Planning a trip to Albania? Whether you’re getting ready to hike in the Albanian Alps, chill on the beaches of the Riviera, or just eat all the byrek, there’s something special about diving into a good story that connects you to the place you’re visiting.
From novels that bring history to life to movies that show off the country’s stunning landscapes, these picks will help you soak up the vibes before you even pack your bags- or just give you something great to enjoy on the plane.
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Books about Albania
I’m not gonna lie- I’m a huge book nerd 🤓 📖
I devour books and I especially love books that have to do with travel. One of my favorite ways to prepare for a trip is to read about the place I’m going.
>> And don’t forget to check out Audible! 🎧 📚 It’s great for those long flights and cross-country road trips!
I read everything from memoirs to novels to historical fiction to travel guides and I always bring a physical book with me on vacation- usually one about the place I’m visiting.
You can be a weirdo like me and bring a paper book with you. Or you could do what a sane person does and get a Kindle.
>> Oh hey, need some help figuring out what else to pack? I can help!
Below are some books that I came across while researching for my trip to Albania. They helped me get excited and I hope they do the same for you!
Memoirs about Albania
To the Lake: A Balkan Journey of War and Peace
A woman travels to the place of her grandmother’s origins- the two lakes of Lake Ohrid and Lake Prespa on the border of Albania, Montenegro, and Greece. There, she learns how these bodies of water have impacted human destinies.
Free: Coming of Age at the End of History
The story of a girl who lived through the end of an era- and everything she ever believed- as communism made way for free markets.
Historical Fiction about Albania
The Fall of the Stone City– Ismail Kadare
It’s 1943 in Gjirokaster and the Nazis are headed their way- until they disappear. If you like this one, there are lots more books by this same author.
The Sworn Virgin– Kristopher Dukes
In this love story, a woman is sold into marriage but makes the choice to be a “sworn virgin”. This allows her all the rights of a man so long as she never marries. When a stranger enters her life, she’s faced with a dilemma.
Fiction set in Albania
The Glorious Flight of Perdita Tree- Olivia Fane
In 1991, bored and spoiled Perdita is kidnapped in Albania. But instead of being afraid, she sees it as an adventure. She decides it’s her duty to free the Albanian people from communism, never considering that she might be succeed.
History Books about Albania
Royal Fraud: The Story of Albania’s First and Last King- Robert Austin
The unbelievable story of a man who declared himself king of Albania to impress his mother. He ruled for 14 years until ousted by Mussolini and spent his remaining years in exile.
Travel Guides for Albania
Western Balkans- Lonely Planet
I’ve been using Lonely Planet guides since 30 years to help me plan my trips. This covers Albania as well as other countries nearby so it’s helpful if you’re exploring the whole region.
Bradt Guide Albania- Gillian Gloyer
The guidebook I took with me when I visited Albania. It has the all the info you need and has been updated to include recent changes and improvements.
Movies & TV about Albania
I’m a visual person and love being able to see the place I’m visiting before I even get there. I want to get a feel for the country- their customs, mannerisms, and the landscape.
I can get that from watching movies and TV shows set there and imagine myself there too.
There aren’t a ton of movies and TV shows set in Albania, but I added the ones I found interesting when I was researching for my trip. I hope they help you prepare for yours too.
Documentaries about Albania
My Albania– movie 2015
American actress, Eliza Dushku, travels with her brother to Albania to explore their roots.
Amazing Albania– TV 2015
This 2 episode series explores the history and natural wonders of the country of Albania. From the unspoiled coast to the highlands, this country is home to warm people and unbelievable wonders.
Wild Flower– 2016
One of the last “sworn virgins” of Albania leaves her country life to live in the city in her 70s. These woman put aside traditional women’s roles to do the work of men, sacrificing family for freedom.
Drama Movies about Albania
The Forgotten Mountain– movie 2018 (Albanian)
A man must move into a cabin in the Accursed Mountains after losing his home.
The Forgiveness of Blood– movie 2012 (Albanian)
The lives of a brother and sister are pulled into a family blood feud after a murder.
Comedy Movies about Albania
War Dogs– movie 2016
Two idiots are awarded a $300 million Pentagon contract to provide guns for the Afghans and they make a complete mess of it. Based on a true story and starring Jonah Hill and Miles Teller as the idiots.
My Favorite Travel Websites
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Ready to plan your trip?
Here are my favorite travel websites to get you started.
✈️ Flights 🏨 Hotels 🚃 Trains
🚗 Car Rental 🤞 Insurance 🏰 Activities
Questions about Books and Movies for your Trip to Albania
How can I watch these movies and shows?
Things come and go on the streamers so you can do a search on your subscription services or you can rent/purchase them through Amazon.
What is the best way to listen to a book on Audible or a movie on my iPad?
I love love love my Airpods Pro 2 for travel because of the noise canceling feature for the loud plane ride. They’re worth every penny to me but there are other options. If you prefer headphones, Beats are always good and can take a beating (have I mentioned I have two teen boys?).
Whether you’re heading out on the trip of a lifetime or doing a little armchair travel from home, I hope you enjoy these travel books and movies about Albania. Happy travels… 📚 🍿 🇦🇱
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