Start your trip in Tirana, the capital city of Albania. In the morning, visit the Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, and admire the Skanderbeg Statue. Explore the National Historical Museum, which offers insights into Albania's rich history. In the afternoon, head to the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Mount Dajti. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant Blloku neighborhood, known for its cafes and boutiques.
Skanderbeg Square: Free, 1-2 hours
National Historical Museum: $5, 2-3 hours
Dajti Ekspres Cable Car: $10, 2-3 hours
Blloku neighborhood: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Albanian breakfast at Farm of Dreams. This cozy restaurant serves fresh and organic dishes, including homemade bread, cheese, and jam. The average cost for a meal is about 7 euros per person.
Lunch: For a delicious and affordable lunch, head to Serendipity. This charming restaurant offers a variety of Mediterranean and Albanian dishes, with friendly service and a relaxed atmosphere. The average cost for a meal is about 10 euros per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a mouthwatering dinner at Era Restaurant. Known for its gourmet seafood and international cuisine, this upscale eatery offers a unique dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about 25 euros per person.
Friday, September 1: Berat
On your second day, visit the charming town of Berat, known as the "City of a Thousand Windows." Start your day by exploring the Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its well-preserved architecture. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Mangalem Quarter, famous for its historic Ottoman houses. Don't miss the Ethnographic Museum, which offers a glimpse into Albanian traditional life. Enjoy a traditional Albanian dinner at a local restaurant in the evening.
Berat Castle: $5, 2-3 hours
Mangalem Quarter: Free, 1-2 hours
Ethnographic Museum: $3, 1-2 hours
Traditional Albanian dinner: $15-20 per person
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Restaurant Vila Alehandro, where you can enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and traditional Albanian breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, visit Restaurant Bar-Rest Shqiperia, located near the Berat Castle. This restaurant offers a wide range of Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine, including delicious seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For dinner, dine at Restaurant Mengalemi, a charming restaurant in the heart of the Mangalem Quarter. Here, you can savor authentic Albanian cuisine while enjoying panoramic views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday, September 2: Saranda
Head south to the coastal town of Saranda. In the morning, visit the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its impressive archaeological ruins. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at one of the beautiful beaches in Saranda, such as Mirror Beach or Santa Quaranta Beach. Take a boat tour to the nearby Ksamil Islands and swim in their crystal-clear waters. In the evening, savor delicious seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
Butrint: $10, 3-4 hours
Beach visit: Free, 3-4 hours
Ksamil Islands boat tour: $20-30 per person, 2-3 hours
Seafood dinner: $20-30 per person
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Café X located in the heart of Saranda. Enjoy a range of breakfast options including fresh pastries, sandwiches, and hot coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 5 euros per person.
For lunch, visit Shtepia e Peshkut, a popular seafood restaurant overlooking the Saranda bay. Indulge in a variety of freshly caught fish and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 15 euros per person.
For dinner, Mamma Mia Ristorante Pizzeria is a great choice. Located near the beach, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of Italian and Albanian cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 12 euros per person.
Sunday, September 3: Gjirokastër
Explore the historic city of Gjirokastër, also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Start your day by visiting the Gjirokastër Castle, which offers panoramic views of the city. Discover the fascinating history of the city at the Gjirokastër National Folklore Museum. In the afternoon, wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town and admire the traditional Ottoman-style houses. Enjoy a traditional Albanian coffee at a local café before heading back to your accommodation.
Gjirokastër Castle: $5, 2-3 hours
Gjirokastër National Folklore Museum: $2, 1-2 hours
Exploring the Old Town: Free, 2-3 hours
Traditional Albanian coffee: $2-5 per person
Monday, September 4: Shkodër
On your last day, visit the vibrant city of Shkodër in northern Albania. Start by exploring the Rozafa Castle, located on a hill with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, wander through the pedestrianized Shkodër Pedonale and indulge in shopping and street food. Visit the Marubi National Museum of Photography to admire its vast collection. End your trip with a relaxing boat ride on Lake Shkodër and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Rozafa Castle: $5, 2-3 hours
Shkodër Pedonale: Free, 2-3 hours
Marubi National Museum of Photography: $3, 1-2 hours
Lake Shkodër boat ride: $10-15 per person, 1-2 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Off the beaten path, consider visiting the village of Theth in northern Albania. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, Theth offers opportunities for hiking and exploring traditional Albanian culture. Another hidden gem is the Albanian Riviera, a stretch of coastline known for its picturesque beaches and charming villages. Don't miss the village of Dhërmi, famous for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. These destinations provide a more secluded and authentic experience away from the bustling cities.
Check out hotel and flight prices for your trip to Albania here.