The Best Hotels in Albania: Where to Stay on the Albanian Riviera (Tried & Tested)

Albania has quietly become one of the most exciting coastlines in Europe — turquoise water that genuinely looks Photoshopped, laid-back beach towns, and prices that still feel like a steal compared to Greece or Italy just across the water.

We spent our trip hopping along the coast and stayed at three very different properties, from Vlorë all the way down to Ksamil near the Greek border. Here's the honest rundown on where to stay, based on where we actually laid our heads.

1. Nobus Hotel & Spa, Vlorë

First up was Nobus Hotel & Spa, right on the coast in Vlorë, where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. This is the one to pick if you want a proper wellness reset — think infinity pool overlooking the water, a full spa, and rooms with sea-view balconies.

Why we loved it:

• The infinity pool has a genuinely stunning outlook over the sea and hills — one of those "is this actually real" views
• Modern, minimalist rooms with air-con, balconies, and private bathrooms
• On-site spa with sauna and wellness treatments, ideal after a long drive down the coast
• Italian and Mediterranean dining on site, plus a pool bar for something more casual
• A private beach area if you'd rather not walk

Good for: couples, solo travellers wanting a quieter reset, and anyone who wants beachfront without being in the middle of the party scene.

2. La Brisa Boutique Hotel, Dhërmi

Next we headed to Dhërmi, arguably the liveliest town on the Riviera, where we checked into La Brisa Boutique Hotel — a newer, sleek build right on the beach.

Why we loved it:

• Rooftop infinity pool with sweeping views over the Ionian Sea
• Contemporary, spotless rooms, many with sea-facing balconies
• Two dining options, including a rooftop restaurant for sunset dinners
• Kids' club and family-friendly touches if you're travelling with little ones
• Steps from the beach and Dhërmi's promenade, so everything is walkable

Worth knowing: Dhërmi has a buzzing nightlife scene, and the hotel sits close to the beach bars, so if you want total peace and quiet, ask for a room set back from the promenade. It's the price you pay for being right in the middle of the action.

3. Arameras Resort, Ksamil

Last stop was Ksamil, home to some of the most Maldives-esque water in the whole country, where we stayed at Arameras Resort. This one leans into its "art hotel" identity — natural materials, nature-inspired design, and a real sense of place.

Why we loved it:

• A private beach tucked between two untouched bays, reached by golf cart — a genuinely fun touch
• The rooftop and grounds are dotted with art installations that tie into the local, free-spirited culture of the area
• Big, clean rooms with sea or garden views and daily housekeeping
• Tennis court and a fitness centre if you want to do more than lie by the pool
• Mediterranean and Greek-influenced food, including proper Albanian dishes like byrek

Worth knowing: the resort sits a little outside Ksamil's centre, so a car or taxis are handy for evenings out in town. Book a sea-view room if you can — the location is the whole point.

Our Verdict

Starting with our favourite and working down, here's how they stack up:

• Arameras Resort — best for that "secret Maldives" beach feeling in Ksamil
• La Brisa Boutique Hotel — best for nightlife, energy, and beachfront convenience in Dhërmi
• Nobus Hotel & Spa — best for relaxation and spa days in Vlorë