7-Day Tour Of Albania's Towns And Other Highlights From Tirana

Day 1: Arrival & Explore Tirana

Start: Tirana
Activities:

Arrival in Tirana, hotel check-in

Explore Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, Opera House

Visit Bunk’Art 2 or House of Leaves Museum

Afternoon walk in the New Bazaar

Day 2: Tirana to Shkodra

Shkodra is one of the most historic and cultural cities in Albania, located in the northwest of the country, near the border with Montenegro. It is rich in history, nature, and traditions, offering visitors a variety of activities to enjoy.

1. Rozafa Castle
One of the most iconic landmarks of Shkodra, Rozafa Castle sits on a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including Lake Shkodra and the Albanian Alps. The castle dates back to the Illyrian and Roman periods and is steeped in legends, particularly the myth of the woman sealed in the castle walls to ensure its stability.
2. Lake Shkodra
Lake Shkodra is the largest lake in the Balkans and is a beautiful spot for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful retreat. The lake is shared by both Albania and Montenegro, and it’s perfect for boat rides, kayaking, or simply relaxing along the shores.
Accomodation in Shkodra

Day 3: Shkodra to Theth (Northern Albania)
Morning: Drive to the village of Theth, located in the stunning Valbona Valley National Park (about 2.5 hours). This is one of Albania’s most picturesque spots.
Afternoon: Hike to the Blue Eye natural spring and the Grunas Waterfall.
Evening: Relax in one of the traditional guesthouses in Theth.

Day 4: Theth to Berat
Morning: Drive south to Berat (about 4 hours), also known as the “town of a thousand windows,” famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
Afternoon: Explore Berat Castle and the Onufri National Iconographic Museum. Wander through the old quarters, Mangalem and Gorica, which are UNESCO-listed sites.
Evening: Dinner with local wines, as Berat is famous for its wine production.

Day 5: Berat to Gjirokastër
Morning: Continue south to Gjirokastër (about 3.5 hours), another UNESCO World Heritage city.
Afternoon: Visit the Gjirokastër Castle and the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the birthplace of the former Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha.
Evening: Walk through the cobbled streets of the old town.

Butrint National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site): Just outside of Sarandë, this ancient city is one of Albania's most significant archaeological sites. The ruins, including temples, baths, and a theater, are well-preserved and set in a stunning landscape.

Lëkurësi Castle: Offering panoramic views over Sarandë and the Ionian Sea, this 16th-century castle is a great place to enjoy a scenic sunset.

Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër): A natural spring surrounded by lush greenery, known for its stunning blue color. It's a peaceful spot for nature lovers.

Sarandë Promenade and Beaches: The main promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for a stroll. The beaches in and around Sarandë, like Mirror Beach and Santa Quaranta Beach, offer crystal-clear waters.

Saranda to Vlora
The distance from Saranda to Vlora is around 120 km (approximately 2.5-3 hours by car) via the coastal road (SH8), which offers beautiful views of the Ionian and Adriatic Seas.

Along the way, we will stop at:

Himara: A picturesque seaside town where you can visit beaches like Livadhi and Jale.
Dhermi: Known for its pristine beaches, you can make a quick stop to enjoy the water or a hike up to the village for a more traditional experience.
Once in Vlora, some highlights include:

Zvernec Monastery: Located on an island in the Narta Lagoon, it's a peaceful and historical site.
Vlora Promenade: A pleasant place to take a walk along the coast with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Uji i Ftohtë Beach: One of the most popular beaches around Vlora, perfect for a swim or relaxation.

Vlora to Tirana
The distance from Vlora to Tirana is around 150 km (roughly 2.5-3 hours by car) through the inland route via the SH4.