Albania Weather by Month: Temperatures and Sea Guide
Updated 2026-11-01 · 5 min read · Prices and schedules change — check locally.
What is the monthly weather and sea temperature in Albania?
Albania transitions from cool, rainy winters to hot, dry summers with swimming viable from late May to October.
Coastal regions like Sarandë, Vlorë, and Durrës experience Mediterranean climate patterns with dry summers and wet winters. Inland cities like Tirana and Gjirokastër see slightly wider temperature swings, with hotter summer afternoons and cooler winter nights.
In the Albanian Alps and eastern mountains, temperatures remain 5°C to 10°C cooler than coastal averages year-round. Snow is common at elevations above 1,000 meters from December through April.
| Month | Coast Air (°C) | Sea Temp (°C) | Rain Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6 - 13 | 14 | 11 |
| February | 7 - 14 | 14 | 10 |
| March | 9 - 16 | 15 | 10 |
| April | 11 - 19 | 16 | 9 |
| May | 15 - 24 | 19 | 7 |
| June | 19 - 29 | 23 | 4 |
| July | 22 - 33 | 25 | 2 |
| August | 22 - 33 | 26 | 3 |
| September | 18 - 28 | 24 | 5 |
| October | 14 - 23 | 21 | 8 |
| November | 11 - 18 | 18 | 11 |
| December | 7 - 14 | 15 | 12 |
When is the sea warm enough for swimming in Albania?
The sea is comfortable for swimming from June through early October, peaking at 26°C in August.
The Ionian Sea in the south around Ksamil and Himarë warms slightly faster than the Adriatic Sea in the north. By mid-June, water temperatures reliably cross 22°C, which most travelers find comfortable for extended swimming.
September offers ideal swimming conditions with water hovering around 24°C, reduced coastal winds, and significantly smaller crowds than July and August. By late October, the sea cools to roughly 20°C as autumn rains begin.
What is the weather like during Albania's summer?
Summer runs from June through August and is hot, sunny, and very dry across the lowlands and coast.
Daily highs along the coast consistently reach 30°C to 34°C, while inland valleys around Tirana and Berat can exceed 38°C during heatwaves. Rainfall is rare, often limited to brief afternoon thunderstorms in mountainous areas.
UV levels are high, requiring sun protection between 11:00 and 16:00. Evenings remain warm on the Riviera, rarely falling below 20°C, making air conditioning essential for accommodation.
What should you expect from winter weather in Albania?
Winters are mild and wet on the coast, but cold and snowy in the inland mountains.
December, January, and February are the wettest months for lowland cities. Coastal temperatures rarely drop below freezing, with typical daytime highs of 10°C to 14°C and frequent rainstorms.
The Accursed Mountains around Theth and Valbona experience heavy snowfall, and mountain passes often close between November and May. If visiting the north in winter, expect sub-zero temperatures and limited rural transit.
What are the best months to visit Albania for outdoor activities?
May, June, September, and October are the best months for hiking, sightseeing, and road trips.
Spring brings green landscapes, blooming wildflowers, and comfortable daytime highs between 18°C and 24°C, ideal for visiting archaeological sites like Butrint or Apollonia without excessive heat. Mountain trails below 1,500 meters are generally clear of snow by May.
Autumn offers stable weather, warm sea conditions, and cooler air for hiking. September is particularly suited for travelers who want to combine trekking in the north with beach visits along the southern Riviera.