11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Albania and Montenegro With Itinerary from Tirana to Shkoder, Kotor, Budva, Berat, and Gjirokastra

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Albania and Montenegro has in store for you! You will be staying in Tirana for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Rruga Murat Toptani is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Tirana. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Bunk’art 2 is a travelers’ favorite in Tirana, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,602 visitors.

In Tirana, don’t miss Rinia Park, a great park and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,783 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Tirana off your list when you visit the wonderful Skanderbeg Square. This popular sight is an outstanding public square, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 8,676 travelers.

Treat yourself to a shopping spree in Tirana at Pazari i Ri. Stroll through shops, where you can browse unique items to take home. Pick up souvenirs for your loved ones, including artisan crafts that beautifully showcase the culture of Albania. After shopping, explore what Pazari i Ri has to offer, connecting you with locals or fellow travelers as you check out its attractions, available services, and seasonal events.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Tirana. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Albania in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a popular restaurant in Tirana. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tirana at Artigiano, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Hotel Elysee, Tirana. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tirana tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kafe Flora, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bufe Wine Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whisky Bar Tirana provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Albania and Montenegro! Enjoy your evening in Tirana to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Albania and Montenegro. Today's main destinations are Bërdicë e Sipërme in Albania, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Shkoder. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Tirana, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bërdicë e Sipërme. Your travel time is around 1 hour 47 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Bërdicë e Sipërme, including the outstanding Rozafa Castle. Having an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,853 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the village.

Set your GPS to Shkoder and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 15 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Shkoder beckons with new experiences!

Kole Idromeno Street is a travelers’ favorite in Shkoder, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 152 visitors.

In Shkoder, don’t miss "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. , a great museum and place to see in the village. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 510 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Shkoder off your list when you visit the wonderful Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque. This popular sight is an outstanding mosque, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 534 travelers.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Shkoder.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Shkoder. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Albania and Montenegro.

Dine in style at Restaurant PURI, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bar Restaurant Elita boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Shkoder.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Fontana after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Kotor in Montenegro. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kotor, your home for 2 nights.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Shkoder and set your GPS to Kotor, Montenegro. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 18 min. Upon reaching Kotor, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Kotor the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Kotor Fortress. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,024 visitors.

The famous San Giovanni is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Kotor's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 1,263 travelers have rated this incredible church and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Kotor is also home to the extraordinary Kotor, which boasts a 4.4 out of 5 star rating in 3,105 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Kampana Tower. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 4,430 reviews, a visit to this wonderful monument and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

On this Kotor exploration, you'll also have the chance to admire the fantastic St. Tryphon's Cathedral up close. This fascinating church and attraction is a must-visit, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,310 travelers is proof.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Kotor. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Montenegro's delectable cuisine at one of Kotor's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the town’s most recommended bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at La Catedrale Pasta Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Mondo is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Kotor tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Jazz Club Evergreen, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Old Winery Wine Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Patisserie By Wine House. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across Albania and Montenegro. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Budva in Montenegro. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Budva where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Budva, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Kotor to Budva may take around 35 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Budva, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Podmaine Monastery. This outstanding monastery and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 837 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Podmaine Monastery is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Mogren 2 Beach is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This beach and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,236 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing church, Holy Trinity Church In Budva. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 219 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Budva Riviera, an outstanding monastery, is one place you should visit while in Budva considering its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,286 travelers.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Budva. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Budva's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Montenegro to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Budva has them.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Caffe Fiorino Budva, a highly-rated dining destination in Budva. If you're eager to try something different, consider Konoba Bocun, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kužina. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Budva this evening.

Keep the evening going at Blue Cat Art Cafe, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Old Town Pub Budva, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mañana Budva, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Albania and Montenegro! Enjoy your evening in Budva to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip through Albania and Montenegro. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Cetinje in Montenegro. With 1 night left in Budva, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Budva and set your GPS to Cetinje. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 35 min. Upon reaching Cetinje, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

King Nicholas Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Cetinje, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 700 visitors.

In Cetinje, don’t miss Billiard Palace, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 195 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Cetinje off your list when you visit the wonderful Lipa Cave Parking. This popular sight is an outstanding cave, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 189 travelers.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Lipa Cave. This cave and place of interest has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,920 reviews.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Budva. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Albania and Montenegro.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant Konoba Demizana, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Zeleni Gaj is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at L&M. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Budva tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Kasper Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Plazni Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Beer & Bike Club is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 8 of your multi-country road trip across Albania and Montenegro, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Berat in Albania. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berat, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Budva’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Berat, Albania. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 4 hours 41 min. When you arrive in Berat, it's time to take a break from the road.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Berat is the fantastic Berat Castle. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Berat Castle has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,344 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Onufri Iconographic Museum. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 483 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Old Town Berat, a standout historical landmark and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,405 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Gorica Bridge. This historical landmark is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 797 visitor reviews.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Berat. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across Albania and Montenegro by rewarding yourself with a taste of Berat’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Homemade Food Lili, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Zonja Gjene? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Eni Traditional Food Berat as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Berat.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bar Te Albani, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Take in the ambiance of Berat as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 9 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Albania and Montenegro, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Gjirokastra in Albania. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gjirokastra, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Gjirokastra. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 36 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A tour of Gjirokastra is not complete without a visit to the famous Ali Pasha Bridge. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 203 travelers.

Make the most of your Gjirokastra travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Castle Of Gjirokastra. This castle and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,622 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Staryj Gorod Girokastry for an experience worth remembering. This local historical landmark and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 291 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Skenduli House In Gjirokastër. This amazing site is a wonderful museum with more than 409 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Gjirokastra’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Albania and Montenegro, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Gjirokastra. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Don’t miss out on dining at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taverna Brahimi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant Tradicional Urat. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Hangover Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting.

As the night falls in Gjirokastra, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.