Relaxed 12-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Durrës and Gjirokastra

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Albania means 24 hours of making the best memories in Tirana. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Tirana. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Tirana!

Tirana is brimming with adventures.

One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Et'hem Bej Mosque. This standout mosque will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Palace Of Culture and learn what makes this history-steeped cultural center unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the often recommended National Historical Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Skanderbeg Square. This frequently visited public square is a highlight in Tirana.

Albania makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Albania also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Tirana has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Artigiano is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hotel Elysee, Tirana. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tirana tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Tirana and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at Kafe Flora, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bufe Wine Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Whisky Bar Tirana ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Albania!

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tirana, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Albania are extraordinary.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Rinia Park and allow yourself time to explore.

Continue your journey to Grand Park Of Tirana, one of the city’s most worthwhile spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Albania more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Tirana offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Tirana offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, a top-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Villa Tafaj, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Tirana’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Albania.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Komiteti Bar - Tiranë after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Hemingway Bar Tirana, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tribeca Bar Tirana also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Albania!

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Albania offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Durrës for 3 nights.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kruja Bazaar, an intriguing market known for its historic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum, a worthwhile museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Kruja Ethnographic Museum and uncover the details of this picture-perfect museum. Make sure to also explore Krujë Castle, a beloved castle.

You'll be staying in Durrës on this laid-back road trip through Albania. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Albania, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Durrës.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pastarella, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vila Verde Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Royal G Hotel and Spa is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Durrës.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Albania.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Traiano Lounge Bar Durres. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Sunset Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Posh Lounge, another top-rated bar in the area.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Albania. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Albania tomorrow with new energy.

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Albania, you’ll go deep into Durrës, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Durrës, and meet locals along the way!

Terrace Of Durrës brings Durrës's character to life. This picture-perfect archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Column Monument, another symbolic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Venetian Tower Of Durrës, one of the city’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its historic features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Albania by joining a traveler-approved tour in Tirana. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Tirana that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Albania more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Durrës to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Durrës, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Illyrian Garden, a top-rated bar in the area.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Durrës!

Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Albania offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Durrës and end it in Gjirokastra. You’ll stay in Gjirokastra for 4 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Albania.

Awaiting your discovery is the increasingly popular Town Square Of Durrës - Sheshi Liria, a gorgeous public square in Durrës. Next, go to Brunnen Shatervani.

After visiting Town Square Of Durrës - Sheshi Liria and Brunnen Shatervani, have a stroll along Durrës's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Durrës Amphitheatre. This picture-perfect archeological site offers a unique experience.

In Gjirokastra, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Albania.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Gjirokastra has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Taverna Brahimi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restorant Tradicional Urat. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gjirokastra tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Gjirokastra and unwind at some of the best bars in the town.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Hangover Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Albania!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Albania, you’ll explore the area around Gjirokastra, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Gjirokastra will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Albania.

After soaking in Krongj’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Ksamil. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Ksamil, it's time to take a break from the road.

The Blue Eye is a curiosity-inducing park we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by The Blue Eye Parking Place, a mesmerizing nature reserve.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Krongj, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ksamil. This drive usually takes around 39 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Plazhi Ksamilit and explore the awe-inspiring features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vrinë. This car ride takes around 9 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Butrint National Park. Spend some time admiring the UNESCO world heritage-designated features of the archeological site before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Gjirokastra and your accommodation.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Kujtim Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're eager to try something different, consider Corner of Bazaar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Submarine 105. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Albania.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Albania!

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Gjirokastra, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Albania are extraordinary.

Whatever your travel style is, Ali Pasha Bridge is an essential stop in Gjirokastra. This often recommended monument provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Castle Of Gjirokastra, a breathtaking castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Staryj Gorod Girokastry, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark.

Albania makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Albania also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Albania. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Gjirokastra, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Black Rose Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taverna Laberia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Tradicional Odaja. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Gjirokastra.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Albania.