9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia With Itinerary from Tirana to Shkoder, Kotor, Budva, and Dubrovnik

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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 9-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Albania, 2 nights in Montenegro, and 2 nights in Croatia.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Albania, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Tirana and begin your adventure from there. Explore Tirana, Bërdicë e Sipërme, and Shkoder, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Montenegro. Immerse yourself in the allure of Kotor, Budva, Bečići, and Sveti Stefan, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Croatia. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Bosanka, Dubrovnik, Cavtat, and Čilipi.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Kotor’s Kampana Tower and Bosanka's iconic Sponza Palace. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 9-day self-drive adventure in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Blloku
Tirana ParkFortress of JustinianBunk’Art 2Et'hem Bej MosqueSkanderbeg SquareRruga Murat Toptani
Shkodra CastleXhamia e PlumbitVendi i Deshmisë dhe Kujtesës - Site of Witness and MemoryKole Idromeno StreetMarubi" National Museum of PhotographyXhamia e Madhe - Ebu Bekr mosque
St Tryphon's CathedralMaritime MuseumKampana TowerKotorKotor FortressSan Giovanni
Mogren 2 BeachHoly Trinity ChurchSt Thomas ChurchSveti StefanManastir Podmaine
Dubrovnik Cable CarFranciscan Church and MonasteryWalls of DubrovnikSponza Palace

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Tirana - Arrival day
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  • Blloku
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Tirana in Albania. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Tirana for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to Albania to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Tirana before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

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 Blloku, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Tirana. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Tirana. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Make sure to reserve a table at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, 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 Hotel Boutique Kotoni, 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 il Gusto Ristorante, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Observator Wine And Piano Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Radio Bar Tirana for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Your multi-country road trip in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Tirana
  • More

Drive 8 km, 48 min

  • Tirana Park
  • Fortress of Justinian
  • Bunk’Art 2
  • Et'hem Bej Mosque
  • Skanderbeg Square
  • Rruga Murat Toptani
  • More

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

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Rruga Murat Toptani, a street that captures the true essence of Tirana. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Tirana, including a park, a castle, a museum, a mosque, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Grand Park Of Tirana. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Fortress Of Justinian, which may be one of the most symbolic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Tirana on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Bunk’art 2, a curiosity-inducing museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Et'hem Bej Mosque and Skanderbeg Square.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, 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 Artigiano, 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 Hotel Elysee, Tirana, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the evening going at Kafe Flora, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bufe Wine Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Whisky Bar Tirana, 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, Montenegro, and Croatia! 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.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Tirana
  • Shkoder
  • More

Drive 105 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • Shkodra Castle
  • Xhamia e Plumbit
  • Vendi i Deshmisë dhe Kujtesës - Site of Witness and Memory
  • Kole Idromeno Street
  • Marubi" National Museum of Photography
  • Xhamia e Madhe - Ebu Bekr mosque
  • More

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. 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.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Tirana on today’s itinerary. First up is the locally appreciated castle, Rozafa Castle. Afterward, continue to Lead Mosque, Shkodër, a mosque every traveler should visit.

As you explore Tirana’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village. Next, make your way to Site Of Witness And Memory. This frequently visited museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Kole Idromeno Street, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. , a beloved museum in the village. Finally, end your day with a visit to Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque, an instagrammable mosque that offers the perfect conclusion to your sightseeing of the day.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Shkoder. 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.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Shkoder’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant PURI, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bar Restaurant Elita is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Shkoder tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Fontana. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Take in the ambiance of Shkoder 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!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Shkoder
  • Kotor
  • More

Drive 110 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • St Tryphon's Cathedral
  • Maritime Museum
  • Kampana Tower
  • Kotor
  • Kotor Fortress
  • San Giovanni
  • More

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia, 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 Kotor in Montenegro. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kotor, where you will stay for 1 night.

Start by visiting St. Tryphon's Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Maritime Museum, another must-visit landmark and often recommended maritime museum renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Shkoder by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kampana Tower. This UNESCO world heritage-designated monument is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Shkoder experience. We also recommend visiting Kotor, an often recommended beach. Nearby, you'll also find Kotor Fortress, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at San Giovanni and wrap up your day with its UNESCO world heritage-listed appeal.

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

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Kotor. 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, Montenegro, and Croatia.

Enjoy a delicious meal at La Catedrale Pasta Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Kotor. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mondo, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Historic Boutique Hotel Cattaro. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kotor this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Jazz Club Evergreen, known for its inviting atmosphere. Old Winery Wine Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Patisserie By Wine House provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the night falls in Kotor, 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.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Kotor
  • Budva
  • More

Drive 44 km, 1 hour 29 min

  • Mogren 2 Beach
  • Holy Trinity Church
  • St Thomas Church
  • Sveti Stefan
  • Manastir Podmaine
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Budva in Montenegro. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Budva, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Kotor. Begin your sightseeing with Mogren 2 Beach. This intriguing beach is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Holy Trinity Church In Budva, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Kotor, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to St. Thomas Church. This up-and-coming church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Sveti Stefan, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Podmaine Monastery is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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

Dine in style at Caffe Fiorino Budva, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Konoba Bocun boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kužina. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Budva.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Blue Cat Art Cafe. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Old Town Pub Budva offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mañana Budva, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia! 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.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Budva
  • Dubrovnik
  • More

Drive 117 km, 2 hours 53 min

  • Dubrovnik Cable Car
  • Franciscan Church and Monastery
  • Walls of Dubrovnik
  • Sponza Palace
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Bosanka in Croatia. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dubrovnik, your home for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at Dubrovnik Cable Car. This locally appreciated point of interest is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Franciscan Church And Monastery located in Budva for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Walls Of Dubrovnik. Its UNESCO world heritage-designated features will captivate you. After the historical landmark, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Sponza Palace. Visitors usually appreciate the standout features of this palace.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Dubrovnik. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Croatia 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik, a top-rated dining destination in Dubrovnik. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Portun, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Fast Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dubrovnik this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Promenada, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Sports Pub Mario is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Caffe-bar Van ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dubrovnik
  • More

Drive 36 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Srđ
  • Lokrum
  • Fort Lovrijenac
  • Forest Park Velika and Mala Petka
  • Lapad
  • More

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Dubrovnik for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Dubrovnik in Croatia.

A visit to Lapad in Dubrovnik is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Srđ. This locally appreciated mountain range is a romantic place to see in Dubrovnik. Continue your discovery at Lokrum, a standout nature reserve with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dubrovnik, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Lovrijenac. This increasingly popular castle offers a history-steeped encounter with Dubrovnik. Next, make your way to Velika And Mala Petka Forest Park to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dubrovnik.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Dubrovnik. 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, Montenegro, and Croatia.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Caffe & Night Bar Amor, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Celtic Bar Belfast Dubrovnik offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dubrovnik. Seven Sins is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Dubrovnik
  • Shkoder
  • Tirana
  • More

Drive 370 km, 6 hours 39 min

  • Bukovac House Museum
  • Zavičajni muzej Konavala - Konavle County Museum
  • Mesi Bridge
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Cavtat in Croatia and Shkoder in Albania. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Tirana where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dubrovnik allows for both. Start by heading to Bukovac House Museum. This up-and-coming museum provides an insightful glimpse into the village's identity. Next, discover Zavičajni Muzej Konavala - Konavle County Museum, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Mesi Bridge, a worthwhile monument.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Tirana of your choice.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Tirana boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Albania.

Savor the flavors at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Villa Tafaj beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tirana tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Komiteti Bar - Tiranë stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Hemingway Bar Tirana offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tribeca Bar Tirana is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Tirana - Departure day
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  • Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit
  • More

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Tirana before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in Albania unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Tirana's best shopping area, Pazari i Ri. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Albania.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit, a street that captures the true essence of Tirana. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Get a last taste of Albania’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Tirana and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Tirana for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia with fond memories. Safe travels!

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