Ultimate Albania Itinerary For 1–3 Weeks of Adventure and Culture

Albania is one of my favourite countries in Europe.

I’ve travelled the length of the country by bus, car and boat, and something that always stands out to me is the sheer variety packed into such a small place.

You can swim in electric-blue water in the morning and hike a wild mountain pass that afternoon.

One day it’s slow coffee in a crumbling Ottoman town. The next it’s grilled seabream by the beach.

Here you’ll find when to go, how to get around, and a route that actually works without rushing.

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Best Time to Visit Albania

Albania’s best weather runs from May to September. Days are long, sunny, and warm enough for beaches, hiking, and road trips.

July and August are peak months. The Riviera gets busy, but the sea’s at its best and every beach bar’s open.

I’d try to avoid early August if possible. Late May or late September have the same clear water and half the crowds.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for exploring inland.

The mountain trails are dry, guesthouses are open, and temperatures are perfect for walking or sightseeing without melting.

Winter can be cold, especially in the north, but you’ll find snow in the Albanian Alps and quiet towns everywhere else. It’s not the best time for the coast though, as most things shut down.

How to Get to Albania

Most people fly into Tirana International Airport (TIA), just outside the capital. It’s well connected with regular flights from cities across Europe, including London, Rome, and Vienna.

If you’re coming from Greece or Italy, the ferry can be a great alternative. The Corfu–Sarandë route is quick and scenic, with turquoise water and mountain views the whole way.

From Italy, there are overnight ferries from Bari or Brindisi to Durrës. I’ve done the Bari crossing – basic cabins, good views, and an easy way to arrive without flying.

Visa rules depend on your passport, but most visitors from the UK, EU, and US don’t need one for short stays. Still, it’s worth double-checking before you travel, as regulations do change.

How to Get Around Albania

The best way to explore Albania is by car. It gives you freedom to reach beaches, mountain villages, and viewpoints you’d never see on a bus.

I’ve driven across most of the country and found main roads fine, but expect a few potholes and the occasional herd of goats.

If you’re heading into the mountains, an SUV’s worth it. The extra clearance helps on unpaved tracks around Theth and Valbona.

Drive cautiously, especially on mountain bends and at night, when lighting can be poor.

Public transport works too, though it’s slower. Buses link the main towns, and furgons (shared minibuses) handle most local routes.

There’s rarely a fixed timetable, they leave when full. I’ve used them plenty of times and they’re cheap, friendly, and a bit chaotic in a good way.

Taxis are easy to find in cities, but they’re expensive for long trips, so stick to local journeys if you can.

Recommended Albania Itineraries

Albania’s small, but don’t underestimate how much there is to see. You can go from mountain trails to the Riviera in a single day, which makes it perfect for a road trip.

This itinerary pulls together the highlights – cities, beaches, and mountain villages – while keeping travel times manageable.

I’ve driven this route more than once, tweaking it each time, and it strikes the right balance between adventure and downtime.

7-Day Albania Itinerary

If you’ve only got a week, you’ll need to move fairly quickly, but you can still see the best of the country.

Day 1-2: Tirana

Start in the capital. Wander Skanderbeg Square, pop into BUNK’ART 2, and take the Dajti Ekspres cable car for a view over the city.

I usually base myself near the centre so I can walk everywhere and find good food easily.

Day 3: Berat

Head south to Berat, one of Albania’s UNESCO-listed towns. Climb up to the castle for views over the Osum River, then cross to Gorica for the classic photo of the “city of a thousand windows”.

Day 4: Gjirokastër

Drive on to Gjirokastër, another UNESCO site, with steep cobbled lanes and old Ottoman houses.

The fortress dominates the skyline. Visit in the late afternoon when it’s cooler and emptier.

Day 5: The Albanian Riviera (Himara or Dhermi)

Follow the SH8 coastal road over Llogara Pass and down to the Riviera. Stop at Gjipe or Drymades for a swim and a cold beer by the beach.

It’s one of Europe’s most scenic drives, so don’t rush it.

Day 6: Saranda & Ksamil

Base yourself in Sarandë and spend the day exploring Butrint National Park, then swim at Ksamil’s white-sand beaches.

I’d recommend avoiding weekends in summer, it gets hectic.

Day 7: Blue Eye & Return to Tirana

On your way back, stop at the Blue Eye, a deep turquoise spring that really is worth the detour.

If you’ve got time, take the coastal route back via Vlorë rather than the inland highway.

10-Day Albania Itinerary

If you’ve got ten days, you can go beyond the highlights and see a more local side of Albania. Add these stops to stretch your trip into the mountains and hot springs.

Day 8: Permet

Head inland to Përmet, a relaxed riverside town surrounded by mountains.

Soak in the warm pools at Bënjë and watch steam rise from the river as you float between the stone arches of the old bridge.

If you’re feeling active, rafting the Vjosa River is a fun way to spend the afternoon.

Day 9: Theth

Travel north to Theth National Park, a small alpine village surrounded by jagged peaks and waterfalls. The drive takes a while, but it’s one of the most beautiful in the country.

Settle into a guesthouse and spend the evening eating homemade bread, cheese, and raki with your hosts.

Day 10: Hike to Valbonë

Trek from Theth to Valbonë, a full-day hike across high mountain passes and open meadows. It takes about seven hours and the views are unreal.

Finish with a cold beer in Valbonë and stay overnight before looping back towards Shkodër or Tirana.

Optional Extensions for Longer Itineraries

If you’ve got a bit more time, there are a few easy detours worth adding. These give you a deeper look at Albania’s landscapes and slower, local rhythm.

Explore Korçë

Head east to Korçë, known as the City of Serenades. It’s a relaxed place with leafy streets, old cafés, and plenty of live music at night.

Drop by the Birra Korça brewery for a cold pint, then make a day trip to nearby Pogradec on Lake Ohrid. Swimming here feels completely different to the coast. Calm, fresh water and no crowds.

Osum Canyon and Skrapar

Near Berat, you can explore Osum Canyon, where sheer cliffs rise above turquoise water.

In spring, the river’s high enough for rafting, but later in the year it’s better for hiking or wading through the shallows.

The area around Skrapar is wild and quiet, great if you want an adventurous detour.

Valbonë Valley National Park

If you fell for northern Albania, stay longer in Valbonë Valley. Hike deeper into the Albanian Alps or spend a couple of nights in family-run guesthouses surrounded by peaks.

It’s one of the most peaceful corners of the country and feels a world away from the coast.

Where to Stay in Albania

I’ve stayed in all sorts of places across Albania, from family-run guesthouses to smart city hotels. Here are some solid options in each main stop, all places I’d happily recommend.

Tirana

• Budget: Mosaic Home – friendly, social, and good value.
• Mid-range: Hotel Boutique Vila Verde – central, comfortable, and quiet at night.
• Luxury: Maritim Hotel Plaza Tirana – slick modern hotel right by Skanderbeg Square.

Berat

• Budget: Guesthouse Kris – simple rooms in a lovely old house.
• Mid-range: Hotel Mangalemi – full of character, in the heart of the historic district.
• Luxury: Hotel Rezidenca Desaret – panoramic views and an excellent restaurant.

Gjirokastër

• Budget: Stone City Hostel – clean, sociable, and great for meeting other travellers.
• Mid-range: Hotel Gjirokastër – traditional décor and warm hospitality.
• Luxury: Hotel Kalemi 2 – restored Ottoman house with beautiful rooms and views.

Himara

• Budget: Himarë Hostel – easygoing and a short walk from the beach.
• Mid-range: Rondos Hotel – modern rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.
• Luxury: Rea Boutique Hotel – right on the sand with a small pool and great breakfast.

Saranda

• Budget: Hairy Lemon Hostel has now closed, but Hasta La Vista Hostel is a good alternative.
• Mid-range: Hotel Brilant – reliable, spacious, and close to the promenade.
• Luxury: Bougainville Bay Hotel – sleek, seaside, and with a rooftop pool.

Ksamil

• Budget: Villa Soni – family-run and within walking distance of the beach.
• Mid-range: Hotel Joni – good pool and sea views.
• Luxury: Hotel Luxury – modern and right on the water.

Valbona

• Budget: Guesthouse Kol Gjoni – basic but charming, with views of the peaks.
• Mid-range: Hotel Margjeka – friendly owners and a great base for hikes.
• Luxury: Rilindja – excellent food and proper comfort after long days on the trail.

Theth

• Budget: Guesthouse Rupa – homely and full of character.
• Mid-range: Villa Gjeçaj – a restored stone house with hearty dinners.
• Luxury: Bujtina Polia – big views, cosy rooms, and great food.

What to Pack for Your Albania Trip

Packing for Albania depends on when and where you’re going. You can go from beaches to mountain trails in the same week, so bring a bit of everything.

Summer

Stick to light, breathable clothes. Shorts, T-shirts, and a swimsuit will see you through most days.

Sunscreen is a must. The sun’s fierce, especially on the coast.

I always pack a hat and a refillable water bottle for long drives or hikes.

If you’re heading into the mountains, bring a light jacket. Evenings can still get cool, especially around Llogara, Theth, and Valbonë.

Winter

For a winter trip, pack warm layers and a waterproof jacket. It can get cold and rainy, particularly up north.

A decent pair of boots makes a big difference if you’re planning to explore outside the cities.

Gear

Hiking shoes or trail runners are essential if you want to explore Albania’s national parks properly.

I’d also bring a small daypack, a quick-dry towel, and a power bank. There are still a few spots where power cuts happen.

Albania Travel Tips

Safety Tips

Albania’s one of the safest countries I’ve travelled in. Crime against tourists is rare.

Just use common sense. Keep valuables close, don’t walk down dark alleys at 2 am, and you’ll be fine.

I’ve travelled solo here and always felt comfortable, even in smaller towns. Most locals are friendly and willing to help if needed.

Local Etiquette

Albanians are incredibly welcoming. You’ll often be offered coffee or raki within minutes of meeting someone.

Join the evening xhiro (the nightly stroll locals take through town) and you’ll see how social life really works here. A friendly greeting and a smile go a long way.

In rural areas, dress a bit more modestly.

Language

Albanian is the official language, but younger people in tourist areas often speak English. In smaller villages, not so much.

Learning a few phrases helps. Faleminderit (thank you) and Përshëndetje (hello) always get a smile.

Currency

The currency’s the Albanian lek (ALL). ATMs are easy to find, though smaller places often prefer cash.

I’d keep a bit of cash handy for petrol stations, cafés, or small entrance fees like the Blue Eye.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Albania is beautiful, affordable, and still feels refreshingly real.

You can hike through remote alpine valleys in the morning and be eating grilled fish beside the sea that same evening.

What I love most is how different each part of the country feels. The Ottoman towns are full of history, the Riviera’s wild and relaxed, and the north feels like a completely separate world.

Even after several trips, I keep finding new corners that surprise me.

If you’re after a mix of culture, adventure, and simple, good food, Albania’s hard to beat.

It’s the kind of place that rewards curiosity. And once you’ve been, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to go.

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