7-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Gjirokastra and Vlore

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Description

Explore the best of Albania on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastra, Progonat, Krongj, Vrinë, Vlore, Durrës, and Kruje. This road trip itinerary in Albania seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Albania takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Tirana, 2 nights in Gjirokastra, and 1 night in Vlore. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Albania. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Tirana, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Albania on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Albania. Butrint National Park and Skanderbeg Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Tirana, Berat, Gjirokastra, Progonat, Krongj, Vrinë, Vlore, Durrës, and Kruje, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Albania. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Albania.

Throughout your road trip in Albania, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Albania.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Albania fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Albania today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Parku Rinia - Youth Park - Taiwan Park
Skanderbeg SquareEt'hem Bej MosqueBunk’Art 2Fortress of JustinianPalace of Culture
Tirana ParkBerat CastleOld TownGorica BridgeSkanderbeg Square
Castle of GjirokastraZekate HouseSkënduli HouseСтарый город ГирокастрыUjëvara e Peshturës Progonat
The Blue Eye Parking PlaceBlue EyeButrint National Archaeological ParkCastle of Gjirokastra
Venetian Tower of DurrësDurres AmphitheatreSfinksiGjergj Kastrioti National Museum (Skanderbeg)Castle of Kruja
Tanners' BridgeSkanderbeg Square

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Tirana - Arrival day
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  • Parku Rinia - Youth Park - Taiwan Park
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Say hello to Tirana! Your exciting road trip through Albania is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Tirana for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Tirana is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Rinia Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Tirana. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Albania. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, a top-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hotel Boutique Kotoni, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at il Gusto Ristorante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Observator Wine And Piano Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Radio Bar Tirana is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Albania!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Tirana
  • More

Drive 2 km, 12 min

  • Skanderbeg Square
  • Et'hem Bej Mosque
  • Bunk’Art 2
  • Fortress of Justinian
  • Palace of Culture
  • More

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Tirana. You’ll stay in Tirana for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Discover a day packed with a mesmerizing, a visually striking, a history-steeped, a majestic, and a profound in Tirana. Begin your sightseeing with Skanderbeg Square. This beloved public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Et'hem Bej Mosque, another must-visit attraction that enhances the city’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Tirana, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Bunk’art 2. This increasingly popular museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Fortress Of Justinian, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Conclude your day at Palace Of Culture and uncover why it's recognized as one of the city's most underrated attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Albania is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Tirana, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Tirana tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Kafe Flora, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bufe Wine Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Whisky Bar Tirana, another top-rated place in the area.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Albania.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Tirana
  • Berat
  • Gjirokastra
  • More

Drive 257 km, 4 hours 35 min

  • Tirana Park
  • Berat Castle
  • Old Town
  • Gorica Bridge
  • Skanderbeg Square
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Albania. Today you will explore Tirana and Berat, 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 Gjirokastra. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings a romantic, a picturesque, a gorgeous, and a picture-perfect. The first attraction of today is Grand Park Of Tirana. This up-and-coming park is an idyllic place to see in Tirana.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Tirana, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Berat may take around 1 hour 40 min. Upon your arrival in Berat, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Berat Castle. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Old Town Berat. This worthwhile historical landmark is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Gorica Bridge. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Gjirokastra. Gjirokastra offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Gjirokastra, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a top-rated dining spot in Gjirokastra. If you're in the mood for something new, try Taverna Brahimi, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Restorant Tradicional Urat. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Gjirokastra.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Hangover Cocktail Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Albania!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Gjirokastra
  • Progonat
  • More

Drive 101 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Castle of Gjirokastra
  • Zekate House
  • Skënduli House
  • Старый город Гирокастры
  • Ujëvara e Peshturës Progonat
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Gjirokastra, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Gjirokastra and Progonat. You still have 1 night left in Gjirokastra.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Gjirokastra, including a castle, a museum, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Castle Of Gjirokastra. This increasingly popular castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zekate House located in Gjirokastra for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Skenduli House In Gjirokastër. Its UNESCO world heritage-listed features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Staryj Gorod Girokastry. This historical landmark has an UNESCO world heritage-designated appeal.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Gjirokastra, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Progonat. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 1 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Ujëvara E Peshturës Progonat is an intriguing waterfall we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Gjirokastra.

As you explore more of Gjirokastra, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Gjirokastra
  • Krongj
  • Vrinë
  • Vlora
  • More

Drive 249 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • The Blue Eye Parking Place
  • Blue Eye
  • Butrint National Archaeological Park
  • Castle of Gjirokastra
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Albania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Krongj and Vrinë. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Vlore. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Vrinë and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 47 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vrinë beckons with new experiences!

Head to The Blue Eye Parking Place, an often recommended nature reserve in Krongj. Explore its mesmerizing features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Blue Eye. This curiosity-inducing karst spring is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Take your self-guided tour to Butrint National Park, a worthwhile archeological site that everyone visiting Vrinë should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Vlore. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant - Plazh / Zhanpovel Bay, a highly-rated dining destination in Vlore. If you're eager to try something different, consider Da Michele Ristorante, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Taushani @ Akademi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Vlore this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Colosseo Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Seasons Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is C-front Lounge Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Vlora
  • Durrës
  • Kruje
  • Tirana
  • More

Drive 212 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Venetian Tower of Durrës
  • Durres Amphitheatre
  • Sfinksi
  • Gjergj Kastrioti National Museum (Skanderbeg)
  • Castle of Kruja
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Albania. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Durrës and Kruje. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tirana, which will be your home away from home 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 Durrës. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Venetian Tower Of Durrës. Spend some time admiring the culturally significant features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Durrës Amphitheatre. This locally appreciated archeological site is a traveler-favorite in the city. Not far away, you’ll also find Sfinksi. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the sightseeing destination.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Durrës and set your GPS to Kruje. 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 1 hour 1 min. Upon reaching Kruje, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your self-guided tour starts at Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum, a worthwhile museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Krujë Castle and admire its breathtaking features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Tirana, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Villa Tafaj offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tirana.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Komiteti Bar - Tiranë offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Hemingway Bar Tirana is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tribeca Bar Tirana is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Albania!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Tirana - Departure day
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  • Tanners' Bridge
  • Skanderbeg Square
  • More

Day 7 of your road trip in Albania is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Tirana before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Albania, take time to indulge in shopping at Tirana’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Today’s route brings a visually striking, a standout, and a grand. The first attraction of today is Tanners' Bridge. This worthwhile historical landmark is an instagrammable place to see in Tirana.

Before you conclude your road trip in Albania, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Tirana.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Tirana. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Albania!

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