One-Week Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Shkoder, Vlore, and Gjirokastra and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip across Albania promises a magnificent time exploring Tirana. You have 2 nights left in Tirana. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Prepare for a day full of a gorgeous, a visually striking, a historic, a majestic, and a culturally significant. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Skanderbeg Square. This underrated public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Et'hem Bej Mosque, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Bunk’art 2, one of the most intriguing places to see in Tirana. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Fortress Of Justinian. Wander around and soak in the heritage-rich atmosphere this castle offers. Finally, take the path to the often recommended Palace Of Culture, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Tirana's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a highly-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're eager to try something different, consider Artigiano, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

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.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Tirana for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Tirana is home to plenty of attractions that offer a photogenic, a respected, a culturally significant, a charming, a serene, and a breathtaking! Start at Xhura Mosque, an increasingly popular mosque that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Rinia Park, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Regency Casino. This casino is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Villa Tafaj offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

Say good night to Tirana and look forward to another great 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 3 vibrant destinations - Kruje, Bërdicë e Sipërme, and Shkoder. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Shkoder. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

After soaking in Tirana’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kruje. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Kruje, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum, an underrated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Krujë Castle, where you can soak in the culturally significant surroundings. Next, explore Kruja Bazaar, yet another underrated place to see in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kruje and set your GPS to Bërdicë e Sipërme. 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 33 min. Upon reaching Bërdicë e Sipërme, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Rozafa Castle. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

When you’ve had your share of Bërdicë e Sipërme, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Shkoder. Your travel time is around 13 min.

Make your way to Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque, an underrated mosque that draws attention for its respected features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Shkoder. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant PURI, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bar Restaurant Elita offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Shkoder.

Keep the evening going at Bar Fontana, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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.

On day 5 of your road trip in Albania, 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 in Shkoder, Shirq, and Durrës. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vlore, where you will stay for 1 night.

Mesi Bridge is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day.

After soaking in Shkoder’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Shirq. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 36 min. When you arrive in Shirq, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take your self-guided tour to Buna River - Velipoja, a worthwhile nature reserve that everyone visiting Shirq should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

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 50 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Venetian Tower Of Durrës, an increasingly popular monument known for its culturally significant features. After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Durrës Amphitheatre, an underrated archeological site that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region.

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 Vlore. Vlore 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.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Restaurant - Plazh / Zhanpovel Bay, an iconic dining spot in Vlore. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Da Michele Ristorante, a popular restaurant in Vlore. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar Taushani @ Akademi, a hidden gem nestled in Vlore. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Colosseo Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Seasons Cocktail Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, C-front Lounge Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Albania.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Vrinë and Krongj. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Gjirokastra, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Vrinë allows for both.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Vrinë. This car ride takes around 2 hours 32 min.

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

Krongj’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Vrinë behind. This drive usually takes around 48 min. Krongj welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Head to The Blue Eye Parking Place, an intriguing nature reserve in Krongj. Explore its serene features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Blue Eye. This frequently visited karst spring is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Hangover Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Albania!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Albania. Today you will explore Gjirokastra 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 Tirana. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your day at Castle Of Gjirokastra. This picture-perfect castle is a frequently visited place to see in Gjirokastra.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Berat. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Berat Castle, a worthwhile castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Old Town Berat and admire its visually striking features. When you’re ready, continue to Gorica Bridge, a locally appreciated historical landmark beloved by locals and tourists alike.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Duff Sports Bar, an iconic dining spot in Tirana. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop, a popular restaurant in Tirana. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of ejona, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Nouvelle Vague Tirana stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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