12-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Durrës, Vlore, Ksamil, Gjirokastra, and Berat

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Tirana. You’ll stay in Tirana for 2 nights.

One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Fortress Of Justinian. This photogenic castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bunk’art 2 and learn what makes this heritage-rich museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Et'hem Bej Mosque. After exploring the mosque, head to Palace Of Culture. This often recommended cultural center is a highlight in Tirana. As your day continues, stop by Skanderbeg Square, known for its culturally significant features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Albania. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Tirana's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Artigiano boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hotel Elysee, Tirana. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Tirana.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kafe Flora is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Bufe Wine Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Whisky Bar Tirana. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Say good night to Tirana and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Albania!

Day 3 of your road trip across Albania promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Tirana. You have 1 night left in Tirana. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Xhura Mosque leaves a lasting impression. This mosque is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Tirana. Next, head to Rinia Park, a worthwhile park, known for its romantic features.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Albania. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Tirana, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, 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 Villa Tafaj, 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 Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tirana tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Komiteti Bar - Tiranë, known for its lively atmosphere. Hemingway Bar Tirana is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tribeca Bar Tirana offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Albania!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Albania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Kruje. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Durrës, where will spend 3 nights.

As you explore Kruje’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kruje.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kruje is Kruja Bazaar, an often recommended market that draws attention for its historic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum, a culturally significant museum that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Kruja Ethnographic Museum, an intriguing museum that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Krujë Castle, a nearby castle, highly recommended by other travelers.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Durrës. Durrës offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Durrës, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Pastarella, a top-rated dining destination in Durrës. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Vila Verde Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Royal G Hotel and Spa. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Durrës this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Traiano Lounge Bar Durres, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Sunset Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Posh Lounge offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Head back to your accommodation in Durrës and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Albania.

Day 5 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Tirana. You’ll stay in Durrës for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your day at Vila E Ahmet Zogut. This breathtaking palace is a locally appreciated place to see in Durrës. Then, wander over to Pau Pau Zone. Nearby, you’ll also find Durrës Amphitheatre. This picture-perfect archeological site is a favorite among visitors.

Durrës offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this increasingly popular point of interest.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Albania. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Durrës. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Sun Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Aragosta Hotel & Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Adriatik Hotel, BW Premier Collection. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Durrës tonight.

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

Head back to your accommodation in Durrës and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Albania.

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Durrës has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Durrës.

Whatever your travel style is, Venetian Tower Of Durrës is an essential stop in Durrës. This increasingly popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Durres Beach Promenade, a romantic beach, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Rrethrrotullimi Shkozet Tiranë, an underrated sightseeing destination.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Albania. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Durrës is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Durrës.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Vila Lule, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Gusto di Mare & Sushi Time is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at MEISON Bistro & Markata. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Durrës tonight.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Albania!

Your itinerary for day 9 of your road trip in Albania includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Ksamil, Vrinë, and Krongj. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gjirokastra, where you'll spend 1 night.

Start your day at Plazhi Ksamilit. This romantic beach is a locally appreciated place to see in Ksamil. Then, wander over to Lori Beach. If romantic sites excite you, this beach will be right up your alley.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Ksamil, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Vrinë. This drive usually takes around 8 min.

Butrint National Park is a worthwhile archeological site we recommend visiting today. Discover its UNESCO world heritage-listed features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’ve had your share of Vrinë, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Krongj. Your travel time is around 48 min.

Next, make your way to Blue Eye, another highlight in Krongj.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Gjirokastra. Gjirokastra offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Gjirokastra. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a highly-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're eager to try something different, consider Taverna Brahimi, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restorant Tradicional Urat. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Hangover Cocktail Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Albania!

On day 10 of your road trip in Albania, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Gjirokastra are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berat, where you will stay for 1 night.

Catch Staryj Gorod Girokastry before the crowds roll in. This romantic historical landmark is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the historic features of Castle Of Gjirokastra, a must-visit castle in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Skenduli House In Gjirokastër, an often recommended museum. For a change of scene, check out Zekate House, known for its UNESCO world heritage-listed features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Berat. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berat's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Homemade Food Lili, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zonja Gjene beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Eni Traditional Food Berat. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berat tonight.

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

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Albania!