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

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Explore the best of Albania on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Tirana, Gjirokastra, Progonat, Krongj, Vrinë, Vlore, and Durrës. 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 Gjirokastra, and 1 night in Vlore. 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 Skanderbeg Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Castle Of Gjirokastra, learn more about the unique Bunk’art 2, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Grand Park Of Tirana.

As you hit the open road and drive through Tirana, Gjirokastra, Progonat, Krongj, Vrinë, Vlore, and Durrës, 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!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Tirana

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Tirana Park
Skanderbeg SquareEt'hem Bej MosqueBunk’Art 2Fortress of JustinianPalace of Culture
Xhura MosqueRegency CasinoParku Rinia - Youth Park - Taiwan Park
Castle of GjirokastraZekate HouseSkënduli HouseСтарый город ГирокастрыUjëvara e Peshturës Progonat
The Blue Eye Parking PlaceBlue EyeButrint National Archaeological Park
Independence MonumentVenetian Tower of DurrësDurres AmphitheatreArchaeological Museum of DurrësSfinksi
Tanners' Bridge

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Tirana - Arrival day
  • More
  • Tirana Park
  • More

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 Grand Park Of Tirana, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Tirana. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Albania. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, a highly-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hotel Boutique Kotoni, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at il Gusto Ristorante. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Tirana this evening.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Observator Wine And Piano Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Radio Bar Tirana offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Colonial Cocktails Academy Tirana is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Albania!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Tirana
  • More

Drive 2 km, 12 min

  • Skanderbeg Square
  • Et'hem Bej Mosque
  • Bunk’Art 2
  • Fortress of Justinian
  • Palace of Culture
  • More

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.

Start by visiting Skanderbeg Square, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking public square is sure to impress. Next on your list is Et'hem Bej Mosque, another must-visit landmark and often recommended mosque renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Tirana by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Bunk’art 2. This photogenic museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Tirana experience. We also recommend visiting Fortress Of Justinian, an intriguing castle. Nearby, you'll also find Palace Of Culture, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

Visit Pazari i Ri in Tirana for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home, including artisan crafts. After shopping, explore what Pazari i Ri has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Artigiano offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Tirana.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kafe Flora, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Bufe Wine Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Whisky Bar Tirana likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Albania!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Tirana
  • Gjirokastra
  • More

Drive 239 km, 3 hours 33 min

  • Xhura Mosque
  • Regency Casino
  • Parku Rinia - Youth Park - Taiwan Park
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Albania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Tirana. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gjirokastra. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Tirana, including a mosque, a casino, and a park. Start your day at Xhura Mosque. This inviting mosque is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Tirana. Then, wander over to Regency Casino. Nearby, you’ll also find Rinia Park. This romantic park is a favorite among visitors.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Hangover Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Gjirokastra
  • More

Drive 101 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Castle of Gjirokastra
  • Zekate House
  • Skënduli House
  • Старый город Гирокастры
  • Ujëvara e Peshturës Progonat
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Gjirokastra, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Gjirokastra, including a castle, a museum, a historical landmark, a waterfall and much more! Start your adventure at Castle Of Gjirokastra. This beloved castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Zekate House located in Gjirokastra for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Skenduli House In Gjirokastër. Its standout features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Staryj Gorod Girokastry. Visitors usually appreciate the UNESCO world heritage-listed features of this historical landmark. Next up is Ujëvara E Peshturës Progonat, a highly recommended waterfall.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Kujtim Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Gjirokastra. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Gjirokastra at Corner of Bazaar, 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 Submarine 105. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Gjirokastra tonight.

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

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Gjirokastra
  • Vlora
  • More

Drive 249 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • The Blue Eye Parking Place
  • Blue Eye
  • Butrint National Archaeological Park
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Krongj and Vrinë. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Vlore, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Gjirokastra today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is The Blue Eye Parking Place. This romantic nature reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the frequently visited Butrint National Park.

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 lovely dining experience at Restaurant - Plazh / Zhanpovel Bay, a popular restaurant in Vlore. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Vlore at Da Michele Ristorante, 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 Bar Taushani @ Akademi. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Vlore tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Colosseo Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Seasons Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook C-front Lounge Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Vlora
  • Tirana
  • More

Drive 166 km, 2 hours 25 min

  • Independence Monument
  • Venetian Tower of Durrës
  • Durres Amphitheatre
  • Archaeological Museum of Durrës
  • Sfinksi
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Albania. Today you will explore Vlore and Durrës, 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 Tirana. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your adventure at Independence Monument. This increasingly popular monument is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the standout wonders of Venetian Tower Of Durrës, a must-see monument 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 Durrës Amphitheatre. This intriguing archeological site offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik, where you can take in visually striking features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Sfinksi. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

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 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.

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!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • Tirana - Departure day
  • More
  • Tanners' Bridge
  • More

Day 7 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Tanners' Bridge. This worthwhile historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.

Make the most of your final day in Albania by visiting Tirana’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Pazari i Ri. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Albania.

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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Albania

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.