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

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Tirana, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Albania are extraordinary.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Tirana today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Fortress Of Justinian. This heritage-rich castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bunk’art 2 and learn what makes this symbolic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Et'hem Bej Mosque. After exploring the mosque, head to Palace Of Culture. This up-and-coming cultural center is a highlight in Tirana. As your day continues, stop by Skanderbeg Square, known for its picture-perfect features.

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.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Albania. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Tirana, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Savor the flavors at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Artigiano beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Tirana tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Tirana.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Kafe Flora, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Bufe Wine Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Tirana. Whisky Bar Tirana is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Albania, you’ll go deep into Tirana, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Tirana, and meet locals along the way!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Tirana, including a mosque, a casino, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Xhura Mosque. This increasingly popular mosque is a must-visit in the city.

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 Rinia Park, a frequently visited park in the city.

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

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Komiteti Bar - Tiranë, known for its inviting atmosphere. Hemingway Bar Tirana is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tribeca Bar Tirana provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Albania continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Albania and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Gjirokastra and beyond. With 3 nights left in Gjirokastra, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Next, go to Blue Eye.

After visiting The Blue Eye and Blue Eye, have a stroll along Gjirokastra's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Plazhi Ksamilit. This romantic beach offers a unique experience. Butrint National Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Lori Beach, one of the most romantic places to visit in Gjirokastra.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Gjirokastra has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Gjirokastra. The bars in Gjirokastra make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Albania means 24 hours of making the best memories in Gjirokastra. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Gjirokastra. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Gjirokastra!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views await you in Gjirokastra on today’s itinerary. First up is the curiosity-inducing historical landmark, Staryj Gorod Girokastry. Afterward, continue to Castle Of Gjirokastra, a castle every traveler should visit.

As you explore Gjirokastra’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Ali Pasha Bridge. This up-and-coming monument is an essential stop.

Albania makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Albania also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Black Rose Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Gjirokastra. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Taverna Laberia, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Tradicional Odaja. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Gjirokastra this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the town.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Albania!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Albania promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Durrës and drive in the direction of the city of Tirana for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Tirana, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Start your day with a visit to Venetian Tower Of Durrës. This intriguing monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Durrës Amphitheatre, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Gjirokastra 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 Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik, an increasingly popular museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Sfinksi.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Tirana in this laid-back road trip in Albania. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

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.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Tirana.

Continue your lively evening at Nouvelle Vague Tirana, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Albania. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Albania tomorrow with new energy.