9-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Berat, Gjirokastra, and Saranda

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Explore the best of Albania on a 9-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Tirana, Linzë, Berat, Selan, Gjirokastra, Krongj, Vrinë, Saranda, and Vlore. 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 Berat, 2 nights in Gjirokastra, and 1 night in Saranda. 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 The Blue Eye are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Skanderbeg Square, learn more about the unique Castle Of Gjirokastra, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Berat Castle.

As you hit the open road and drive through Tirana, Linzë, Berat, Selan, Gjirokastra, Krongj, Vrinë, Saranda, and Vlore, 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
Blloku
Tirana ParkBunk’Art 2Et'hem Bej MosqueSkanderbeg SquareBunk’ArtRruga Murat Toptani
Berat CastleMuzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik OnufriOld Town
Osumi Canyon viewing pointUjvara e BogovësGorica Bridge
Ali Pasha BridgeCastle of GjirokastraСтарый город Гирокастры
The Blue EyeSkënduli HouseZekate House

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Tirana - Arrival day
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  • Blloku
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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 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.

Find your way to your hotel in Tirana. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Albania. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

Savor the flavors at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hotel Boutique Kotoni beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider il Gusto Ristorante. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tirana tonight.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Albania!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Tirana
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Drive 16 km, 1 hour 13 min

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Tirana, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A top thing to do today is to explore Rruga Murat Toptani, a must-see street in Tirana. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the underrated Grand Park Of Tirana, a romantic park in Tirana. Next, go to Bunk’art 2.

After visiting Grand Park Of Tirana and Bunk’art 2, have a stroll along Tirana's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Et'hem Bej Mosque. This photogenic mosque offers a unique experience. Skanderbeg Square is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bunk’art, one of the most history-steeped places to visit in Tirana.

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

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Albania!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Tirana
  • Berat
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Drive 100 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Berat Castle
  • Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri
  • Old Town
  • More

On day 3 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 Berat. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berat, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Tirana includes a castle, a museum, and a historical landmark. Berat Castle is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Onufri Iconographic Museum, an underrated museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Old Town Berat, an enchanting historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Homemade Food Lili, a highly-rated dining destination in Berat. If you're eager to try something different, consider Zonja Gjene, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Eni Traditional Food Berat. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Berat this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Te Albani, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Berat
  • More

Drive 116 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • Osumi Canyon viewing point
  • Ujvara e Bogovës
  • Gorica Bridge
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Greet day 4 of your road trip in Albania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Berat 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 Selan and Berat.

Today’s itinerary in Berat covers several incredible sights, including a canyon, a waterfall, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Osumi Canyon Viewing Point. This locally appreciated canyon is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the serene wonders of Ujëvara E Bogovës, a must-see waterfall in the village.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Gorica Bridge. This beloved historical landmark offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Berat. 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 Temi Albanian Food, a top-rated dining destination in Berat. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Piccolo Grande Amore, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at City Grill Berat - Bar&Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Berat this evening.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Berat
  • Gjirokastra
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Drive 183 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Ali Pasha Bridge
  • Castle of Gjirokastra
  • Старый город Гирокастры
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Albania. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Gjirokastra. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gjirokastra, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Berat today. One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Ali Pasha Bridge. This historic monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Castle Of Gjirokastra and learn what makes this historic castle unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Staryj Gorod Girokastry.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Taverna Brahimi? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restorant Tradicional Urat as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gjirokastra.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Hangover Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Albania!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Gjirokastra
  • More

Drive 74 km, 2 hours 7 min

  • The Blue Eye
  • Skënduli House
  • Zekate House
  • More

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Albania. With 1 night left in Gjirokastra, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Gjirokastra today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is The Blue Eye. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Skenduli House In Gjirokastër and learn what makes this respected museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Zekate House.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Kujtim Restaurant, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Corner of Bazaar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Submarine 105. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Gjirokastra tonight.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Gjirokastra
  • Sarandë
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Drive 125 km, 2 hours 37 min

  • Butrint National Archaeological Park
  • Venetian Castle - Archeological museum
  • Blue Eye
  • More

On day 7 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 Saranda, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Gjirokastra promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Butrint National Park. This picture-perfect archeological site is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Venetian Castle, another awe-inspiring attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Italian Mattarello pizzeria, a popular restaurant in Saranda. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Saranda at Gerthela, 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 Meat House Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Saranda tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Elvis Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Tipsy Drinks And More, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jamaica likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Saranda and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Albania!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Sarandë
  • Tirana
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Drive 276 km, 4 hours 55 min

  • National Museum of Independence
  • Kuzum Baba
  • Independence Monument
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Albania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Vlore. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Tirana. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Saranda on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. National Museum Of Independence is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching museum before continuing your journey. Kuzum Baba is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing historical landmark is one of the best-rated sights in Saranda.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Independence Monument. This standout monument is a sight to behold.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, 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 Villa Tafaj, 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 Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine, 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 Komiteti Bar - Tiranë, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Hemingway Bar Tirana, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tribeca Bar Tirana, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Albania!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Tirana - Departure day
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  • Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit
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Day 9 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.

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.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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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