Climate and monthly weather forecast
Albania

Albania, situated in Southeast Europe, lies between the latitudes of Greece and Montenegro. The country presents a complex geography, comprising an extensive coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, and a rugged interior terrain dominated by the Albanian Alps and various rivers. These geographical features induce a unique climatic variation within the country. In general, Albania experiences a Mediterranean climate along the coast, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, while the inland regions are subjected to a continental climate, with warm summers and cold, often snowy winters. Throughout the year, the coastal areas experience temperatures ranging from 10°C in the coldest month (January) to 30°C during the warmest months (July and August). In contrast, the inland regions experience a broader temperature fluctuation, from -2°C in the coldest month (January) to 24°C in the warmest months (July and August).

The optimal period to visit Albania depends largely on the activities and regions on your itinerary. If you're planning to explore the beaches and the coastal towns, the summer months from June to August are most ideal. The temperatures are usually between 26°C and 30°C, offering perfect conditions for swimming and sunbathing. On the other hand, if you aim to discover the inland regions and the mountains, it's advisable to plan your visit during the late spring or early autumn. In these periods, the weather is warm and generally dry, ranging from 20°C to 25°C, ideal for hiking and exploring the natural landscapes.

The least favorable time to visit Albania largely depends on the region. Coastal areas can become particularly crowded and uncomfortably hot in the peak summer months, especially from late July to early August, with temperatures soaring above 30°C. Conversely, the mountainous regions can become challenging to navigate during winter, from December to February, due to heavy snowfall and temperatures dipping below 0°C. Hence, these periods may not offer the best experience if you are seeking tranquility or outdoor adventure.

Spring, from March to May, is an enchanting time in Albania. The coastal regions begin to warm up, with temperatures rising gradually from 15°C in early spring to about 22°C by the end of May. On the other hand, the inland areas experience a more pronounced temperature fluctuation, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. This period is marked by extended daylight hours and moderate rainfall, particularly in April, leading to a spectacular blossoming of flora across the country.

Albania's summer extends from June to August. During this time, the coastal areas experience high temperatures, typically between 26°C and 30°C, accompanied by plentiful sunshine and scarce rainfall, making it a peak tourist season. The interior regions, while warm with temperatures between 22°C and 24°C, can have occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures up to 30°C. Nevertheless, the elevated parts of the country remain relatively cooler and provide respite from the heat.

Autumn in Albania spans September to November. It is characterized by gradually cooling temperatures and increasing rainfall. The coastal areas see temperatures fall from 26°C in early autumn to 16°C by November. The inland regions also cool down during this period, with temperatures ranging from 22°C in early autumn to about 10°C by late November. Despite the occasional showers, autumn presents a stunning display of changing foliage, particularly in the inland areas.

Winter, from December to February, is the coldest season in Albania. Coastal areas experience mild winters with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 14°C and increased precipitation. The inland regions, however, bear the brunt of the continental climate with temperatures often dropping below 0°C, particularly in January, and snowfall becoming a common occurrence. The mountains, in particular, transform into a snowy wonderland, offering opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

January, the coldest month of the year in Albania, sees stark contrasts between the country's coastal and inland regions. The coastal areas, influenced by the Mediterranean climate, experience mild winter conditions with temperatures typically ranging from 6°C to 14°C. Weather in January »

February marks the continuation of winter in Albania, albeit with a slight increase in temperatures across the country compared to January. The coastal areas, including cities like Durrës and Vlorë, continue to experience mild winter weather. Weather in February »

March signals the onset of spring in Albania, bringing about a significant shift in the country's climate. In the coastal areas, cities such as Durrës and Vlorë welcome warmer weather with average temperatures ranging from 9°C to 17°C. Weather in March »

April is firmly entrenched in spring in Albania, and it is marked by warming temperatures across the country, an increase in daylight hours, and the blossoming of nature. On the coastal strip, including cities like Durrës and Vlorë, April ushers in a pleasant climate. Weather in April »

May, the last month of spring in Albania, brings in increasingly warmer temperatures, a significant drop in rainfall, and a bloom of flora across the country. The coastal areas, encompassing cities such as Durrës and Vlorë, embrace the pre-summer warmth during May. Weather in May »

June marks the beginning of summer in Albania, and it's characterised by rising temperatures, a continued decline in rainfall, and long days of sunshine. In the coastal regions, including cities like Durrës and Vlorë, June heralds the start of the beach season. Weather in June »

July, the peak of summer in Albania, is characterized by hot temperatures, minimal rainfall, and extended hours of sunshine. The coastal regions, including cities like Durrës and Vlorë, experience their warmest conditions during July. Weather in July »

August in Albania continues the summer season, maintaining hot temperatures, sporadic rainfall, and abundant sunshine throughout the country. The coastal regions, including Durrës and Vlorë, persist in the summer heat with temperatures typically ranging from 22°C to 30°C. Weather in August »

September signals the transition from summer to autumn in Albania. The month is marked by decreasing temperatures, an increase in precipitation, and a gradual shortening of daylight hours. In coastal regions such as Durrës and Vlorë, September retains a certain summer warmth with temperatures typically ranging from 18°C to 26°C. Weather in September »

October is firmly entrenched in the autumn season in Albania, and it is characterised by progressively cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, and shorter daylight hours. On the coastal strip, cities such as Durrës and Vlorë experience a significant change from the summer heat. Weather in October »

November in Albania ushers in a more pronounced shift towards winter, marked by a further decrease in temperatures, increased rainfall, and shorter daylight hours. The coastal regions, including Durrës and Vlorë, feel the autumn chill with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. Weather in November »

December in Albania marks the onset of winter, characterised by lower temperatures, substantial precipitation, and significantly shorter daylight hours. The coastal regions, including Durrës and Vlorë, experience a noticeable drop in temperatures, with averages ranging from 7°C to 14°C. Weather in December »