Weather in Albania and best time to go
Albania has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters in the lowlands. At higher altitudes in the interior, temperatures tend to be lower and it often snows in winter.
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Differences between the coast, the interior and the mountains
Generally speaking, temperatures in the lowlands of Albania are similar to those in Italy or northern Spain. The exception is the mountainous regions, where conditions are significantly harsher, particularly in winter.
The coast is cooled by the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
During hot summer days, the inland areas around Tirana, Elbasan and Berat are therefore often 2 °C to 4 °C warmer than the coastal regions. By contrast, nights by the sea are warmer and more humid.
The southern Albanian Riviera between Vlorë, Himarë and Sarandë tends to have slightly more stable and drier summer weather than the north of the country. However, the differences are not so great as to be a deciding factor when choosing a particular holiday resort.
In mountainous areas, it is important to always be prepared for sudden changes in the weather. Even in summer, a completely clear sky can turn into a violent storm within 15 minutes. Temperatures on mountain peaks or high passes cannot therefore be deduced from the forecast for Theth or Valbonë.
Albania throughout the year
Here is what the weather is like in each month of the year. The temperatures given are indicative long-term averages for the coast and lowlands.
In the mountains, expect significantly lower temperatures.
Weather in January
January is the coldest month of the year in Albania. Even so, on the coast and in Tirana, you’ll find temperatures around 11 °C, which are mild by winter standards.
You should, however, expect relatively frequent rain, usually in the form of showers, which turn to snow at higher altitudes.
There is plenty of snow in the Albanian Alps, and high-altitude routes as well as some minor roads may be impassable. Temperatures in the mountain valleys typically range between −3 °C and 5 °C.
Verdict: January makes sense for a budget visit to Tirana and other cities, but not for travelling around the whole country or for mountain hiking.
Weather in February
February is still one of the cold winter months with high rainfall. Whilst the rain may not be heavy, it falls frequently and overcast skies can persist for several days.
Temperatures in the lowlands rise to between 11 °C and 13 °C, whilst in the mountains it still often snows and temperatures hover around 0 °C, with highs of up to 4 °C.
Verdict: February is best suited for visiting towns and cities. It is one of the least suitable months for road trips or travelling to the mountains.
Weather in March
Spring is slow to arrive in Albania. March is also one of the wetter months, with frequent showers.
Temperatures along the coast and in the lowlands around Tirana and Lake Skadar reach a pleasant 15 °C, but there is still plenty of snow in the mountains.
Severe frosts well below −8 °C are not uncommon even in March in the highest mountain areas.
Verdict: March is suitable for exploring cities, but due to the changeable weather, it is not ideal for a traditional holiday or for travelling to the mountains.
Weather in April
The entire lowland west of Albania begins to blossom and turn a rich shade of green. Showers are becoming less frequent, and although they still occur quite often, the rain tends to be lighter and shorter-lived than in the winter months.
Temperatures in the lowlands and on the coast rise to around 19 °C. In the mountains, the snow begins to melt more extensively, though on high-altitude routes and mountain passes it can persist well beyond the end of April.
Verdict: April is ideal for visiting towns, sights and day trips at lower altitudes. It is still too early for swimming or high-altitude hiking.
Weather in May
In May, summer is already in the air. Average temperatures in the low-lying western and northern parts of Albania rise to 24 °C and often exceed the summery 25 °C by the end of the month.
Although it still rains relatively often, it is usually only for short spells in the afternoon or evening. Most of the day is partly cloudy or sunny.
In the mountains, snow is melting even at higher altitudes, and typical temperatures in the valleys rise to 17 °C. However, high mountain passes may not yet be safe to cross.
Although some travel agencies organise seaside holidays as early as May, the water temperature usually does not exceed 19 °C. However, May is ideal for sunbathing on half-empty beaches and sightseeing trips.
Verdict: One of the best months for a road trip, exploring cities and enjoying uncrowded coastlines, but not for a traditional beach holiday.
Weather in June
June is typically a summer month throughout Albania. Temperatures in the lowlands commonly rise above 28 °C; rainfall decreases significantly and usually occurs only in the form of brief thunderstorms.
The air in the mountain valleys also warms to a pleasant 20 °C to 25 °C. Thanks to the green countryside following spring, June is ideal for mountain hikes, although snow may still lie on the highest routes, particularly in the first half of the month.
The sea temperature rises during June from around 20 °C to 23 °C.
Verdict: June is one of the best months for a combination of swimming, day trips and hiking. For more reliable swimming conditions, opt for the second half of the month.
Weather in July
In July, temperatures reach their highest levels. The average in the lowlands and by the sea is around 31 °C, but heatwaves with temperatures above 38 °C are not uncommon.
Temperatures of around 30 °C can also be found in mountain valleys, although at higher altitudes the average tends to be around 24 °C.
You’ll encounter very little rain during July. When it does rain, it’s usually a brief evening or night-time thunderstorm.
The sea temperature reaches 24 °C to 25 °C. Accommodation in the most popular resorts tends to sell out quickly, so it’s worth booking your hotel in advance.
Verdict: The ideal month for guaranteed hot weather, swimming and high-altitude hiking, but be prepared for the heat, the highest prices and the largest crowds.
Weather in August
The weather in August is very similar to that in July. The air warms up to an average of 31 °C, but temperatures exceeding 38 °C under a relentless, scorching sun are not uncommon.
Clouds tend to appear most often in the evening and can bring a sudden summer shower. In the mountains, therefore, set off on longer hikes early in the morning.
The sea is at its warmest in Albania during August, reaching temperatures of up to 26 °C.
Verdict: August offers the warmest sea and the greatest certainty of summer weather. At the same time, it is the busiest and often the most expensive time of year.
Weather in September
Albania is still in the grip of summer in September. Particularly in the first half of the month, you’ll enjoy temperatures between 27 °C and 33 °C, whilst in the mountains it cools down to an average of 19 °C to 22 °C.
The weather tends to remain fairly calm, with most days being sunny. In the second half of September, evening and night-time thunderstorms gradually become more frequent, particularly in the mountains.
A seaside holiday in September is ideal, as the water cools slowly and its temperature remains around 24 °C to 25 °C.
Verdict: September is the best all-round month for swimming, travelling around the country and hiking in the mountains.
Weather in October
October brings cooler weather and more rainfall to Albania, although these are often just brief showers.
Temperatures in the lowlands and by the sea reach around 22 °C, making this month ideal for city breaks and sightseeing.
It is also possible to travel to the mountains, as snowfall in October is still rare. However, you should expect temperatures to drop below 14 °C, and in the evenings they can easily fall to 5 °C.
Hardier travellers can still enjoy a swim, with the water averaging around 22 °C. However, due to the changeable weather, it’s no longer possible to plan a traditional beach holiday with any certainty.
Verdict: October is ideal for sightseeing and road trips, whilst swimming should be seen more as a possible bonus.
Weather in November
November is generally the rainiest month in Albania, both in the lowlands and in the mountainous regions.
Rain may fall only in the form of short showers, but there can also be heavy downpours lasting the whole day. A run of several dry and sunny days in a row cannot therefore be guaranteed in advance.
Temperatures in the lowlands rise to around 17 °C, whilst in mountainous areas they average just 8 °C. Towards the end of the month, it commonly snows in the highest parts of the mountains above 2,000 metres.
Verdict: Due to the rain, November is one of the least suitable months to visit. It may only be worth a visit if you’re looking for a cheap trip to Tirana or other cities.
Weather in December
December is also a wet month, but statistically it rains slightly less than in November. On average, expect rainfall roughly every other day and temperatures between 7 °C and 14 °C.
Winter is in full swing in the mountains. Temperatures in the mountain valleys drop to between −3 °C and 5 °C, and snow commonly falls instead of rain. High-altitude trails are inaccessible without winter equipment, and problems can also arise on smaller roads following heavy snowfall.
Verdict: December is best spent visiting towns, not exploring the mountains or beach areas.
Sea temperature in Albania
For most travellers, the sea is pleasant for swimming from late June to late September.
It reaches its highest temperature in August, when the water warms up to 26 °C. In the first half of September, the sea is almost as warm as during the peak season.
In May, the water is around 19 °C and is more suitable for a quick dip. In October, it can still be around 22 °C, but swimming is often made less pleasant by cooler air, wind or rain.
Along the shallow Adriatic coast around Durrës and Golem, the water can warm up more quickly than on the deeper Ionian coast. However, the current temperature is significantly affected by the wind and sea currents.
Current weather and forecast
A forecast for the whole of Albania isn’t particularly reliable. The coast, Tirana and the Albanian Alps can experience completely different weather on the same day.
You should therefore check the forecast specifically for a particular location, such as Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë, Sarandë, Theth or Valbonë.
For travel purposes, a 2- to 4-day forecast is the most useful. Treat the 7-day outlook as a rough guide, and a 10- to 14-day forecast will reliably show you no more than a general trend.
Before setting off on a hike in the mountains, always check the forecast for rainfall, thunderstorms and wind strength, not just the maximum daily temperature.
Frequently asked questions about the weather in Albania
Which month is best for a holiday in Albania?
The first half of September is best for swimming and a seaside holiday. For a road trip and exploring the whole country, we recommend June or September. Head for the mountains from the second half of June until the end of September.
Is it warm in Albania as early as May?
Yes, daytime temperatures often reach 23 °C to 25 °C. However, the sea is only around 19 °C, so May is better suited to day trips, sunbathing and travelling around the country than for a traditional beach holiday.
Can you go swimming in Albania in October?
Sometimes, yes. The sea is usually around 22 °C, but the weather is no longer stable and it can be windy or rainy. We wouldn’t plan a holiday based solely on swimming for October.
When is it least likely to rain in Albania?
The driest months are July and August. Most days are also sunny in June and during the first half of September.
Does Albania have a rainy season?
Albania does not have a tropical rainy season. However, there is regularly more rainfall from October to March, and November is usually the wettest month.
Where is it warmest in Albania?
The southern Albanian Riviera around Himarë, Sarandë and Ksamil usually enjoys the most stable summer weather. However, the highest daily temperatures during heatwaves are often recorded inland, for example around Tirana, Elbasan or Berat.
What is the weather like in Albania in winter?
On the coast and in Tirana, daytime temperatures are usually between 8 °C and 14 °C, but it often rains. In the mountains, it freezes and snows, and high-altitude routes are impassable.
What should you pack for the Albanian mountains?
Even in summer, take a waterproof jacket and one warmer layer. The weather can change very quickly, and evening temperatures are significantly lower than on the coast.
Table of temperatures during the year
Albania – lowlands and coastline - Warmer weather in the western part of the country
Albania – mountains - Cooler weather in mountainous areas
Sea temperature in Albania -
When to go to Albania
The best time to visit depends mainly on whether you’re heading to the coast, exploring cities or heading for the mountains.
When to visit Albania for a beach holiday
For a beach holiday, the best time is from the second half of June to mid-September, when there is the least rain and the sea temperature ranges between 23 °C and 26 °C.
The warmest sea temperatures are in August and early September. The first half of September usually offers the best combination of warm sea, summer weather and slightly fewer people.
In May, there may already be summer weather during the day, but the sea is only around 19 °C. October, on the other hand, can offer water temperatures of around 22 °C, but the weather is significantly less reliable and some seasonal businesses in smaller resorts are often already closed.
When to go on day trips and road trips
The best times to explore towns, castles and other sights are May, June, September and the first half of October.
In July and August, temperatures can reach up to 40 °C, particularly inland. You should therefore plan walks around Tirana, Berat or Gjirokastër for early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
If you want to travel around most of the country, June and September offer the best compromise. The weather is usually stable, the days are long, and you’ll avoid the hottest periods.
Most natural attractions are difficult to reach without a car. Read about our experiences of hiring a car in Albania or compare car hire prices straight away .
When to visit the Albanian mountains
The main hiking season in the Albanian Alps lasts roughly from the second half of June until the end of September.
Snow may still linger on high-altitude trails and mountain passes during June. This also applies to the popular crossing between the Theth and Valbonë valleys, the accessibility of which always depends on the specific winter conditions.
In July and August, high-altitude trails are usually snow-free, but it can be very hot in the valleys. You should therefore set off early in the morning and be prepared for the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms.
We consider September to be the best month for combining mountain hiking with travelling around the rest of Albania.
When is Albania least crowded?
Apart from the coastal resorts, Albania isn’t usually overcrowded, even during the peak season. However, the beaches around Ksamil, Sarandë, Himarë, Vlorë, Durrës and Golem experience the greatest influx of tourists in July and August.
June and September offer a quieter coast and still good weather. You’ll encounter even fewer people in May and October, but you’ll have to reckon with a colder sea and less reliable weather.
Accommodation in Albania is also generally cheaper outside July and August.
You’ll find the cheapest flights and accommodation from November to March. However, these low prices come at the cost of more frequent rain in the lowlands and snow in the mountains.
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