Unveiling Gems in a 1-Week South Albania Travel Itinerary
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Unveiling Gems in a 1-Week South Albania Travel Itinerary
There are so many amazing reasons to visit Albania—it’s truly a hidden gem! First off, it’s incredibly affordable compared to other European spots, with hotel prices that feel like a breath of fresh air, especially if you go during the off-season. But what really makes it special is the country’s fascinating history. For so many years, Albania was closed off to the world under a strict communist regime. Since it opened up, though, it’s quickly become one of Europe’s most exciting new travel hotspots!
The weather is perfect year-round, although summers can get wonderfully hot, making it great for beach lovers who want to soak up the sun along Albania's stunning Ionian coast. The Albanian Alps, also known as the Accursed Mountains, are incredible—rugged, dramatic, and perfect for hiking and adventure. Plus, the Ceraunian Mountains stretch along the coastline, creates some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find anywhere.
Albania is also home to some of the most picturesque villages you’ll ever visit. Gjirokastër and Berat—both UNESCO World Heritage sites—are famous for their stunning Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets, and historic charm. Berat, with its hillside houses and 'thousand windows,' will give you goosebumps!
And the food? Oh, the food! Albania’s culinary scene is a delicious mix of Mediterranean and European flavors, with fresh seafood, grilled meats, and tasty pastries, all washed down with local wine and the famous raki. With its mountains, beaches, charming villages, rich history, and mouthwatering food, Albania is quickly climbing the ranks as one of Europe’s must-see destinations. It’s no wonder it’s becoming the talk of the travel world!
We booked our flights to Tirana and mapped out an adventure heading south, stopping at the historic city of Berat, the beautiful blue waters of Vlora, Gjirokastër, and all the way to Ksamil. We definitely chose the south for its warmer temperatures!
Table of Contents: Unveiling Gems in a 1-Week South Albania Travel Itinerary What To Wear? 1-Week Travel Itinerary for Exploring South Albania Day 2 - Day trip to the Natural Wonder of Albania Osumi Canyon Day 3 - Berat, "City of a Thousand Windows" Day 5 - Vlore Old Town and City of the Ionian Breeze Sarandë Day 6 - Exploration of Blue Eye and Gjirokastër |
1 Week or 2 Weeks in Albania?
You can cover the North and the South in a little more than 2 weeks. If I had my way, I’d recommend staying a bit longer—maybe even three weeks—to enjoy the whole country at a leisurely pace. Sure, you could spend months in one spot, but I'm specifically talking about hitting the main tourist highlights.
1 Week South Albania Itinerary:
1 Week North Albania Itinerary:
We decided to trade the chilly winds of the Netherlands for the warm sunshine and inviting waters of southern Albania this autumn (yes, even in November!). So, for today, I’m diving into the highlights of southern Albania—trust me, you won’t want to miss these hotspots.
If you're craving more detail on other spots like Tirana and Berat, be sure to check out my blog posts on those destinations too. The links are just a click away!
Where to Stay?
Albania’s accommodation prices are generally lower than in many other parts of Europe, so it's easy to find options that fit different budgets. The prices you see are quite reasonable for mid-range and boutique hotels, particularly in cities like Tirana, Berat, and coastal areas like Vlorë and Sarandë.
Tirana
WARNING ‼️ Hotel Deluxe: Hotel Deluxe was a nightmare! After calling from the airport, we were told our room was gone, and we'd be moved to another hotel. Thankfully, booking.com stepped in, sorted it out, and got us a new place at 50% off. To top it off, Hotel Deluxe hung up when booking.com called them. Not what you’d expect from their “amazing” reviews! It’s 6 km from the center, offers comfy rooms and garden views, priced at €90 per night for two.
Hilton Garden Inn Tirana - An upscale hotel on the lively Boulevard Gjergj Fishta, right in the city center. Prices range from €85 to €120 per night, and it's surrounded by great restaurants, bars, money exchange spots, and Vodafone stores.
Hotel Mondial - Hotel Mondial is perfectly located in the city center. We booked a family suite with great views and enjoyed the rooftop restaurant and bar. After settling in, we relaxed and soaked up the atmosphere, feeling completely at ease. !
Doanesia Premium Hotel & Spa: 8 km away, it features luxury spa facilities, with prices from €110 per night.
Hotel Theatro-City Center: Just 0.5 km from the city center, this hotel boasts theater-inspired design, with rates starting at €75 per night.
Berat
Hotel Bohem Berat: We loved our stay at the beautiful 4-star Berat Bohem in the heart of Berat's Mangalem district. Though the room was a bit cramped, the stunning woodwork and charm made up for it. Mornings on the terrace with great views and breakfast were a highlight. It's 1 km from the city center, priced at €100 per night for a family of 4.
Hotel Kapllani: 1.5 km from the city center, a family-run hotel with traditional decor, starting at €45 per night for 2 persons.
Hotel Kaceli: Located 2 km from the center, known for its warm hospitality and stunning views, with rates starting at €50 per night for 2 persons.
Vlorë
Ames Hotel & Spa: We had a great experience at Ames Hotel & Spa in Vlore, located on a quiet street just a short 5-minute walk from the lively pier and promenade. Our room was comfortable with a lovely balcony, and the breakfast was excellent. The peaceful pool area and the sauna and steam room downstairs were perfect for unwinding, and we enjoyed using them in the evenings. 2.5 km from the city center, offering modern facilities and a full-service spa, priced at €120 per night for a family of 4.
The Central View Boutique Hotel: 0.8 km from the center, with elegant rooms and panoramic views, from €80 per night.
Yacht Hotel: Just 1 km away, beachfront with nautical interiors and a seafood restaurant, starting at €100 per night.
Sarandë
Hotel Oasis: We recently stayed at this 4 star hotel in Sarandë and had a meh experience. Don't get me wrong! The rooms were spacious, cozy and fantastic. One of the highlights was the stunning view from our room; the sea view was absolutely breathtaking. The issue was the construction happening next to the hotel, which was a nightmare due to the heavy digging, drilling, and constant dust. However, we notified the hotel staff, and they refunded us for two nights. Fortunately, we only stayed one night. 0.5 km from the center, a cozy hotel near the beaches, priced at €80 per night for a family of 4.
Hotel Joni: 1 km away from Ksamil city center, a family-run hotel with a garden area, starting at €55 per night. They also have a Hotel Joni Premium for higher budget travellers.
Hotel Agimi: In Sarandë, it is just 1 km from the city center and only 150 meters from the beach. It also features a swimming pool with free sun loungers and parasols. A Family Room with a balcony is available for €100 per night.
Gjirokaster
The Stone Sky hotel - We stayed at The Stone Sky hotel, perched high up in the hills with breathtaking views over Gjirokastër. The hotel was full of charm, with stone and brick walls and rooms decorated with great care. The patio where we had breakfast offered the perfect spot to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset.
Moreover, many towns in Albania have cozy, family-run guesthouses and hostels from just €20-€30 per night, and renting an Airbnb can also be a cheaper alternative to hotels.
Arriving in Tirana
✈️ Tirana International Airport (TIA) is just 20 kilometers from the city center. You can catch direct flights from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), as well as from Rome and London. There are also connections through major European hubs. BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS HERE.
🚖 Once you arrive, you can easily book a taxi using EASY AIRPORT TAXIS BOOKINGS.
‼️ Despite what you might read online, there’s no Bolt or Uber in Tirana. However, we found a cab service called Patoko that offers excellent mobility options at affordable rates.
🚌 If you prefer public transport, buses run from the airport to the city center, with the main bus terminal located at the Regional Bus Station.
🚗 For more flexibility, consider renting a car, which you can arrange by BOOKING CAR RENTAL HERE. As soon as you exit the airport, you’ll find a warm welcome from various car rental companies like Europcar, Enterprise, Alamo, National, Eurocar, and Thrifty.
So here we are in Tirana, having just landed in the vibrant capital of Albania. We rented a car via Booking.com to take us to our accommodation and kick off our adventure!
Tap Water or Bottled Water?
Most locals prefer bottled mineral water. At every restaurant and hotel, we were offered bottled water. So, it's easier to just buy bottled water from the supermarket for your whole trip.
Currency and Payment
The official currency is the Lek (ALL). Major banks, supermarkets, and international hotels accept credit and debit cards, but smaller businesses and taxis typically require cash, so it’s wise to have some on hand.
Union Bank and OTP Bank are great options for low fees, making them a smart choice for banking. However, if you’re considering converting currency, it’s best to say no, as the commissions can be quite high. The same goes for ATMs, which often charge steep rates for withdrawals. To avoid these extra costs, consider downloading an app called ATMSAVER. It can help you find the best ATMs in the area, allowing you to save money on fees while managing your cash needs more efficiently.
What To Wear?
I kept it simple with my style in Tirana, not sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised to see both locals and tourists dressed pretty casually. After seeing everyone else, I started wondering if I was being too conservative—after all, we were in Europe! The younger crowd especially rocks fashionable outfits, with short skirts, sleeveless tops, and trendy looks everywhere. The vibe is modern and laid-back, so feel free to wear whatever makes you comfortable. And if you're heading to the beaches in Sarandë or Ksamil, don’t forget your bikini or swimwear!
When visiting mosques and churches in Albania, it’s important to dress modestly out of respect for the local customs and religious practices. For both men and women, this generally means covering your shoulders and knees.
1-Week Travel Itinerary for Exploring South Albania
Day 1 - City of Colors Tirana
First up, Tirana is a relatively small city. You can cover the city center which has all the main attractions in a day.
10:30 AM - Skanderbeg Square
We kicked off at Tirana’s main square, named after the national hero Skanderbeg. The square is home to the National History Museum, Et'hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower. It’s also where you'll find the towering Tirana International Hotel, built during the communist era
There is a car parking garage 🅿️‘Tirana Parking - Skanderbeg Square Underground Parking’. Here you can park for the entire day for 500 Lekë (€5). |
Et'hem Bey Mosque: Modest dress is required to enter, but you can borrow a scarf if needed.
Tip: The National History Museum will be closed from March 2024 to March 2028.
12:00 PM - Tirana Castle
Next, we visited the historic Tirana Castle, a Byzantine-era site with a mix of Ottoman and modern architecture. It is less of a castle now, more of an upscale avenue with a number of bars, pubs, shops and restaurants. We had lunch at Oping's Cocktails & Beer inside the castle, trying their chicken soup and local Korça beer.
2:00 PM - FREE WALKING TOUR
We joined a free walking tour with Clint, covering highlights like Skanderbeg Square, Bunk’Art 2 (from outside), Tanners’ Bridge (Vodafone bridge), Rinia Park, Former Residence of Enver Hoxha (from outside), the Pyramid of Tirana, and more. It’s a great way to get to know the city! Our guide shared fascinating stories about Tirana's transformation, giving us a deeper understanding of the culture and history behind its landmarks.
4:30 PM - Pyramid of Tirana
After the tour, we climbed the Pyramid, offering amazing views of the city. Originally built in 1988 as a museum for the communist dictator Enver Hoxha, it's now a tech hub for students. Surrounding the Pyramid, you will notice quirky colorful structures providing almost a futuristic vibe to the city. Dont forget to try the local coffee at one of the cafes here called 'Mon Cherri'.
6:00 PM - Bunk’Art 2
We returned to Skanderberg Square to finish the day at Bunk’Art 2, a Cold War-era bunker turned museum, showcasing Albania’s communist history, secret police, and surveillance tactics. It’s a must-visit for history buffs! It’s open until 8 PM giving enthusiasts ample time to explore the bunker.
TOURS: For a guided tour of the hidden treasures of Tirana, BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE. Experience the beauty of nature with a hiking day trip to Bovilla Lake and Gamti Mountain from Tirana—BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW for an unforgettable day outdoors! |
Day 2 - Day trip to the Natural Wonder of Albania Osumi Canyon
10:30 AM - Drive to Osumi Canyon
We started the day with a 1.5-hour drive from Berat to Osumi Canyon near Çorovodë. The canyon is known for its stunning natural beauty, perfect for hiking, rafting, and quad biking. If you don’t have a car, we recommend booking a tour (GYG or Viator) to handle transportation and activities like river tubing or quad biking.
3:00 PM - Lunch at Bar Restorant Embeltore Ylli Streneci, Corovodë
After our time at the canyon, we stopped for lunch at a local family-run restaurant in Corovodë. The menu was simple but the food was incredible – we loved the soup, chicken curry, salad, and pilaf. So good!
5:00 PM - Stroll down Rruga Mihal Komneno
Back in Berat, we parked near Hotel Colombo and wandered down the lively Rruga Mihal Komneno. This bustling street had cafes, shops, and beautiful views of Berat Castle. We picked up a souvenir magnet, grabbed some baked corn from a street vendor, and enjoyed the sights before heading toward the old town.
7:00 PM - Dinner at Kapllani
We crossed the Gorica Bridge to reach Hotel Kapllani and decided to skip the big meal at Tradita e Berat in favor of a lighter dinner here. We shared a bottle of wine and some delicious dishes: moussaka, stuffed peppers, pilaf, and finished with a sweet kassata. Plus, the cats roaming around added a quirky touch!
Day 3 - Berat, "City of a Thousand Windows"
12:30 PM - Lunch at ENI Traditional Restaurant
We headed to ENI, a cozy spot with lovely views of the hills and castle. We sat on the terrace and enjoyed Fërgesë (a pepper, tomato, and cheese dish) with a glass of local wine. Simple, fresh, and delicious!
2:00 PM - Berat Walking Tour
Next, we took a 2-hour, tip-based walking tour of Berat, starting at Gorica Bridge. Our guide gave us insights into the city’s history, its unique architecture, and the peaceful coexistence of various religious groups. We walked through the winding streets of Mangalem and Gorica, soaking in the beauty of the white Ottoman houses.
4:00 PM - Berat Castle
We hiked up to Berat Castle (about 25 minutes) and were rewarded with incredible views. Inside, we explored the Onufri Iconographic Museum and visited some of the preserved Byzantine churches. There’s also a charming café where we took in the views and relaxed for a bit.
7:00 PM - Dinner at Lili Home-Made Food
For dinner, we headed to Lili, a small family-run spot that’s only open for dinner. We booked ahead (it gets busy!) and tried the amazing Tavë Kosi (lamb cooked with yogurt), Byrek with Spinach and Cheese, and Qofte (grilled meatballs). Everything was so flavorful, and the homemade wine was the perfect touch.
TOURS: For a premium walking tour of Berat with expert guides, which I highly recommend, BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE. Take a private day tour from Tirana to explore the historic city of Berat, including guided visits to its iconic landmarks and a delicious lunch. BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE. |
Optional- Alpeta Wine Tasting and Belshi Lake
Berat is known for its wine, and Alpeta Agritourism & Winery, just 30 minutes away, is a must-visit. Founded in 1994 by the Fiska family, they specialize in red wines like Merlot and Cabernet, as well as white Pulez wine and traditional raki.
Alpeta Agroturismo & Winery: Roshnik, Roshnik Qendër 4012, Albania. Open daily 11:00 – 10:00, kitchen 12:00 – 8:00. Wine Tasting Tour starts at 5 PM.
Best Ice Cream at Pastiçeri Tori Berat |
Off to Vlore
After enjoying the charm of Berat, we were excited to experience Albania's coastline. We drove south for about two hours to Vlora, ready to explore its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes.
Day 4 - Vlorë
Vlore is about a 2-hour drive south of Berat, making it an easy and scenic journey. The moment you enter Vlore, you’re greeted with a visual that feels like stepping into Malaga, thanks to the palm trees lining the streets. The highlight is the Lungomare promenade, which stretches for over 4 kilometers along the coast. This stunning walkway is lined with upscale restaurants and pubs, offering beautiful sea views and a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Namma is a fast food joint/restaurant in Vlore. It impressed us with its lively vibe and bustling energy. If you want a quick bite, then Namma’s burgers, fries, and Greek food with the reasonable prices makes it an attractive option. It’s located by the promenade overlooking the sea.
Big Scoop was the perfect place for dessert. Their specialty ice creams were rich and creamy, with a wide variety of flavors to choose from. It’s definitely a sweet haven for anyone craving a delicious treat!
11:00 AM - Radhimë beach
After breakfast, we drove to Radhimë beach which is a 20 minutes drive from the Lungomare promenade. The beach is a complete pebble beach, but has some excellent beach bars and clubs that overlook the gorgeous sea.
There are several beach bars and clubs there which are too good to miss out on !
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1:00 PM - Yacht Beach Bar & Pizzeria
On this delightful sunny day in Vlorë, we spent a day at Yacht Beach Bar & Pizzeria on Lungomare promenade. We bought a sunbed for 1000 Leke (€10) and ordered pizzas and drinks. The kids played in the play area and beach, while we basked in the sun. The beach bar also has a deck by the sea that has gorgeous views of the sun kissing the Adriatic Sea.
7:00 PM -Dinner at a local Albanian restaurant Tradicional Shqipe
An unassuming restaurant off the promenade in one of the inside lanes, this restaurant specializes in traditional Albanian cuisine - Tradicional Shqipe. We tried their Peppers with cottage cheese, Chicken soup, beans in claypot and Linguini pasta. It was just so delicious.
Day 5 - Vlore Old Town and City of the Ionian Breeze Sarandë
10:00 AM - Vlore Old Town
Next day after a leisurely breakfast, we decided to explore the Independence Square and the Muradie Mosque. However, I must tell you we were at cross roads when we reached the city center. Although it looked intriguing, finding parking was a nightmare. We just couldn’t figure where the parking garages were because it wasn’t listed on Google Maps nor were we able to figure the free parking spots (not like they were available). So we just had to continue to Sarandë, leaving Vlore old town for another day. If you wish to explore the old town, I’d recommend you book a taxi or if you live walking distance that would be ideal.
Experience a thrilling speed boat tour from Vlorë to explore the stunning Karaburun Peninsula, visit the Haxhi Ali Cave, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters around Sazan Island. BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE. |
11:30 PM: Drive to Sarande
The drive from Vlorë to Sarandë takes about 2.5 hours, but the time flies because of the amazing views along the way. The road goes through the beautiful Llogara Pass, where you'll see tall, rocky mountains and green pine forests. As you climb higher, you'll get stunning views of the Ionian Sea and the Albanian Riviera, with its clear blue waters and steep cliffs. You'll also pass cute villages and green hills, making the drive feel like an adventure through nature's beauty.
Optional: Short stops at Dhermi Beach and Himara for a coffee or swim. Visit Porto Palermo Castle near Himara, a small but fascinating coastal fortress.
2:00 PM - Haxhi Restaurant
We reached right at lunch time and we were famished. To our luck; we chanced upon the best restaurant in Sarandë. In terms of ambience, food, hospitality and value for money, it was a 10/10. The decor is unique like a 'hoarding' museum with a stunning view of the Ionian Sea. We tried the 'tava e sarandës' (a local pork casserole), the seafood pasta, and the spicy shrimp. The host even treated us to complimentary Raki and liquor of grape and cinnamon and orange juice for the kids. After we were done with that, he further treated us to his mother’s handmade cake. It was just out of the world. The name is Haxhi.
4:00 PM - Walk along the "Rruga Butrinti" Promenade
The best thing to do in Saranda, Albania, is to take a walk along the promenade. It’s a 1-kilometer stroll along the crescent-shaped Sarandë beach. One end has the port, and the other has some hotels and a concrete dock. As you walk, you’ll pass lots of shops, bars, restaurants, and hotels. If you go up the hill, just a block or two away from the beach, you’ll find more busy streets with great spots for souvenir shopping.
So, post lunch, we strolled along the promenade. The kids wanted to play in the water so we sat an hour until sunset soaking in the views and hearing the soothing waves crash against the shore. We went souvenir shopping and then our routine ice cream hunt. Sweesh is by far the best ice cream salon in Sarandë. Take the ice cream to go, otherwise you’ll end up paying 50 Leke more for sitting there. Don’t ask me why, I have no idea!
7:00 PM - Family Food Traditional and Grill
After that we came to the hotel to checkin and relax a bit before we could head out for dinner again. I can’t recommend Family Food Traditional and Grill in Sarandë enough! The hostess was incredibly warm and welcoming, making us feel right at home. The food was outstanding – we enjoyed stuffed peppers with rice, vegetable balls with yogurt sauce, and pilaf with yogurt for the kids. The cinnamon-infused grape liquor and red wine were absolute delights! The place was spotless, and the service was friendly and attentive. It truly felt like a proper Diwali dinner, a little taste of home away from home.
TOURS: Visit the ancient ruins of Butrint (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and relax at the beaches. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience! Book your sunset tour to the Blue Eye spring and Lekursi Castle now for an unforgettable evening in Sarandë. BOOK THIS TOUR NOW! |
Day 6 - Exploration of Blue Eye and Gjirokastër
10 AM: Blue Eye
During our trip to the Blue Eye, just a 30-minute drive from Sarandë, we found ourselves at one of Albania’s most mesmerizing natural springs. The water is crystal-clear, radiating shades of turquoise that look like something out of a dream.
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The Blue Eye itself is a stunning natural phenomenon—a karst spring created by water working its way through limestone, forming a deep, clear pool with a vibrant blue center, just like a giant’s eye. Despite the cool 10-degree water, it supports a stable underwater habitat all year round. For the adventurous, there’s a steep path above the viewing platform that rewards you with panoramic views.
Though swimming is officially prohibited to help preserve the site’s beauty, we did see a few rule-breakers daring to take a dip. If you’re not driving, the KMG shuttle from Sarandë is a great alternative—reliable, running every hour, and far cheaper than a taxi.
Optional: Rafting in Vjosa
We had planned to do the rafting on the Vjosa River, but decided to skip it in favor of just relaxing. However, I highly recommend it if you're into adventure! It's one of Albania’s best outdoor experiences, with a €40 per person tour (€29 for kids). The Vjosa is a beautiful, wild river with canyons, islands, and scenic views. You meet at the Vjosa Albania Rafting & Kayak center, just 10 minutes from the city center. The guides are great, and they provide all the gear. After a short ride to the starting point, you get a briefing before heading out for a two-hour rafting adventure with fun stops for swimming and rock jumps. At the end, you can shower and change. If you don’t have the right shoes, you can rent them for just €3.
Definitely worth doing if you’re looking for some adventure! You can book it here: Rafting Vjosa River - Albania Adventure Tours
2:30 PM: Gjirokastër
Our trip to this UNESCO heritage city Gjirokaster was a spur-of-the-moment decision.
After checking in, we headed straight to the city center to explore the stone-paved streets. From the “Neck of the Town,” three to four charming streets branch off, each lined with restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops. The atmosphere was just magical. We had a delicious meal at the popular Furra restaurant, enjoying chicken pasta (prepared risotto-style) and musaka.
Our exploration continued with a visit to the impressive Gjirokastër Castle. On the way, we passed the Tunnel Museum, which showcases artifacts from Albania’s communist era. It was a fascinating step back in time.
4:30 PM: Gjirokastër castle
The Gjirokastër castle spans 1 km, and you can explore it in about an hour if you skip the museums, or 2.5 hours if you include them. The paths are mostly level but paved with rough cobblestones, so take care on the uneven surfaces and stay safe by keeping away from the edges of the walls with steep drops. A few areas, like the Bektashi tomb, Ottoman ovens, and the museums, are only accessible by stairs. While you’re there, be sure to taste local delights like gifqi (fried rice balls) and oshaf (a fig dessert), browse artisan shops, and listen for the captivating isopolyphonic singing.
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM during winters; 9 AM to 6 PM during summer and Monday Closed Ticket Price: Euros 4 per person (400 Leke) |
Some great spots in Gjirokaster:
Ice cream at Elinikon - try the byrek here and the ice creams are also just delicious
Raki Cocktails in a museum - Komiteti Kafe in Gjirokastër is a historic café that was once a secret meeting place for members of the anti-communist resistance during Albania's oppressive communist regime. Today, it serves as a cultural spot. Try their signature raki cocktails.
Traditional Dinner - Enjoy local delicacies at a traditional restaurant called Vojsava Restaurant in Gjirokaster. The food is delicious and the service is great!
TOURS: BOOK THE TOUR that takes you from Sarandë to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "Stone City," and the stunning Blue Eye, a natural spring, all in one day. |
Day 7 - Onward to Tirana and Djati Mountain
The drive from Gjirokastër to Tirana took us about four hours and was really beautiful. We enjoyed amazing views of the Albanian mountains, especially the impressive Tomorr Mountain. Along the way, we passed by small towns that each had their own charm. We stopped for lunch in Lushnjë at a lovely Italian restaurant called La Bonita. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food made it a great place to take a break before hitting the road again. When we arrived in Tirana, we checked into our gorgeous hotel, Hotel Mondial, which was beautifully situated right in the city center.
A Nature' Escape to Mount Dajti National Park.
If you are wondering what to do in Tirana away from the city centre, head to Mount Dajti National Park, popular with Tirana's residents for fresh air and countryside walks. Take the Blue Bus L11 to reach the Bunk’Art 1 Museum. From there, you can hop on the cable car to Dajti Mountain. You can either take an Austrian-built cable car (expensive) to the top or the city bus (cheap) and once there you’ll find hotels, guest-houses and restaurants if you feel like staying overnight. If you have a car nothing like it. You can just drive to the Mount Dajti park without riding the cable car.
The cable car roundtrip costs 14 euro per person and takes about 15 minutes one-way. |
Day 8 - Last Day in Tirana
10:30 AM - Bunk’Art 1 Museum
We drove to the former Block neighborhood to visit Bunk'Art 1, a massive underground bunker turned museum. It’s a chilling but fascinating glimpse into Albania’s communist past. One of the most striking rooms is the gas chamber, a chilling reminder of the oppressive tactics used to maintain control. Ironically, despite its ominous purpose, the bunker was never actually used.
Tickets: Standard ticket - €9, audio guide - €10, combined ticket of Bunk’Art 1 and Bunk’Art 2 - €13.Opening Times: 9:30 AM to 8 PM |
1:00 PM - Traditional Albanian Restaurant ODA
We had lunch at ODA, a cozy spot offering delicious traditional dishes like stuffed eggplant and fërgesë with peppers and cheese. It’s a great place to experience Albanian flavors! The menu offers a variety of traditional Albanian dishes, including some great vegetarian and vegan options. We tried stuffed eggplant, stuffed peppers and tomatoes with rice, and the classic fërgesë (a rich dish made with cottage cheese and peppers).
3:00 PM - Pazari i Ri
A quick stroll through Pazari i Ri, Tirana’s vibrant New Bazaar, let us soak in the colorful market atmosphere before lunch. The New Bazaar, built in 1939, replaced the Old Bazaar after it was torn down in 1959. It’s a busy market with fresh produce, meat, fish, and local goods. We also found cute coffee shops and restaurants under colorful buildings—great for a quick stop before enjoying a tasty Albanian meal nearby!
4:00 PM - Blloku District
We wandered through Blloku, once a neighborhood for the elite, now home to trendy cafes and shops. Be sure to check out Komiteti - Kafe Muzeum, a unique cafe with lots of vintage Albanian items. We also saw colorful street art and lively bars along the way!
TOURS: For a guided tour of the hidden treasures of Tirana, BOOK YOUR TOUR HERE. Experience the beauty of nature with a hiking day trip to Bovilla Lake and Gamti Mountain from Tirana—BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE NOW for an unforgettable day outdoors! |
Ksamil
Although we had planned to visit Ksamil on this trip, we decided to skip it after some locals mentioned that it’s pretty quiet off-season. It's surprising since the weather is still great and the rest of Europe is freezing! But I get it—many workers are only available during the summer months, so things slow down in the off-season. If you do go, make sure to relax on Ksamil's beautiful beaches, take a boat trip to nearby islands like Vidos, St. Nicholas, and Agios Petros, and enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters. And don’t miss out on fresh seafood, especially the grilled calamari and local salads with feta cheese.
Closing Thoughts
For so long, Albania was shut off from the world during its tough communist era, but now it’s finally stepping into the spotlight. There’s so much to see and experience here, and the country is growing fast to welcome tourists. I'm really glad I got to enjoy it before the big wave of visitors comes in the next few years. I’ll definitely be back soon to explore North Albania and Montenegro!
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