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A complete guide to travelling in Albania

Updated On 8th March, 2024

If you’re considering visiting Albania, add it to your Europe bucket list now. I’ve never had a country take me by surprise as much as Albania did. It’s one of Europe’s most hidden gems and if you haven’t been yet, book your tickets now.

My  8-day road trip through the Albanian Riviera  was eye-opening, jaw-dropping and memorising. We explored the capital of  Tirana  before moving towards the coastline and enjoying beach life in  Dhërmi ,  Vlorë ,  Himarë  and  Sarandë , some of the Riviera’s main towns. We also happened to be there for  Kala Festival , which added an upbeat element to our trip!

But that wasn’t all Albania had to offer. We were able to hike through forests and take in the mountain air in  Butrint National Park  and  Llogara National Park , as well as explore the underrated, barely touched, beautiful little towns and villages of  Berat  and  Gjirokaster.  The variety of landscapes and things to do in Albania only makes me want to visit again; I barely scratched the surface.

This travel guide will take you through everything you need to know before visiting Albania, including the best places to visit in Albania, and my top tips for travelling in Albania.

My Albania travel guide: everything you need to know about exploring Europe’s hidden gem

Basic facts about Albania…

• Currency:  Albanian Lek
• Language:  Albanian
• Capital:  Tirana
• Area:  28,748 km2 (11,100 sq mi)
• Population:  2,845,955
• Land borders:  Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Greece
• Maritime borders:  Greece, Montenegro and Italy
• Highest summit:  Mount Korab, 2,764m
• Plug sockets:  Most commonly, European (type C & F). Occasionally, UK (type G).
• Time zone:  CST/CEST (1 hour ahead of the UK)

Visa requirements for Albania…

Citizens of most EU countries can stay in Albania for 90 days in any 6-month period, visa-free. This rule also applies to citizens of the UK, USA, Australia, China, New Zealand, Singapore and more.  See a complete list of countries that can travel to Albania visa-free  here .

If you need a visa, or aren’t sure if you need a visa, check your local government’s travel advice.

See my  22 top tips for travelling in Europe here.

When’s the best time to visit Albania?

Albania has a Mediterranean climate with four distinct seasons. Hot dry summers, mild but wet winters, and springs and autumns that are warm enough to be comfortable, but not so hot that you’re sweating buckets! Bear in mind, however, that it does vary depending on where you are in the country. The coast tends to have higher summer temperatures and milder winters than the inland, more mountainous areas.

I’d say the best time to visit Albania is in spring (April-June) or autumn (September – November). For me, the balance of warm temperatures (but not too hot) and less chance of rainfall makes for perfect travelling conditions. Having said that though, if you like the heat or don’t mind a bit of rain, Albania is great for year-round travel!

See my  hidden gems you must visit when planning European adventure here.

Check out all my top tips for travelling in Albania  here .

How do you get to Albania?

Flying to albania:.

Albania’s main airport is Tirana Nënë Tereza International Airport (TIA). Here you can get direct flights from all over Europe, but if you’re travelling from another continent, expect a layover in a major European international airport.

Getting from Tirana airport to the city centre…

From the airport, you have a few options:

• Taxi:  The quickest option (20-25 minutes) but the most expensive (2,500 LEK)
• Shuttle bus:  LU-NA shpk  runs an hourly shuttle bus between 7:00-22:00 and is 300 LEK each way. It take about 30 minutes to get to Tirana city centre and it drops you by the National Museum of Tirana.

Top tip: Check out the flight deals on  Skyscanner here.

Here’s  how to pack a weekend away in a carry-on suitcase!

Ferries to Albania:

You can get the ferry to Albania from  Greece  or  Italy .  Check out ferry routes from Italy  here  and from Greece  here .

Buses to Albania:

You can get the bus to Albania from all over Europe, including but not only  Greece ,  Italy ,  Germany , Turkey, Kosovo, Bulgaria, North Macedonia and Montenegro.  Check bus tickets at the main stations in the country you are travelling from.

Where to stay in Albania…

Honestly, it depends on where you want to spend your time! Expect costs to be higher in the more touristy areas, such as in the capital of Tirana and the Albanian Riviera. Hostels are the cheapest option, with budget hotels and Airbnbs coming in a close second.

Places to stay in Albania that I’ve been to and can recommend include:

• Buff Hostel  in Tirana
• Altea  beach lodges at Drymades Beach, Dhërmi
• Old Bazaar 1790  in Gjirokastër
• Nefeli Apartments  in Sarandë
• Hotel Luxury  in Ksamil
• Guesthouse  Arben Elenzi  in Berat

Wild camping is completely legal in Albania, so great for a budget option! Paid campsites are also very cheap.  Check out my camping packing list here.

Check out hostels and hotels in Albania on  booking.com  here.

Use  this link  to get £25 off of your first Airbnb booking.

Transport in Albania…

The rail system isn’t well-developed, so locals and tourists tend to use buses. These are fairly cheap and have connections between most main towns in Albania. Timetables can be flexible though, and if a bus is full it will leave earlier than the timetable suggests, so get to the bus station/stop early to avoid disappointment!

Furgons (minibuses) are also an option, and definitely depart when they are full rather than according to a timetable. They’re a little dearer, but it’s a more comfortable experience and you can ask the driver to drop you off anywhere on the route (not necessarily waiting for a specific stop).

Hitchhiking in Albania is generally safe, although many drivers will expect some money towards the petrol before you get out.

BlaBlaCar is a ride-sharing app where you can connect with drivers who have space(s) in their car for a particular route, and then split the cost of the petrol.

We hired a 4×4 when we travelled Albania, which was an amazing experience and gave us the full flexibility of choosing when and where we wanted to go.

You’ll need an International Driving Permit for driving in Albania –  get yours here.

See my  bucket list of van life road trips in Europe here.

Safety in Albania…

Albania is a safe country to travel in. Like any country though, you need to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid flaunting any expensive equipment/technology, don’t walk home alone at night, and be cautious when you’re driving/crossing roads.

In terms of health and medical care, main towns have hospitals and doctors that you can access, although you’ll need to pay for these. The best healthcare is in the capital, Tirana. You cannot use an EHIC in Albania. Pharmacies in Albania, barnatore, have lots of medicines should you need anything (although bring your specific prescription meds with you) and private doctors and clinics in Tirana can speak English.

Always carry out travel insurance before you go anywhere! It’ll protect you in case of theft, illness or injury.  Check out my travel insurance  here.

Avoid drinking the tap water in Albania because it can give you a tummy ache. Take a reusable water bottle and try to fill up from restaurants, cafes, or larger, 5-litre bottles of water to reduce your plastic use. Get more  sustainability tips for travelling in Europe in this blog post !

Check out my top tips for staying safe when travelling  here.

Here’s my complete guide to travelling solo as a female, including all my safety top tips.

Food in Albania…

Albanian cuisine is fresh and delicious, with Ottoman and Mediterranean influences. There’s everything from fancy restaurants to street food here, so get your taste buds prepped!

Food you should try in Albania:

• Byrek : a savoury pie made with filo pastry, usually filled with spianch, gjize cheese or meat
• Fërgesë verore me speca dhe domate : fried (or oven baked) peppers and tomatoes, sometimes with feta cheese.
• Tavë Kosi : a quiche-like dish made with lamb, eggs and yogurt.
• Speça me gjize : stuffed peppers
• Kaçkavall : a famous Albanian cheese. You can eat it fried, baked or in salads or pies.
• Baklava : nuts, filo pastry and honey syrup.
• Qofte or kernaçka : fried or grilled meatballs
• Trilece : a traditional cake
• Fresh fish and seafood
• Grilled meat and vegatables
• Fresh seasonal fruit
• Local wine or raki  (grape brandy)

Note: when I visited Albania, I found it quite difficult to find vegan dishes, so you should research restaurants in the area you’ll be travelling in before you go out to eat.

Top tip: If you can, do a street food/culinary walking tour! Not only will you get to see the city, but you’ll have a happy tummy too!

Top tip: Check out  money-saving tips on my blog here.

The best places to visit in Albania…

Said to be one of the prettiest towns in Albania, and also known as the ‘Cinque Terre’ of Albania, this UNESCO world heritage site boasts beautiful architecture and an amazing amount of history. You can’t help but marvel at the Byzantine style windows that pop out the hillside in this beautiful little town.

See how I spent my time in Berat here.

The capital of Albania is likely to be the starting point on your Albanian adventure. With a mix of Ottoman and Italian architecture, it’s hard to believe this city was once full of grey, communist buildings. It’s a chaotic city, but it’s fun, especially at night in the trendy Blloku area. Don’t miss catching the cable car up to Mount Dajti for panoramic views across the city.

3. Theth National Park & Valbona Valley

This is the place to be for nature and hiking lovers. This village in the Albanian Alps is packed full of charming cottages and hiking trails, ready to take your breath away.

Here’s how to  keep fit when you’re travelling!

4. The Albanian Riviera

This is where I spent most of my time in Albania, and honestly, I was completely surprised that I fell in love with it so quickly. The area itself is absolutely stunning and one of Europe’s most hidden gems. This underrated stretch of coastline is home to the towns and villages of:

• Palasë
• Dhërmi.  Check out my stay in Dhërmi  here .
• Himarë.  Check out what I did in Himarë  here .
• Lukovë
• Sarandë.  Check out my stay in Sarandë  here .
• Vlorë.  Check out my stay in Vlorë  here . 
• Ksamil  (home to the famous  Blue Eye Spring ).  Check out my stay in Ksamil  here .
• Ksamil Islands

All of these are worth visiting in their own right! If you have the time, hire a car and spend a week or two exploring all the little towns and soaking up the sun.

The portion of the Ionian coastline that is known as the Albanian Riviera, or Bregu, is home to some of Europe’s best beaches and clearest waters. Grab your snorkel, and put these beaches on your bucket list:

• Puerto Palermo.  See what I got up to at Puerto Palermo  here .
• Drymades.  Check out out beach lodges on Drymades beach  here .

See my  21 cheap places to visit in Europe here

5. Gjirokastër.

I think Gjirokastër is my favourite place in Albania… so far. The mountain views, cobbled alleyways and the beautiful castle give this quaint little town so much character. If this town was anywhere else in the world it would be packed with tourists, but Albania really is a hidden gem and Gjirokastër is unspoilt.

Not far from Lake Skadar on the Albania-Montenegro border, Shkodra is a colourful town well worth exploring. The highlight is definitely Rozafel Castle, but if you prefer being at one with nature, the Buna River runs through the town and the Albanian Alps can be seen from the town centre.

7. Llogara National Park.

Centred on the Ceraunian Mountains along the Albanian Riviera, Llogara National Park is absolutely stunning. From dense forest to steep rock faces, here you can climb, hike, or simply let the wind run through your hair as you enjoy the views from the 4×4.

Not far from Tirana (you could easily visit for a day trip), the ‘Adriatic balcony’ is famous for Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. Climb up to the castle for fantastic panoramic views across the city!

9. Butrint National Park.

This ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site is surprisingly close to the Greek island of Corfu. This peninsula, bordered by Lake Butrint on one side and the Vivari Channel on the other, showcases Albania’s natural beauty and is one of the best places to visit in Albania.Famous for its perfect blend of history and nature, not only is it home to 1,200 species of animals and plants among the wetlands, hills, and islands, but the archaeological site covers over 2,500 years of history; this includes ancient city walls, remnants of a Roman theatre, a Byzantine Basilica and two castles.

Once the capital of Albania, this town is one of Albania’s best beach towns, and popular with tourists and locals alike. It can get crowded, but the town is full of history, the beach is beautiful, and the restaurants are full of fresh seafood. You can also hike to the ancient amphitheatre.

11. Apollonia

Another day trip from Tirana or Berat, the ruins of the ancient Illyiran city of Apollonia sit on an Albanian hilltop. This town, named after the Greek God Apollo, is less visited by tourists, but popular with locals for afternoon picnics in the olive groves.

See all the best things to do in Albania in this blog post. 

Watch my trip to Albania come to life in this travel video…

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

EXPLORE ALBANIA ON MY BLOG HERE

Have you been to Albania?

What top tips would you add to this Albania guide? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

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22 Travel Tips for Albania: Useful Things to Know Before You Go

My top travel tips for Albania to save you money, time and stress. Read this before you go travelling in Albania.

When I embarked on my 6-month overland journey through the Balkan countries, Albania was definitely the country I was most nervous about visiting.

I had read all about the rugged beaches , high mountains and historic towns and castles – so I had no trouble deciding where to go and what to do . But the people, the culture, the food and all the practical details such as transportation, WIFI and accommodation – well, I had absolutely no clue what to expect.

On the ground, I discovered that most negative stereotypes about the country are untrue. In my experience Albania is safe, affordable, friendly, diverse, tolerant and above all else, incredibly beautiful .

At the same time, I learned that Albania does present some particular challenges , even for those well-practiced at travelling in the region.

Without spoiling any of the country’s special secrets or revealing too many of the quirky things about Albania that are fun to figure out as you go, I want to share a couple of things that will make your travel experience smoother and more fulfilling.

Here are 22 practical travel tips for Albania that I think every traveller should know.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

What is travelling in Albania really like? 22 useful travel tips for Albania

Albania is quite unlike any of its neighbours.

It’s tempting to think of the Balkans (particularly the western Balkans) as a monolith. But I don’t need to tell you that every country is its own entity. Within this tapestry, Albania is perhaps the most distinct nation in terms of both its culture and history.

An obvious example: The Albanian language, Shqip , is unlike anything else spoken in the region (or anywhere else in the world for that matter). It’s thought to be descended from an extinct Illyrian tongue, but its exact origins are still a mystery to linguists.

After months of being able to follow the rough contours of a shared speech in Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina , hearing the curious chatter of Albanian on the streets of Tirana was quite a contrast.

Albania’s cultural and religious traditions are also very distinct. And although you can find local variations of cevapi and burek, the cuisine is totally different too!

With the exception of Kosovo where almost 93% of the population are ethnically Albanian, it’s hard to draw a comparison between Albania and any of its neighbours. In many ways Albania feels more like Georgia – slightly chaotic but imminently beautiful, with the furgon the local equivalent of the marshrutka.

Learn a bit about the history before you go

Of course this runs much deeper than just food and minivans. Albania wasn’t part of Yugoslavia and doesn’t have the same ‘baggage’ as its northern neighbours. That’s not to say the nation wasn’t impacted by the Balkan Wars and genocide – it certainly was – but in a different way. No fighting took place on Albanian soil.

Instead, Albania was subjected to its own private horrors, namely 45 years under an oppressive political regime including 30 years with despotic communist dictator, Enver Hoxha, at the helm. Hoxha’s ideology was so hardline, he viewed Yugoslavia and the USSR as too lax. It’s very difficult for an outsider to try and comprehend how this period of history impacted Albania and its people. But I felt compelled to at least try.

One of the most interesting things I found is that Albanians embrace their whole history – the good and the bad. The communist regime only fell in the 1990s so for the majority of the population, it’s not a distant memory but something that’s still very fresh. But it’s never glossed over. Most people we met were happy to chat politics and share their experiences.

For example: There are 173,000 disused nuclear bunkers sprinkled around Albania, each a monument to Hoxha’s paranoia. Instead of destroying them, people decided to either leave them be or repurpose them as museums or galleries. (Now there’s even a Cold War military base that’s being rebranded as an island destination .) Tirana’s collection of Communist-era statues and busts are displayed in a courtyard behind the National Art Gallery. And Blloku, once an exclusive neighbourhood where the party members lived, has been reclaimed as a vibrant cafe and street art district. Even Hoxha’s old house is still standing.

Some might think of Albania as a dark tourism destination. To me, this is a nation of light and colour. While visitors have an obligation to familiarise themselves with the nation’s recent history, it’s important to do so in a respectful, thoughtful way. The Bunk’Art museums in Tirana are a great place to start and will enrich your experience immensely. 

The man atop the horse is General Skanderbeg

On a lighter note, here’s a bit of trivia for you. If Hoxha is Albania’s villain, then the nation’s hero is definitely Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, AKA General Skanderbeg. 

It took me far too long to learn who Skanderbeg is and why he’s so beloved in this part of the world. As I travelled around the Balkans, I kept seeing the same statue of a warrior – including in squares in Skopje and Prishtina – and started referring to him simply as ‘the man atop the horse’. It wasn’t until I got to Albania that I was finally able to put a name to the face.

Skanderbeg was an Albanian military commander who lived during the early 15th century. He’s famous for leading a campaign against the Ottomans which freed Albania and several neighbouring countries from being vassal states. His penultimate battle was launched from the town of Kruja north of Tirana, now the location of Skanderbeg’s castle-museum. It’s a popular day trip and the place to go if you want to learn more about this chapter of history.

The only other person held in similar esteem is Albania’s heroine, Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu, AKA Mother Teresa. Born to Albanian Kosovar parents in Skopje – then part of the Ottoman Empire and now the capital of North Macedonia – she’s beloved in all three countries (though each claims her as their own!).

Albania is overwhelmingly a safe country for tourists

One of the biggest misconceptions about Albania is that it’s unsafe for tourists. In reality, foreigners are very rarely the target of violent crime, and although pickpocketing and scams do happen, they’re not as widespread as in other countries in Europe.

Generally speaking, Albania is overwhelmingly safe for travellers of all types (including solo females) provided you exercise common sense and caution.

My one negative experience in Albania was being fleeced by a taxi driver in Gjirokaster . It was my mistake for not doing my research – I was unfamiliar with the location and agreed to a price without understanding just how short the distance to my hotel was. To avoid misunderstandings within the cities, it’s best to download a taxi app .

The biggest thing to watch out for in Albania is road safety. (Here we find another similarity to Georgia: The driving style.) More on that later.

As a side note: It’s not advisable to drink the tap water in Tirana or other cities/towns.

Avoid visiting in July or August

The best time to visit Albania in my opinion is any time except summer. I travelled during June. As the month went on and my trip was coming to an end, I found most places were getting a little too warm and dry – and much too crowded – for my liking.

Albania has a Mediterranean climate, thus winters are mild but wet. The best time to visit Albania is shoulder season (late March to early June or September through October) when the weather is pleasant both on the coast and in the mountains.

July and August are hot and busy, especially on the riviera, and should be avoided. That’s unless you plan to stick to the mountains, in which case summer is the best time for trekking.

Consider flying into a neighbouring country

Most people arrive in Albania via the country’s main international airport, Tirana Airport Nënë Tereza. This makes sense if your itinerary starts in the capital or in the northern part of the country.

A second international airport opened in July 2021 in Kukës (KFZ), 150km north-east of Tirana (and just 45-minutes from Prizren in Kosovo ). It’s a suitable starting point for the Albanian Alps, but international arrivals are so far limited to flights from Zurich and Istanbul.

If you’re travelling around the south of Albania, it might be more convenient (and more affordable) to fly into a neighbouring country instead. Corfu International Airport in Greece is a short ferry ride from Saranda, for example, and a logical place to arrive/depart if you’re mainly focusing on the Albanian Riviera.

Also read: My top tips for visiting Montenegro .

Lek is the official currency, but Euros are widely accepted

The official currency in Albania is the lek. Although Albania is not part of the EU, the Euro is widely used as well.

Lek is common currency in convenience shops, at restaurants and among taxi drivers – i.e. for small purchases. You’ll find that most hotels and guesthouses list their prices in Euro, and it usually works out far better to pay for big-ticket items such as hotel bills and rental cars in Euro rather than lek. If you try to pay in lek, you risk losing a big chunk of cash due to the conversion rate.

At the time of writing, 1 Euro is equivalent to 121.5 LEK.

Always have cash on you

Albania is very much a cash society so you need to make sure you have plenty of bills on you at all times. You can get by in Tirana using card only, but outside the capital, cash is still king.

Lek is a closed currency so you’ll have to wait until you arrive in-country to get your hands on some. Remember that lek is only good for small purchases and meals, so only withdraw as much as you need.

ATMs are easy to find in Albania (even in rural areas). Most banks charge a 300-700 lek withdrawal fee, but Credins Bank and Alpha Bank are among those that are fee-free (at the time of writing). Remember to check for any extra charges issued by your home bank.

Albania is extremely affordable – even by Balkans standards

Accommodation, restaurants and activities in Albania are all extremely good value for money. We easily got by on 40 USD per person per day – and you could spend a lot less by taking advantage of the hostel scene and sticking to free activities. One of our biggest expenses was museum tickets, something we don’t tend to skimp on.

A generous meal in a restaurant in Albania might cost you 500-1000 lek per person, while cheap snacks such as burek are perfect for breakfast and will only set you back around 100 lek.

Expect to pay 1,600 lek for a local sim card with data, around 200 lek for a cup of coffee, and anywhere from 400-1,000 lek on average for an intercity bus fare.

Buy a sim card when you arrive

Majority of hotels, bars and restaurants in Albania have WIFI, while many beaches and archaeological sites are now serviced by a free public network. Still, if you want unfettered access to the internet for things like booking taxis and navigation, you will need a sim card.

ALBtelecom is the preferred mobile provider in Albania. It’s very easy to buy and register a sim card at one of their shops in Tirana using your passport/ID card. A sim card and internet package (20 GB with 30 days validity) will set you back 1,600 lek.

While coverage in Tirana is good enough to support a burgeoning digital nomad community, reception is still fairly limited in remote areas and non-existent in the mountains.

Don’t put your faith in Google Maps

If you’re getting around Albania with public transport and only using Google Maps for general navigation within the cities, then you have nothing to worry about. But if you’re driving in Albania and using Google Maps to plan your road trip route , you need to watch out for a couple of things.

It seems Google Maps hasn’t quite been able to keep pace with Albania’s rapid infrastructure developments. Missing roads and non-existent turn offs are common encounters, and you’ll find you’re constantly being forced to re-route. Take directions with a grain of salt and always budget extra time to account for detours.

The same goes for finding addresses – street names and house numbers often don’t correspond to what’s on the map. Even major landmarks are sometimes pinned in the wrong spot.

Furgons are your friends

Albania has a limited railway network connecting Tirana with Shkoder in the north, Durres and Vlore on the coast, and Pogradec on Lake Ohrid in the east. Domestic flights are now available from Tirana to Kukës, and flying can certainly save you time getting from the capital to the far-north.

Travelling around the centre and south of Albania, you’ll be relying on road transport. Renting a car is a great option if you’re a confident driver. Otherwise, furgons are your friends.

Furgons are intercity minivans similar to marshrutka vans used throughout the former Soviet countries . They run on a flexible schedule, stop on demand, and are extremely budget-friendly. The downsides: Road safety is not exactly a priority, luggage space (and legroom) is very limited, and you can forget about AC. Furgons depart when full so it’s important to always arrive at the bus station well ahead of schedule.

An upgrade on the furgon is the coach bus. You’ll find large air conditioned coaches running on most popular routes during the warmer months, including between Tirana and Berat , Kruje, Gjirokaster, Korca , Durres, etc.

Gjirafa Travel is a terrific website for checking bus schedules and timetables online in English. Whenever possible, I recommend cross-checking times locally at the station.

Speaking of bus stations – there are multiple bus terminals in Tirana and trying to figure out which one you need can be extremely confusing! Pogradec and Shkoder have their own stations, while other buses depart from the Regional Bus Terminal – North and South Albania.

Take extra care on the roads

Albanians have a reputation for their maniacal driving style and for flouting the rules of the road. Combined with poor road conditions in many parts of the country (although the major highways are in good nick) and the proliferation of old and worn-down cars on the road, it’s a recipe for disaster.

Be careful when crossing the road, especially in the city. Take precautions whenever you travel by road, and only hire a car if you’re very confident. Try to avoid being out on the road after dark, and never get into a car with someone who’s been drinking. I also recommend capping your road journeys to a couple of hours per leg.

Albanian cuisine is a revelation

Albania is not exactly known as a foodie destination , but it should be. Regional cuisine, traditional Albanian dishes and the country’s super-popular farm-to-table fresh food movement all combine to create a fascinating culinary scene.

Albanian food is so diverse, you can find something new to try every day. I was quite satisfied eating only Albanian food for the entire duration of my stay. I found Albanian food fresher and less meat-oriented than in some other countries in the region. Most restaurants have plenty of vegetarian options.

Northern, central and southern Albania all have their separate culinary traditions , and within that towns and villages have their own specialties. Balkan, Italian, Turkish, Greek and even ancient Roman influences can all be identified, while you’ll find many similarities to other Mediterranean cuisines (especially Greek and Italian).

Seafood reigns supreme on the coast, while in the south, food choices reflect the pastoral landscape: Dairy, citrus and olive oil are all prominent. Garlic and onions are ubiquitous.

Some of my favourite Albanian dishes include: Tavë Kosi , a meal of lamb, eggs and yogurt traditional to Elbasan; Gjirokaster qifqi (arancini-like rice balls flavoured with mint and black pepper); ‘Berati schnitzel’ (pork stuffed with hard cheese) and pispili (spinach pie with a cornbread base), both traditional to Berat; and Korca’s famous savory lakror pie.

Watch out for raki

One thing Albania does have in common with its Balkan compatriots is the proclivity for alcohol. Sipping spirits in particular is a huge part of the culture.

The drink of choice in Albania is raki or rakia , a potent clear spirit distilled from grapes. Commercial versions are up to 45% proof, but homemade raki is much, much stronger. If you’re at a small restaurant or guesthouse and a recycled plastic soft drink bottle comes out, brace yourself.

It can be difficult to get out of these drinking sessions. I found it much easier to decline as a woman. Remember you can always step away if you feel uncomfortable. Otherwise, take small sips and make sure there’s always something left in your glass to avoid unwanted top ups!

Raki isn’t all bad. In Northern Albania in particular you’ll find lovely varieties of fruit raki made from cherries.

Every day ends with a xhiro

The xhiro is an Albanian tradition and the perfect way to put a full-stop on your day. Essentially a xhiro is a sunset stroll: It involves heading to the nearest pedestrian street and walking laps.

For locals, it’s a way to catch up with friends and neighbours, learn the latest goss and socialise. Ice cream stalls and popcorn vendors set up to cater to walkers, and sometimes entire streets close to traffic for a couple of hours to accommodate people.

This is the ultimate people-watching activity and a terrific opportunity to mix and mingle. But don’t be surprised if people let their glance linger a little bit too long – staring is not considered impolite in Albania, neither whilst out on a xhiro or in everyday life (at restaurants, at the supermarket – I’ve experienced it all). It can be awkward but try not to take it personally – in most cases, people are just curious.

Albanian people are incredibly hospitable

Hospitality is serious business in Albania (yet another point of similarity to Georgia). In Albania, people are bound by Besa , a code of honour that dictates how others – especially strangers – should be treated. According to Besa, if someone approaches you for help, you accommodate them. If someone comes to you hungry, you feed them. This creed has shaped Albania into an immensely tolerant and welcoming nation.

After WWII, Albania was one of the few nations to emerge with a larger Jewish community – the nation protected its own and offered sanctuary to families fleeing from elsewhere in Europe. In the 1990s, Albania sheltered refugees from Kosovo displaced by conflict.

Today that same kind of generosity is extended to tourists. Kanun , the customary law of Albania, says that the master of a house should always have a spare bed ready for unexpected guests. While I wouldn’t recommend showing up on someone’s doorstep unannounced (Albania has Booking.com for a reason!), the takeaway is that Albanians will extend you a helping hand if and when you need it.

English is widely spoken, but not ubiquitous

Albanian is the official language in Albania but many people – especially those born after the fall of communism – speak a second language. As one person described it to me, Albanians are ‘thirsty to know the world’, and learning a foreign language is seen as a pathway to knowledge, experience and more opportunities.

English is the most popular second language and is taught in schools. At last count, around 40% of Albanians speak English. In my experience, anyone working in tourism or hospitality has at least a basic understanding of English. We got by in all the major cities and tourist destinations without any issues.

Albania is one of those countries where the language is so much more than a means of communication, it’s part of the culture and identity and a massive source of national pride. Learning a few words of Albanian will earn you big props.

Here are a few basic words:

• Hello – Përshëndetje (per-shen-det-ye)
• Bye – Mirupafshim (mi-ru-paf-shim)
• Yes – Po (po)
• No – Jo (yo)
• Thanks – Faleminderit (fal-e-min-der-it)
• Cheers – Gëzuar (ge-zu-ar)

There is a strong Italian and Greek influence

Albania is just across the pond from Italy and very close to Greece (especially Corfu). There were Italian colonists in Albania from 1926 onwards, and the country was actually invaded by Italy in 1939. Italy especially has a big influence in Albania – to such an extent that I noticed it right away.

You’ll see Italian cars, Italian coffee culture – and yes, pizza on almost every restaurant menu! Pizza is so popular in Albania, if you ever tire of local fare there’s always a Napoletana to fall back on.

Almost a third of Albanian people speak Italian and a quarter of the population speaks Greek. Many areas are officially bilingual Albanian-Italian, with road signs in both languages. If you know either of these languages, communication will come even easier to you.

Tirana is one of the coolest cities in Europe – so don’t rush it!

Unlike a few other capital cities in the Balkans that are all cold concrete, Tirana is a warm, green, welcoming city that’s bristling with creative energy. I’ve said before that it’s probably the most liveable capital in the region in my opinion. There’s a park, dining precinct, cool museum or street art district around almost every corner.

One day in Tirana is enough for the must-sees, but I really recommend slowing down and spending a couple of nights here, getting into the rhythm of the city with morning markets and nightly xhiros.

We stayed in Tirana for a full week and still didn’t see everything.

Hiking in Albania is a must

I fell in love with Albania’s cities and towns, but even I agree that the country’s natural beauty is its biggest asset.

Albania has 15 national parks, each offering incredible scenery and hiking opportunities. As I recently discovered, Albania has more than 3,200 species of plants, accounting for a whopping 30% of the flora in Europe. One of the best places to appreciate this ecology is Llogara National Park, known for its wildflowers. Others, notably Butrint National Park, combine surreal landscapes with valuable archaeological sites.

Even if you’re an anti-hiker like me, there is one day trek in Albania you at least have to consider: Valbona to Theth . Walking between two alpine villages across two jaw-dropping national parks in the country’s far north, the trail takes you through the heart of the picturesque Albanian Alps or Accursed Mountains as they’re also known. The hike is tough going in spots, but it’s absolutely the best way to experience this side of Albania.

The lakes are just as impressive as the beaches

Albania might be famous for its beautiful beaches, but the unsung heroes of the landscape are the country’s lakes. Komani Lake, Lake Ohrid (shared with North Macedonia) and Skadar Lake in the north (shared with Montenegro ) are all beautiful and worth visiting.

Skadar is the largest lake in the Balkans. Boat trips on the marshy wetlands are popular on the Montenegrin side; on the Albanian side, you can cycle around the periphery from the lakeside city of Shkoder, visiting Rozafa Castle at the same time.

Albania’s share of Ohrid Lake is similarly smaller and with fewer points of interest to the North Macedonian side, yet charming villages such as Lin – a little red-roofed settlement on a natural peninsula – make it worth a visit. Lake Koman is my favourite. The ferry ride through the dramatic river gorge to reach Valbona and the starting point for the aforementioned hike was one of the highlights of my time in Albania.

There are more stunning water features around the country, including cascades and river canyons in the centre (Osumi and Begove near Berat are great), hot springs, and of course the famous Blue Eyes. All offer some much-needed reprieve in the hot summer months.

Have you been to Albania? Are there any extra travel tips for Albania you’d like to add? Leave your best advice in the comments below!

Albania Travel Guide

Discover insider tips, itinerary inspiration, and all the best things to see, do and experience in Albania!

Albania Essentials

My favourite resources and tools for planning a trip to Albania.

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More from Albania

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• 22 essential travel tips for Albania
• One day itinerary for Tirana
• Guide to the Valbona Theth hike
• Things to do in Gjirokaster
• Things to do in Berat
• Things to do in Korca
• Best beaches in Albania
• How to visit the Albania Blue Eyes
• 21 best things to do in Albania
• 22 useful travel tips for Albania
• Where to stay in Tirana

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The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Albania Itinerary

Published on October 25, 2023

by Michael Rozenblit

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

As one of the more off-the-beaten-path destinations in Europe (and even in the Balkans) planning out the perfect Albania itinerary can seem a bit of a challenge. Figuring out where to go, what to see and how to get around when you only have 5 to 7 days in Albania can seem a bit overwhelming.

Albania is a beautiful country in the southeast of Europe with miles and miles of gorgeous Adriatic coastline to rival that of Croatia and Montenegro, vibrant cities that pulse with youthful energy and life and historic ruins with a fraction of the crowds that you’ll find in neighbouring Greece.

If you are considering a trip to Albania and don’t know where to start, then this itinerary is sure to be a help. In it, we outline a route so you can figure out how to spend five to seven days (or more!) exploring this gorgeous Balkan nation.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Albania?

Before mapping out the details of your route, you’re likely wondering how many days in Albania in order to see a lot of diverse places and also not feel rushed (or spend too much time in transit and not enough time in the destinations itself).

In general, plan to spend at the very least 5 days in Albania if you want to see more than just the capital. Ideally, you would want a week or more if you want to spend time in an array of different locations in the country.

Albania is not a large country, however, it can take a bit of time to get from one point to another so this is something to keep in mind when figuring out how many days to set aside for your itinerary. There are also a surprising amount of great places to visit that really deserve the time, so if you can, try to spend one week in Albania.

Even if you only have 5 days to spend, you will still be able to take in a great deal of sites and historic towns and cities in the centre of the country. While you may not have all the time to see the southern Adriatic coast or some of the ancient ruins the country has to offer, it’s enough time to get a good feel for the nation.

Getting To & Around Albania

If you plan to simply visit Albania as a stand-alone trip, then your best bet is to fly into Tirana’s international airport. There are quite a few connections to Tirana from destinations all over Europe, so it’s easy to get to from abroad.

Many travellers also head to Albania as part of a longer trip through the Balkans or Greece. If you’re coming from elsewhere in the Balkans. you can arrive to Albania via bus from Montenegro, North Macedonia or Kosovo. Most major cities in these areas have connections to Tirana and it can be a great continuation for your trip.

If you’re travelling to Albania from Greece, you can reach the country via ferry from Corfu or overland from the mainland. Regardless, it would make the most sense to do this route in reverse – beginning in Sarande and ending in Tirana.

Once in Albania, it can be tough to figure out how to get around. In the cities like Tirana, you can generally rely on your own two feet while there. And if you want to get around via public transport, this is definitely a viable option.

There is a robust bus network in Albania, however, it can be a bit of a challenge to navigate it and to figure out where there are connections. If you’re in doubt, always check with the reception at your accommodation – they will likely be able to set you in the right direction.

If you are adventurous and want to take the most control over your trip to Albania, then consider hiring a car .

Driving in Albania can be a bit chaotic and it’s best if you feel you are experienced, however, it can be worth it if you want to have the most freedom in your itinerary and want to venture even further off the beaten path. An Albania road trip is a great idea if you’re a confident driver!

5 to 7-Day Albania Itinerary

Day 1 – tirana.

The most logical starting point for any Albania trip is its capital city of Tirana . Located in the north centre of the country, spending a couple of days exploring this dynamic and chaotic city is essential whenever you travel to Albania.

Spend your first day seeing the highlights of Tirana. It’s a pretty compact city and most things are located within easy reach of one another, however, there is a lot packed into a small area. To learn more about the history of the city, consider joining a free walking tour  or  a paid walking tour  of the city.

Begin in Skanderbeg Square, the main gathering point in the city. From there, you can visit the National History Museum and take in the imposing Et’hem Bej Mosque.

Those interested in Albania’s communist history will be interested in the House of Leaves Museum and, of course, you cannot miss a stroll along the pedestrianised Rruga Murat Toptani and exploring the Fortress of Justinian area.

Where to Stay in Tirana

Hotel Antigone – Centrally located in the heart of Tirana, this 3-star hotel has a range of rooms along with breakfast, room service and an on-site restaurant and bar.

Hotel Boutique Vila 135 – This luxury hotel in the centre of Tirana has amenities like breakfast, a restaurant/bar on site, parking included and an airport shuttle. There are several plush rooms on offer.

Trip’n Hostel   – Offering both dorms and private rooms, this hostel is centrally located and has great common areas for guests to enjoy. A perfect option for budget and solo travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tirana hotels!

Day 2 – Tirana

Your second day should also be dedicated to digging deeper in Tirana and seeing more of what this city has to offer.

Spend some time at the Bunk’Art 2 Museum, a converted communist-era bunker turned history museum. Then, cross the river over the Tanner’s Bridge and take some time to explore the Blloku neighbourhood.

Here, you can take in iconic buildings like the Pyramid of Tirana (built as a museum dedicated to former dictator Enver Hoxha) and take in Mother Teresa Square or visit the Grand Park of Tirana. After taking in this area of the city, it’s time to get a great view.

Ride the cable car (known as the Dajti Express) to the top of Moun Dajti, a mountain overlooking the city. Here, there are plenty of fun activities, such as mini golf and rollerblading.

Day 3 – Durres

After a couple of days exploring Tirana, it’s time to move on and see some other areas of the country. Plan to spend the majority of your day in the coastal town of Durres, however, where you choose to spend the night is up to you.

Especially if you’re travelling around by a rental car, it can be easy to stop in Durres for the day and end in Berat to spend the night.

You could also do this if travelling by bus as the buses from Tirana to Berat stop in Durres, so it is on the way – if you are taking public transport, you will have to find storage for your luggage, which can be an inconvenience. You could also opt to spend the night in Durres and continue onto Berat first thing the next morning.

Durres is located only about 30 minutes drive and 45 minutes on the bus from Tirana. Once you’re there, the best activity is to simply take the time to lounge on the beautiful beach and enjoy the gorgeous Adriatic.

You can also take in historic sites – most notably the Durres Amphitheatre. This massive amphitheatre dates back to the 2nd century CE and is very impressive. History buffs will also love the Archaeological Museum, which houses artefacts from the Hellenistic, Greek and Roman periods.

Where to Stay in Berat

Hotel Bila Nino – This 3-star hotel in Berat has a number of comfortable rooms along with a garden, terrace and bar for guests to enjoy. There is also free parking on site.

Hotel Republika Berat – A good luxury option, this 4-star hotel is located in the centre of Berat. They have a range of rooms to choose from, private parking, an airport shuttle and breakfast each morning.

Berat Backpackers Hostel – Backpackers and budget travellers will love this highly-rated hostel. Located in an old house in central Berat, they have great common areas and both dorms and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Berat hotels!

Day 4 – Berat

Day four of this itinerary for Albania is dedicated to exploring the historic town of Berat. Known as the “town of a thousand windows,” this medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to Albania’s largest castle (the Berat Kala), there is a lot of history to take in here and it is absolutely beautiful.

Berat is known for its wide collection of beautifully preserved Ottoman-era houses that decorate the historic Mangalem quarter of the Old Town – this was the traditional Muslim area of the city. The other part of the old town – Gorica, located across the river – was the historic Christian quarter of Berat.

While in this beautiful city, take the time to wander around the old town and feel its living history. Of course, you cannot miss a hike up to the castle – which will provide excellent views of the city below. There is also a lovely, village-like atmosphere around the castle. There are walking tours available if you want to explore with a guide.

If you want to venture a bit outside the city centre, then there are also some wineries where you can sample some locally-made vintages or you can join a cooking class to learn more about traditional Albanian cuisine. You can also head out to the nearby Bogove Waterfall.

In the evening, you can’t miss a stroll along Boulevard Republika – the main pedestrianised thoroughfare in Berat. This provides excellent people-watching opportunities and an unrivalled energy.

Day 5 – Gjirokaster

If you’re seeing Albania in 5 days, this is the final day for you – and boy, is it a great one! Your destination for this day is the beautiful UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokaster. Located in the south of Albania, you’re going to need to have an early start to get here – especially if you’re taking the bus! Getting from Berat to Gjirokaster will take about 3 hours.

Known as the Stone City, Gjirokaster is an absolutely beautiful, historic city that should not be missed when you visit Albania. In modern times, it’s known as the birthplace of Enver Hoxha, the former Albanian dictator, however, there is plenty of other history here as well.

Of course, no visit to Gjirokaster is complete without wandering around the medieval-era castle, which was originally constructed in the 13th Century. Also, make sure to take the time to stroll through the Old Bazaar, where you can browse through artisan shops and maybe pick up some interesting souvenirs from your trip.

While wandering around the old town, take in the historic, Ottoman-era stone houses – these historic homes are part of the reason that Gjirokaster is inscribed on the UNESCO list.

Where to Stay in Gjirokaster

Hotel Bebej Tradicional – This rustic 3-star hotel is located in the centre of historic Gjirokaster. They have several great rooms to choose from, free parking and a restaurant on the premises.

The Stone Sky Hotel – This lovely hotel has a range of comfortable rooms for guests to choose from. There is also breakfast each morning, free parking, 24-hour reception and a restaurant/bar.

Stone City Hostel – A great option for backpackers and solo visitors, this highly-rated hostel has a number of room types to choose from, great common areas and a kitchen and day trips are organised.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Gjirokaster hotels!

Day 6 – Sarande

If you’re seeing Albania in one week, then you don’t need to get as early a start as previous days – especially if you feel there is more to see in Gjirokaster! You can spend your morning here – perhaps visiting somewhere like the Cold War Tunnel Museum. This 800-metre tunnel was built as a bunker during communist times and has now been turned into a museum.

After a morning in Gjirokaster, you don’t have a long journey to the final destination of your Albania travel itinerary – Sarande, a city on the Albanian Riviera. This is one of Albania’s most popular coastal cities and it is only about 1-1.5 hours away from Gjirokaster – there are several buses that depart each day.

If you’re self-driving, consider making a detour to the famous Blue Eye – a gorgeous natural spring filled with crystal-clear water located in between Sarande and Gjirokaster.

Once you arrive in Sarande, take the time to stroll around the lovely seaside and take in the views of the gorgeous Ionian Sea.

There are plenty of beautiful beaches to lounge on along with a ruined castle to walk up to and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea. Plan to spend the rest of your time in Albania with Sarande as a base.

Where to Stay in Sarande

Hotel Kanes – This seaside hotel is great for visitors to Sarande. There are several rooms to choose from – many with sea views. There is a terrace to enjoy along with an airport shuttle and free parking.

Buzë Boutique Hotel – Located right on the beach, this trendy hotel has a beautiful outdoor swimming pool, a private beach area, a terrace and an on-site bar to enjoy a drink in the sunshine.

Saranda Backpackers – This waterfront hostel is a great option for budget travellers to Sarande. They have plenty of different rooms to choose from and great common areas.

Day 7 – Ksamil & Butrint

On your final day in the country, take a day trip from Sarande to the areas of Ksamil and Butrint National Park to the south of the city. Both areas are easily reached via bus from Sarande in about 30 – 40 minutes and buses leave frequently throughout the day.

Whether you’re driving yourself or taking the bus, start your day by visiting Butrint National Park, which is located furthest south on the route. This archaeological park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (there are so many in Albania! ) and is filled with fascinating ancient Greek and Roman ruins that will really put into perspective just how old and how long people have inhabited this area of the world.

In the park, you can see ruins of ancient forums, amphitheatres and temples. Set along the backdrop of the Ionian Sea, it is truly a wonderful place to end your trip and visiting here is one of the best things to do in Albania.

After exploring the park, hop on the bus (or get back in the car) and head a bit north to Ksamil . This area is home to some of Albania’s best sandy beaches and it is the perfect place to lounge around in the gorgeous sunshine and swim. You can enjoy views of Corfu not far in the distance, along with seeing some of the picturesque Ksamil islands.

If you’re leaving Albania after this day, the quickest and easiest way is to fly out via the airport on nearby Corfu in Greece, which is easily reached via ferry in about 1.5-2 hours. Alternatively, you can continue on to mainland Greece via bus or car – the closest major city is Ioannina.

Have More Time?

There are lots of different options of places to visit in Albania if you have more time. For instance, if you’re coming from Montenegro or North Macedonia (or continuing on there from Albania), it can be worth spending some time in the north of the country.

The town of Shkoder in the north of the country is gorgeous and has a lovely location on the massive Lake Shkoder – sharing a border with Montenegro.

Those looking to get up in the mountains or who want to add some activity to their trip will love exploring the Albanian Alps in the northeast of the country. Particularly popular is the Valbona to Theth hike, a thru-hiking route that takes about 8 hours to complete from one village to another in some of Albania’s most beautiful national parks.

If you want to experience more of Albania’s coast, then it can be a great idea to add a stop in the lovely coastal city of Vlore in between visiting Berat and Gjirokaster.

Vlore has plenty of beautiful, sandy beaches and is considered to be one of the oldest cities in Albania. Make sure to take the time to stroll through the historic centre of the city while enjoying the vast seaside promenade.

Travelling in Albania is one of the most interesting, challenging and diverse places to head to in all of Europe. Retaining an off-the-beaten-path charm and boasting a broad and varied history, Albania is a destination that no visitor soon forgets.

Are you planning on visiting Albania? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

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Albania Itinerary: Mountains, Beaches & Culture in 10 Days (+ Map)

This 10-day itinerary for Albania will take you from the mountains in the north to the beaches in the south. It will bring you to the country’s highlights and help you plan your trip.

Albania is one of my favourite destinations in Europe. From the Albanian Alps to the Albanian Riviera and everything in between, this diverse country is full of beautiful places to explore.

If you only have 10 days in Albania, I highly recommend renting a car in Tirana for the second part of this itinerary. This will help you save some valuable time.

But without further ado, here’s the perfect 10-day Albania itinerary for first-timers!

Albania Itinerary for 10 Days: Overview

Day 1: Tirana & head to Shkoder Day 2: Komani Lake Ferry (Shkoder to Valbona) Day 3: Valbona to Theth Hike Day 4: Theth Day 5: Theth to Berat Day 6: Berat Day 7: Gjirokaster Day 8: Gjirokaster & the Blue Eye Day 9: Ksamil & Butrint National Park Day 10: Himare & back to Tirana

10 Days in Albania: Day by Day Itinerary

You will find a detailed guide including what to do and how to travel between places below. I started my trip in Albania in the north and then headed to the south, but you can easily turn this around if you want to.

Note that this itinerary is quite packed so that you can see the best of what Albania has to offer in just 10 days. If you would like to take it more slowly, you can always skip your least favourite destination.

Day 1: Tirana & head to Shkoder

Most people will start their Albanian journey in Tirana, the capital, and it’s worth exploring this city for a couple of hours before heading to Shkoder.

Make sure to start early to make the most out of your day, as there are quite some things to see and do in Tirana .

I started my visit at Skanderbeg Square , the city’s main square and visited the beautiful Et’hem Bej Mosque next. Apart from that, I visited the Tirana Pyramid , Namazgjah Mosque and Toptani Castle complex too.

Tirana is also home to the famous Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2 museums . These are housed in underground bunkers and will teach you more about Albania’s turbulent history.

It’s good to know that while Bunk’art 1 tends to be most people’s favourite, Bunk’art 2 is a better option if you’re short on time. This museum is located close to Skanderbeg Square and it’s smaller than Bunk’art 1. I visited Bunk’Art 2 and can recommend it to history buffs or anyone who wants to learn more about the country’s history.

🚌 Make sure not to miss the last bus to Shkoder. There’s a bus every 30 minutes and the last one leaves at 5 pm. It takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to travel between these cities.

🏨 Where to stay in Shkoder

• Budget: Mi Casa es Tu Casa
• Mid-range: Hotel Tradita
• Luxury: Hotel Golden Palace

Day 2: Komani Lake Ferry (Shkoder to Valbona)

Shkoder is the gateway to the Accursed Mountains or Albanian Alps . If you only have 10 days in Albania, it’s better to skip a visit to this city (trust me, there are more interesting ones included in this itinerary) and head straight to Valbona on day two.

The journey from Shkoder to Valbona is a beautiful one. You will have to take the bus to Komani Lake first. It leaves from Shkoder at 6:30 am and will drop you at the lake around 8:30 am. Here, you can take the 9 am ferry on Komani Lake . This is a relaxing 3-hour ride with spectacular landscapes.

The ferry will drop you off in Fierze, a 30-minute drive from Valbona. Usually, you can either take the bus or a taxi here, however, when I arrived in Fierze, the bus wasn’t operating so I had to take a cab for €20 ($21,90).

You should arrive in Valbona around 1 pm, which will give you some time to explore the region in the afternoon. The surroundings are really beautiful and it’s worth going for a little walk.

🏨 Where to stay in Valbona

• Budget: Guest House Hyrmet Demushi
• Mid-range: Mountain Oasis
• Luxury: Valbona Resort & Spa

Tip: I recommend leaving your big backpack in Shkoder while heading to Valbona and Theth. Keep in mind that you will have to carry all of your stuff during the hike from Valbona to Theth on day 3, so it’s a good idea to bring the necessary stuff only.

Day 3: Valbona to Theth hike

The hike from Valbona to Theth was the absolute highlight of my trip to Albania, and if you love the mountains as much as I do, you might just fall in love with it too.

This is a moderate hike that takes an average of 7 to 8 hours and it’s good to know that hiking is the only way to get from Valbona to Theth or the other way around as there’s no road connecting these villages.

The landscapes along the way are truly magnificent and the path is easy to follow. It took me about 9 hours to complete this hike because I stopped a million times to enjoy the scenery and take pictures.

It’s good to know that this hike starts in Rragam and many of Valbona’s hotels are quite far from here, so depending on where you’re staying, you might have to take a taxi to the trailhead.

If hiking is not an option for you, I recommend spending the day in Valbona and heading back to Shkoder on day 4. Theth is an amazing place to visit but the best way to explore it is also by hiking, so I would recommend visiting Shkoder instead.

🏨 Where to stay in Theth

• Budget: Guest House Rrashkadoli
• Mid-range: Guest House Hyrmet Demushi (close to the trailhead)
• Luxury: Vidis Chalet Hotel

Day 4: Theth

Theth is a charming mountain village surrounded by breathtaking scenery. This is one of my favourite destinations in Europe and I would love to visit it again one day.

There are plenty of beautiful places to visit in and around Theth . Apart from its incredibly picturesque church and mysterious lock-in tower , the Grunas Waterfall and the Blue Eye of Theth are worth visiting too.

Another thing I love about Theth is the organic food. Here, meat and dairy products come from local cattle and sheep, while vegetables are grown on the land.

All in all, Theth is the perfect place to unwind, hike and enjoy nature, and if you’re asking me, it cannot miss from any Albania itinerary!

Day 5: Theth to Berat

To see the best of Albania in just 10 days, you will have to spend some time on the road too, and that’s what today is all about.

To get to Berat, you will have to take the mini-bus from Theth to Shkoder first. It leaves every day at 11 am and takes about 1,5 hours to reach Shkoder.

Once you’re in Shkoder, you can catch a bus to Tirana. It leaves every 30 minutes and takes 1 hour and 45 minutes to reach Tirana, so you should arrive here around 3 pm.

I highly recommend renting a car in Tirana for this itinerary, as this will help you save a lot of time. Make sure to book one in advance so that you can simply pick it up once you reach the capital.

Driving from Tirana to Berat takes a little under 2 hours, so you should arrive in this town in the early evening.

🏨 Where to stay in Berat

• Budget: Hostel Mangalem
• Mid-range: Hotel Klea
• Luxury: Hotel Ansel

Day 6: Berat

Often nicknamed the City of a Thousand Windows , Berat is famous for its historic Ottoman architecture. Many of the buildings in this UNESCO World Heritage site date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. There are plenty of things to do in Berat and if you’re a culture, architect or history lover, this is a place you will love!

Apart from visiting Berat’s historical centre full of white houses, Gorica Bridge , St. Michael’s Church and the National Ethnographic Museum are other places that cannot be missed during a visit to this town.

Head to the 13th-century Berat Castle for sunset. Not only will you have a spectacular view of the surroundings from here, but this castle also boasts impressive landmarks including a citadel and church.

Day 7: Gjirokaster

🚗 Gjirokaster is a 2.5-hour drive from Berat, so make sure to leave early so that you will have enough time to explore this beautiful town.

This city’s historic centre is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its beautiful Ottoman houses, colourful bazaars and cobblestone streets, Gjirokaster is one of Albania’s most charming cities.

When you finish exploring the historic centre and bazaar (you might find some great Albanian souvenirs here), I recommend visiting Zekate House , a traditional Ottoman house that’s open to visitors.

If you would like to learn more about traditional life in Albania, it’s worth heading to the Ethnographic Museum , which stands on the site where the house of communist dictator Enver Hoxha once stood.

Finally, head to Gjirokaster Castle and its fascinating museum. This castle is perched on top of a hill and it’s one of the largest in the Balkans. In the castle’s museum, you can learn more about the city’s fascinating history.

🏨 Where to stay in Gjirokaster

• Budget: Stone City Hostel
• Mid-range: Yuri Guest House
• Luxury: Hotel Kalemi

Day 8: Gjirokaster & the Blue Eye

Before heading to Albania’s Blue Eye, it’s worth hiking to the Ali Pasha Bridge , which is right outside of Gjirokaster.

This bridge was once part of an aqueduct system commissioned by Ali Pasha of Tepelenëv. It was built at the beginning of the 19th century and before that, the Gjirokaster Castle didn’t have a reliable water source.

The Ali Pasha Bridge is a 30-minute walk from the Gjirokaster Bazar. If you’re short on time, you can park your car near the bridge, though, it’s only a 10-minute hike from the road.

If you didn’t have the time to do everything you wanted yesterday, you can visit more places today.

🚗 Keep in mind that it’s a 50-minute drive to get to the Blue Eye and that you will need about an hour to visit it.

Once you finished visiting Gjirokaster, it’s time to head to the famous Blue Eye near Sarande, which is a 50-minute drive from this city. Albania’s Blue Eye or Syri I Kalter is a water spring that got its name thanks to its beautiful blue colour.

One of the things that makes the Blue Eye so fascinating is that no one knows how deep it is. Divers have attempted to descend into it multiple times to calculate its depth, but they didn’t succeed. The reason is that due to the high water pressure of the spring, you get pushed to the surface immediately when you attempt to jump into it.

It’s good to know that although you can swim in the Blue Eye (and many people do), the water is extremely cold! I dipped my feet in it for a few seconds and had to hurry out.

🚗 After visiting the Blue Eye, it’s time to head to the Albanian Riviera . Ksamil is home to some of Albania’s most beautiful beaches and it’s just a 50-minute drive from the Blue Eye.

🏨 Where to stay in Ksamil

• Budget: Vila Ronaldo
• Mid-range: Marku Palace
• Luxury: Villa White

Day 9: Butrint National Park & Ksamil

Butrint was another one of my favourite places to visit in Albania and if you’re a history buff, this is a place you absolutely cannot miss! This is one of the most important historical landmarks in Europe , after all.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a 10-minute drive from Ksamil and it once was one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire . Here, you will find ruins that date back to as far as the 4th century BCE.

After being struck by an earthquake in the Middle Ages, this city was abandoned, and it’s one of the most important historical sites in Albania today.

Apart from its magnificent ruins and rich history, something I really love about Butrint is that it’s an archaeological site and nature park at the same time. The park is full of greenery and it’s famous for its immense diversity of flora and fauna.

It’s good to know that it takes 1,5 to 3 hours to visit this park, it all depends on your personal pace.

After all that travelling, it’s nice to spend the rest of the day simply relaxing at the beach. Ksamil’s beach is often called the Maldives of Europe due to its white sand and crystal clear water.

This being said, Ksamil is not a place everyone will like (I actually hated it). If you don’t mind being among other tourists, you will be able to enjoy this beach. If you’re like me, however, and prefer more tranquil and offbeat places, I recommend heading to another beach instead.

What I did when I travelled along the Albanian Riviera was to check the area using Google Maps’ satellite view. This allowed me to find remote beaches where not too many people head to.

Day 10: Beaches & Back to Tirana

On the last day of this 10-day itinerary for Albania, it’s time to head back to Tirana, which is a little under 4 hours from Ksamil. I recommend splitting this journey in two and stopping at one of the beaches near Himare or Vlore.

Although the beaches of Himare and Vlore are beautiful, I wanted to visit a more remote one and hiked to a small, secluded beach that I found while scanning the area using Google Maps’ satellite view.

I recommend checking out the best beaches in Albania or scanning the area with Google Maps like I did to find a beach that suits your personal taste.

Albania Itinerary for 10 Days: Map

Best Time to Visit Albania

The best time to visit Albania is from mid-June to September , as this is when the Valbona Pass is accessible. It’s different every year, but if you visit in early June or October, it might not be possible to hike from Valbona to Theth (which is a highlight on a trip to Albania) because of the snow.

It’s good to know that July and August is peak season in Albania, so there will be more crowds (and accommodation will be more expensive) at this time of the year.

For the best overall conditions, I would recommend visiting Albania during the two last weeks of June or in September. I visited Albania in mid-June and the weather was perfect.

Read more about Albania:

• Is Albania Worth Visiting? 11 Reasons to Visit
• Best Things to Do in Gjirokaster
• Berat Itinerary: 8 Things to Do in One Day
• 9 Epic Things to Do in Theth, Albania
• Valbona to Theth Hike: How to Hike Valbona Pass
• Blue Eye in Albania: Ultimate Guide
• 21 Souvenirs from Albania That Don’t Suck

Albania Travel Planning Guide

🛫 Find the cheapest flights to Albania on  Skyscanner . 🏨 Find the best accommodation via  Booking  or  Agoda . 🚃 Use  Omnio  to book public transportation in Albania. 🚗 Rent a car with  Discover Cars   to get the best rates. 💰 Get travel insurance via  Visitors Coverage , one of the best-reviewed travel insurance companies. 📋 Don’t forget to  check if you need a visa   to visit Albania.

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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Albania Travel Itinerary: Explore Albania’s Wonders With This 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary!

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The perfect Albania travel itinerary with all the highlights and must-see destinations.

As a lesser-known destination in Europe, Albania is a perfect place to visit for people who want to stray off the beaten path. With pristine beaches, impressive landscapes, amazing culture, and cheap prices, Albania has to be on your travel bucket list! Keep reading to find the best travel itinerary for Albania.

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Table of Contents

About Albania

Albania, located in Southeastern Europe, is a lesser-known but fascinating travel destination. It offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, rich history, and welcoming culture. The country features stunning coastlines along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, impressive mountains, and charming villages.

Traveling in Albania is affordable, making it a great choice for budget travelers. With its friendly people, unspoiled nature, and rich history, Albania is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

The currency in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL):

1 ALL = €0,01 Euro

€1,- = 100 ALL

The official language is Albanian and in the cities, most people speak English too.

Albania is a safe country to visit and I’ll tell you more about the safety in Albania later in this post.

How to get around in Albania

When visiting Albania, I highly recommend renting a car, and here’s why:

• Flexibility: Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore Albania at your own pace.
• Accessibility: Some of Albania’s most beautiful natural landscapes and historical sites are tucked away in rural areas that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. Renting a car enables you to reach these places with ease.
• Scenic Drives: Albania boasts stunning coastal roads, mountain passes, and picturesque countryside. Renting a car allows you to enjoy these scenic drives at your leisure, stopping whenever and wherever you please to take in the views or snap some photos.
• Adventure: Renting a car adds an element of adventure to your trip. Navigating Albania’s roads and discovering hidden gems along the way can be an exciting and rewarding experience.
• Comfort: Having your own vehicle provides comfort and privacy, allowing you to travel in style and store your belongings securely.

Best car rental service in Albania: RentX

Many people often don’t want to go through the hassle of renting a car. But what if I told you it can be a piece of cake?

Renting a car at RentX in Albania offers convenience, quality, and affordability. With a wide selection of vehicles, including compact cars, SUVs, and vans, RentX ensures you find the perfect ride for your adventure.

RentX also offers:

• Hassle-free booking: Easy website and app, where you can book your car in under 2 minutes.
• Flexible rental options: From compact cars to vans, RentX has it all!
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off locations: Tirana, Shkodër or Sarandë? It doesn’t matter! You can choose the most convenient pick-up and drop-off locations.
• Friendly customer service: RentX’s great customer service guarantees a smooth journey.
• Competitive rates: Because RentX works with local dealers, they can offer local, competitive prices. There is also no (or small) deposit required, no credit card blockage, and there are no hidden fees, making the booking process super simple! You only have to pay when picking up the car.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage: You can choose which insurance policy suits you best and if something were to happen, you’ll be helped quickly! Check out the insurance policies here .

My experience with RentX was incredibly easy. I highly recommend renting a car there!

Find your perfect rental car here!

Still hesitant? The 4-star score on Trustpilot should ease your mind 😉

Albania travel itinerary for 10 days

Now let’s get to the good part! Here you’ll find a complete travel itinerary for Albania, with recommendations of the best places to stay, things to do, and much more!

Note: All the accommodation recommendations have free parking, so no need to worry about parking your rental car (and no parking fees) .

Get yourself a well-earned cup of coffee and dive in!

10-day travel itinerary for Albania

Day 1: arrival – car pick up – tirana.

As Albania is in a corner of Europe, you’ll probably be flying into the airport of Tirana. I highly recommend taking a morning flight if you can, so you’ll have plenty of time to pick up the car, check into your accommodation, and explore a bit of the city.

On the first day, you’ll just stay in Tirana.

Tirana, the capital of Albania, is a dynamic city bursting with cultural diversity. Its streets are filled with bustling markets, colorful buildings, and lively cafes. From its rich history to its modern urban flair, Tirana offers a captivating glimpse into Albanian life and culture.

Don’t miss these awesome things to do in Tirana:

• Admire the Skanderberg Square and climb the clock tower
• Visit the Et’hem Bej Mosque
• Check out the National History Museum
• Drop by the Pyramid of Tirana
• Eat your way through Tirana’s New Bazaar
• Have a drink at Panorama Bar

Tirana is a great city to visit, but remember that in the next few days, you’ll see so many more beautiful places. So make everything out of your time in Tirana, but don’t linger too long 😉

Where to stay in Tirana

You should only book accommodation for 1 night, inside the city center.

Best hotel: Tirana Central Rooms

Why stay here: Luxurious rooms – exceptional cleanliness – free parking – great location – free wifi

Best apartment: Frequency 286 Tiranë

Why stay here: Cozy complete apartment – air conditioning – free parking – amazing location – great price – free wifi

Day 2: Tirana – Berat

On the second day, you should get some breakfast in the city, check out, and get on the road!

It’s time to drive to Berat ; a beautiful gem, only about 2 hours from Tirana by car.

Nestled in the heart of Albania, Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the “City of a Thousand Windows” for its distinctive Ottoman architecture. Perched on a hillside overlooking the Osum River, Berat’s ancient stone houses and castle evoke a sense of timeless charm.

There are many activities in Berat, like:

• Explore Berat Castle
• Visit one of Berat’s Byzantine churches, like St Mary of Blachernae, Church of St Nicholas, or Church of Saint Constantine and Helen.
• Admire the relics at the National Iconographic Museum
• Explore the historic Mangalem Quarter
• Climb up to the cliffside St Michael’s Church

On day 3 you’ll have the whole day in Berat to explore some more, or take a day trip.

Where to stay in Berat

You should book accommodation in Berat for 2 nights.

Best stay in Berat: Guesthouse Arben Elezi

Why stay here: Comfortable rooms – exceptional breakfast included – good prices – free parking – beautiful terrace with a view – bar – free wifi

Day 3: Berat

On day 3, it’s time to relax a bit in Berat. You could explore more of the town, relax at the accommodation or go beyond Berat. This day is perfect for a day trip!

There are many day trip options, like:

• Apollonia Archaeological Park
• Tomorri Mountain National Park
• Rafting in the Osumi Canyons
• Bogova Waterfall

Fill in the day exactly how you want and enjoy!

Day 4: Berat – Gjirokaster

Starting day 4, you should enjoy your breakfast in the sun. After checking out, slowly make your way to Gjirokaster, which is a 2,5-hour drive from Berat.

When arriving in Gjirokaster, first, check into your accommodation and start exploring!

Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is a captivating city in southern Albania known for its well-preserved architecture. Nestled in the Gjirokaster Mountains, this historic gem boasts a stunning skyline dominated by characteristic stone houses with distinctive slate roofs.

Make sure to:

• Explore the Gjirokaster Castle
• Admire the view from the Gjirokaster Obelisk
• Visit the Gjirokaster Museum
• Get lost in the charming Gjirokaster Bazaar
• Hike to Ali Pasha’s Bridge
• Take a look inside Zekate House or Skenduli House

Gjirokaster is one of the most beautiful towns I’ve visited in Albania, make sure to make the most of your time there!

Where to stay in Gjirokaster?

You should book only 1 night here, as you’ll move to the next place (on the beach!) the next day.

Best stay in Gjirokaster: Bed and Breakfast Kotoni

Why stay here: Cozy comfortable rooms – restaurant – excellent breakfast included – fair prices – free parking – great location – free wifi – bar

Day 5: Gjirokaster – Blue Eye – Sarande

The next morning, it’s time to pack your stuff again and be on your way, as there’s a special stop today!

From Gjirokaster you’ll hop onto the road to the Blue Eye; one of Albania’s most beautiful natural wonders. The drive will take you around 45 minutes.

The Blue Eye

The Blue Eye is a stunning natural spring located near the village of Muzinë in southern Albania. This mesmerizing spring is named for its incredibly clear blue water, which appears like a giant blue eye amidst the surrounding lush greenery.

The Blue Eye is formed by an underground river that surfaces from a depth of over 50 meters, creating a pool with depths reaching around 10 meters.

There are some relaxing nature activities here, like hiking, swimming or having a picnic, so you should spend a few hours here.

After having enjoyed the Blue Eye for a while, it’s time for another small drive, down to the Albanian Riviera. In only 30 minutes you’ll reach Sarandë, where you should check into your accommodation straight away.

You probably won’t have much daylight left to explore the city, so make sure to sit down at one of the tastiest restaurants in town.

I always love roaming a historic city in the dark, which is exactly what you should do! Have a little relaxing evening walk, sit down for a glass of wine, and enjoy! 

Where to stay in Sarandë?

Make sure to book 2 nights in Sarandë.

Best hotel in Sarandë : Illyrian Boutique Hotel

Why stay here: Beautiful rooms – restaurant – free parking – amazing rooftop terrace – free wifi – great breakfast included – located by the beach

Best apartment in Sarandë: Aquamarine Apartments

Why stay here: Complete apartment by the sea – private parking – airconditioning – balcony with sea view – free wifi

Day 6: Sarandë – Ksamil – Butrint National Park

On day 6, make sure to start your morning with some amazing breakfast in town (if not in your hotel), at Sophra Restaurant.

You can choose to stay in the town for a bit longer or go to Ksamil, which is also a town very much worth visiting.

In my opinion, Sarandë is not that spectacular, so you should definitely spend the day in Ksamil!

Ksamil (the ‘K’ is silent)

This beautiful town is only 14 kilometers south of Sarandë and has become quite popular with tourists (still not crowded though!), because of its great location by the beach.

There are some amazing things to do in Ksamil, like:

• Relaxing on the beach! Check out the best beaches in Ksamil here .
• Check out Butrint National Park (this is a must-see!)
• Take a little day trip to Corfu, Greece

Although Ksamil isn’t packed with activities, the beaches here are out-of-this-world beautiful, so make sure to check them out!

Day 7: Sarandë – Himarë – Castle Palermo

Waking up in beautiful Sarandë, it’s time to check out again. After a relaxing breakfast in the sun, it’s time to say goodbye to Sarandë and get onto the road to Himarë.

It’s only a bit more than an hour’s drive, with an exciting stop on the way. I recommend shopping for a picnic before starting the drive.

Castle Palermo

This exciting stop is called Castle Palermo.

Castle Palermo, also known as Kalaja e Palermos, is a historical fortress near the coastal town of Himarë. Constructed during the 13th century under Norman rule, the castle served as a strategic military outpost due to its advantageous position overlooking the Ionian Sea.

I highly recommend stopping at this castle on your way to Himarë, for a little picnic. The views of rugged mountains against a crystal clear sea will definitely blow your mind. As one of the most romantic spots in Albania, Castle Palermo is truly a must-see!

From the castle, it’s only a small drive to Himarë. Upon arrival, you should have quite some time left to explore the city!

• Get lost in Himarë Castle
• Wander through Himarë old town
• Relax on one of the pristine beaches, like Himarë Beach, Gjipe Beach, or Palasa Beach
• Go on a boat tour
• Visit the picturesque town of Dhermi (highly recommended!)

Himarë is a town you don’t want to miss out on, so make sure to make the most out of your time there!

Where to stay in Himarë?

You only have to book 1 night in Himarë, as you’ll move on to the next town on day 8.

Best stay in Himarë: Vila Kosteli

Why stay here: Comfortable rooms – sea view – free parking – exceptional breakfast – free wifi

Day 8: Himarë – Vlorë

On the 8 th day, you’ll move again, to the last destination of this itinerary. After enjoying your breakfast in the sun, you can take some more time in Himarë if there’s more you want to see, before hopping onto the road to Vlorë.

The drive will take you about 1,5 hours. When arriving in Vlorë, it’s a good idea to check into your last accommodation right away, before heading into the city.

There are many things to do in Vlorë, like:

• Explore the old town of Vlorë
• Visit Zvernec Monastery
• Take a Boat Trip to Sazan Marine National Park
• Relax on Narta Beach

Take the last few days of your trip to relax and enjoy Albania’s lovely weather.

Where to stay in Vlorë?

Best hotel in Vlorë: Veranda Boutique Hotel

Why stay here: Comfortable rooms – great breakfast included – free parking – beachfront – free wifi

Best apartments in Vlorë: Arial Penthouse Suites

Why stay here: Beautiful apartments – tasty breakfast included – sea view balcony – free parking – restaurant – free wifi – ideal location

Day 9: Vlorë

On day 9, you can fill in the entire day yourself! You can relax on the beach for the whole day, go hiking, or explore some more places nearby. It’s all up to you!

Let me give you some activity ideas:

• Go hiking in Llogara National Park
• Explore Kanine Castle
• Book one of these awesome tours!
• Visit Apollonia

Make sure to enjoy your last full day doing whatever you want!

Day 10: Vlorë –  Tirana – Departure

Sadly, leaving day has arrived. In the morning, pack your stuff and prepare for your flight. It’s over a 2 hour’s drive back to Tirana, so make sure you’re prepared to be at the airport on time.  

A late afternoon/evening flight would be ideal. That way you don’t have to rush.

Make sure to grab a last coffee in Vlorë or Tirana and look back on your amazing trip 😉

Driving in Albania

Have you googled how to drive in Albania yet? Don’t. Some will tell you that when driving in Albania death is inevitable, while others say it was their calmest driving experience ever.

So let me tell you what it’s really like.

Driving in the cities , especially Tirana can get a bit chaotic. Tirana seems to be the only city with traffic lights, whereas the rest of Albania is more like a free-for-all kind of setting.

On highways you shouldn’t worry too much, the roads are good and easy to navigate.

However, going off the highway, you can expect some lesser roads. For me this was like a playground, I always love a bit of adventurous roads!

Only a few roads may be very bad , with potholes that could break down your car. However, chances are that you won’t find these roads on your trip, so no need to worry.

Albanians can drive a bit crazy , but most of them are moderate drivers. Just stay aware of the drivers around you and everything will be okay😉

Is Albania safe?

Yes, Albania is generally considered to be a safe country to visit for tourists, and here’s why:

• Albania has low rates of violent crime. However, petty crime, like pickpocketing, can always occur (not just in Albania) in crowded places. Keep your stuff close to you always!
• Albanians are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Many tourists report positive interactions with locals and feel welcomed in the country.

Make sure to stick to the local laws too. As Albania is a conservative country, it’s important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites!

All in all, unlike what many people say about Albania, it’s a safe country to visit where it’s very unlikely that you’ll find yourself in an unsafe situation.

When to visit Albania?

The best overall time to visit Albania is in late spring (May, June) and late summer (September, October) . With mild temperatures and sunny weather, you’ll be able to enjoy Albania to the fullest!

July and August are great times to visit if you’re looking for a beach vacation. In the low season, it’s also warm enough to jump into the water, but in summer, you’ll get the hottest temperatures and a lot of sun.

Spring and Fall offer the mildest weather conditions for outdoor activities, such as hiking, visiting cities, and exploring historical sites.

This information should be able to help you find the right time to visit Albania!

Final thoughts on this Albania travel itinerary

In conclusion, this 10-day Albania travel itinerary offers a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable adventure through one of Europe’s hidden gems. From the vibrant streets of Tirana to the serene beaches of the Albanian Riviera and the ancient ruins of Butrint, each stop reveals a unique facet of this diverse country.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a deep dive into Albania’s storied past, this itinerary promises an unforgettable journey.

Happy travels!

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