Begin your trip in Tirana, the vibrant capital city of Albania. Explore the city on foot, visiting the National History Museum, Et'hem Bey Mosque, and Skanderbeg Square. Take a break at one of the many parks or cafes to enjoy some Albanian coffee and pastries.
Take a day trip to Durrës, a coastal city known for its sandy beaches. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying various water activities such as paddleboarding or jet skiing. Visit the Durrës Amphitheatre, an ancient Roman amphitheater dating back to the 2nd century AD.
Head to Valbona National Park, a mountainous area known for its stunning natural beauty. Go on a guided hike to see breathtaking waterfalls and scenic views of the Valbona River. Spend the night in a traditional Albanian guesthouse for an authentic experience.
Drive to Ohrid, a charming town on the shores of Lake Ohrid. Visit the Ohrid Fortress, Ancient Theatre of Ohrid, and Saint Naum Monastery. Take a boat tour to explore the lake and its surroundings.
Drive to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Ottoman architecture. Visit the Berat Castle, Mangalem, and Gorica neighborhoods to admire the city's picturesque beauty. Enjoy traditional Albanian food and wine at a local restaurant.
Drive to Saranda, a coastal city overlooking the Ionian Sea. Spend the day at the beach, visiting the Butrint National Park and Lekuresi Castle. Enjoy fresh seafood for dinner at a seaside restaurant.
Visit the Blue Eye, a crystal clear natural spring in the heart of southern Albania. Take a dip in the refreshing water or relax in the shade of the surrounding trees. Afterwards, explore the nearby town of Gjirokastra, known for its Ottoman-style houses and cobblestone streets.
Head to Kruja, the birthplace of Albania's national hero Skanderbeg. Visit the Kruja Castle, Skanderbeg Museum, and Old Bazaar. Shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts at the local market.
Drive to Apollonia, an ancient Greek city known for its archaeological sites. Visit the Apollonia Archaeological Park, Church of Saint Mary, and Odeon. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the scenic surroundings.
Spend your last day in Tirana, revisiting your favorite spots or discovering new ones. Visit the BunkArt Museum, Tanners' Bridge, and Blloku neighborhood. Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city's top restaurants.
To get around Albania, it is recommended to rent a car. Rental prices vary but can cost around 5,000 - 8,000 Lek per day. Gas prices are affordable, with a liter costing around 160 Lek. Taxis are available in major cities, but prices can be high. Public transportation is available, but it can be challenging to navigate as schedules and routes are often subject to change.
If you have more time, consider visiting the charming town of Shkodër or the beautiful Albanian Alps. If you have less time, skip Valbona National Park or Apollonia Archaeological Park. Remember to be respectful of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Lastly, be prepared to pay with cash as credit cards are not widely accepted.
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is the main airport in Albania, located approximately 17 km northwest of Tirana's city center. The airport is served by major airlines such as Air Albania, Alitalia, and Ryanair.