14-Day Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure Through Albania

Day 1: Arrival and Tirana Exploration

Tirana, Albania on June 5, 2025

10:30am

Breakfast at Komiteti - Kafe Muzeum

Enjoy traditional Albanian coffee and pastries in a cafe steeped in local history, the perfect start to your journey.
EUR5, 1h0m

11:30am

National History Museum

Explore Albania's rich history through extensive exhibits; a great primer for the culture and heritage ahead. Open 9am-6pm.
EUR3, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Era Restaurant

Savor traditional Albanian cuisine with fresh local ingredients in a family-friendly atmosphere.
EUR10-15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Skanderbeg Square and Et'hem Bey Mosque

Walk through the vibrant central square and visit the ornate mosque, symbolizing Tirana's cultural blend.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Ride the Dajti Ekspres Cable Car

Take a scenic 15-minute cable car ride up Mount Dajti to enjoy panoramic views over Tirana and surrounding landscapes. Open 9am-8pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

Indulge in gourmet Albanian and Mediterranean dishes with elegant ambiance to celebrate the first day.
EUR20-30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Tirana to Shkoder

Shkoder, Albania on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Plaza Tirana

Fuel up with a rich breakfast buffet focusing on both local and international options.
Included in hotel or EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Shkoder

Begin your scenic 2.5-hour drive northwest towards Shkoder, known for its historical significance and beautiful lake.
Fuel cost approx EUR10, 2h30m

12:00pm

Visit Rozafa Castle

Explore the ancient hilltop fortress overlooking Shkoder and the confluence of rivers, laden with legend and dramatic views. Open 8am-8pm.
EUR2, 1h30m

1:45pm

Lunch at Tradita Geg & Tosk

Dine on traditional Albanian delicacies in an authentic setting famed for regional dishes from northern Albania.
EUR10-15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Shkoder Historical Museum

Learn about the town's role through history focusing on culture and art. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR2, 1h0m

4:30pm

Lake Shkoder boat ride

Enjoy a relaxing boat tour on the largest lake in the Balkans, great for bird watching and nature.
EUR10, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Vegetarian Restaurant Opera

Experience healthy and tasty vegetarian dishes close to Shkoder’s lively city center.
EUR10-15, 1h0m
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Day 3: Shkoder to Durres

Durres, Albania on June 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Colosseo

Enjoy a coastal breakfast with great views and local specialties before departure.
Included or EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Durres

A short 1.5-hour drive south along the Adriatic coast to the ancient port city of Durres.
Fuel cost approx EUR7, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Amphitheatre of Durres

Tour one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the Balkan Peninsula, rich in archaeology and history. Open 8am-7pm.
EUR3, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bar Restorant Eneida

Fresh seafood specialties by the sea, known for its relaxed atmosphere and fresh catches of the day.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk along Durres Beach and Promenade

Relax on the sandy beach or stroll the lively promenade with shops and cafes.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Visit Durres Archaeological Museum

Delve deeper into Durres’ history with an extensive collection of artifacts from Antiquity to the Middle Ages. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR3, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pizzeria Agimi

Casual dining with a variety of Albanian and Italian pizzas, perfect to unwind after a day of exploration.
EUR8-12, 1h0m
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Day 4: Durres to Vlore

Vlore, Albania on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Durres Palace

Buffet breakfast with sea views featuring both continental and Albanian breakfast items.
Included or EUR7, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Vlore via coastal road

Enjoy a scenic 2-hour coastal drive heading south to Vlore, gateway to the Albanian Riviera.
Fuel cost approx EUR8, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Independence Square and Muradie Mosque

See the historic center where Albanian independence was declared, alongside iconic Ottoman architecture. Open daylight hours.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Ristorante Piceri Guvat

Try excellent Mediterranean and Albanian dishes with fresh seafood specialties near the waterfront.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Zvernec Monastery and Lagoon

Visit this 13th-century Byzantine monastery set on an island in a serene lagoon just outside Vlore. Open 8am-6pm.
EUR1, 1h30m

4:30pm

Walk along the Lungomare promenade

Enjoy sunset views while strolling along Vlore’s beautiful seaside promenade.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Mullixhiu

A farm-to-table experience focusing on Albanian cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
EUR20-25, 1h30m
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Day 5: Vlore to Himare

Himare, Albania on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for a longer drive along the Riviera coastline.
Included or EUR7, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Himare via the Albanian Riviera Road

A stunning 3-hour drive following one of the most beautiful coastal roads in Albania, taking in sea and mountain views.
Fuel cost approx EUR10, 3h0m

11:30am

Check-in and relax

Check into your accommodation in Himare and get ready to explore the town and beaches.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Restaurant Poseidon

Fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes right on the beach for a relaxing meal.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Himare Castle and Old Town

Visit the historic fortress and wander through the charming old town streets with local shops and cafes.
EUR1, 2h0m

4:30pm

Beach time at Livadhi Beach

Relax or swim at one of the best beaches in Himare, known for clear blue waters.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Taverna Pupi

Enjoy authentic Albanian cuisine with a seaside view in a casual dining atmosphere.
EUR15-20, 1h0m
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Day 6: Himare to Saranda

Saranda, Albania on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Start the day with a fresh breakfast local to the Riviera region.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Saranda

A scenic 2-hour drive further south along the coast to the lively port town of Saranda.
Fuel cost approx EUR8, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit Lekuresi Castle

Hike or drive up to the castle ruins offering panoramic views over Saranda and the Ionian Sea. Open daylight hours.
EUR1, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Taverna Laberia

Enjoy traditional southern Albanian dishes with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Relax or swim at Mirror Beach (Plazhi i Pasqyrave)

Spend the afternoon enjoying a secluded and beautiful beach known for crystal waters.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along Saranda promenade

Explore the lively seafront boulevard lined with cafes, bars, and shops.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Limani Restaurant

Dine on excellent seafood specialties while overlooking the harbor in Saranda's charming setting.
EUR20-25, 1h30m
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Day 7: Day Trip to Butrint National Park

Saranda, Albania on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel your exploration of one of Albania’s top UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Butrint National Park

A quick 30-minute drive to this incredible archaeological and natural park, filled with ruins from various ancient civilizations.
Fuel cost approx EUR3, 30m

9:30am

Explore Butrint Ruins

Visit the amphitheater, baptistery, and other well-preserved sites within the expansive archaeological area. Open 8am-8pm.
EUR5, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nika Fish Restaurant in Ksamil

Try fresh seafood just a short drive from the park in the nearby town of Ksamil, a scenic location by the sea.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Ksamil Beaches

Spend a relaxing afternoon at the beautiful beaches of Ksamil, great for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h0m

5:30pm

Return to Saranda

Drive back to Saranda to prepare for dinner and evening in town.
Fuel cost approx EUR3, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mare Nostrum Cuisine

Elegant dining featuring fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors with a modern twist in Saranda center.
EUR20-30, 1h30m
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Day 8: Saranda to Gjirokaster

Gjirokaster, Albania on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

A relaxed breakfast to begin the day before heading inland to the historic city of Gjirokaster.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Gjirokaster

A scenic 1.5-hour drive inland to the UNESCO-listed Ottoman-era town famous for its stone houses and castle.
Fuel cost approx EUR6, 1h30m

11:00am

Visit Gjirokaster Castle

Visit the extensive fortress overlooking the city, containing museums and excellent views. Open 8am-7pm.
EUR3, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kujtimi Restaurant

Dine in a traditional setting serving authentic Gjirokaster specialties from the south of Albania.
EUR12-18, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit the Ethnographic Museum

Located in the Ottoman-style house where former dictator Enver Hoxha was born, showcasing courtyard and artifacts. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR3, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Old Bazaar and city streets

Wander the picturesque cobbled streets and artisan shops in Gjirokaster’s historic center.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pyramidë Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine in a cozy restaurant near the castle.
EUR15-20, 1h0m
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Day 9: Gjirokaster to Korca

Korca, Albania on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before the longer drive to eastern Albania and the cultural hub of Korca.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Korca

A 4-hour journey east with scenic vistas across the mountains and rural landscapes of Albania.
Fuel cost approx EUR15, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Taverna Laberia

Enjoy regional Eastern Albanian dishes in the center of Korca, offering a delightful local culinary experience.
EUR12-18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the National Museum of Medieval Art

Explore religious icons and medieval artworks unique to the Korca region. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR2, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk through the Old Bazaar

Experience the lively market full of handmade crafts, textiles, and local products.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee at Retro Bar

Relax with a coffee in this popular spot blending old and new Albanian styles.
EUR3, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Dionisi Restaurant

Enjoy refined Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine using local ingredients with elegant presentation.
EUR20-25, 1h30m
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Day 10: Korca to Elbasan

Elbasan, Albania on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with a filling breakfast and prepare for a scenic drive back west towards Elbasan.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Elbasan

A 3-hour drive through mountainous terrain towards central Albania's historic town of Elbasan.
Fuel cost approx EUR12, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Restorant Tradicional Sokaku

Enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine focusing on hearty local specialties inside the historic town walls.
EUR10-15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Elbasan Castle

Explore the well-preserved Ottoman-era fortress and wander inside with views over the city. Open daylight hours.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Walk the bazaar street and local shops

Discover everyday Albanian life with bustling street markets and authentic local crafts.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee or tea break at Art-Cafe

Relax with a drink in this stylish local café popular for its ambiance and people watching.
EUR3, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restorant Peshku

Savor fresh fish and Albanian specialties prepared with local flair in a friendly setting.
EUR15-20, 1h30m
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Day 11: Elbasan to Kruja

Kruja, Albania on June 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at accommodation

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast to start the day before heading north to the historic town of Kruja.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Kruja

A scenic 1.5-hour drive northwest to Kruja, famous for its Ottoman bazaar and castle.
Fuel cost approx EUR7, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Kruja Castle and Skanderbeg Museum

Discover the stronghold and learn about Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, housed inside the castle. Open 8am-6pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Panorama Restaurant Kruja

Excellent local dishes served with breathtaking views over the surrounding mountains.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Kruja Old Bazaar

Browse traditional crafts, souvenirs, and antiques in this well-preserved market area.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Drive to Tirana

Return to Tirana in roughly 45 minutes to prepare for the final days of your trip.
Fuel cost approx EUR5, 45m

4:30pm

Check in and rest at Hotel Plaza Tirana

Relax before your evening activities in the vibrant capital.
Varies, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Artigiano at Vila

Enjoy creative Albanian and European dishes crafted with fresh local ingredients in an artful setting.
EUR20-30, 1h30m
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Day 12: Tirana and Surroundings

Tirana, Albania on June 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mon Cheri

Known for delicious pastries and coffee, perfect to start a day of cultural sightseeing.
EUR5, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit BunkArt2 Museum

A fascinating museum located in a Cold War bunker exploring Albania's communist past. Open 9am-6pm.
EUR5, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk in Grand Park and visit Artificial Lake

Relax in Tirana’s largest park, perfect for a leisurely walk amid nature and local life.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Taverna Tafaj

Savor traditional Albanian dishes in one of Tirana’s oldest and most celebrated restaurants.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Pyramid of Tirana

Explore the sight of the former museum and cultural venue now a symbol of the city’s evolving urban fabric.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Coffee break at Novo Coffee

Enjoy expertly brewed Albanian coffee in this popular spot before concluding your city tour.
EUR3, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Artigiano at Vila

Return for a refined final dinner celebrating your Albanian gastronomic experiences.
EUR25-35, 1h30m
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Day 13: Day Trip to Durrës or Free Day

Tirana, Albania on June 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relish a relaxed breakfast to prepare for a flexible day either exploring or resting.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Optional day trip to Durrës

Drive 40 minutes to the coastal city of Durrës to visit archaeological sites or enjoy beach time.
Fuel approx EUR3, Museum EUR3, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Taverna Dionisi in Durrës

Celebrate fresh seafood and local dishes near the Adriatic Sea.
EUR15-20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Return and relax in Tirana or explore local markets

Spend the afternoon shopping or enjoying a leisurely walk in Tirana.
Free, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mouzaka Restaurant

Enjoy hearty traditional dishes as a warm farewell to Albania.
EUR15-20, 1h30m
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Day 14: Departure Day

Tirana, Albania on June 18, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Light breakfast before heading to Tirana International Airport.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Tirana International Airport

Allowance for travel time ensuring timely arrival for international flight departures.
Fuel approx EUR3, 30m
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