11-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Shkoder, Vlore, and Gjirokastra and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Tirana has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Tirana by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Tirana on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Et'hem Bej Mosque is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant mosque before continuing your journey. Bunk’art 2 is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing museum is one of the best-rated sights in Tirana.

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 National Historical Museum. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Skanderbeg Square.

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.

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 delicious meal at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, a top-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Artigiano, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Kafe Flora, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bufe Wine Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Whisky Bar Tirana offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Albania. Today you will explore Tirana and Kruje, 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 4 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the underrated Grand Park Of Tirana, an eye-catching park in Tirana. Next, go to Kruja Bazaar.

After visiting Grand Park Of Tirana and Kruja Bazaar, have a stroll along Tirana's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Kruja Ethnographic Museum. This picture-perfect museum offers a unique experience. Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Krujë Castle, one of the most standout places to visit in Tirana.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Shkoder. Shkoder offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Fontana, a top-rated bar in the area.

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

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Albania. With 3 nights left in Shkoder, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Shkoder. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await! Rozafa Castle is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Shkoder. Next, head to Lead Mosque, Shkodër, an intriguing mosque, known for its breathtaking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Site Of Witness And Memory. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Pasta e Vino, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Vila Bekteshi Restorant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Pasta te Zenga. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Shkoder tonight.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Shkoder. You’ll stay in Shkoder for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Shkoder, including a street, a museum, and a mosque. Start your day at Kole Idromeno Street. This instagrammable street is a worthwhile place to see in Shkoder. Then, wander over to "marubi" National Museum Of Photography. If photogenic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque. This eye-catching mosque is a favorite among visitors.

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 Shkoder. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at MANIFATURA, a top-rated dining destination in Shkoder. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Fish Art, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Rozafa Sea Food. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shkoder this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Albania!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Shkoder, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at the increasingly popular Mesi Bridge, a history-steeped monument in Shkoder. Next, go to Buna River - Velipoja.

After visiting Mesi Bridge and Buna River - Velipoja, have a stroll along Shkoder's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Velipoja Beach. This romantic beach offers a unique experience.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Proper Pizza Shkoder, a top-rated dining destination in Shkoder. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Arti Zanave, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bar Restorant Buna Park. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Shkoder this evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Albania!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Albania. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Durrës. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Vlore, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Shkoder, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Venetian Tower Of Durrës, an underrated monument in the city. Then, head to Durrës Amphitheatre and soak in the ambiance of this historic archeological site.

There are many interesting places to see in Shkoder, and when you are ready for more, go to Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik. This is one of the city’s most beloved heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the worthwhile Sfinksi.

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.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Vlore. 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 Restaurant - Plazh / Zhanpovel Bay, an iconic dining spot in Vlore. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Da Michele Ristorante, a popular restaurant in Vlore. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bar Taushani @ Akademi, a hidden gem nestled in Vlore. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Colosseo Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Seasons Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is C-front Lounge Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Albania!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Vlore for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Vlore today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is National Museum Of Independence. This history-steeped museum will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Independence Monument and learn what makes this stunning monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Kuzum Baba.

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 Vlore's best restaurants.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Wow Cocktails & More, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Albania!

On day 9 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 Vrinë and Krongj. In the evening, you’ll end up in Gjirokastra, where you will stay for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Vlore’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Butrint National Park. This UNESCO world heritage-listed archeological site is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the serene features of The Blue Eye Parking Place, a must-visit nature reserve in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Blue Eye, an often recommended karst spring.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Gjirokastra. 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 Gjirokastra. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Taverna Brahimi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restorant Tradicional Urat is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your road trip in Albania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Gjirokastra and Berat. 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.

Gjirokastra is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a castle and a historical landmark. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Castle Of Gjirokastra and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Berat Castle, a romantic castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Old Town Berat, one of the town’s most up-and-coming spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the increasingly popular Gorica Bridge.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Tirana. Tirana 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 Tirana's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Albania.