Discover Albania: A 5-Day Journey Through Culture, Nature, and History in August 2025

Day 1: Tirana City Highlights

Tirana, Albania on August 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vila Alehandro

Start your day with a traditional Albanian breakfast featuring fresh pastries and strong coffee at Vila Alehandro, known for its cozy atmosphere and local flavors.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Visit Skanderbeg Square

Explore the central plaza of Tirana, surrounded by important landmarks like the National History Museum and Et'hem Bey Mosque, to get an insight into Albanian history and architecture.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

National History Museum

Dive into Albania’s rich past through extensive archaeological exhibits and vibrant mosaics depicting the nation’s heritage. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Era Restaurant

Savor traditional Albanian dishes such as Tave Kosi and fresh seafood at Era Restaurant, a favorite among locals for its authentic flavors.
EUR15, 1h30m

3:00pm

Dajti Ekspres Cable Car

Take the cable car up to Mount Dajti National Park for panoramic views of Tirana and surrounding landscapes, perfect for light hiking or photography. Operating 9:00am-5:00pm.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Walk through Blloku neighborhood

Stroll around Blloku, vibrant with cafes, bars, and shops, once a restricted area for the communist elite, now a lively social hub.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Artigiano at Vila

Enjoy a fusion of Mediterranean and Albanian cuisine at this stylish restaurant with a garden setting, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 2: Berat Historical Exploration

Berat, Albania on August 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Mangalemi

Have a traditional Albanian breakfast including homemade jams and fresh bread at your historic hotel in Berat.
Included in stay, 1h

9:00am

Visit Berat Castle

Explore Berat Castle’s extensive fortifications and churches within, offering spectacular views and insight into medieval Albanian life. Open daily from 7:00am to 8:00pm.
EUR3, 2h

11:30am

National Iconographic Museum

Discover religious icons and artifacts inside the castle grounds showcasing the city’s Byzantine heritage.
EUR2, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Antigoni Restaurant

Taste local Berat specialties like qofte (meatballs) and fresh river fish in a traditional setting overlooking the Osum River.
EUR12, 1h30m

3:00pm

Mangalem & Gorica Quarters Walk

Wander through these UNESCO-listed neighborhoods famous for distinctive Ottoman-era architecture and whitewashed houses stacked on the hillside.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Onufri Museum

See remarkable Orthodox icons by the famous 16th-century artist Onufri housed in the church of the Holy Trinity within the castle.
EUR3, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Homemade Food Lili

Enjoy homemade-style Albanian dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients in a cozy family-run eatery.
EUR10, 1h30m
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Day 3: Gjirokastër Culture & History

Gjirokastër, Albania on August 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Cajupi

Enjoy a hearty breakfast in your hotel located near the old town of Gjirokastër, including Albanian cheeses and breads.
Included in stay, 1h

8:30am

Explore Gjirokastër Castle

Visit one of the most impressive castles in the Balkans featuring a military museum and breathtaking views over the old town. Open 8:00am-8:00pm.
EUR5, 2h

11:00am

Old Bazaar Walk

Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Ottoman-era bazaar, perfect for shopping traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Kuka Restaurant

Sample local specialties like stuffed peppers and grilled meats in a quaint traditional Albanian restaurant.
EUR12, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Skenduli House

Tour this beautifully preserved Ottoman mansion to see traditional furnishings and experience life in 18th-century Albania.
EUR3, 1h

4:30pm

Ethnographic Museum

Explore more about regional traditions and culture in the decorated home of national writer Ismail Kadare.
EUR2, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pax Restaurant

Enjoy an elegant dinner with Mediterranean and Albanian fusion dishes in a setting overlooking the lit-up castle.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 4: Sarandë & Butrint Ruins

Sarandë, Albania on August 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Brilant Saranda

Start with a fresh breakfast buffet including fruits and local pastries at your hotel by the sea.
Included in stay, 1h

8:30am

Day trip to Butrint National Park

Visit the expansive UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site featuring ruins from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Open daily 7:30am-8:00pm.
EUR8, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Tavern Limani

Enjoy fresh seafood right by Sarandë's harbor, with specialties like octopus and calamari.
EUR15, 1h30m

2:00pm

Relax at the Sarandë Beach Promenade

Spend the afternoon relaxing along the beautiful seafront promenade, ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Visit Lekuresi Castle

Drive or hike up to Lekuresi Castle for sunset views over Sarandë and the Ionian Sea. Open until sunset.
EUR3, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Limani Restaurant

Dine on fresh grilled fish and Mediterranean dishes while enjoying harbor views at this acclaimed local favorite.
EUR20, 1h30m
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Day 5: Ksamil and Return

Ksamil & Tirana, Albania on August 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel in Sarandë

Have a light breakfast before heading to Ksamil’s beaches.
Included in stay, 1h

9:00am

Ksamil Beaches

Spend the morning enjoying the crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches of Ksamil, perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Bar Restaurant Bora Bora

Enjoy fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes with beach views, known for its laid-back atmosphere.
EUR15, 1h30m

2:30pm

Travel back to Tirana

Drive or take transport back to Tirana, a journey of approximately 4 hours.
EUR20 (bus or taxi approx.), 4h

7:00pm

Dinner at Padam Boutique Hotel & Restaurant

Conclude your Albania trip with an upscale dining experience offering contemporary Albanian cuisine in Tirana's city center.
EUR25, 1h30m
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