U.S. travel alert urges vigilance in Albania amid tourism surge
Albania’s rapid rise as a Mediterranean destination is meeting a note of caution from Washington. Even as the country draws over 12 million foreign visitors in 2025, the U.S.
State Department issued a travel alert on October 15, 2023, advising travelers to Long overshadowed by its neighbors, Albania has attracted attention with its dramatic Adriatic and Ionian coastline, rugged Albanian Alps, and a mix of ancient ruins and lively urban culture.
Affordability is part of the pull: visitors can find local cuisine, comfortable accommodations, and activities at prices that undercut busier hubs in Greece and Italy, making the country a favorite for backpackers and budget-minded families. The U.S. alert highlights safety and security considerations for visitors.
It stops short of discouraging travel, instead urging prospective visitors to review official guidance and keep abreast of local conditions when planning and during their stay. For those going, Albania’s highlights remain compelling.
Tirana, the capital, blends color-splashed architecture with museums and public squares; the National History Museum and Skanderbeg Square anchor the city’s cultural core, while nightlife and dining reflect a growing culinary scene. Along the Albanian Riviera, beaches at Dhërmi, Jale Beach, and Himara draw sunseekers and water-sports enthusiasts, with coastal villages offering a window into traditional life.
Inland, the UNESCO World Heritage cities of Berat and Gjirokastër showcase well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture—Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows,” commands views from its hilltop castle, while Gjirokastër, birthplace of author Ismail Kadare, is known for its stone houses and layered history.
Despite the advisory, millions visit Albania safely each year. The State Department’s notice underscores preparation over avoidance, and travelers are urged to monitor official updates as they plan and explore the country’s landscapes and heritage.