Day 1 – Tirana

Arrive and spend two nights in the capital. Explore the centre, Blloku and a site explaining the country’s modern history.

Day 2 – Tirana and Krujë

Take a day trip to Krujë for its castle, museum and bazaar, or stay in Tirana for more museums and Mount Dajti.

Day 3 – Shkodër

Travel north to Shkodër. Visit Rozafa Castle and walk through the centre. Overnight in Shkodër.

Day 4 – Theth

Continue to Theth when road and weather conditions allow. The route is mountainous and requires care; check the season, vehicle and local conditions. Overnight in Theth.

Day 5 – Theth

Set aside a full day for hiking and exploring the village. Choose a trail to match your experience and the weather, and start early. Stay a second night in Theth.

Day 6 – Return to Shkodër

Return to Shkodër and rest after the mountain days. Stay overnight or continue partway south if you have plenty of time.

Day 7 – Berat

Travel to Berat. This is a long transfer day from northern Albania. Explore the old quarters in the evening and stay overnight.

Day 8 – Berat

Spend a full day at the castle, museums, Mangalem and Gorica. Overnight in Berat.

Day 9 – Gjirokastër

Drive south to Gjirokastër. Visit the castle or bazaar after arrival. Overnight in Gjirokastër.

Day 10 – Gjirokastër and countryside

Explore the town in the morning. If you plan a trip to hot springs or the countryside, check road conditions and opening times and keep the day flexible.

Day 11 – Sarandë

Travel to Sarandë. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the sea and stay overnight.

Day 12 – Butrint and Ksamil

Visit Butrint and spend the rest of the day at Ksamil if the season suits. Stay in Sarandë or Ksamil.

Day 13 – Himarë or Dhërmi

Follow the coast north and choose a final base on the Riviera. The scenery is beautiful but some sections are slow. Overnight in Himarë or Dhërmi.

Day 14 – Return to Tirana

The return to Tirana takes time. If your flight is early, travel back the previous evening and add a night near the airport.

Practical setup

This route is most realistic with a rental car and a full two weeks. Without a car, simplify it, use organised transfers and consider skipping Theth or one of the coastal stops. Avoid long mountain drives after dark.

Official sources and further reading

Last checked: November 2026. Flyg, priser, öppettider, transport och myndighetsråd kan ändras. Kontrollera alltid uppgifterna hos operatören eller myndigheten före avresa.