Pogradec (Albania)
January 23, 2025: While road-tripping in Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia, we realized how close we were to the border of Albania. We decided to map our journey to Pogradec on our way to Thessaloniki, Greece. However, we couldn’t drive through with our rental car due to various bureaucratic regulations at the Albanian border. Instead, we walked across the border and visited Tushmisht and Pogradec. Since it was off-season, we enjoyed the tranquility of the beach towns and admired the beauty of Lake Ohrid and the surrounding mountains from Albania. Along the way to Pogradec, you will also encounter many abandoned bunkers.
Border crossing from Saint Naum (North Macedonia) to Tushemisht
Tushemisht (~20 mins walk):
Pogradec (~ 1 hr walk):
Coffee/cocktail @ Bar Konti*
Dessert @ Hotel Hymeti’s Palace
Taxi to Tushemisht border (€8-10)
Other points of interest & food:
Tips:
While the local currency is Lek, euros are widely accepted.
Albanian is the official language. In tourist areas, many people speak English, Italian, or Greek.
A green card is needed to cross the border with a vehicle. However, the machine that processes the green card is always down. Your best bet is to prepare plan B (walking) or be ready to take a taxi to Pogradec to obtain a green card if you must travel with your car.
