Albania is one of Europe’s most diverse travel destinations – and also one of the easiest to explore by car. Within just a few hours, you’ll drive from turquoise beaches to UNESCO-listed Ottoman towns, dramatic mountain passes, hidden canyons, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. In this guide, I’ll share three carefully planned Albania road trip itineraries – for 14, 10, or 7 days. Each route is based on the places I personally visited, so all you have to do is choose the version that fits your schedule:

• Route 1: 14 Days – The Ultimate Albania Road Trip
• Route 2: 10 Days – The Relaxed Explorer’s Route
• Route 3: 7 Days – The Ultimate Highlights Itinerary

Route 1: 14 Days – The Ultimate Albania Road Trip

Day 1 – Arrive in Tirana

Your Albania adventure begins in Tirana. After landing at Tirana International Airport, take the affordable Luna Bus into the city center. The ride costs around 300–400 LEK per person and is the easiest way to reach downtown.

Highlights:

• Check-in at Blloku Unique Apartments in Tirana
• Dinner in the lively Blloku District – I recommend „EJA” for traditional Albanian cuisine or „OPA” for delicious Greek street food
• Evening stroll along Rruga Myslym Shyri

Day 2 – Explore Tirana

Today is all about discovering Albania’s colorful capital. Start your morning with fresh pastries from „Pastry & Bakery Oazi i Ëmbëlsisë”, then walk to Rinia Park, Skanderbeg Square, and Tirana Castle. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Pyramid of Tirana before taking Blue Bus Line 11 to Bunk’Art 1 – one of Albania’s most fascinating museums, housed inside a massive communist-era underground bunker. If you still have energy afterward, ride the Dajti Express Cable Car, located right next door, for breathtaking panoramic views over the city.

Highlights:

• Skanderbeg Square & Tirana Castle
• Pyramid of Tirana
• Bunk’Art 1 & Dajti Express Cable Car

Read the complete guide: 48 Hours in Tirana

Day 3 – Drive to the Albanian Riviera

This is where the real adventure begins. We took the Luna Bus back to the airport, picked up our rental car from „CarQ Car Rental Albania”, and hit the road toward southern Albania. To reach the famous viewpoint Panorama Llogora, continue along SH8 after exiting the tunnel. The detour is absolutely worth it. From there, continue to Dhërmi for your first glimpse of the turquoise Ionian Sea before enjoying dinner at „Bar Restaurant Marko” and checking into your hotel in Himarë.

Highlights:

• Panorama Llogora Viewpoint
• First views of the Ionian Sea near Dhërmi
• Sunset & dinner at „Bar Restaurant Marko”
• Check-in at Bay View Hotel in Himarë

Day 4 – Aquarium Beach

Your first real beach day – and what a beach it is. Aquarium Beach is one of the most beautiful bays on the Albanian Riviera. Two long rocky ridges frame the crystal-clear turquoise water, creating a scene that almost looks edited in photos. Spend the day snorkeling, swimming, relaxing, or cliff jumping. Arrive early for the best experience, and if you don’t have a drone, climb onto the surrounding rocks for an incredible panoramic view over the bay.

Highlights:

• Snorkeling & swimming at Aquarium Beach
• Cliff jumping
• Relaxing beach day with a restaurant nearby

More details: Himarë Beach Guide

Day 5 – Boat Tour, Himarë Castle & Potami Beach

Today is divided into three unforgettable experiences. Start with a 3.5-hour boat tour along the Albanian Riviera, visiting sea caves, hidden beaches, Pirate Cave, the Submarine Tunnel, and Gjipe Bay. In the afternoon, head up to Himarë Castle, where you’ll enjoy one of the best panoramic views along the coast. Finish the day at Potami Beach, one of my favorite sunset spots in Albania.

Highlights:

• „Sea Breeze” boat tour – 11 scenic stops along the coast – view the tour
• Himarë Castle
• Sunset at Potami Beach

Day 6 – Filikuri Beach: Hike or Kayak

This is probably the most adventurous day of the trip. Filikuri Beach can only be reached on foot or by boat. If you choose the hike, you’ll follow a narrow trail through fragrant Mediterranean shrubs until a breathtaking turquoise bay suddenly appears beneath the cliffs. Sure footing and a head for heights are essential. Prefer something more relaxing? Rent a kayak or paddleboard in Himarë and paddle to the beach instead – equally unforgettable, but much easier.

Highlights:

• Reach Filikuri Beach by hiking or kayaking
• One of the wildest beaches on the Albanian Riviera
• Untouched nature at its best

Read more: Complete Himarë Travel Guide

Day 7 – Porto Palermo & Continue to Sarandë

After checking out of your hotel, continue south toward Sarandë. Along the way, stop at Porto Palermo Castle, dramatically positioned on a small peninsula surrounded by brilliant turquoise water. It’s one of Albania’s most photogenic landmarks, especially from above. Right next to it, Porto Palermo Beach is perfect for a quick swim before continuing south. In the evening, head to Lëkurësi Castle, my favorite sunset viewpoint in Albania. Arrive at least one hour before sunset, as parking fills up quickly.

Highlights:

• Porto Palermo Castle & Beach
• Arrive in Sarandë
• Sunset at Lëkurësi Castle
• Check-in at Joanna Suites in Sarandë

Day 8 – Butrint, Ksamil & Pulëbardha Beach

Today is all about southern Albania. Begin your morning at Butrint National Park, Albania’s most famous archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arriving early means you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, continue to Ksamil. Instead of spending the afternoon on the busy central beaches, head to Pulëbardha Beach, one of my favorite hidden gems and one of the best sunset beaches on the Riviera. For dinner, treat yourself to fresh seafood at „Fishbar Saranda”.

Highlights:

• Butrint UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Ksamil beaches
• Sunset at Pulëbardha Beach
• Dinner at „Fishbar Saranda”

More information: Ksamil & Sarandë Beach Guides

Day 9 – Blue Eye & Gjirokastër

One of the most rewarding day trips of the entire itinerary. Start early and drive to the famous Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a mesmerizing natural spring surrounded by forest with crystal-clear water that stays around 50°F (10°C) year-round. Continue to Gjirokastër, where you’ll explore its UNESCO-listed Ottoman Old Town, impressive hilltop fortress, and charming cobblestone streets. For dinner, I highly recommend „Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rrapi”, a welcoming family-run restaurant with a beautiful shaded garden, generous hospitality, and excellent local food.

Highlights:

• Blue Eye Natural Spring
• Gjirokastër Old Town & Castle
• Dinner at „Bar Restorant Gjirokaster Rrapi”

Read more: Blue Eye & Gjirokastër Day Trip Guide

Day 10 – Buneci Beach & Sarandë Promenade

After yesterday’s sightseeing, today is all about slowing down. Buneci Beach, just south of Sarandë, is spacious, peaceful, and far less crowded than many other beaches along the Riviera. Spread out your towel, enjoy the crystal-clear water, and simply relax. In the evening, return to Sarandë for a stroll along the lively waterfront promenade before ending the day with ice cream from „Baci A Tutti”.

Highlights:

• Buneci Beach
• Evening walk along the Sarandë Promenade
• Ice cream at „Baci A Tutti”

Read more: Complete Sarandë Travel Guide

Day 11 – Drive to Berat via Apollonia

After checking out of Sarandë, we hit the road toward Berat – with a few worthwhile stops along the way. First up is the stunning Borsh Beach, one of the longest and most peaceful stretches of coastline on the entire Riviera. A quick swim, then back on the road – past the suspension bridge Ura e Wałęsatit and on to the ancient ruins of Apollonia. It sits slightly off the main route, but it’s one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Albania: sprawling grounds, barely any crowds, and a atmosphere that makes the detour absolutely worth it. If hunger strikes along the way, „Bar Restaurant Peshku” in Fier is a solid stop. Check-in in Berat in the evening.

Highlights:

• Beach stop: Borsh Beach
• Apollonia – ancient archaeological site
• Suspension bridge Ura e Wałęsatit
• Check-in at Hotel Nasho Vruho in Berat

Day 12 – Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows

A full day for one of Albania’s most beautiful cities. Start the morning at the Suspension Bridge – hands down the best photo spot in Berat, where you can take in both sides of the city and those iconic rows of windows all at once. From there, head up to Kalaja e Beratit for sweeping panoramic views across the valleys below. Round off the evening with dinner at „Amalia Homemade Food”, a stroll along Bulevardi Republika, and a cocktail at „Good Vibes”.

Highlights:

• Suspension Bridge – Berat’s best photo spot
• Kalaja e Beratit – hilltop castle with panoramic views
• Evening on Bulevardi Republika

For everything you need to know, check out the full Berat Travel Guide

Day 13 – Drive to Kruja: Castle & Bazaar

After checking out of Berat, it’s time for the final major leg of the trip. Kruja sits right on the way to the airport and makes for the perfect last stop: Kalaja e Krujës towers above the town and tells the story of Albania’s national hero Skanderbeg – one of the most historically powerful sites in the entire country. Afterwards, take your time wandering through Pazari i Krujës and pick up a souvenir or two to bring home.

Highlights:

• Kalaja e Krujës – castle of the national hero
• Pazari i Krujës – Albania’s most beautiful bazaar
• Check-in at Hotel Kroi in Kruja

For more tips, head to the full Kruja Travel Guide

Day 14 – Back to the Airport

The final day is all about a relaxed send-off. After breakfast in Kruja, one last look up at the castle – then it’s time to head toward the airport. If you want to go out on a high note, stop at Bakery „George W. Bush” in the valley for fresh pastries to fuel the journey home. Drop off the rental car at Tirana Airport and catch your flight.

Highlights:

• Last morning in Kruja
• Snack stop at Bakery „George W. Bush”
• Car rental return & departure from Tirana

Route 2: 10 Days – The Relaxed Explorer’s Itinerary

Ten days is the sweet spot for Albania. Enough time to really soak in each place – without skipping a single highlight.

Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana

Arrive and take the Luna Bus straight into the city center. First evening: a walk through the Blloku neighborhood, a stop at Skanderbeg Square, and a look at the Tirana Pyramid – all within easy walking distance of each other. Dinner in Blloku.

Day 2 – Drive to the Riviera

Take the Luna Bus back to the airport, pick up the rental car from „CarQ Car Rental Albania” and hit the road. A stop at the Panorama Llogora viewpoint is non-negotiable: it’s the first major panorama of the trip and it sets the tone perfectly. Continue through Dhërmi and on to Himarë.

Day 3 – Aquarium Beach

The first proper beach day – and one of the best. Get there early, snorkel, climb the rocks, and take in the turquoise water at its clearest. One of the most beautiful bays on the entire Albanian Riviera.

Day 4 – Boat Tour, Himarë Castle & Potami Beach

Morning: „Sea Breeze” boat tour along the coast – sea caves, hidden beaches, and spots you simply can’t reach by land. Afternoon: Himarë Castle for the best viewpoint in town. Evening: Potami Beach for one of the most beautiful sunsets on the Riviera.

Day 5 – Porto Palermo & Onward to Sarandë

Check out and hit the road. First stop: Porto Palermo Castle and Beach – a prime drone spot and a great excuse for a quick swim. Continue to Sarandë, and end the evening at Lëkurësi Castle for the sunset.

Day 6 – Butrint & Ksamil

Head to Butrint early – the UNESCO World Heritage Site deserves at least two hours. In the afternoon, continue to Ksamil and wind down the day at Pulëbardha Beach just in time for sunset.

Day 7 – Blue Eye & Gjirokastër

Leave early for Syri i Kaltër – the Blue Eye. Then on to Gjirokastër: old town, castle, and bazaar.

Day 8 – Drive to Berat

Check out of Sarandë. A quick swim at Borsh Beach, then a stop at the ancient ruins of Apollonia. Check in to Berat in the evening.

Day 9 – Berat & Onward to Kruja

Suspension Bridge, old town alleys, and Kalaja e Beratit in the morning. Lunch at „Amalia Homemade Food”. Afternoon drive to Kruja – end the evening with a wander through Pazari i Krujës.

Day 10 – Kruja & Departure

One last visit to Kalaja e Krujës before heading out. Snack stop at Bakery „George W. Bush” on the way to the airport. Car rental return and departure.

Route 3: 7 Days – The Ultimate Highlights Itinerary

Seven days is enough to hit every major highlight Albania has to offer – as long as you plan ahead and start early. The pace is brisk, but never rushed.

Day 1 – Arrival in Tirana

Arrive and take the Luna Bus into the city center. First evening: Skanderbeg Square, the Tirana Pyramid, and a walk through the Blloku neighborhood – all within easy reach on foot. Dinner in Blloku.

Day 2 – Drive to the Riviera

Luna Bus back to the airport, pick up the rental car from „CarQ Car Rental Albania”. Stop at the Panorama Llogora viewpoint, continue through Dhërmi, and check in to Himarë.

Day 3 – Aquarium Beach & Boat Tour

Morning at Aquarium Beach – snorkel, climb the rocks, take it all in. Afternoon with „Sea Breeze” Tours along the coast: sea caves, hidden bays, and beaches that can only be reached by boat.

Day 4 – Porto Palermo & Onward to Sarandë

Check out of Himarë. First stop: Porto Palermo Castle and Beach. Continue to Sarandë – and make it to Lëkurësi Castle in time for the best sunset in Albania. Arrive at least an hour early.

Day 5 – Day Trip: Two Options

Option A – Nature & History: Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) in the morning, then Gjirokastër: Ottoman old town, hilltop castle, unforgettable views.

Option B – Beach & Culture: Butrint UNESCO World Heritage Site in the morning. Ksamil in the afternoon, with sunset at Pulëbardha Beach.

Day 6 – Drive to Berat

Check out of Sarandë. Stop at Apollonia on the way – one of Albania’s most impressive ancient sites, with almost no crowds. Check in to Berat in the evening and take a first stroll through the old town.

Day 7 – Berat, Kruja & Departure

Morning at the Suspension Bridge and Kalaja e Beratit – Berat’s two best photo spots. Then on to Kruja: castle, bazaar, and one last Albanian souvenir. From Kruja, it’s only about 30 minutes to Tirana Airport.

Practical Tips for Your Albania Road Trip

• Car Rental: From day two onwards, a rental car is essential. A standard car handles every stretch of these routes just fine – a little extra ground clearance comes in handy on the occasional gravel track leading to more remote beaches, but a 4×4 is never necessary. All major rental companies are available at Tirana Airport, and booking in advance is always the smarter move. We booked ours through Check24 – straightforward, reliable, and consistently good value.
• Best Time to Visit: May, June, and September hit the sweet spot – warm enough for swimming and exploring, but noticeably quieter and more affordable than the peak summer months of July and August.
• Cash: Always carry enough Albanian lek. Card payments are widely accepted at restaurants and hotels, but beaches, bakeries, smaller shops, and most entrance fees are cash only. Getting caught without it is an easy mistake to avoid.
• Pace: The 7-day route calls for early starts and a bit more structure to make everything work. The 10- and 14-day versions leave plenty of room for spontaneous stops and slower mornings – and honestly, that’s when Albania shows its best side.
• Detailed Guides: Every destination on these routes has its own dedicated guide right here on the blog – covering how to get there, where to eat, where to stay, and everything worth knowing before you arrive.

Our conclusion: Whether you have 14, 10, or 7 days – Albania delivers. From its breathtaking coastline and historic old towns to the warm hospitality and unforgettable moments you never see coming, this itinerary brings together the very best the country has to offer. Our favorite? The 14-day itinerary. It’s my personal recommendation because it combines the Albanian Riviera’s most beautiful beaches, the country’s most impressive historic towns, and experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else in Europe. Once you’ve experienced Albania this way, chances are you’ll be back.

Which itinerary would you choose – the full 14-day adventure, the balanced 10-day route, or the highlights-packed 7-day road trip?
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