8-Day Water-Focused Adventure in Albania

Day 1: Tirana Introduction

Tirana, Albania on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Era Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Albanian breakfast with fresh pastries, coffee, and local honey to start your day with energy in the heart of Tirana.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Skanderbeg Square and Et'hem Bey Mosque

Visit Tirana’s main square and the historic mosque to appreciate Albanian culture and architecture as a gentle start to your trip.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit the National History Museum

Discover Albania’s history and heritage through extensive artifacts and exhibits, including the impressive mosaic on the facade.
EUR3, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Oda

Dine on authentic Albanian cuisine featuring fresh local ingredients in a cozy traditional cottage setting.
EUR10, 1h0m

3:00pm

Bunk’Art 2 Museum

Explore a fascinating Cold War bunker turned museum to understand Albania’s unique political history before relaxing in the afternoon.
EUR5, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

Enjoy elegant dining with Mediterranean flavors and fresh seafood to introduce your palate to Albania’s coastal cuisine.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 2: Beach Day at Durrës

Durrës, Albania on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Tirana Hotel

Have a quick breakfast before heading to the coast, with options like fresh bread, cheese, and coffee.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Travel to Durrës

Enjoy a 45-minute drive to Albania’s largest port city and well-known beach destination.
EUR10 (taxi), 0h45m

10:00am

Relax on Durrës Beach

Spend your morning sunbathing and swimming on the sandy shores along the Adriatic Sea, known for its warm water and lively atmosphere.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kompoti Restaurant

Taste fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes with a sea view at this popular local spot.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit the Amphitheatre of Durrës

Explore an ancient Roman amphitheater, one of the largest in the Balkans, located near the coast.
EUR3, 1h0m

4:00pm

Evening swim or beachfront walk

Enjoy the late afternoon sun by taking another swim or strolling along the promenade to see local life.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Piazza

Dine on Italian-inspired and Albanian dishes with fresh seafood, perfect after a day by the water.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 3: Albanian Riviera Start

Vlorë, Albania on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel in Durrës

Start with a hearty Albanian breakfast to fuel your scenic drive south.
EUR5, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Vlorë

Travel approximately 2 hours along the Adriatic coast to Vlorë, where mountains meet the sea.
EUR15 (car rental/taxi), 2h0m

10:30am

Explore Vlorë Beach and Promenade

Relax on the sandy beach or walk along the seaside promenade, famous for its panoramic views and fresh sea breeze.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Guva Fresh Bar Beach

Enjoy light fresh fish dishes and refreshing drinks right on the beach with cozy outdoor seating.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Day trip to Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island

Take a boat tour (advance booking recommended) to see crystal clear waters, marine life, and secluded beaches. Tours run 10am - 4pm approximately.
EUR40, 4h0m

6:30pm

Return to Vlorë and Dinner at Piazza Bar Vlorë

Savor evening drinks and dinner with fresh Mediterranean dishes overlooking the sea to unwind after your boat adventure.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 4: Ksamil & Blue Eye

Ksamil, Albania on May 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Vlorë

Grab a quick breakfast at a local café before your trip further south.
EUR5, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Ksamil

Travel about 2.5 hours to the Ksamil islands area, famous for its turquoise waters and idyllic beaches.
EUR15 (car rental/taxi), 2h30m

11:00am

Relax at Ksamil Beaches

Spend a relaxing morning swimming and sunbathing on several small white-sand beaches and visiting the nearby tiny islands by kayak or boat.
Free, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Bar Restaurant Limani

Sample fresh seafood right on the waterfront with views over Ksamil’s bays.
EUR15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)

Explore a stunning natural spring with sapphire blue water and a cool microclimate, about a 20-minute drive north from Ksamil. Open daily 7:30am - 7:00pm.
EUR3, 1h30m

5:30pm

Return to Ksamil for evening swim

Enjoy late afternoon swimming and sunset views on the beach before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Taverna Fish Land

Dine on freshly caught fish and traditional Albanian dishes in an authentic and cozy setting.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 5: Seaside in Sarandë

Sarandë, Albania on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Ksamil

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café with fresh local products.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Sarandë

Short 20-minute trip north to Sarandë, a vibrant coastal town with beautiful beaches and nightlife.
EUR5 (taxi), 0h20m

9:30am

Walk Along Sarandë Promenade and Beaches

Stroll the waterfront promenade and enjoy swimming or lounging at the town’s main beaches, including Pulebardha Beach.
Free, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Limani Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood dishes with sea views at this popular spot right on the harbor.
EUR20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Lekursi Castle

Drive or hike up to this castle for panoramic views over Sarandë and the Ionian Sea. The castle's café is perfect for afternoon drinks.
EUR2, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Mango Beach Bar

Unwind with a cocktail by the beach at this trendy bar with sunbeds and music, open until sunset.
EUR10, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mediterraneo

Enjoy elegant Mediterranean cuisine using fresh seafood and local ingredients in a stylish setting.
EUR25, 1h30m
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Day 6: Charming Himarë Coast

Himarë, Albania on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Sarandë

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before the coastal drive.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Himarë

Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive along the Albanian Riviera to Himarë, known for its good beaches and charming old town.
EUR10, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Himarë Old Town and Castle

Explore the historic castle with views over the Ionian Sea and wander quaint stone streets lined with cafes and shops.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Guvat Restaurant

Enjoy fresh grilled fish and local specialties right on Himarë beachside.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Relax on Livadhi Beach

Spend the afternoon swimming and sunbathing on one of the most beautiful beaches near town, known for its crystal-clear water.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Coffee at a Seaside Café

Enjoy a late afternoon coffee or drink at a waterfront café while soaking in coastal views.
EUR5, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Neptun Taverna

Traditional Albanian seafood dishes and grilled meats served in a cozy and authentic atmosphere.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 7: Lake Ohrid Day Trip

Pogradec, Albania on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Himarë

Quick breakfast before the full day trip inland to Lake Ohrid.
EUR5, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive to Pogradec and Lake Ohrid

Approx 3-hour scenic drive northeast to the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, shared by Albania and North Macedonia.
EUR30, 3h0m

10:30am

Boat tour on Lake Ohrid

Enjoy a guided boat ride on the clear waters of Lake Ohrid, exploring small bays, historic churches, and nature spots.
EUR25, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Vila Fresk

Dine on fresh fish and Albanian specialties near the lake shore in Pogradec.
EUR15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Drilon National Park

Stroll through beautiful natural park surroundings with walking paths and natural springs next to the lake.
EUR3, 2h0m

3:30pm

Return Drive to Tirana

Approximately 2-hour drive back to Tirana with scenic mountain views.
EUR20, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Era Restaurant, Tirana

Relax and enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine in a lovely atmosphere on your last evening.
EUR18, 1h30m
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Day 8: Departure & Leisure

Tirana, Albania on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or nearby café to savor your last moments in Albania.
EUR5, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit Grand Park of Tirana (Parku i Madh)

Relax by the Artificial Lake and enjoy the fresh air with an optional boat rental on the lake before your departure.
EUR5 (boat rental optional), 2h0m

11:30am

Pack up & depart for airport

Head to Tirana International Airport for your onward travel. Allow 30-45 minutes for transfer.
EUR15 (taxi), 0h45m
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