One-Week Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Shkoder and Durrës and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Albania as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Tirana, Linzë, Kruje, Bërdicë e Sipërme, Shkoder, Shirq, Velipojë, Lezhë, Durrës, and Berat.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Albania takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Tirana, 1 night in Shkoder, and 2 nights in Durrës. 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. Skanderbeg Square and Krujë Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Berat Castle, 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, Linzë, Kruje, Bërdicë e Sipërme, Shkoder, Shirq, Velipojë, Lezhë, Durrës, and Berat, 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!
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Day 1
- Tirana - Arrival day
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- Parku Rinia - Youth Park - Taiwan Park
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Welcome to Tirana, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Albania! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Tirana's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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 Rinia Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Tirana. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Albania. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Delicatezze di mare da Aldo - Ristorante di pesce a Tirana, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hotel Boutique Kotoni? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at il Gusto Ristorante as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Tirana.
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 8-day road trip in Albania!
Day 2
- Tirana
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Drive 1 km, 23 min
- Fortress of Justinian
- Bunk’Art 2
- Et'hem Bej Mosque
- Palace of Culture
- Skanderbeg Square
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Day 2 of your road trip across Albania promises a magnificent time exploring Tirana. You have 2 nights left in Tirana. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Tirana is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Fortress Of Justinian, an often recommended castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Bunk’art 2, enchanting visitors with its symbolic appeal. Continue your exploration at Et'hem Bej Mosque. This mosque is one of the city’s most often recommended spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Tirana at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Palace Of Culture. After exploring the cultural center, head to the intriguing 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 highly-rated dining destination in Tirana. If you're eager to try something different, consider Artigiano, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Elysee, Tirana. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent 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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Albania.
Day 3
- Tirana
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Drive 14 km, 55 min
- Tirana Park
- Bunk’Art
- Rruga Murat Toptani
- Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit
- Blloku
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Albania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Tirana for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Tirana and Linzë.
Set aside time today to explore Rruga Murat Toptani, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Bulevardi Dëshmorët e Kombit, a street offering another perspective on the city.
Today’s itinerary in Tirana covers several incredible sights, including a park and a museum. Start your adventure at Grand Park Of Tirana. This worthwhile park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of Bunk’art, a must-see museum in the city.
These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Tirana and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Tirana. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Shije Fshati - Taste of the Village, 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 Villa Tafaj, 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 Oda - Traditional Albanian Cuisine, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Komiteti Bar - Tiranë, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Hemingway Bar Tirana provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tribeca Bar Tirana offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Albania!
Day 4
- Tirana
- Shkoder
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Drive 126 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Kruja Bazaar
- Gjergj Kastrioti National Museum (Skanderbeg)
- Castle of Kruja
- Shkodra Castle
- Xhamia e Madhe - Ebu Bekr mosque
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On day 4 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 Kruje, Bërdicë e Sipërme, and Shkoder. In the evening, you’ll end up in Shkoder, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Tirana. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a market, a museum, a castle, a mosque and much more! Begin your adventure at Kruja Bazaar. This is a locally appreciated market you should not miss. Another must-see is Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu National Museum, an often recommended museum in Tirana.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Krujë Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rozafa Castle, another of the town’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Xhamia E Madhe - Ebu Bekr Mosque, a heritage-rich place of interest in the town.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Shkoder, 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 Shkoder's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Restaurant PURI, a top-rated dining spot in Shkoder. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bar Restaurant Elita, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Fisi Restaurant - Traditional Food. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Shkoder.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Fontana, a prime location for a drink.
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.
Day 5
- Shkoder
- Durrës
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Drive 181 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Mesi Bridge
- Buna River - Velipoja (Protected Landscape)
- Velipoja Beach
- Lezhë Castle
- Lezhë
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Albania. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Shkoder, Shirq, Velipojë, and Lezhë. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Durrës, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.
Shkoder is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Mesi Bridge, an underrated monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Buna River - Velipoja, enchanting visitors with its serene appeal. Continue your exploration at Velipoja Beach. This beach is one of the city’s most up-and-coming spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Shkoder at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Lezhë Castle. After exploring the castle, head to the intriguing Lezhë.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Traiano Lounge Bar Durres, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Sunset Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Durrës. Posh Lounge is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Albania.
Day 6
- Durrës
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Drive 5 km, 53 min
- Vila e Ahmet Zogut
- Durres Amphitheatre
- Venetian Tower of Durrës
- Archaeological Museum of Durrës
- Sfinksi
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On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Durrës. You’ll stay in Durrës for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Immerse yourself in Durrës’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Vila E Ahmet Zogut. This picture-perfect palace is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the breathtaking features of Durrës Amphitheatre, a must-visit archeological site in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Venetian Tower Of Durrës, an increasingly popular monument. For a change of scene, check out Muzeu Kombëtar Arkeologjik, known for its respected features. We also recommend visiting Sfinksi. This sightseeing destination is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
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 Durrës's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Sun Hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Aragosta Hotel & Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Adriatik Hotel, BW Premier Collection. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Durrës.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Illyrian Garden, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Albania!
Day 7
- Durrës
- Tirana
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Drive 198 km, 3 hours 50 min
- Gorica Bridge
- Old Town
- Berat Castle
- Muzeu Kombëtar Ikonografik Onufri
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Albania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - 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.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Durrës, including a historical landmark, a castle, and a museum. Start your day at Gorica Bridge. This stunning historical landmark is an up-and-coming place to see in Durrës. Then, wander over to Old Town Berat. If romantic sites excite you, this historical landmark will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Berat Castle. This UNESCO world heritage-listed castle is a favorite among visitors.
Durrës offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Onufri Iconographic Museum is a frequently visited spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Duff Sports Bar, 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 Stephen Center Restaurant and Coffee Shop, 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 ejona. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Tirana tonight.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Nouvelle Vague Tirana, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Albania!
Day 8
- Tirana - Departure day
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- Tanners' Bridge
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Day 8 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 up-and-coming historical landmark is a popular place to see in the city.
Maximize your last day in Albania and go on a shopping spree in Tirana’s shopping center, the lively Pazari i Ri. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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.
Dine in style at Salt Rest, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hotel Doro City boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
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!
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