a thriving a club scene that offers a nice selection of the top bass and drum clubs in the country. And after you’re done damaging your hearing, grab a seat at one of the many cafes that are rumored to rival the best Prague has to offer. For the Gothic enthusiasts, venture into the Old Town area to visit the Cathedral of Saint Peter and Paul. If ossuaries perk your interest, there’s a famous one in Brn.
15. Castle Karlstejn
There’s something about a castle. This stone edifice was built in honor of the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV. Located southwest of the capital city, Prague, Castle Karstejn is one of the most visited Czech Republic tourist attractions in the entire country. If Gothic craftsmanship and soaring views over forested valleys in all directions is your thing, we suggest you not miss this castle. Climb the (not modest) stairs and enter the courtyard to behold the Big Tower and Chapel of the Holy Cross. The latter once served as repository for the Royal Jewels and Imperial Regalia of a long line of Czech kings.
15 THE BEST THAT YOU CAN VISIT CROATIA
Things to Do in Croatia
The country of Croatia is a European destination off the beaten path. While it offers the history and beauty of surrounding countries, it also has a bit of mystery, intrigue, and interest that you won’t get from being crowded among tourists.
If you’re looking to add something different to your European adventure or you’re just ready to see something new, Croatia can be just the destination to give you everything you’re looking for. As a country with the perfect mix of history, shopping, beaches, adventure, and food, a trip to Croatia can appeal to an entire family with unique interests.
Here is a list of the fifteen best places to visit in Croatia:
1. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is a city located in the southern part of the country. As a seaside city, you’ll get spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea. But that isn’t the only beautiful sight you’ll see in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik is an old city, surrounded by city walls and forts that just might look familiar if you’re a Game of Thrones fan. Dubrovnik is the filming location for King’s Landing.
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, keep this list of things to do in Croatia in mind. With a well-planned trip, you can leave your vacation knowing you haven’t missed out on anything worth seeing in the beautiful country of Croatia.
2. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Whether you’re looking for hiking, swimming in the lakes, or just appreciating the beautiful waterfalls, Plitvice Lakes National Park is where you’ll want to visit. There are 16 different lakes throughout the park, which will take 6 hours to explore by foot. However, if you’re not looking to walk the entire way, the park offers free boats and buses between April and October.
3. Diocletian’s Palace
Diocletian’s Palace, which is located in the city of Split, is a Roman ruin that you need to visit when you’re in the area. But when visiting Diocletian’s Palace, don’t expect to see a museum or a true tourist destination. Located right in the middle of the city, you’ll be surrounded by the city’s inhabitants going throughout their daily lives.
4. Hvar Town
Hvar Town is a seaside city and island that acts as one of Croatia’s biggest tourist attractions. During the summer season, thousands of individuals come to experience Croatia tourism in Hvar Town. Hvar Town acts as the perfect destination if you’re looking for a place to relax, explore some history, and eat some wonderful Croatian cuisines.
5. Korcula
Korcula is a city located on one of Croatia’s islands in the Adriatic Sea. One of the most interesting features of Korcula are the harbor’s towers and walls, which date all the way back to medieval times. While visiting the island of Korcula, you can visit the Cathedral of St. Mark or relax on one of the island’s most popular beaches, including Vela Przina or Pupnatska Luka.
6. Brac
If you’re looking to get some island time into your vacation, Brac can do just the trick. As an island located in the Adriatic Sea, Brac is one of the best places to visit in Croatia. The most popular destination on the island of Brac is the beach Zlatni Rat, which means Golden Cape. The beach has gained world-wide attention for its white-pebble beaches and for being a popular windsurfing destination.
7. Marjan
While visiting the city of Split, you’ll probably notice a particularly large hill off in the distance. This hill is known as Marjan. Marjan makes an interesting sight because of the juxtaposition between the densely wooded hill and the city surrounding it. Add in the surrounding sea, and you’ll find yourself captivated by the presence of Marjan. If you’re in the mood for a big of hiking or exploring, you can check out Marjan up close.
8. Mijet
While many of Croatia’s islands are full of bustling cities and a number of buildings, the island of Mijet isn’t quite the same. As one of the best places to visit in Croatia, Mijet allows you to get away from the busy cities and get in touch with Croatia’s nature. The majority of the island is covered in forest, so you should come prepared for a hike or at least some exploring in the woods. Other activities you can do on Mijet include sailing, exploring caves, or relaxing by the lakes.
9. Losinj
Losinj is an island of Croatia that is less busy than the others, but that doesn’t mean there is less to do while visiting the area. If you’re a fan of water activities or sea creatures, a visit to Losinj may be right up your alley. With a number of beaches surrounding the island, you can find time to relax and soak up some sun. If you’re looking to get a little more adventurous, you can go scuba diving off the island. Lucky visitors to the island of Losinj get to see the beautiful dolphins that inhabit the waters in the area.
10. Museum of Broken Relationships
Just about everyone has experienced lost love or a relationship that doesn’t work out, but the Museum of Broken Relationships looks to exhibit the beauty and emotion that comes with relationships that took a turn for the worst. Located in the city of Zagreb, the Museum of Broken Relationships has become one of the most popular museums in all of Croatia. If you’re visiting Zagreb, take some time to walk through the museum, which features personal objects and items from actual relationships, along with a brief description surrounding the situation, break up, and the individuals involved.
11. Pula Arena
Pula Arena is located in the city of Pula and is one of the best places to visit in Croatia. The Pula Arena is an amphitheater that was built by the Romans and is one of the most preserved Roman amphitheaters of today. The Pula Arena still has all four side towers in place. While going inside the amphitheater will cost you an entrance free, even exploring the arena from the outside will leave you in awe.
12. Split
As one of the major cities in Croatia, Split should be on your list of places to visit. Split is a city on the sea, and a perfect place to understand what it is really like to live in Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Scattered throughout the city you will find various shops and cafes to fulfill all your shopping and dining needs, as well as a fair share of bars if you’re looking for a bit of fun or nightlife. Split is also home to some of the other places to see in Croatia that we have on this list, including Diocletian’s Palace. Other sights to see in Split include the Cathedral of St. Domnius and Klis Fortress.
13. Zrmanja
The river Zrmanja is an adrenaline junkie’s paradise located in Croatia. If you’re not looking for the standard Croatia tourist attractions, Zrmanja could be the perfect Croatian adventure for you. There are various ways that you can explore and appreciate nature along the Zrmanja, including rafting down the river, going on a kayaking adventure, or exploring the canyons and waterfalls that stem from the river. The river itself is 69 km long and stretches from the northern city Dalmatia and the southern city Lika.
14. Peljesac
Peljesac is a peninsula located in the southern part of Croatia, which will give you the opportunity to explore the country from both the land and the sea. While Peljesac can offer you beaches, camping, and windsurfing, it is a common destination for wine lovers because of the area’s vineyards. If you’re looking to sample some of Croatia’s finest wines, then a visit to Peljesac will need to be on your travel itinerary. Depending on when you visit, you may even be able to catch a wine festival.
15. Zagreb
There is no better way to begin a Croatia travel guide than with the capital of Croatia. As one of the top places to visit in Croatia, you’ll find everything you want right here in the city. From being able to explore the country’s history through museums or locations to getting a feel for what its like to live in Croatia today, there are few places that will give you such a complete view as Zagreb. Sights that you must see while in Zagreb include the Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark’s Church, Tkalciceva Street, and Ban Jelacic. You’ll also want to take a moment to experience the many shops, cafes, and parks that call the capital city home.
15 THE BEST THAT YOU CAN VISIT AZERBAIJAN
Points That Can Be Visited In AZERBAIJAN
Nestled between Europe and Asia, the country of Azerbaijan seems to exist in two separate worlds. Ancient historical sites exist next to the rise of a modern civilization. Glorious mountains give way to the Caspian Sea’s shoreline. Azerbaijan’s rich culture and scenic destinations make it a popular spot for international tourists. Read on for the ultimate Azerbaijan travel guide, where we’ll show you 15 things to do in Azerbaijan.
1. Palace of the Shirvanshahs
Topping our list of things to do in Azerbaijan is this palace, which served as the home of the ruling families. Although constructed mostly in the 15th century, the palace was restored in 2003 to maintain the integrity of the historical site. This landmark has a central museum home to jewels, ancient clothing from the royal families, and other unique artifacts. A guided audio tour can bring the past to life as you tour the museum and grounds of the palace. Finish your stop at the palace by taking a walking tour of the entire town of Baku to see Fountains Square, Maiden’s Tower, and the beachfront area of Bulvar.
2. Crystal Hall
When looking for things to do in Azerbaijan, don’t overlook this indoor area, located right next to the National Flag Square. It is home to concerts and events throughout the year. It is best viewed from a distance, so there’s no need to enter to experience the beauty. However, there is the option to enter the building during the many sports and arts events that take place here every week. Take a photo opportunity from the National Flag Square at night for the best view of the structure.
3. Baku Funicular
A modern mix of a railroad car and an elevator, Baku Funicular’s coaches take you above and across the crowded streets of the downtown area. An aerial view at night allows you to see stunning views of Baku’s nightlife. On a lucky night, you’ll see an animated LED display on three high-rise buildings around you. The free ride departs every fifteen minutes from two stations on each side of the main street.
4. Old City Baku
Be transported to the past while strolling through this ancient part of town. The historic buildings are wonderfully preserved and give you a glimpse into ancient life. Within some of these old buildings are more modern restaurants to catch a bite while you tour the city. Learn about Qafqaz culture, enjoy some traditional cuisine, and stop for a few souvenirs along the way. A trip to this beautiful ancient part of the city will not disappoint!
5. Baku Tours
Explore the capital city with a knowledgeable guide on a walking tour. There are several tours offered to give you a wealth of information about the culture, history, and lifestyle of Baku’s residents. Your expert guide will take you to the typical tourist spots as well as the hidden gems of the city. If you plan to spend time wandering the city on your own, it’s best to start with a guided tour to see the highlights and give you ideas for your independent adventures.
6. Tala Escape, Baku
Rated one of the top things to do in Azerbaijan, this escape room lets your group practice their teamwork skills to tackle a challenge. Groups of up to five people work together to solve a puzzle and escape–all while racing against the clock. The friendly staff can answer any questions before you begin, and you can complete the entire challenge speaking English, so there’s no language barrier. Put your mind to the test in this fun, challenging attraction located in the heart of Baku.
7. Afurdzhi Falls, Quba
For another view of the natural beauty of this country, Afurdhzi Falls cannot be missed. The surrounding mountain ranges provide an unforgettable backdrop to the dense forest containing the falls. If you’re up to the challenge, this scenic spot is sure to please. While in Quba, check out the State Open-Air Museum of History, Architecture and Ethnography Khynalyg for a view of some more ancient ruins and artifacts.
8. Azokh Cave, Nagorno Karabakh
If you thrive on adventure, one of the best places to visit in Azerbaijan is Azokh Cave. You can camp inside the cave and be comforted by the seven exit tunnels if you begin to feel claustrophobic. The cave itself has five inner chambers to explore, each offering the chance to spy some bats in their natural habitat. Stalactites and stalagmites fill the cave, and the outer site is also home to historic fossil sites discovered by excavation teams.
9. Church of Kish
While in Sheki, make sure to plan a visit to this peaceful religious site as well. Built in the site of an ancient church honoring St. Elishe, the current structure was finished in the 18th century. The church has been used by several religious sects since its construction, and now serves as a historical site for pilgrimages and sight-seeing alike. A visit to the church includes a tour and access to a small gift shop. Before you depart from Sheki, be sure to stop by Sheki Fortress for a cup of tea while exploring this town’s 18th century roots. You can also stop by the Musuem of Folk and Applied Arts to see how the locals have expressed themselves through art.
10. Palace of Sheki Kahns, Sheki
Often overlooked by those looking for things to do in Azerbaijan, visitors have called this favorite among Azerbaijan attractions a “can’t miss” opportunity. Once you see the inside, you’ll understand why. This historic palace is full of colored glass mosaics, and the entire structure has been beautifully maintained since its construction finished in 1797. The interior is covered in frescoes painted in the 18th century by several artists, one of whom was the architect of the building himself. This palace served as the summer residence of the ruling dynasty, and has been lavishly decorated inside and out. Take in all that you can of this gorgeous attraction while you’re there, because pictures are not allowed inside the palace.
11. Gabaland
Just minutes away from the Shooting Club, Gabaland is a family fun park with free admission for children under 6. The park offers pedal boats, swings, go karts, a Ferris wheel, and several other rides for children and adults. Throughout the park are a number of beautiful statues and flowers to enjoy while you walk around. For the more adventurous in your group, there is a high ropes challenge course to try. The park is small but it has all you need for a day of fun, especially if you are traveling with children. Its accessibility and activity options make it one of the most popular things to do in Azerbaijan.
12. Gabala Shooting Club
Located on the upper edge of the country, Gabala is a city you may not think to visit during your stay, but it has definitely earned its spot on our list of places to visit in Azerbaijan. For a bit of adventure, head to the Gabala Shooting Club. A golf cart will whisk you away from the parking lot and into their club for a shooting experience you’ll never forget. Try your hand at rifles, pistols, archery, and shooting clay pigeons. They have the range set up with various degrees of difficulty so there is something for the experienced shooter as well as the newcomer. They even offer professional tutors to assist you in your first shooting experience.
13. Arboretum of Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences, Mardakan
Spend a day enjoying this lush collection of plants from around the world. Featuring trees, cacti, ponds, and greenhouses, this arboretum is home to 1,700 species year-round. Started in 1926 by botanist Nikolai Vavilov, the botanical site has grown and thrived over the years and is now run by the National Academy of Sciences. While in Mardakan, stop by the medieval Mardakan Castle for a view of history in this region. With the arboretum, a historic castle, and a family-friendly water park, Mardakan has something to offer for every visitor.
14. Hunot Canyon, Shusha
For a stunning hike with flowing waterfalls and tall mountains, travel to Shusha for a day spent at Hunot Canyon. A 1.5 hour hike will transport you to the beautiful canyon where you can stop for lunch before enjoying the mountain scenery on your hike back. Some visitors even choose to pitch a tent and stay overnight by the water. While in Shusha, you can drive to several beautiful religious centers for a mix of culture along with the natural beauty of the town.
15. Fazil Labyrinth, Sheki
This labyrinth dates back to the 4th century BCE. It was once used as a ritual sacrifice and burial site, and is open to the public today through appointment. Each burial site has a record in English, so you can navigate your way through the grounds without assistance. Travel through the angular brick passages that once protected the grounds from unwanted visitors and explore this favorite among Azerbaijan tourist attractions.
15 THE BEST PLACE TO VISIT IN ALBANIA
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN ALBANIA
Albania has got to be one of Europe’s best-kept travel secrets. With a long western coastline along the Adriatic Sea, just 45 miles from the boot of Italy, and bordering Greece on the south and southeast, there are some extraordinary places to visit in Albania.
The country has a truly fascinating history. The home of a hardy people who love their freedom and speak a language whose roots can be traced back five thousand years, Albania only became a nation in 1912. The region had been invaded by Alexander the Great, colonized by the Romans, ruled for centuries from Constantinople, and incorporated into the Ottoman Empire. Its cultural roots go deep.
But Albania did not recover from World War II as quickly as other Balkan countries. It remains a region scarcely familiar to travelers, although this situation is rapidly changing. Nowadays the question of what to see in Albania needs to be asked less frequently.
There are some amazing places to visit in Albania, extraordinary things to do, and breathtaking sights to see. Here’s a list of the top 15 must-visit sites for all who undertake to travel to Albania.
1. Porto Palermo
Albania’s southern coastline is known as the “Albanian Riviera”. Blessed with ancient monuments, tiny traditional villages, pristine beaches, and secluded sea caves and coves, the area is truly one of the jewel’s in Albania’s crown. In 2014 the Huffington Post named the Porto Palermo, one of this region’s prettiest places, first among Europe’s undiscovered destinations. The southern entrance to the bay of Porto Palermo is dominated by its castle, built originally by Venetians but later rebuilt by Ottoman Turks.
2. Dhermi
Not far from Porto Palermo lies the village of Dhermi, a small place packed with centuries of history. The people here speak a dialect of Greek that fascinates historical linguists. The place is packed with Orthodox churches, all exhibiting distinctive Mediterranean architecture; there are three major monasteries as well. Dhermi is rich in local folklore.
The village itself perches on rocks that plummet almost vertically into the sea. Dhermi’s beach is one of the most breathtaking in Europe: its golden sands and turquoise waters are interrupted by rocky outcroppings – the Pirate’s Cave, for example, whose mysterious rocky columns have fascinated tourists for centuries and is one of the most unforgettable places to visit in Albania.
3. Blue Eye
Not far from the coast of the Albania Riviera rises the Bistrice River, which flows down into the sea. The river bubbles up from a deep cleft in the rock, forming a 50-meter deep pool of startling clarity and a deep blue color. The pool, known as the Blue Eye from its color and circularity, is cited in every Albania tourist guide as a place truly deserving a visit. The area around the pool has been designated a nature reserve and is richly overgrown with oak and sycamore trees.
4. Butrint National Park
If you travel south down the coast from the Albanian Riviera, you’ll arrive at a region that deserves to be ranked as one of the most fascinating places to visit in Albania. This is the site of the ancient Greek colony of Buthrotum, which now forms Butrint National Park. The park’s 94 square kilometers contain archaeological, historical, and natural treasures that you’ll find completely irresistible.
The archaeological excavations have unearthed remains from the Bronze Age, remains of the ancient city walls, the Roman theater, and a number of ancient ecclesiastical buildings. There’s a Venetian castle on the site as well. The excavations are surrounded by natural woodlands, through which flows the Vivari Channel. In addition to the park’s status as an Albanian national park, it has also been named a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. Gjirokaster Castle
Still in southern Albania but inland from the Albanian Riviera, the Gjirokaster Castle has stood guard over the town and surrounding countryside of Gjirokaster since at least the thirteenth century. Like so many of the other places to visit in Albania, the Gjirokaster Castle has had a series of identities through the ages: the home of a noble Albanian family in origin, it was later to become a fortress used by the Turks to suppress local rebellion. The castle was used by the local people during World Wars I and II as a bomb shelter.
6. Apollonia
You’ll have figured out by now that Albania is a country rich in historical monuments and fascinating archaeological sites. One of the most striking of these is Apollonia, an ancient city that lies up the coast from the Albanian Riviera but still near the sea. It lies about 7 miles from the village of Pojani, and truly deserves to have a day or two reserved for a visit.
Apollonia was a famous and wealthy metropolis in antiquity. You can visit the remains of the city walls, the library, a triumphal arch, and a temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. Don’t miss the archaeological museum featuring some of the excavated materials from the site. This is located in the fourteenth-century monastery of Saint Mary in the Apollonia archaeological park.
7. Berat and Berat Fortress
Some way inland from the Albanian Riviera lies the city of Berat; the old town of Berat is another of Albania’ UNESCO World Heritage sites. Berat was built on the right bank of the Osum River at a place that formed a kind of natural rocky fortress on the slopes of the Tomorr Mountains. Berat Castle towers over the river, with its fortification walls enclosing a substantial part of the hillside. The buildings inside the walls date from the thirteenth century and have been preserved as cultural treasures. The Church of Saint Mary of Blachernae well deserves a special visit. The church buildings date from the thirteenth century, and contain murals painted in the sixteenth century by Nikolle Onufri, an important Albanian icon painter.
8. National Ethnographic Museum in Berat
Visiting the Berat Fortress complex is one of the most exciting things to do in Albania. Once you’ve had the opportunity to see the castle and its extraordinary buildings, don’t miss the National Ethnographic Museum. Here’s the place where you’ll find the everyday objects of Albanian culture on display: wooden furniture, ceramic plates, a loom, and reconstructions of domestic interiors from past centuries.
9. Kruje
Nestled in the mountains of central Albania, the town of Kruje is filled with historical monuments and legends of its medieval past. The original capital of the Kingdom of Albania, medieval Kruje was the citadel of Skanderbeg, the Albanian hero who valiantly resisted the encroachments of the Ottoman Turks from Kruje Castle. The castle now houses a museum dedicated to the memory of Skanderbeg, as well as the remains of the Fatih Sultan mosque, a Turkish bath, and the National Ethnographic Museum of Kruje.
10. National History Museum, Tirana
Tirana, the capital and largest city of Albania, is not only the major cultural center of the country but also a place rich in history and legend. The site of the city has enjoyed continual human occupation since the Old Stone Age. Start your visit to Tirana by touring the National History Museum, since in this way you’ll get a feel for the sheer antiquity of the place.
The museum consists of eight “pavilions,” seven dedicated to historical eras and the eighth to one of the most famous of Albanians, Mother Teresa (now Saint Teresa of Calcutta). The Pavilions of Antiquity and the Middle Ages contains many valuable relics. But if you want to get a true flavor for the modern country, don’t miss the areas dedicated to Albanian history of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.
11. Orthodox Autocephalous Church of Albania, Tirana
While visiting Albania’s capital city, don’t miss the stately cathedral that forms the center of the independent (autocephalous) Church of Albania. Named the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral of Tirana, the building is strikingly modern in architecture, having been constructed in 2012.
12. Et’hem Bey Mosque, Tirana
Approximately 58% of the Albanian population is Muslim. Only since 1991, however, have Albanians regained the right openly to follow the religion of their choice. The Et’hem Bey Mosque, constructed in the eighteenth century, is once again a center of Islamic worship and culture in Tirana. Its exquisite architecture and beautiful frescoes are among the outstanding places in the capital city to visit.
13. Skanderbeg Square and Museum
While strolling the streets of Tirana you’re sure to find yourself in Skanderbeg Square, the city’s main plaza. The beautiful square, carefully landscaped and lit by a myriad of lamps at night, is dominated by the mounted statue of Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg.
14. Mount Dajti National Park
Once you’ve had an opportunity to tour Tirana, be sure to schedule a trip to nearby Mount Dajti National Park, less than an hour’s drive from the city. Familiarly termed the “balcony of Tirana,” Mount Dajti looms over the cityscape, and at its height offers a spectacular view of the capital. The park is a nature reserve, dominated by oak and beech groves. You’re sure to spy foxes, wild boars, and brown bears while visiting the nature preserve.
15. Rozafa Castle
Tucked away in the northwest corner of Albania is one of the most spectacular architectural sights of all: rugged and majestic Rozafa Castle. Its story is the stuff of legend as it stands guard over the rugged Albanian terrain. A visit to this site is truly one of the things to do in Albania.
