The ULTIMATE 1-Week Albania Itinerary From Tirana
Looking for an awesome 1-week Albania itinerary from Tirana? You’ve come to the right place!
Albania is one of those incredible, underrated places that is slowly but surely gaining popularity with the masses. It’s no surprise when you realise just how stunning and diverse Albania really is.
In Albania, you can find jagged mountains, canyons and ravines filled with the clearest blue waters you will ever see and the gorgeous Albanian Riveria and I can now officially say it is one of my favourite countries in Europe.
Not forgetting to mention that you’ll meet some of the most friendly and helpful locals you’ll ever come across. Albania is one of those countries that truly has it all.
In this 1-week Albania road trip itinerary, you will experience the best of what Albania has to offer. From its beautiful mountain landscapes to its shimmering seas and breathtaking Ottoman architecture these 7 days in Albania promise to be the trip of a lifetime.
So, what’s included in this 1-week Albania road trip itinerary? Read on below to find out.
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ALBANIA QUICK FACTS
✈️ How to Get There – Albania is well connected by air, land, and sea. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Tirana International Airport (TIA), which serves flights from major European cities. If you’re traveling from nearby countries like Montenegro, Greece, or North Macedonia, buses and car rentals are great options. Albania also has ferry connections from Italy, making it accessible from the Adriatic Sea. The country’s compact size makes getting around easy, whether by bus, rental car, or private driver.
🛏️ How Long to Stay – You can see Albania’s highlights in 5-7 days, but for a deeper dive into its hidden gems, 10 days or more is ideal. In 5 days, you can explore Southern Albania and the Albanian Riviera, including Berat, Gjirokastër, Sarandë, and Ksamil. If you have more time, you can venture north to Shkodër, Theth, and Valbona, or take a road trip along the stunning coast.
📅 Best Time to Visit – Albania has a Mediterranean climate, making it a great destination year-round. The best time to visit is May to October, with June to September offering warm beach weather along the Riviera. July and August are peak tourist months, so expect higher prices and crowds at popular destinations. For fewer tourists and comfortable temperatures, visit in May, early June, September, or October. If you’re into hiking, spring and autumn are perfect for exploring the Albanian Alps.
About this 1-week Albania Itinerary
This 1-week Albania Itinerary follows the exact Itinerary I took on my own trip to Albania and offers the perfect mix of city vibes, history, culture, and stunning coastal views. Your Itinerary will look like this:
- Day 1 – Tirana
- Day 2 – Berat
- Day 3 – Osum Canyon (day trip from Berat)
- Day 4 – Gjirokastër
- Day 5 – Ksmail/Sarande
- Day 6 – Ksamil/Sarande
- Day 7 – Back to Tirana
Day 1 – Tirana
Arriving in Tirana
Flight
If you are flying into Albania you will need to fly into Tirana International Airport. You can get direct flights into Tirana from the most popular European cities. I always search for cheap flights using Skyscanner. Both Ryanair and Wizz Air fly into Tirana so you should be able to get some good budget deals if you time it right! Depending on what time your flight lands, you might need to consider staying overnight in Tirana.
International Bus
It is very easy to travel to Tirana from other places in the Balkans like Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia and Pristina in Kosovo. If you are travelling overland in the Balkans you can pre-book your bus tickets to Shkodër on either the FlixBus or Omio websites.
Renting a car in Tirana
Renting a car in Albania is super cheap which is what makes this Albania road trip itinerary all the more perfect. You can choose to rent a car that you will pick up from the airport or, if you would prefer, you can pick it up from the city centre.
This is because you won’t need the car until day 2 of this itinerary (so you can save yourself a day of rental fees).
To get to Tirana city centre from the airport (if you’re getting a car from day 2 onwards) you can take the shuttle bus called the “Rinas Express” It runs every day on the hour from 8:00 am until 11:00 pm. Alternatively, you can order a taxi which is around €20-25 (2000-2500 Albanian LEK).
I highly recommend pre-booking a rental car so you can get the exact kind of car that you want. However, if you are doing things a little last minute, there are quite a few car rental companies outside Tirana Airport Arrivals that will have same-day car rentals available for you.
Please ensure that you (or someone in your party) is a confident driver. I noticed that there is a very relaxed attitude to road rules and road safety in Albania, so it’s important to have the confidence to deal with these types of drivers on the road.
Where to stay in Tirana
The best area to stay in Tirana on this 1-week Albania itinerary has to be the area of Tregu Cam.
This is close to all of the best things to see in Tirana, and as you’ll only be spending 1 day in Tirana this is the most convenient option. The top hotels in Tregu Cam include:
- D1 Hostel -A budget-friendly 3-star hostel near Tirana’s city centre which is ideal for solo travellers and is close to major attractions like Bunk’Art 2 and the National History Museum.
- L’Hotel Tirana -One of the best budget hotels in Tirana, perfect if you’re after affordable private rooms. This hotel is conveniently close to the city’s main attractions (this is where I stayed during my time in Tirana and I can recommend it).
- Hotel Europa – One of the top-rated hotels in Tirana and perfect for those seeking a little bit of luxury whilst in Tirana.
Click here to take a look at more hotels in Tirana.
Things to do in Tirana
Tirana is quite a small city, so the good news is you can see many of the best things to do in Tirana in just one day. Here are some of the best things to do on your one day in Tirana.
Guided Walking Tour
This guided walking tour is one of the best things to do in Tirana and I can highly recommend it. It will take you to all of the top sightseeing spots in Tirana such as Skanderbeg Square, the Pyramid of Tirana and Tirana Castle.
The tour lasts 2 hours and will mean you have most of the day to stroll around, do some shopping, eat delicious food and maybe even revisit some of your favourite spots from the tour.
If walking tours aren’t your thing, you can of course do all of the sightseeing yourself, some of the top spots are below.
Skanderbeg Square
Skanderbeg Square is the heart of Tirana so its definitely worth visiting during your time in Tirana. It’s the kind of place that immediately gives you a sense of the city’s energy and history.
Named after Albania’s national hero, Gjerji Kastrioti Skanderbeg, who led the resistance against the Ottoman Empire, the square is home to a striking equestrian statue in his honour. I loved how the square felt like a gathering place for both locals and visitors and how it was the perfect place to people watch.
Et’hem Bej Mosque
The Et’hem Bey Mosque was one of the places we couldn’t wait to visit in Tirana, and it did not disappoint. This historic mosque, dating back to the early 1800s, is a beautiful example of Ottoman-style architecture.
What makes this mosque even more special is its deep significance to the Albanian people. During the communist era, religious practice was banned, and many places of worship were closed. But in 1991, after decades of being off-limits, the mosque finally reopened.
Tirana Castle
Tirana Castle, also known as the Fortress of Justinian was one of those places that surprised me. We expected to see remnants of ancient city walls, and whilst there is definitely still that there, what we actually found was a vibrant mix of shops and cafes.
As you walk through the castle grounds you will find a nice mix of old and new. The fortress which dates back centuries still holds traces of the past but at the same time, the space has been transformed into a lively hub where you can find cosy cafés perfect for a coffee break, boutique shops selling unique crafts, and even small cultural spaces showcasing Albania’s heritage.
Namazgah Mosque
The Namazgah Mosque is still under construction but it is set to be one of the biggest mosques in the Balkans! I recommend paying this mosque a quick visit to admire its beautiful and unique architecture featuring white-washed walls and domed roofs.
Pyramid of Tirana:
The Pyramid of Tirana is one of the most distinctive buildings in the city centre. It was built in 1988 as a museum for Albania’s former leader Enver Hoxha and is one of the most distinctive buildings in the city center. Over the years it’s been used for multiple purposes like a conference centre and a broadcasting site. Currently, it’s in poor condition but there are plans to renovate it and turn it into a cultural and youth center.
Bunk’Art 2
Bunk’Art 2 is a fascinating museum housed inside a former nuclear bunker, and I absolutely loved exploring it. Inside you will find immersive exhibits that take you back to Albania’s communist era. It’s truly eye-opening and gives a sense of what life was like during that time. If you’re interested in Albania’s recent history, this is a place you won’t want to miss.
Admission to Bunk’Art 2 is 500 LEK per person, with an optional audio guide available for an additional 200 LEK.
Best Restaurants and Bars in Tirana
- Era Blloku – The go-to spot for incredible traditional Albanian cuisine.
- Kripe Dhe Piper– A top-rated choice in Tirana for outstanding Italian dishes and fresh seafood.
- Era Villa – A great option if you’re after traditional Albanian food with a luxury twist.
- Salt Tirana – The perfect sushi fix in the heart of Tirana.
- Mondial Terrace – A vibrant bar and pizzeria with stunning city views from day to night.
- Radio Bar – A quirky, eclectic cocktail bar known for its creative drinks.
- Oping’s Cocktails and Beer -A lively bar set within the historic walls of Tirana Castle.
Day 2 – Berat
Day 2 of this 1-week Albania Itinerary will see you heading over to the beautiful town of Berat, best known for its stunning and historic architecture.
Berat is a UNESCO world heritage site that is often referred to as “the town of 1000 windows” thanks to its large windows on the old decorated houses overlooking the town. Berat is one of my favourite towns in Albania, and I think everyone should visit!
How to get from Tirana to Berat
The drive from Tirana to Berat is 1hr 45m and 99km in distance.
Where to stay in Berat
Berat is a fairly small town, so no matter where you decide to stay you will be in good distance from all the best things to do in Berat. Some of the top hotels in Berat I recommend are:
- Hotel Klea – A very traditional and reasonably priced hotel set within the historic Gorica quarter of Berat. This charming, family-run hotel offers warm hospitality, spacious rooms with rustic decor, and a cosy atmosphere.
- Hotel Borklad – A beautiful family-run hotel located in the heart of Berat, just a short walk from key attractions such as the Berat Castle and the old Mangalem quarter(this is where I stayed during my time in Berat and I absolutely loved it).
- Timo’s Guest House – A stunning guesthouse that combines the charm of a traditional stay with a luxury edge.
Click here to take a look at more hotels in Berat.
For this itinerary, you will need to book 2-nights in Berat.
Things to do in Berat
Berat is small but it’s an incredibly charming town, which makes it perfect to explore in just one day. You’ll be able to explore all the must-see spots without feeling rushed. Here are some of the best things to do during your one day in Berat!
Berat Castle
Berat Castle, also known as the “Citadel of Berat,” was easily one of my favourite spots in the city. It’s the most iconic landmark in Berat, and for good reason. Dating back to the 13th century from the Byzantine era, the castle feels like stepping back in time. The castle is free to enter, and once you’re up there, you’ll be rewarded with absolutely breathtaking views over Berat
Admire the “1000 windows” in Old Town Berat
The Old Town of Berat, as I mentioned earlier, is often called “the town of 1000 windows”. As you explore the Old Town, you will discover why. The traditional white Ottoman houses with their endless rows of windows create a very picturesque view. I loved strolling through the Old Town, taking in the beautiful architecture and soaking up the atmosphere. If you love photography, you’re in for a treat as these windows make for the perfect postcard-like photos.
Berat Walking Tour
Booking on to a walking tour of Berat is such a great way to learn more about this beautiful town. Now, I’m not usually a walking tour person, but I decided to give this one a go and I was pleasantly surprised. At 2 hours it was the perfect amount of time and I felt like I got to learn loads of interesting facts about Berat.
Gorica Bridge
The Gorica Bridge, spanning over the Osum River is another iconic spot in the city that I thought was just so beautiful. The bridge was originally built from wood in 1780 until the 1920s when it was rebuilt with stone. I recommend taking a leisurely stroll across the bridge and admire more of Berat’s awesome views.
Bulevardi Republika
Take a break from Berat’s historic charm and explore the city’s modern side with a stroll along the main boulevard. As you wander through, you’ll find a mix of local shops, cosy cafés, and a lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab an ice cream along the way while you soak in the everyday buzz of this beautiful town!
Cobo Winery
A trip to Cobo Winery is a must during any trip to Berat. Set in a beautiful vineyard, for just €45 per person, you’ll get the opportunity to try a delicious array of wines, cheese and meats as well as get a tour of the winery. What I love about Cobo is that it is a family-run winery full of authenticity and passion. If I wasn’t driving I definitely could have spent all day there taste-testing multiple wines!
Best Restaurants In Berat
- Tradita e Beratit – Simple, delicious food in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- Ballkoni Gorices – A stunning rooftop bar with panoramic views over Berat.
- Lili Homemade Food – More than a meal—Lili’s offers an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t miss the lamb!
- Eni Traditional Food – A top-rated spot for authentic Albanian cuisine with scenic views of Gorica Bridge.
Day 3 – Bogove Waterfall And Osumi Canyon (Day Trip From Berat)
On day 3 of this itinerary, you will head to the breathtakingly beautiful Osumi Canyon. Osumi Canyon in Albania is a beautiful place with deep gorges and scenic views. It stretches for about 26 kilometres and features high cliffs, lush vegetation, and flowing river waters. This is a great place to go hiking, rafting, and admiring the unique rock formations. When travelling to Osumi Canyon you have 2 options to choose from.
Option 1 – Self Drive
You can either drive to Bogove and Osumi yourself and explore on your own, or book a guided tour and get picked up from Berat. The drive from Berat to Bogove Waterfall is 1hr and 35.5km and from Bogove Waterfall to Osumi Canyon is approximately 34m and 19km.
Option 2 – Guided Tour
I recommend booking this guided tour, this is quite a long day of walking, hiking and exploring so if you can avoid doing the day of driving as well this will be a much more enjoyable experience for you.
Day 4 – Gjirokastër
Gjirokastër is a breathtaking historic city in southern Albania and a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as the “City of Stone,” it’s famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and charming cobbled streets that transport you back in time.
One of the things I loved most about Gjirokastër was its unique houses with their distinctive stone roofs and crisp whitewashed walls.
How to get from Berat to Gjirokastër
The drive from Berat to Gjirokastër is 2h 34m and 181km in distance.
Where to stay in Gjirokastër
There are lots of incredible hotels in Gjirokastër that are reasonably priced with great views of Gjirokastër.
One thing to note is that Gjirokastër can be quite difficult to navigate, and you can get easily lost when trying to find your hotel. Make sure you get good directions from your accommodation before you set off.
Some of the top hotels in Gjirokastër I recommend are:
- Kerculla Resort – A stunning luxury resort perched on a hilltop, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the historic city of Gjirokastër.
- Guesthouse Mele – A beautiful and reasonably priced guesthouse surrounded by the lush green fields of Gjirokastër.
- Panoramic Vlachos -A fantastic budget-friendly option with stunning views over Gjirokastër’s historic rooftops and surrounding mountains (this is where I stayed during my time in Gjirokastër and I loved it here, the owner is so wholesome).
Click here to take a look at more hotels in Gjirokastër.
Things to do in Gjirokastër
Much like Berat, Gjirokastër is also a small town that you will be able to explore in just one day. Here are some of the best things to do on your one day in Gjirokastër.
Explore the Old Town Bazaar
A visit to Gjirokastër wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Old Town Bazaar. As you wander through its charming cobblestone streets, you’ll be surrounded by beautifully preserved Ottoman-era buildings.
I loved browsing the market and admiring Albania’s rich craftsmanship. And of course, no visit would be complete without stopping at one of the local cafés to savour some authentic Albanian cuisine.
Visit the Castle of Gjirokastër
The Castle of Gjirokastër dates back to the 12th century and is a must-visit for its rich history and incredible views over the city. As you explore its ancient stone walls and towers, you’ll get a real sense of its past. Inside, the on-site museum offers a deeper look into its history with fascinating artefacts. It’s the perfect spot to take in the scenery and learn more about Gjirokastër’s heritage.
Explore the Manalat Quarter
The Manalat Quarter is a picturesque part of Gjirokastër, known for its steep cobblestone streets and traditional stone houses. It’s a great place for a relaxed stroll, offering a quieter, more local feel compared to the main tourist areas. With its scenic alleyways and historic charm, it’s also a perfect spot to capture some beautiful photos
Visit the Ali Pasha Bridge
This beautiful stone bridge, built in the early 19th century, stretches across the Drino River and is a great spot for a scenic walk. I loved how peaceful it felt here. If you’re looking for a quiet place to take in the views and enjoy a bit of history, this is definitely worth a visit!
Explore the Cold War tunnel
The Cold War Tunnel in Gjirokastër is a very cool secret underground passage built during the communist era. Here you will get the chance to walk through its narrow, eerie corridors and learn all about its history and purpose. Tickets cost around 200 lek (€2).
Best Restaurants in Gjirokastër
- Taverna Tradicionale Kardhashi– The top-rated spot in Gjirokastër for authentic Albanian cuisine.
- Vojsava Restaurant – A family-run gem serving healthy, locally sourced dishes.
- Restaurant Tradicional Urat – Traditional flavours paired with stunning views of the town.
- Hangover Cocktail Bar– The perfect place for after-dinner cocktails.
Day 5 – Ksamil
Ksamil is a stunning beach village on Albania’s Ionian coast, known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and sandy beaches. It’s the perfect spot to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. On a clear day, you can even see the Greek island of Corfu just across the water.
How to get from Gjirokastër to Ksamil
The drive from Gjirokastër to Ksamil is 1hr 20m and 68km in distance.
Stops en route from Gjirokastër to Ksamil
On this particular part of your Albania road trip itinerary, you’ll be making a stop en route to Ksamil. You will be stopping off at the stunning “Blue Eye”.
The Blue Eye is a beautiful natural spring with deep blue, clear water and surrounded by a lush green forest. It’s not recommended to swim here because the water is very cold and deep, but it hasn’t stopped people from doing so in the past.
It takes 51 minutes to drive to the Blue Eye from Gjirokastër and 58 minutes to drive from the Blue Eye to Ksamil.
Where to stay in Ksamil
Some of the best hotels in Ksamil include:
- Villa Nertili – A fantastic budget-friendly stay offering breathtaking sea views in the heart of Ksamil.
- Ventus Hotel – A great option for travellers looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability near the beach.
- Hotel Queen Margaret Seaside – Just 500 meters from the beach, Hotel Queen Margaret is one of the most popular stays in Ksamil, thanks to its fantastic location, great prices, and stunning beach views.
Click here to take a look at more hotels in Ksamil
For this 1-week itinerary, you will need to book 2 nights in Ksamil.
Things to do in Ksamil
The best thing about Ksamil is that it’s a beautiful beach town so for this part of your 1-week Albania itinerary you’ll get to enjoy a bit of downtime and relax on the beach.
Relax on the beach
There are lots of small beaches located in Ksamil and some of the best ones worth visiting include:
- Ksamil Beach
- Lori Beach
- Augusto Beach
- Ohana Beach
- Mirror Beach
- Pulëbardha beach
- Shpella e Pëllumbave
Out of all the beaches featured on this list, my top 3 choices are Mirror Beach, Shpella e Pëllumbave and Pulëbardha Beach. These beaches are just a short drive out of town, and because of that, they are a lot quieter and a little more low-key.
Unfortunately, some of the beaches in Ksamil are private, so you will have to pay for sunbeds and this can average around 800 (€8) to 2,500 (€25) LEK.
Spend the day chilling at a beach club
There are lots of beach clubs located in Ksamil if you’re after a chilled day with a luxury vibe then head to one of these beach clubs:
- Bianco Beach Club
- Principotes and Tulum Resto Lounge
- Poda Lounge
- Black Pearl Beach Club
Kayak over to the Ksamil Islands
The Ksamil islands are located just off the mainland and are easily visible from the shores of Ksamil Beach. To reach the islands you can rent a kayak, row boats, pedalos, paddle-board or even get private boats over to the island which are ideal if you are in a big group.
Renting a kayak or row boat will cost you 1,000 lek (€10) per hour or you can book this private paddle-board tour.
Best Restaurants in Ksamil
- The Mussel House – A top Ksamil restaurant on Butrint Lake, known for fresh seafood and breathtaking views.
- Guvat Restaurant – A fantastic choice for healthy Mediterranean cuisine with stunning sea views.
- Fourth Island – A highly-rated spot in Ksamil for exceptional Italian and seafood dishes.
⬇️ NOTE ON KSAMIL ⬇️
I don’t know about you but I’ve seen a lot of videos on my social media saying that Ksamil is the “Maldives of Europe”.
Just to manage expectations here, Ksamil is nothing like the Maldives, yes it is beautiful but not the Maldives and more reminiscent of Greek-style beaches.
If you’re looking for Maldives/Caribbean-style beaches in Europe then I recommend opting for somewhere like Sardinia (and even then the Maldives comparison is a stretch).
Day 6 – Explore Butrint National Park & Sarande (Day trip from Ksamil)
On the penultimate day of this 7-day Albania itinerary, you can explore Brutrint National Park and Sarande. The two are in opposite directions, but still very close in distance so you won’t spend too much time going back on yourself.
I recommend visiting Butrint National Park early in the morning, before heading over to Saranda to finish the rest of your day. The journey between Butrint and Saranda is just 35 minutes.
Butrint National Park
Butrint National Park is a UNESCO site with amazing ruins and beautiful nature. Here you can see ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine remains surrounded by lush landscapes and wildlife. Tickets cost about 700 lek (€7) for adults.
If you’re heading here during the height of summer, I recommend visiting Butrint as early as possible, as it can get extremely hot whilst walking around here.
Explore the streets of Saranda
Saranda has a lively yet relaxed vibe, making it the perfect place for a casual stroll. You can wander through the local markets, stop by a café for some fresh seafood, and take in the beautiful views of the Ionian Sea. It’s a great way to get a feel for the town and soak up the atmosphere at your own pace.
Relax at Lost Seaside Saranda
If you’re looking for a spot to relax, Lost Seaside Beach Club is a great choice. With a pool overlooking the Ionian Sea, it’s the perfect place to take a break, go for a swim, and enjoy a cocktail.
Watch the Sunset from Lekuresi Castle
Watching the sunset from Lekuresi Castle was one of my favourite experiences in Saranda. Sitting on a hilltop, the castle offers incredible views over the sea, the Greek island of Corfu, and the surrounding hills. It’s the perfect place to end the day, whether you buy a drink, take some photos, or just sit back and enjoy the view.
Day 7 – Return in Tirana
On day 7 of this 1-week Albania Itinerary, it is unfortunately time to return to Tirana. The drive from Ksamil to Tirana is a long one at around 4 hours and 276km. However, I would allow for at least 5 hours to 5.5 hours as it’s super important to take breaks during these long drives.
Alternative options or Have more time?
If you’re looking for alternative options, have a little extra time to explore, or want to go to lesser-known places, consider visiting the following spots:
Tomorri Mountain National Park (NEAR BERAT)
Just a short trip from Berat, this park is known for its hiking trails, stunning peaks, and a mystical atmosphere which locals even call Albania’s Olympus!
Vlorë (NEAR BERAT)
A coastal city close to Berat, Vlorë is where the Adriatic meets the Ionian Sea. It’s famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historical significance as Albania’s independence declaration site.
Himarë (NEAR KSAMIL)
Like Ksamil, Himarë is a stunning beach town along the Albanian Riviera, but it’s far less touristy and developed. If you prefer a more laid-back, tranquil vibe, Himarë and its surrounding areas might be the perfect choice over Ksamil.
Durres (NEAR TIRANA)
A port city just a short drive from Tirana, Durrës is home to Albania’s largest beach, ancient Roman ruins, and a lively boardwalk, making it a good place to visit if you are a history or beach lover.
Dhërmi
A picturesque beach town located between Vlorë and Himarë, Dhërmi is known for its crystal-clear waters, lively beach bars, and a mix of relaxation and nightlife along the Albanian Riviera.
Llogara National Park (NEAR Vlorë)
Situated near Vlorë, this breathtaking park is famous for its scenic mountain pass, dense pine forests, and incredible viewpoints overlooking the Ionian Sea which is perfect for hiking and nature escapes.
FAQ’s on Albania
Is Albania cheap to vacation?
Yes, Albania is a budget-friendly holiday spot. Things like hotels, food, and transportation cost less than in many other European countries. You can enjoy beautiful scenery, historic sites, and great food without spending too much money.
Where is the best place to base yourself in Albania?
Tirana, the capital city, is the best place to stay. It has plenty of hotels, restaurants, and cultural sites. From Tirana, you can easily visit other popular spots like Berat and the beaches. It’s a great central location for exploring both North and South Albania.
Should I visit North or South Albania?
South Albania is the area I would recommend for first-time visitors. It has beautiful beaches, historic towns like Berat and Gjirokastër, and stunning coastal cities like Saranda and Vlora. North Albania is great for mountain scenery and adventure activities.
If you have at least 10 days in Albania you can explore both the North and South of the country.
What is the best month to visit Albania?
September is the best month to visit Albania. The weather is still warm, but there are fewer tourists. This makes it perfect for enjoying the beaches and historical sites. Also, prices for hotels and travel are usually much cheaper in September.
Is Saranda or Ksamil better?
Both are great, but they offer different experiences. Saranda is a bigger city with more amenities and nightlife, whereas Ksamil is known for its beautiful beaches. I would suggest choosing to stay in Saranda for a lively atmosphere or Ksamil for a relaxing beach escape.
Is Albania Safe?
Albania has low crime rates, especially when it comes to violent crime against tourists. Petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in busy areas (as in any country), but it’s not a major issue. Albanians are known for their hospitality, and travellers often rave about how welcoming and helpful the locals are.
I did have one bad experience as a solo female traveller where I got flashed by a man whilst getting off a bus, however, this was an isolated incident and something that can happen literally anywhere, so this did not tarnish my view of the country.
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Prepare for your trip to Albania
🛏️Accommodation: When you’re hunting for great deals, make sure to check out different sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com! If you’re on a budget, then make sure to check out Hostelworld.
✈️Flights: Check out the best flight deals with Skyscanner and Trip.com. I never search anywhere else!
🚆Transport: Need to book a bus or train whilst travelling? Check out your options on 12goasia.com, Bookaway.com and thetrainline.com.
🚗Rental Cars: Looking to rent a car for your adventures? Check out prices on Rentalcars.com and Discovercars.com.
🎟️Activities: Check out Get Your Guide and Viator for 100s of activities whilst travelling.
🦋Insurance: Make sure you’re covered against any incidents during your trip. Get affordable and flexible insurance with SafetyWing.
📱Download an eSIM: Avoid roaming fees, and have peace of mind that you have internet access when WiFi isn’t available. Download SIMs from either Airalo or Holafly for your time abroad.
Happy Exploring
I hope this post has helped you plan your 1-week Albania Itinerary. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out.
