Self Drive: Albania North to South

Your adventure begins in Tirana, where a Self Drive agent will meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. After a tour briefing and car handover, take a leisurely stroll through the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri) area, a vibrant hub of local life.

Today, you'll journey to the mountain village of Theth, stopping en route in Shkoder to explore the historic Rozafa Fortress. Enjoy panoramic views of the mountains, Skadar Lake, and Shkoder town before continuing to Theth, with a scenic stop at the mountain village of Boge and Thore Pass. Enjoy a lunch with a view at Thore Pass before settling in for the night in Theth.

Spend the day exploring the natural beauty of Theth. Start with a hike to the refreshing Natural pools of Nderlysaj for a swim and lunch. Then, marvel at the Blue Eye of Theth, a stunning natural spring, after a scenic 30-minute hike from Nderlysaj pools. Return to the center of the village by local transportation.

Today, you'll travel to the ancient city of Berat, stopping en route in the seaside city of Durres. Explore Durres' main boulevard, visit its Roman Amphitheatre and Archaeological Museum, and enjoy a sweet treat at Gelateria Cela. Upon arrival in Berat, visit the Berat Castle/Citadel, The Iconographic Onufri Museum, Mangalem quarter, the Gorica Bridge, and the Medieval Center before settling into your hotel for the night.

Today, drive towards the start of the hike to Bogova Waterfall. The walk towards the waterfall is a 30-minute walk along a well-marked path along the stream. Enjoy bathing and the nature in the pools of the waterfall before returning to your hotel in Berat.

Drive to Apollonia Archaeological Park for a visit. Discover the history behind the temple of Artemis, the Odeon, and the Triumphal Arch. Continue your journey to the UNESCO town of Gjirokaster. Visit the Castle of Gjirokaster, its 'Neck of the Bazaar', and The Skenduli House, a former Ethnographic Museum. Enjoy dinner in one of the small restaurants like Edua or Kujtimi before settling into your hotel for the night.

Drive to Permet, known as the 'town of flowers' and the birthplace of the Albanian slow food movement. Visit the House of Congress, where the first Communist government was established in 1944. Hike to the 'Stone of the city' for some great views. Head for a swim to Benje Thermal Pools under the Ottoman Kadiu bridge and explore Langarica Canyon. You can also go rafting in the Vjosa River before settling into your hotel for the night.

Today, you'll travel to the seaside town of Saranda, stopping en route to visit the karstic natural spring of the Blue Eye. Marvel at the different shades of blue of the spring and the surrounding nature. Upon arrival in Saranda, settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening in this charming coastal town.

This morning, visit the ancient archaeological site of Butrint Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the sandy shores of Ksamil Beach. On your way back to Saranda, stop at Lekursi Castle, which offers panoramic views over the town, for a golden sunset.

On your way back to Tirana, visit the triangular fortress of Ali Pasha in the peninsula of Porto Palermo. Stop for lunch at Panorama Restaurant in Llogara National Park and enjoy the Riviera from above. Arrive in Tirana in the afternoon and settle into your hotel.

Our team will transfer you to the airport for your departure. As you board your flight home, reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories you've made during your multi-day tour of Albania. Safe travels!