9-Day Albanian Adventure Honeymoon on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Tirana, Albania

9:00AM

Breakfast at ODA

Start your day with a traditional Albanian breakfast at the charming ODA restaurant, known for its wholesome local dishes.
Located in the heart of Tirana, easily accessible on foot.
ALL50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Skanderbeg Square

Wander around Skanderbeg Square, the cultural and historical center of Tirana, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
A short 10-minute walk from ODA.
FREE, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the National History Museum

Dive into Albania's past by visiting the National History Museum, featuring engaging exhibitions on the nation’s rich heritage.
Located right next to Skanderbeg Square.
ALL200, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Era Restaurant

Enjoy some delicious Albanian dishes at Era Restaurant, popular with locals and tourists alike.
Just a 5-minute walk from the museum.
ALL600, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Bunk'Art 1

Discover this unique museum housed in a former Cold War bunker, showcasing art and history.
A 15-minute taxi ride or a 40-minute walk.
ALL400, 2 hours

5:30PM

Stroll Through the Grand Park

Finish your day with a relaxing walk through the Grand Park, where you can enjoy the tranquility of nature.
A short bus ride or a 30-minute walk from Bunk'Art 1.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Padam Boutique Hotel

Savor a romantic dinner featuring local and international cuisine at the rooftop restaurant with city views.
Easily accessible by taxi from Grand Park.
ALL1000, 2 hours
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Tirana, Albania

9:00AM

Breakfast at Taverna Tafaj

Start your day with some authentic coffee and local pastries to get energized for the day ahead.
Around a 15-minute walk from your lodging.
ALL400, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Pyramid of Tirana

Explore the iconic Pyramid of Tirana, a quirky landmark that reflects the country's history.
A quick 10-minute walk.
FREE, 1 hour

11:30AM

Take a Free Walking Tour

Join a free walking tour to meet fellow travelers and gain insider knowledge about Tirana's hidden gems.
Starting point typically near Skanderbeg Square.
FREE (tip appreciated), 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Kuka Restaurant

Relish in hearty local dishes at Kuka, a cozy spot known for its homemade meals.
Located near the end point of the walking tour.
ALL500, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Et'hem Bey Mosque

Admire the stunning frescoes and the architecture of one of the most significant mosques in Albania.
A brief walk from Kuka.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Nish Shtamë

Indulge in traditional Albanian dishes while enjoying the warm atmosphere of this local restaurant.
A short taxi ride from the mosque.
ALL800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historic Berat

Berat, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Bar Lira

Start the day right with coffee and fresh pastries at this local favourite in Tirana.
A short walk from your accommodation.
ALL300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Berat

Board a local minibus to Berat for a scenic journey through picturesque countryside.
Minibus departs from the main bus station in Tirana.
ALL500, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check into Guesthouse

Settle into a quaint guesthouse that offers a welcoming touch and a glimpse into local life.
Easily found upon arrival in Berat.
ALL2000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Home Cooked

Enjoy a delicious homemade meal prepared by your guesthouse host, showcasing local flavors.
Served at your guesthouse.
ALL700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Wander the Old Town

Explore the cobbled streets of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.
Easily accessible on foot.
FREE, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Berat Castle

Climb up to Berat Castle for breathtaking views of the city and river valley.
A 20-minute walk uphill.
ALL300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mangalem Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner at a hillside restaurant with spectacular views of the town.
A short walk down from the castle.
ALL800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Gjirokastër's Charm

Gjirokastër, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Fuel up with breakfast featuring local cheeses and fresh produce from local markets.
At your guesthouse.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Gjirokastër

Take a scenic bus to Gjirokastër, known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture.
Buses depart from Berat, check local schedules.
ALL400, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into a local guesthouse and feel the traditional charm.
Located within the old town.
ALL2000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant Kacoli

Taste local specialties like Gjirokastër's famous byrek in a friendly atmosphere.
5-minute walk from your guesthouse.
ALL600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Gjirokastër Castle

Explore the historic Gjirokastër Castle, which houses a museum and boasts stunning valley views.
Short walk from the restaurant.
ALL500, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Ethnographic Museum

Housed in the former residence of the late dictator Enver Hoxha, the museum gives insight into Albanian culture.
Just a 10-minute walk from the castle.
ALL300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Kerculla Restaurant

Enjoy regional dishes with a modern flair while soaking in breathtaking views.
Located a short distance from the museum.
ALL800, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Beach Bliss in Saranda

Saranda, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with mountain views at your guesthouse.
At your guesthouse.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Saranda

Hop onto a bus to Saranda, a coastal town with stunning beaches and a pleasant atmosphere.
Buses depart from Gjirokastër frequently.
ALL600, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Check into Accommodations

Settle into an affordable beachside guesthouse for a relaxing retreat.
Located along the waterfront.
ALL2000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Momento's

Savor fresh seafood and local dishes while enjoying views of the Ionian Sea.
Just steps from your guesthouse.
ALL700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding on the beautiful beaches of Saranda.
Easily accessible from your guesthouse.
FREE, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Lekursi Castle

Head up to Lekursi Castle for panoramic views of Saranda and the surrounding area.
A short taxi ride or a hiking trail.
ALL300, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Living Room

Enjoy a delightful dinner with an array of Mediterranean dishes.
Located in a central area of Saranda.
ALL800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Beach Day at Ksamil

Ksamil, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Start your day with breakfast by the beach, enjoying fresh fruits and local delights.
At your guesthouse.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Ksamil

Take a short bus ride to the beautiful beaches of Ksamil, renowned for clear waters and lush pine trees.
Buses leave from Saranda regularly.
ALL300, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the day lounging on the stunning beaches of Ksamil, swimming and soaking up the sun.
All beaches are accessible on foot.
FREE, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at a Beachside Taverna

Enjoy lunch at a beachfront taverna, sampling fresh fish and traditional dishes.
Located near the main beaches.
ALL700, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Continue Beach Time

After lunch, return to the beach to enjoy more sun, swim, and maybe rent a pedalo.
All beaches are within walking distance.
Varies based on rentals, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sunset Restaurant

Cap off your day with dinner at this lovely restaurant overlooking the water.
A short walk from the beach.
ALL900, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Exploring Butrint

Butrint, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Enjoy a light breakfast featuring fresh ingredients and homemade bread.
At your guesthouse.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Butrint

Take a local bus to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with significant archaeological remains.
Buses depart from Saranda regularly.
ALL300, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore Butrint National Park

Discover the ancient ruins of Butrint, wandering through the archaeological site and absorbing its history.
The entrance is a short walk from the bus stop.
ALL700, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Taverna

Enjoy fresh local dishes at a traditional taverna situated near the park.
A short distance from the entrance.
ALL600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Return to Saranda

Head back to Saranda for a leisurely afternoon at your pace.
Catch the local bus back.
ALL300, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Relax or Shop Around Saranda

Spend your time exploring the lovely shops or relaxing at the beach.
Accessible from your guesthouse.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Enjoy a Sunset at the Seaside

Take time to appreciate a beautiful sunset by the sea for a romantic end to the day.
Just steps from your guesthouse.
FREE, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Mango Beach Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious beachfront dinner with a wide variety of local and Mediterranean dishes.
Located a short walk away.
ALL800, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Durrës and History

Durrës, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guesthouse

Savor breakfast overlooking the beautiful shoreline of Saranda.
At your guesthouse.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Durrës

Catch a bus to Durrës, the largest port city in Albania known for its rich history.
Buses depart frequently from Saranda.
ALL600, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check into Hotel

Arrive and check into budget-friendly accommodations in Durrës.
Central location to facilitate exploration.
ALL1500, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant Vila Verde

Enjoy traditional Albanian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
Not far from your hotel.
ALL700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Durrës Amphitheatre

Explore the ancient Roman amphitheater and learn about its fascinating history.
A short walk from Vila Verde.
ALL300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Stroll along the Durrës Promenade

Take a leisurely walk along the beautiful waterfront promenade, perfect for people-watching.
Located nearby the amphitheater.
FREE, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Museum of Roman Art

Discover Durrës' rich archaeological heritage at the Museum of Roman Art.
A short walk from the promenade.
ALL400, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Dyrrah

Indulge in a seafood feast while enjoying views of the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.
Definitely a short walk from your accommodations.
ALL900, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Return to Tirana

Tirana, Albania

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast before your journey back to Tirana.
Included at your hotel.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Travel back to Tirana

Take a bus back to Tirana, reminiscing over your adventures.
Buses are frequent from Durrës.
ALL600, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Pazhok Village

Visit Pazhok, a quaint village nearby Tirana, known for its beautiful landscapes and warm locals.
This is a short ride from Tirana.
FREE, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Local Taverna

Have lunch at a family-run taverna that specializes in local cuisine.
Found in Pazhok Village.
ALL600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Tirana's Green Markets

Visit Tirana's open-air green markets to pick up local produce and handcrafted souvenirs.
Return to Tirana, and they're nearby.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at a Traditional Albanian Restaurant

Conclude your Albanian adventure with a last dinner at a warm and welcoming restaurant showcasing Albanian cuisine.
A short walk from your market exploration.
ALL800, 1.5 hours
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