9-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana traveling south to Durrës, Vlore, and Gjirokastra

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

Today’s itinerary in Tirana covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a public square, and a mosque. Start your adventure at Museum Of Secret Surveillance. This beloved museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Skanderbeg Square, a must-see public square in the city.

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 National Historical Museum. This up-and-coming museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Et'hem Bej Mosque, where you can take in its culturally significant features.

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 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Artigiano offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Hotel Elysee, Tirana is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Tirana.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Kafe Flora, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Bufe Wine Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Whisky Bar Tirana provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 1 vibrant destinations - Durrës. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Durrës. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tirana and set your GPS to Durrës. 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 42 min. Upon reaching Durrës, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After taking in the atmosphere, continue to Fisherman, a locally appreciated sightseeing destination that is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. Next, stop by Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik and uncover the details of this visually striking museum. Make sure to also explore Vila E Ahmet Zogut, an intriguing palace that offers a unique experience. For your last stop, consider Terrace Of Durrës, a gorgeous archeological site that many travelers find worth the detour.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Durrës. 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 Durrës. 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.

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

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 Durrës. In the evening, you’ll end up in Vlore, where you will stay for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Durrës today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Town Square Of Durrës - Sheshi Liria. This romantic public square will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Durrës Amphitheatre and learn what makes this historic archeological site unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Venetian Tower Of Durrës. After exploring the monument, head to Rrethrrotullimi Shkozet Tiranë. This up-and-coming point of interest is a highlight in Durrës. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the often recommended Durrës Beach. Enjoy exploring this incredible beach at your own pace.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Vlore, 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 Vlore's best restaurants.

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Colosseo Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Seasons Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. C-front Lounge Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Albania and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vlore, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Vrinë may take around 2 hours 32 min. Upon your arrival in Vrinë, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Butrint National Park, an up-and-coming archeological site that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vrinë, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Krongj may take around 48 min. Upon your arrival in Krongj, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at The Blue Eye Parking Place, a locally appreciated nature reserve that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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.

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Hangover Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood.

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

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Gjirokastra has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Gjirokastra by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Gjirokastra allows for both. Start by heading to Zekate House. This intriguing museum provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Skenduli House In Gjirokastër, a breathtaking museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Staryj Gorod Girokastry, an underrated historical landmark. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Castle Of Gjirokastra. Round off your day at Ali Pasha Bridge, another gem in Gjirokastra with breathtaking features to discover.

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 Gjirokastra's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Kujtim Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Corner of Bazaar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Submarine 105 as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gjirokastra.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Albania. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Berat. 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.

Tirana’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Berat behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 45 min. Tirana welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Old Town Berat and explore the history-steeped features. Next, make your way to Berat Castle, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the castle, continue to Onufri Iconographic Museum, a stunning museum.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at Duff Sports Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider ejona. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tirana tonight.

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

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.