Two ideal road trip itineraries in Albania for 1–2 weeks: what to see during a short vacation and where to go. A detailed travel plan for those visiting Albania for the first time.
Main tip: If you’re planning a trip to Albania — plan more time for this country. Ideally, you should have at least 10 days.
But even if you only have one week — no problem! Below are two awesome routes through Albania. The first is for those who can’t live without the sea and love beach chill, the second — for mountain adventures or something in between.
How many places can you see in 1 week?
In 7 days, it’s realistic to see at least 3–4 different locations. Of course, you can squeeze in more, but then it’ll just be a “whirlwind tour of Europe.” The good news — Albania is small, so even in a short time, you can experience a lot.
If you’re heading to the mountains — keep in mind that there are no tunnels in the country, but there are plenty of wild mountain serpentines. The average speed in the mountains is no more than 40 km/h, and with stops at scenic viewpoints — even less.
About Roads in Albania
I recommend reading about my experience driving on Albanian roads — there’s a lot of useful info.
▪️ Albania is actively developing its road infrastructure, and highways between cities like Tirana, Durrës, Vlorë, Saranda, and Shkodër are already in great condition.
▪️ However, there are still many sections with potholes, narrow serpentines, no markings or guardrails — especially in the mountains and remote villages like Theth or Valbona.
▪️ Road signs mostly exist, but are often only in Albanian and not always logically placed.
▪️ GPS and Google Maps work, but in the mountains they can be unreliable — sometimes it’s better to ask locals or hotel staff for directions.
Two Main Routes
I divided the road trip itineraries in Albania into two — depending on your interests: sea, or mountains and ancient towns. You can combine them and get “the best of both worlds” if you want both beach and mountains.
For convenience — here’s a cheat sheet:
• 🌴 Love the sea, sunshine, and seafood? ➜ Choose Southern Albania.
• ⛰ Looking for mountains, hiking, and authentic villages? ➜ Head to Northern Albania.
• 🤝 Want both? ➜ Combine both routes.
Where to Start Your Route in Albania?
Albania has one international airport — in Tirana. Naturally, it’s ideal to start your journey here after flying in.
You can also start from Saranda if you arrive by ferry from Greece, for example.
All routes are perfect for independent road trippers. Drive times are broken down reasonably so you won’t get too tired behind the wheel and can fully enjoy the country.
Route through Southern Albania (Beaches + Relaxation)
This route is for you if you:
• Love warm weather and beaches
• Dream of Albania’s famous resorts
• Enjoy fresh seafood
• Can read a book on the beach all day
• Want a glimpse of the capital but are focused on relaxing
🏙 Tirana (1–2 nights)
If you’re flying into Albania — it’s most likely via Tirana. Don’t rush to leave! Spend a couple of days here to soak in the vibe.
Tirana is a young, lively, and incredibly diverse city. Be sure to check out museums like the House of Leaves, Bunk’Art 1 and 2, as well as trendy cafes and restaurants.
📌 Blloku district — the epicenter of all things stylish.
🌊 Saranda (2 nights)
Saranda is a must-see in southern Albania! Locals, tourists, and even digital nomads are in love with this coastal town.
From Tirana, it’s about a 3.5-hour drive — but it’s absolutely worth it.
Nearby Saranda, you’ll find:
• Ksamil — famous for its turquoise beaches
• Butrint — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for history lovers
📌 Ksamil is a fully developed resort with white sand and turquoise sea. If you have time — stay here for another 3–4 days.
🏛 Gjirokastër (1 night)
If you have an extra day — spend it in Gjirokastër.
Known as the “stone city,” its main attraction is the fortress with panoramic views of the valley. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Other highlights:
▪️ The Old Bazaar
▪️ The Bazaar Mosque
▪️ The Ethnographic Museum
▪️ Zekate House – an 18th-century Ottoman mansion
▪️ A Cold War-era tunnel — a bunker from the communist period
📌 Be sure to have dinner at a local restaurant!
🏖 Himarë (1 night)
Himarë is a charming town on the Albanian Riviera — perfect for a short stop.
Here you can:
▪️ Stroll the seafront and enjoy dinner with a sea view
▪️ Visit Himarë Castle on the hill
▪️ Swim at Livadhi Beach — crystal-clear water
▪️ Explore Porto Palermo Fortress — 7 km south in the bay
🏖 Dhërmi (2 nights)
Dhërmi is the real Albanian Riviera. A resort on the Ionian Sea.
Here you’ll find:
• Pristine beaches: Dhërmi Beach and Drymades (highly recommended!)
• Nearby: Gjipe Beach, Vuno village, and Llogara National Park
• Scenic walks, surfing, and breathtaking views
📌 From Dhërmi to Tirana — it’s about a 3.5-hour drive via Vlorë.
🚗 Northern Albania Itinerary (Mountains + Nature)
This route is for you if you:
• Love hiking, trekking, and mountain trails
• Don’t mind cooler weather
• Are interested in history and culture
• Prefer secluded, non-touristy places
🏙 Tirana (1–2 nights)
Start with 1–2 nights in Albania’s capital — Tirana. Even if you’re short on time, don’t skip this city.
Tirana is a vibrant and lively place where you should not only visit atmospheric museums (House of Leaves, Bunk’Art 1 & 2) but also try amazing local dishes, hang out in cozy cafes, and soak up the creative, youthful vibe of the capital.
🏞 Shkodër (2 nights)
From Tirana, you can reach the city of Shkodër by bus or car. This city is the gateway to the Albanian Alps. Definitely add it to your route if you love the mountains.
Things to do in Shkodër:
• Walk around the old town
• Visit Rozafa Castle
• Stop by the Marubi National Museum of Photography
• Learn about communist repression at the Witness and Memory Museum
• Go to Lake Shkodër and enjoy the views
📌 Shkodër is one of the oldest cities in Albania, rich in history and soul.
🥾 Theth (1 night)
From the city — head to the mountains! Travel to the village of Theth, located in the heart of a national park.
🛻 How to get there:
• You can take a transfer or taxi from Shkodër
• Many guesthouses organize transfers
• The road is in good condition — a regular car will do
📌 Stay overnight in a cozy guesthouse in Theth so you can start the most famous hiking route the next morning — Theth → Valbona.
This trail:
• ~17 km long
• Takes ~7–8 hours
• Requires average physical fitness
• The views are incredible!
⚠️ A guide is not required — the trail is well-marked.
🔹 If you’d like — stay an extra day to hike to the Blue Eye, a beautiful natural pool in the forest.
🏔 Valbona (1 night) + Ferry on Lake Koman
After your trek, spend the night in the village of Valbona — rest in the mountains and enjoy the peace and quiet.
The next day, take the ferry across Lake Koman — one of the most stunning water journeys in Albania.
🛥 The ferry takes about 3 hours and brings you back to Shkodër.
How to Travel Around Albania?
🚗 By car
The ideal option for any trip length!
The most reliable site for rentals is LocalRent — a trusted service for the Balkans and most of Europe and Asia.
🚌 Public transport
Great if you want to save money and have plenty of time.
The bus network works, but it’s not always punctual.
🔹 In summer (July–August), there are more buses; in winter — fewer.
How to Get to Albania?
✈️ The main airport is in Tirana (Mother Teresa International Airport)
⛴ From Corfu Island (Greece) — the ferry to Saranda takes just 25 minutes
🚌 From Montenegro — you can reach Shkodër or Tirana by car or bus
Frequently Asked Questions
✅ How many days do you need in Albania?
At least a week to see more than one city. Ideally — 10–14 days.
✅ Is one week in Albania enough?
Yes! In 7 days you can see mountains, beaches, and historic towns. The key is good planning.
✅ Is Albania worth visiting?
100% yes! It’s one of the most underrated and beautiful places in Europe. Beaches, mountains, food, prices — all top notch!
✅ Is Albania safe?
It’s very safe. Occasionally someone might try to overcharge at gas stations — but that’s minor and increasingly rare. People are incredibly hospitable.
⚠️ Avoid entering Roma camps without an invitation.
🔎 Where to Find Accommodation
✅ Booking.com
The most popular and reliable site. Lots of guesthouses, apartments, and boutique hotels — especially in Saranda, Shkodër, and Tirana.
🔹 Tip: pay attention to reviews and make sure the place has what you need (parking, balcony, breakfast, a view, etc.)
💸 Prices in 2025
- 🏨 Hotels / Boutique hotels: €30–70 per night
• 🏠 Apartments: €20–50 per night
• 🛏 Guesthouses / Rooms: €15–35 per night
• 🏕 Mountains (Theth, Valbona): €20–30 per night, often includes breakfast and dinner (!)
🧠 Useful Tips
- Read reviews
Check not just star ratings, but Wi-Fi quality, cleanliness, and location — especially important for remote work. - Contact the host in advance
In off-season (spring/fall), double-check if the place is open — especially in mountain or coastal areas. - Book in advance — especially in summer!
In July and August, good options go fast. Booking at least a month ahead is ideal. - Choose accommodation with a kitchen
To save money — this really helps. Market produce is cheap and fresh. - Check for parking availability
If you’re renting a car — make sure your accommodation has parking (older towns can be tricky).
🏡 Where to Stay Along the Route (From Personal Experience)
🌆 Tirana
• The Rooms Serviced Apartments Tirana — stylish, cozy, great location
• GM Tirana Hostel — great for young travelers, evening bonfires
• Apartments Kaloj — affordable central apartments
🌊 Saranda / Ksamil
• Glow Boutique Hotel & Suites — 10/10 for the view
• Vila Kristiano — a cozy seaside villa in Ksamil
🏞 Shkodër
• Hotel Colosseo & Spa — luxury hotel in the center
• Our Way Guest House & Hostel — budget-friendly and atmospheric
• Eco Garten Guest House — garden, kitchen, warm hosts
⛰ Theth and Valbona
• Bujtina Polia (Theth) — cozy guesthouse with delicious food
• Bujtina Arlindi — simple, but full of charm and great views
