Tourism in Albania is characterized by archaeological heritage from Illyrian, Greek, Roman and Ottoman times, unspoiled beaches, mountainous topography, delicious traditional Albanian cuisine, Cold War era artifacts, unique traditions and hospitality, and the wild and peculiar atmosphere of the countryside. In 2014, the New York Times ranked Albania fourth among 52 destinations to be visited. Although still underdeveloped, Albania is set to prime its debut on the world scene as it celebrates a century of independence. Lonely Planet ranked Albania as the no. 1 destination to be visited in 2011. A Huffington Post article outlined 10 reasons for visiting Albania in 2013. Recently, Albania has been officially dubbed as "Go Your Own Way". Previously, it was dubbed as "A New Mediterranean Love" and "Europe's Last Secret".The bulk of international tourists going to Albania are from Kosovo, Macedonia, Montenegro, Greece , and Italy. Foreign tourists mostly come from Central and Eastern Europe, particularly from Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. Tourists also come from Western European countries such as Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, France, UK, Scandinavia, and others including the United States, Turkey and countries in Asia. To better enjoy ones's stay and for useful information, first time travelers to Albania are strongly encouraged to consult online/print publications, travel forums and blogs on specific tips and itinerary, or can simply book a tour with a local tour operator. Some travelers include Albania as part of the wider Balkan tour package. Backpackers are common and prefer resting at hostels, camping in the countryside or along the coast. Organized groups visit the numerous archaeological sites, historic towns, or rest at seaside resorts. A growing trend has become canyon rafting, bird-watching, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, and off-road touring in the countryside. Other travelers enjoy exploring the trendy area of Blloku, Tirana's entertainment district which transfers along the Albanian Riviera during the peak summer months. Car rental agencies, tour operators, and tourist information centers have opened branches in the capital and other towns. Dental tourism has become popular as local dentists offer services with much lower prices. Local delicious cuisine can be tasted at traditional Albanian restaurants located in emerging agrotourism areas, near tourist attractions, and in scenic spots throughout the country.Towns and archaeological sitesStemming from a rich history of civilizations, Albania holds a mix of interesting artifacts. Since 2013, town centers in Albania are being redesigned and facades painted to reflect a more Mediterranean look. The most visited towns are: Durrs Amphitheatre One over one window town of Berat Old port city of Durrs (Dyrrhachium) Stone city of Gjirokastr Kruj, the balcony over the Adriatic sea Shkodr, the city that is home, among others to the Rozafa Castle Tirana, the capital with a vibrant nightlife Beach city of Vlor (the city of olives and grapes) Lezha, the historic diplomatic capital of Albania Poet's city of Pogradec Honeymooners' city of Sarand Year round festive city of Korc The most visited archaeological sites are Apollonia Antigonea Byllis ButrintNorthern AlbaniaNorthern Albania is known for its alpine mountainous landscape, conservative highlands, large hydroelectric reservoirs, and where the southern most glaciers of Europe are located. Some increasingly popular features include:

Albanian Alps, part of the Prokletije or Accursed Mountains range in Northern Albania bearing the highest mountain peak. Kelmend region is located on the northernmost point of Albania. Lake Komani Ferry, a unique journey amidst spectacular mountain views Emerging agritourism area of Puka, panoramic Ulza Lake, Fishte area of Bushat near Lezhe, Shishtavec in Kukes County, and alpine area of Nikaj-Mertur in Lekbibaj region near Bajram Curri Fishing village of Shiroka along Shkodr Lake.

Coastal western lowland of AlbaniaThe western lowland of Albania alternates between archaeological sites, castles, long stretches of curative sandy beaches, and lagoon areas perfect for bird-watching. In total, the coastline of Albania stretches over 362km and is administered by the AKB National Coastal Agency. Some emerging coastal areas include: Curative beaches of coastal Shengjin near Lezhe, and Velipoja close to Ada Bojana near the Montenegrin border Coastal areas of Lalzi Bay north of Durrs near Rodon Cape, Golem Beach south of Durres, and General's Beach near Kavaje Kune-Vain Lagoon near Lezhe, and Karavasta Lagoon near Divjake along the Adriatic Sea Picturesque areas of Fushe-Kuqe and Shenkoll near the Kune-Vain-Tale Lagoon Area Protected coastal area of Pishe-Poro in the Vjosa River Delta near Narta Lagoon featuring bird-watching, sand dunes and medicinal herbs.