Discover the hidden treasures of Albania on this 8-day fly & drive journey through the country’s most fascinating cultural and natural landmarks. From vibrant Tirana and the UNESCO-listed towns of Berat, Butrint and Gjirokastër to the stunning Albanian Riviera, thermal springs and ancient archaeological sites, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of history, authentic local culture and breathtaking scenery.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Berat, Butrint and Gjirokastër: Explore three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Berat, Butrint and Gjirokastër, showcasing Albania's rich history, architecture and cultural heritage
Benja: Discover Albania's natural wonders, including the crystal-clear Blue Eye Spring and the thermal baths of Benja
Durrës, Kruja and Shkodër: Step back in time at ancient sites including Apollonia, Durrës Amphitheatre, Kruja's historic bazaar and the legendary Rozafa Castle in Shkodër.
Day 1: ARRIVAL TIRANA (20km – 25min)
Upon arrival at Tirana Airport, collect your rental car and drive to Tirana. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the capital, with suggested sights including Skanderbeg Square, Et’hem Bey Mosque, the Clock Tower, the National Historical Museum, Mother Teresa Square, the Blloku district, and Bunk’Art 2.
Overnight in Tirana.
Day 2: TIRANA – BERAT – VLORA (170km – 2.4hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic castle, Onufri Museum, Bachelor’s Mosque, the traditional Mangalem quarter, and St. Michael’s Orthodox Church. You may also cross the Gorica Bridge for beautiful views of the old town. If time permits, continue to Zvërnec Island to visit St. Mary’s Monastery. Then drive to the coastal city of Vlora for the night.
Overnight in Vlora.
Day 3: VLORA – BUTRINTI – SARANDA (150km – 3hrs)
After breakfast, explore Vlora with suggested stops at Flag’s Square, the Independence Monument, and Kanina Castle. Continue south to visit the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Butrint, before heading to Saranda, where you may explore Lekursi Castle and the Monastery of the 40 Saints.
Overnight in Saranda.
Day 4: SARANDA – BLUE EYE – GJIROKASTRA (55km – 1hr)
After breakfast, drive to the Blue Eye Spring, a beautiful natural attraction known for its crystal-clear waters. Continue to UNESCO-listed Gjirokastra, where suggested visits include the historic castle, traditional old town streets, the Ethnographic Museum, and the house of renowned Albanian writer Ismail Kadare.
Overnight in Gjirokastra.
Day 5: GJIROKASTRA – BENJA – PERMET – GJIROKASTRA (150km – 2.5hrs)
After breakfast, enjoy a suggested drive to the natural thermal baths of Benja, followed by a visit to the charming town of Përmet. If time permits, continue to Agrotourism Farma Sotira to experience the region’s rural landscapes and local traditions.
Overnight in Gjirokastra.
Day 6: GJIROKASTRA – APOLLONIA – DURRES (200km – 2.5hrs)
After breakfast, drive towards the Apollonia Archaeological Site, an ancient city rich in history. Continue to Durres, where suggested sights include the Venetian Tower, Byzantine walls, Archaeological Museum, Roman Amphitheatre, Great Mosque, and seafront promenade.
Overnight in Durres.
Day 7: DURRES – KRUJA – SHKODRA – DURRES (240km – 4hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Kruja, with suggested visits to the Old Bazaar, Ethnographic Museum, and Skanderbeg Museum. Continue to Shkodra to explore Rozafa Castle, the pedestrian street, the Marubi National Museum of Photography, and the workshop showcasing handmade Venetian masks, porcelain dolls, and Murano glass.
Overnight in Durres.
Day 8: DURRES – TIRANA DEPARTURE (60km – 1hr)
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and drive to Tirana Airport for the return of your rental car and departure.
