Perfect 10 Days Family-Friendly Itinerary to Albania

  • Day 1: Tirana – The Capital City
    Estimated travel time: 15 minutes

    Tirana, the capital city of Albania, offers a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture. Visit the National Historical Museum and discover ancient artifacts, stunning mosaics and murals, and galleries depicting Albania’s communist past. Take a walk through the Grand Park and enjoy the natural beauty all around you. End the day watching a movie at the Millennium Cinema Complex.

  • Day 2: Kruja and the Surroundings
    Estimated travel time: 1 hour 25 minutes

    Kruja, situated in the dramatic Albanian highland landscapes, flaunts an array of castles, ruins, and the famous Skanderbeg Museum. Explore the historical Ottoman bazaar packed with souvenir shops scattered in traditional architecture. Relax by the Adriatic coast at the nearby beach of Durres, enjoying the sun and the sparkling azure waves.

  • Day 3: Shkoder and Lake Skadar
    Estimated travel time: 1 hour 50 minutes

    Experience the picturesque views of Lake Skadar while visiting the old town grandeur of Shkoder, the cultural hub of Albania. Devote this day to historical sightseeing to places like Rozafa Castle and the Mesi Bridge, and indulge your taste buds in the traditional Albanian cuisine at the local restaurants.

  • Day 4: Butrint National Park
    Estimated travel time: 3 hours 55 minutes

    The UNESCO-listed Butrint National Park is a tranquil oasis offering a journey through time to Albanian's deep past. Visit the amphitheater, the Roman baths, and the Temple of Asklepius, the god of medicine. After some educational sightseeing, cap off your day with a pleasant stroll along the long sandy beaches of Ksamil.

  • Day 5: Blue Eye Water Spring and Gjirokastra
    Estimated travel time: 3 hours 20 minutes

    The second UNESCO World Heritage Site in your trip, Gjirokastra, has a well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and museums like the Ethnographic Museum and Skenduli House. On your way, visit the enigmatic Blue Eye Water Spring and have lunch at the local restaurants nearby.

  • Day 6: Saranda and Butrint
    Estimated travel time: 45 minutes

    Start by visiting the ancient ruins of Butrint before wandering around the vibrant promenade of the coastal town of Saranda. Feel free to engage in various aquatic sports and relish the freshly caught seafood in the beachside seafood restaurants.

  • Day 7: Himara and Jale Beach
    Estimated travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

    Hit the famous Jale Beach for a full day of sports and leisure. Admire the lush greenery, cliffs, and mountains surrounding the calm sea. Stroll through the small coastal town of Himara and indulge in their tasty grilled meat and fresh seafood in family-owned establishments.

  • Day 8: Apollonia and Vlore
    Estimated travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

    Make your way to the peaceful Roman town of Apollonia for architectural marvels and beautiful ruins. Head to the seaside city of Vlore for stunning beaches, great restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

  • Day 9: Berat and the Tomorri Mountain
    Estimated travel time: 2 hours 45 minutes

    Take an excursion to the Tomorri Mountain for a perfect break from the hot and humid weather. In the evening, admire the Turkish-style houses and churches, combined with the medieval castle, in the beautiful town of Berat, also known as the "City of a Thousand Windows."

  • Day 10: Ksamil and Saranda
    Estimated travel time: 20 minutes

    Wrap up your Albania family-friendly tour with additional sightseeing in the former Greek-occupied town of Ksamil. Swim in the crystal clear, turquoise waters of Ksamil Islands and enjoy the salt breeze, before heading back to the breezy town of Saranda for a farewell family dinner.

  • Time and Costs Estimates

    • National Historical Museum (2 hours, 500 LEK)
    • Skanderbeg Museum (1 hour, 200 LEK)
    • Rozafa Castle (2 hours, 300 LEK)
    • Butrint National Park (3 hours, 700 LEK)
    • Ethnographic Museum (2 hours, 300 LEK)
    • Apollonia (2 hours, 500 LEK)
    • Berat Castle (3 hours, 600 LEK)
    • Total Estimated Costs (per person): 3,700 LEK ($36/ £25)

    Transportation

    For a family-friendly tour, it is recommended to rent a car at an estimated cost of 11,000 LEK ($107/ £76) per day. You can also opt for a taxi service or public transport at affordable prices, however, it is not recommended for families with small children.

    Useful Tips

    If you have additional time, explore the beautiful Albanian Alps or the famous Blue Flag beaches of Velipoja. For shorter tours, visit the capital city Tirana or beach towns like Dhermi or Jale. Families can also add fun activities like paragliding in Vlore or hiking in the Albanian countryside.

    Airports

    Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA) is the main airport of Albania located in the capital city, 17km away from the city center. It is well-connected to various European and international destinations and offers several transport options including taxis, buses, and car rentals.

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