Relaxed 9-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to 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!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Tirana, including a castle, a museum, a mosque, a cultural center, a public square and much more! Start your day with a visit to Fortress Of Justinian. This beloved castle is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Bunk’art 2, 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 Et'hem Bej Mosque, an underrated mosque in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Palace Of Culture and Skanderbeg Square.

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 Tirana to find the best options for you!

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 dining experience at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a popular restaurant in Tirana. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Tirana at Artigiano, 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 Hotel Elysee, Tirana. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tirana tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Tirana. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Kafe Flora. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Bufe Wine Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Whisky Bar Tirana provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Tirana can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day 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.

Immerse yourself in Tirana’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Xhura Mosque. This culturally significant mosque is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Rinia Park, a locally appreciated park.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Albania. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Albania and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Visit Toptani Shopping Center in Tirana for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Toptani Shopping Center has to offer, including restaurants, cafes, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 Tirana, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Albania!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Gjirokastra and visit amazing attractions in Krongj, Ksamil, and Vrinë destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 3 nights left in Gjirokastra. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Begin your adventure at The Blue Eye. This is an intriguing park you should not miss. Another must-see is Blue Eye, an often recommended karst spring in Gjirokastra.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Plazhi Ksamilit. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Butrint National Park, another of the village’s underrated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Lori Beach, a mesmerizing place of interest in the village.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Kujtim Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Gjirokastra. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Corner of Bazaar, a popular restaurant in Gjirokastra. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Submarine 105, a hidden gem nestled in Gjirokastra. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Gjirokastra. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Albania!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Albania, you’ll go deep into Gjirokastra, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the town’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Gjirokastra, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready for an exciting day in Gjirokastra. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a historical landmark, a castle, and a monument. Begin your adventure at Staryj Gorod Girokastry. This is a frequently visited historical landmark you should not miss. Another must-see is Castle Of Gjirokastra, an increasingly popular castle in Gjirokastra.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Ali Pasha Bridge.

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

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 Gjirokastra.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Black Rose Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Taverna Laberia offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Tradicional Odaja. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Gjirokastra.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Gjirokastra and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

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

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Albania will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Albania, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Gjirokastra allows for both. Start by heading to Venetian Tower Of Durrës. This locally appreciated monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Durrës Amphitheatre, a culturally significant archeological site, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik, an up-and-coming museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the locally appreciated Sfinksi.

In the city of Tirana, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Albania.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Duff Sports Bar, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, ejona is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Tirana.

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.

Keep the evening going at Nouvelle Vague Tirana, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Durrës can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Albania!