Albania Itineraries
Discover the gem of the Balkans with our curated Albania itineraries for 7 and 14 days. From Tirana and UNESCO cities to the Albanian Riviera and the Alps, these routes cover the must-see highlights.
One thing is certain: once you experience Albania, you’ll be planning your return before your first trip even ends.
Albania- A Journey By Car
Albania is one of the most rewarding travel destinations in Europe, especially for those who love road trips. The best way to explore the country is by car, giving you the freedom to drive from the Albanian Riviera’s turquoise beaches to the dramatic peaks of the Albanian Alps, while stopping in historic cities like Berat, Gjirokastër, and Shkodra along the way.
Two weeks is the perfect amount of time for an Albania road trip, with enough days to relax on Ksamil’s beaches, wander Tirana’s colorful streets, hike through Valbona Valley, and discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites — all within a compact country where every drive is a scenic adventure.
Albania Itinerary
Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to experience Albania’s Riviera beaches, dramatic Alps, UNESCO cities, vibrant Tirana, and hidden villages — all within a compact country where every drive is a scenic adventure.
Day 1 Tirana
Begin your Albania adventure in the bustling capital, Tirana. This colorful and vibrant city blends Ottoman, Italian, and communist influences with a modern café culture and lively nightlife. Stroll through Skanderbeg Square, visit the National History Museum, and explore the trendy Blloku district, once reserved for communist leaders and now the city’s hotspot for bars, restaurants, and shops.
In the evening, enjoy dinner in the New Bazaar area or take in sunset views from Dajti Mountain (reachable by cable car).
Tip: Do not exhaust yourself much the first day in Tirana. It is a lovely city with loads to do. We strongly recommend you exploring the cafe scene as it is one of the most spectacular you'll find and prepare yourself for the Albania adventure ahead.
Tirana market, Albania
Where to stay in Tirana
Tirana offers everything from boutique hotels and modern apartments to budget hostels. Stay in the city center for easy access to landmarks, nightlife, and museums. Blloku is perfect if you want lively evenings, while the area around Skanderbeg Square is ideal for first-time visitors who want to be close to everything. See our recommendations on where to stay in Tirana here.
Tirana, Albania
Days 2–4 Shkoder
Head north to Shkoder, the cultural heart of Albania and gateway to the Albanian Alps. This historic city is known for Rozafa Castle, perched on a hill with panoramic views of Lake Shkodër and the surrounding mountains. The city center has a Mediterranean feel with its pedestrian streets, colorful buildings, and cafés.
Spend a day cycling around Lake Shkoder (or kayaking), visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere. For adventure, use Shkoder as a base to explore the Albanian Alps.
Tip: Many travelers arrange transport from Shkodër to Theth or Valbona to begin multi-day hikes. Local tour operators can organize transfers and guides if you don’t want to self-drive.
Shkoder Lake, Albania
Where to stay in Shkoder
Choose a boutique guesthouse in the old town for charm and walkability, or a lakeside stay for peace and nature. See our top picks for stays in Shkoder here.
Shkoder, Albania
Day 4-6 Durres
Drive south to Durrës, Albania’s main port city and one of the oldest cities in the Balkans. Here you’ll find a unique mix of Roman history and modern beach life. Visit the Roman Amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans, then stroll along the seaside promenade lined with cafés and seafood restaurants. From here you can clearly watch the sunset, and trust us, it is stunning.
Spend your afternoons relaxing on the city’s sandy beaches or take a short trip to the quieter coastal spots nearby. Durrës is also known for its excellent wine, so don’t miss a local winery tour.
Tip: The beaches closest to the city center can get busy. Drive a little further south for clearer waters and a more relaxed vibe. However, Durres doesn't have the best beaches, so you may leave these for the south of Albania which are pretty gorgeous.
Durres, Albania
Where to stay in Durres
Stay along the beachfront for convenience, or opt for a boutique hotel in the city center for easy access to cultural sites. Our own personal favorite, however, is near the promenade as it becomes so alive and an easy walk to both the centre and sea. See our list of preferred stays in Durres here.
Durres, Albania
Day 6-8 Vlore
Continue your road trip south to Vlorë, where the Adriatic Sea meets the Ionian. Known as the birthplace of Albanian independence, Vlorë is both historic and scenic. Visit the Independence Museum, explore Muradie Mosque, and enjoy panoramic views from Kuzum Baba hill.
But the real draw is the coastline.
This is the starting point of the Albanian Riviera, famous for turquoise waters and hidden coves. Relax at beaches like Radhimë or Orikum before driving further south.
TIP: There's nothing like an evening stroll in Vlora's Lungomare beach. This was the perfect place for us to walk and see as the day turns to night. We strongly recommend it for sunset, people watching and exercising.
Lungomare, Vlora, Albania
Where to stay in Vlora
Choose a beachfront hotel for sea views and easy swimming access, or a boutique stay in the city for restaurants and nightlife. Our favorite area to stay in is of course nearby Lungomare. You may find our top picks for Vlora stays here.
Vlora, Albania
Day 8-11 Saranda/Ksamil
Saranda is the Riviera’s main hub, a lively seaside town with a Mediterranean feel. Spend your days visiting Ksamil, famous for its white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water that rivals the Caribbean.
Take a boat trip to nearby islands, swim in secluded coves, or enjoy fresh seafood along the promenade. Don’t miss a day trip to the UNESCO site of Butrint, an ancient city with Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins.
About the road from Vlora to Saranda: This is one of the most scenic roads you will come across, going all the way up to Mount Cika, trust us, this is an absolute highlight of Albania. That being said, drive extremely carefully as the curves are sharp, and the weather up in the mountains may also be unpredictable. Do stop by for a coffee in one of the road cafes, and if you dare, try paragliding from here. Whatever it is, stop at the main ''Panorama Llogara'' for a rest and some breathtaking views.
Tip: Saranda is also a great base for boat tours and exploring hidden beaches along the Riviera. Ksamil is smaller and quieter, perfect if you want to stay directly on the beach. Do keep in mind Ksamil is a small place and can get packed during peak season, and during low season most places like restaurants and supermarkets may be closed. Our recommendation is, set base in Saranda and drive to Ksamil.
Ksamil, Albania
Where to stay in Saranda/Ksamil
In Sarandë, stay along the promenade for nightlife and ferry connections, or book a boutique hotel with sea views. In Ksamil, beachside stays give you immediate access to the famous turquoise waters. Check our top picks for Saranda and Ksamil here.
Day 11-13 Gjirokaster
On your way inland, stop at the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring where deep blue water bubbles up from underground caves. It’s one of Albania’s most beautiful natural attractions.
Continue to Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “Stone City.”
Wander its cobblestone streets, admire Ottoman-era architecture, and visit Gjirokaster Castle, which offers sweeping views of the Drino Valley.
Tip: About swimming in the Blue Eye, we are not sure if you may or may not swim, as there are signs you should NOT swim but we have seen others do so. Our advice, DON'T. Rather enjoy the hike around.
Blue Eye, Albania
Where to stay in Gjirokaster
Stay in a traditional stone guesthouse within the old town for an authentic experience. Many offer views over the valley and easy access to the bazaar. Our favorite picks to stay are here.
Gjirokaster, Albania
Day 13-15 Berat
End your Albania road trip in Berat, another UNESCO city often called the “City of a Thousand Windows.” Explore the Ottoman houses stacked along the hillside, wander the cobbled streets of the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, and climb up to Berat Castle for breathtaking views.
Spend time visiting the Onufri Iconography Museum inside the castle walls, or relax by the Osum River with a coffee. The city’s warm hospitality and historic beauty make it the perfect final stop.
Gjirokaster, Albania
Where to stay in Berat
Stay in a restored Ottoman guesthouse for charm and character. Boutique hotels inside the castle walls or in the Mangalem quarter offer the most atmospheric stays. Find our top choices for staying here.
Day 15-18 Tirana
Finish your journey back in Tirana. Use your last days for any sights you may have missed at the start, or simply enjoy the capital’s buzzing atmosphere one more time before heading home. If you want truly feel like a little bit more adventure, we strongly recommend heading to Bovila lake (put ''Bovilla restaurant'' in Google Maps). This was challenging, as the road was still being built, but it was worth every single second for the views, the nature and the peace here.
If you liked your stay in Tirana for the first night, stay in the same place. Otherwise, here are more of our own personal recommendations.
Tip: Get lost in Tirana and make the best out of this small but charming city. Discover the harsh past of Tirana in its museums, or indulge the the unmatched coffee culture of the city. We can assure you, Tirana will be a city you will definitely miss.
Lake Bovilla, Albania
How to visit Albania
We chose to explore Albania independently, renting a car and planning our own route rather than joining a group tour or hiring a private driver. Traveling this way gave us complete freedom and flexibility, allowing us to discover hidden villages, linger on beaches we loved, and cut costs compared to packaged tours.
Overall, driving through Albania made us feel truly fulfilled — we connected more deeply with the country, enjoyed spontaneous stops along scenic mountain roads, and still found it easy to move between major destinations like Tirana, Shkodër, Berat, and the Albanian Riviera.
That said, joining a guided tour is also a popular choice among travelers. Many prefer this option for convenience, local insights, and stress-free logistics, especially if they want to maximize time. Even if we can’t recommend specific companies, we can confidently say that independent travel in Albania is safe, budget-friendly, and one of the most rewarding ways to explore the country.
Visa: Albania allows visa-free entry for many nationalities, including citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, and Australia, for stays of up to 90 days within 180 days. If you do need a visa, you can apply online through the official e-visa portal of Albania’s government. Processing usually takes a few business days. Always check current entry requirements before your trip.
Saranda, Albania
Where to stay in Albania
Tirana
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Budget: Villa 9-1B , Pandoras Apartment Box
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Mid-scale: INN Center Studio Apartment , My Apartments Tirane
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Upscale: Maritime Hotel & Spa , Moonlight Apartments Tirana
Shkoder:
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Budget: Rooms for rent , Old Town Home
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Upscale: Luxury Living in Shkoder Historic Center , Kanuni Authentic Albanian House
Durres:
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Mid-scale: Colombia Apartments & Rooms
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Upscale: Grand Duka Hotel
Vlora:
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Midscale: Platinum Apartments INNTheBeach
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Upscale: Best View Apartment , Belleview Apartment 2
Saranda:
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Midscale: Brilant Hotel Saranda
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Upscale: Buzë Hotel Boutique
Ksamil:
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Mid-scale: Crystal 13 Villas
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Upscale: Euro Hotel
Gjirokaster:
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Mid-scale: Caramel Boutique Hotel , Argyropolis Boutique Hotel
Berat:
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Guest-house: Ziu Guest House , Guest House Leon
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Upscale: Hotel Plaza Berat
Getting around Albania
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By Car: Renting a car is the most popular and convenient way to explore Albania. Roads between major cities are generally in good condition, though mountain routes in the Albanian Alps can be steep and winding. Having your own car gives you the freedom to stop at viewpoints, hidden beaches, and small villages along the way. Taxis are available in larger cities like Tirana, Sarandë, and Shkodër, but for longer trips a rental car is more cost-effective.
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By Bus (Furgon): Albania’s network of minibuses, known as furgons, connects most towns and cities. They are cheap and run frequently, though timetables are flexible and departures often depend on passenger demand. For budget travelers, this is the most affordable way to get around Albania, but expect basic comfort.
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By Train: Albania’s train network is extremely limited and not commonly used by travelers. While there are a few routes, they are slow and outdated compared to buses and cars. For most visitors, trains are not a practical option.
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By Ferry: Ferries are the best way to connect Albania with nearby countries. Daily services run between Sarandë and Corfu, making it easy to combine Albania with a Greek island holiday. Domestic ferries also operate on Lake Koman, offering one of the most scenic boat journeys in the Balkans, often described as “Europe’s mini fjords.”
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By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps: In Tirana and a few other major cities, ride-hailing apps like Bolt make it easy to get around. Taxis are also common, but always check the price before starting the ride, as meters are not always used.
Tip: If you plan to explore beyond the main cities, renting a car is highly recommended. It’s the easiest way to access the Albanian Riviera, the Blue Eye, Valbona Valley, and other highlights that are difficult to reach with public transport.
Travel tips for Albania
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Drive Smart in the Mountains
Albania is best explored by car, but mountain roads in the Albanian Alps can be steep, winding, and narrow. Drive slowly, especially at night, and don’t rely only on Google Maps — locals know shortcuts that apps don’t always show. Book your car here. -
Buses Have No Schedule
Public transport in Albania mainly runs on furgons (minibuses). They leave when full, not on a fixed timetable. Always confirm departure with the driver, and be flexible — journeys may take longer than expected. -
Cash Is King
While cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, most daily expenses (fuel, small shops, local eateries, taxis) require cash. ATMs are widely available, but some charge high fees. Raiffeisen and Credins Bank usually have better withdrawal rates. -
Food Is Fresh and Affordable
Traditional Albanian food is a highlight: try byrek (savory pie), grilled lamb, and fresh seafood on the Riviera. Stick to busy restaurants for the best hygiene and value. Portions are large, so order less than you think. -
Ferry Across Lake Koman
One of the most scenic experiences in Albania is the ferry ride across Lake Koman, often described as the “Norwegian fjords of the Balkans.” Book tickets in advance during summer as space is limited. -
Petrol Stations Are Not Everywhere
In rural and mountain areas, petrol stations are sparse. Always keep your tank at least half full before heading to remote places like Theth or Valbona. -
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Buy a local SIM card from Vodafone or One Albania at the airport or in major towns. Data is cheap, coverage is strong even in remote areas, and it’s essential for navigation and booking accommodations on the go. -
Respect Local Customs
Albanians are famously hospitable, but dress modestly when visiting mosques, churches, or small villages. A scarf or shawl comes in handy for women when entering religious sites. -
Expect Slow Travel
Even short distances can take hours due to winding roads, furgon delays, or mountain passes. Plan buffer time into your itinerary and enjoy the journey — the landscapes are breathtaking. -
Safety and Scams
Albania is generally safe, but tourists can still be seen as “walking wallets.” Always confirm taxi fares in advance, double-check restaurant bills, and avoid anyone offering “free” services. In Albania, as anywhere else, remember: nothing is free. -
The Sun Is Strong
On the Riviera, UV rays are intense. Use reef-safe sunscreen, wear a hat, and carry water. Tap water is safe in some cities but bottled water is recommended for visitors. -
Pack Light but Practical
Bring lightweight clothing for the coast, a warm layer for the mountains, sturdy shoes for hikes, mosquito repellent, and a universal power adapter (Type C/F).
Travel costs for Sri Lanka
Albania is one of the most affordable destinations in Europe. Budget travelers can spend around €35–€50 per day, mid-range trips average €60–€120 per day, and luxury stays start from €160+ per day.
Food: Local meals are inexpensive and delicious. A traditional byrek or bakery snack costs €1–€2, while a hearty meal in a casual restaurant is usually €4–€8. Even mid-range restaurants often stay under €15 per person, with seafood on the coast offering excellent value.
Transport: Public minibuses (furgons) are the cheapest option at €1–€5 per ride, depending on distance. Taxis cost more, especially for longer routes, but are still affordable compared to Western Europe. Renting a car is the best way to explore Albania independently, averaging €25–€40 per day plus fuel. Ferries like the Lake Koman crossing cost around €6–€10.
Accommodation: Guesthouses and budget hotels start from €20–€35 per night, boutique hotels range €60–€100, while luxury resorts on the Riviera or in Tirana start at €150–€200+ per night. Staying in family-run guesthouses is not only cheaper but also offers authentic Albanian hospitality.
Attractions: Many of Albania’s highlights — old towns, hiking trails, viewpoints, and beaches — are free. Entrance to major sites like Berat Castle, Butrint National Park, or Gjirokastër Castle typically costs €3–€10, making sightseeing excellent value.
Our Transport Costs Example: When planning our Albania road trip, we considered private tours and transfers but found them significantly more expensive than traveling independently. By renting a car and mixing it with occasional buses and taxis, we spent far less overall while gaining total freedom to explore hidden villages, stop for scenic views, and set our own pace.
Would we do it the same way again? Absolutely. Independent travel in Albania is not only safe and budget-friendly, but also the most rewarding way to experience the country.