The Best Albania 10 Day Itinerary (2024)

My #1 Thing To Do During Your 10 Day Albania Itinerary

Albania 10 Day Itinerary Overview

I’ve planned this Albania route so you can see as many top sights as possible without feeling too rushed. Trying to see the whole country in just 10 days would be a challenge, but this itinerary focuses on the best of Albania in a manageable timeframe.

Therefore, I have not included the North of Albania in this Albania travel itinerary. The North deserves separate attention and more time as it’s packed with its own highlights, such as the stunning Valbona Valley and charming towns like Shkoder.

If you’re looking for an Albania itinerary that includes these locations then check out my three-week Montenegro and Albania road trip itinerary.

But for now, let’s focus on exploring Southern Albania in 10 days.

Itinerary For Albania: How To Spend 10 Days In Albania

You can complete this itinerary by renting a car and driving the route, using public transport or hitchhiking.

It’s pretty easy to travel around Albania without a car. However, do note that if you plan to hitchhike, you may need to allow more time to reach each destination.

Day 1: Tirana

Today you will arrive in Albania and spend your first day leisurely exploring the vibrant capital city, Tirana. The city is full of history, lively energy, and delicious food.

I recommend that you check into your accommodation in Tirana and then simply relax for a while after your long travel day. 

If you have time and energy, you can explore the city by taking a walk around the main Skanderbeg Square. This is where you’ll find most of the landmarks and monuments, such as the National History Museum, Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the Clock Tower.

As the sun sets head to the newly renovated Tirana Pyramid, which is now a multifunctional cultural center.

The pyramid used to be abandoned and covered in graffiti, but it has now been transformed into a modern and vibrant space where locals gather to hang out. You can climb up the pyramid for a great view of the city at sunset.

If you’re feeling hungry, head to Blloku – a trendy neighbourhood with lots of restaurants and bars. Make sure to also try the local drink rakia – a strong fruit brandy that is popular in Albania.

Day 2: Tirana

Start your day in Tirana with a free walking tour, a perfect way to acquaint yourself with the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. These tours are typically led by enthusiastic local guides who are eager to share their love and knowledge of the city.

I recommend taking the 9 am tour so that you have enough time to make the most of your day in Tirana. The tours usually last a couple of hours and operate on a tip-based system, so it’s accessible to everyone, regardless of budget.

Next head to BunkArt2, a museum housed in an underground bunker that was formerly used as a nuclear shelter during the communist era.

It has since been transformed into a museum which displays artefacts from Albania’s past, giving visitors an insight into the country’s turbulent history. I really enjoyed BunkArt and rate it as one of the best things to do in Tirana.

Once you have reemerged above ground, head to Mt Dajti National Park for some fresh air and stunning views of the city. There is a cable car that takes you up to the top, where you can go hiking or simply enjoy the views.

End your day with dinner at the Sky Club, a panoramic rooftop bar with great views of the city. And if you still have some energy left after your meal, you can take a stroll through the bustling streets of Tirana and experience the lively nightlife.

You’ll find plenty of clubs, bars, and live music venues to choose from. Be sure to stop by The Cloud and get some fun Instagram shots too!

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: If you want to get your adrenaline pumping you can try tandem paragliding while at Mt Dajti National Park. It offers a unique way to experience the beautiful Albanian scenery.

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Day 3: Berat

Spend a relaxing morning in Tirana enjoying the city’s laid-back cafe culture.  Try some traditional Albanian coffee and pastries at Komiteti Kafe-Muzeum, a unique cafe decorated to look like an Albanian home from the communist era. It’s a fun spot and the coffee here is great!

Before leaving Tirana, stop by the House of Leaves, also known as The Museum of Secret Surveillance. It’s a museum that tells the story of Albania’s communist past and showcases all the ways the dictatorship surveyed and controlled its citizens. It’s an interesting and eye-opening experience.

In the afternoon, head to Berat. To get there, you can either drive or take a bus from Tirana. The journey takes around 2 hours and offers some stunning views of the Albanian countryside.

Once in Berat, check into your accommodation and head out to explore the city’s charming old town. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat is known for its well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

You can take a stroll through the narrow streets of Mangalem, one of Berat’s oldest neighbourhoods with traditional Ottoman houses and craft shops. For dinner, head to the area around the old town where you’ll find plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Day 4: Berat & Himare

Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Berat Castle, a fortress standing proudly atop a hill overlooking the city.

This historical gem dates back to the 4th century BC and offers not just a fascinating peek into the past, but also some of the most breathtaking views of Berat and the surrounding landscapes.

The site is still home to a few residents and hosts several churches. The people who live there are super friendly. I met the sweetest lady who excitedly called her granddaughter over to translate so that she could offer me tea at her home. I was also given a bag of plums by a friendly old man.

After your morning at the castle, grab a quick lunch in the old town then begin your journey to Himare. 

The drive takes around 3 hours and will take you along the Albanian Riviera, known for its stunning beaches and coastal scenery. You can stop at some of the Riviera beaches along the way. I recommend Jala and Dhermi Beach, in particular. 

Getting there by public transport will be a bit trickier, you can make your way to Vlore and then catch a bus from there. or head back to Tirana and transfer to a bus heading for Saranda. I would allow at least 5 hours for the journey.

I chose to hitchhike this route and had a lot of fun meeting friendly locals who insisted on stopping to show us their favourite beaches and viewpoints along the way. 

I know hitchhiking isn’t for everyone but if you’re up for an adventure it’s a great way to meet some amazing people and see some hidden gems. Hitchhiking was my favourite way to get around in Albania.

Once you arrive in Himare, check into your accommodation and head out to explore the town. This small coastal village has a laid-back vibe and is perfect for soaking up some sun and relaxing by the sea.

You can spend your evening strolling along the promenade, trying out some of the local food, or even taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters.

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: Don’t forget to bring your camera to the castle! The panoramic views are something you’ll want to capture and remember. Also, the pathways can be a bit uneven and slippery, so wear comfortable shoes.

Day 5: Himare

Today is a beach day!

Himare might not be on most people’s radar, but for backpackers who have made their way to this part of the world, it’s a must-visit destination.

I spent a few days in Himare and I honestly regret not staying longer. It’s a great base for exploring the nearby beaches of the Albanian Riviera and also has a really fun nightlife and small resort town kind of vibe. The sunsets in Himare were absolutely incredible too.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Himare. You can spend your day exploring the town, lounging on the beach, or hiking to some of the secluded coves nearby.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the stunning coastline from a different perspective. Or if you prefer a more relaxed activity, then simply grab a spot on the beach and soak up the sun.

The top beaches in Himare are all conveniently located within walking distance of each other. This allows you to easily visit and explore each of them.

The beaches in Himare are really nice. The turquoise water is some of the clearest I’ve ever seen. I remember swimming out really far to where the water was very deep and I could still see all the way to the bottom!

In the evening, head to the main promenade where you’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars offering delicious Mediterranean-style dishes and refreshing cocktails. Don’t forget to catch one of the stunning sunsets while enjoying your dinner.

After dinner, you can continue the night at one of the lively beach bars or clubs in town. The atmosphere is always buzzing with locals and tourists alike, making it a perfect place to meet new people and make some unforgettable memories.

Day 6: Gjipe Beach

Today you’ll be visiting another gorgeous beach in the area, Gjipe Beach. This secluded beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and can only be accessed by boat or via a short hike through the surrounding canyon.

Even though it is a well-known beach in Albania, it remains crowd-free due to its remote location. This adds to the charm and authenticity of the beach, as you won’t find any loud music or crowds of tourists here.

I recommend taking a furgon that is heading from Himare to Saranda and asking the driver to let you off at the top of Gjipe Canyon. From here you will need to hike down to the beach from the main road at the top of the cliffs. The hike itself is an adventure, with stunning views and occasional glimpses of the shimmering water below.

For me, this was an incredible experience, as the hike was beautiful and the views from the top of the canyon were stunning. I did some great hikes in Albania and this was one of my favourites. 

Once you reach the beach, you’ll be rewarded with crystal-clear water perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try renting a paddle board or kayak and paddling to some of the nearby sea caves. Or simply relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of this hidden gem.

After spending a few hours at Gjipe Beach, make your way back to Himare for another delicious dinner and drinks by the beach.

If you still have some energy left you can climb up to Himare castle to watch the sunset and take in the beautiful views of the Albanian Riviera.

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: You can find a detailed guide on how to get to Glipe Beach here.

Day 7: Saranda

Spend your last morning in Himare enjoying a leisurely breakfast, getting some pool time at your hotel and taking in the picturesque views before heading on to your next destination – Saranda.

It’s a short and scenic 1-hour drive along the Albanian coastline to get to Saranda or you can catch one of the furgons that leave several times a day.

Saranda (also known as Sarandë) is the biggest town on the Albanian Riviera. Many travellers come here to explore the nearby beaches and Roman ruins or to take a day trip to Corfu island.

Saranda is polarizing. I enjoyed my time in Saranda but I met other backpackers there who couldn’t wait to leave.

At its core Saranda is a resort town. It’s a very popular holiday destination for Albanians and other holidaymakers from the neighbouring Balkan countries. It can get crowded, noisy, a little dirty, and suffer from all those other negative aspects that you can expect from any popular holiday destination.

Despite those negativities, there are a lot of good reasons to visit Saranda.

Some of the best luxury hotels on the Albanian Riviera can be found in Saranda. There are a ton of nice beaches to relax on, the nightlife is fantastic and best of all, it is a great place to base yourself to explore some of Albania’s top sites.

Start your visit by wandering around the promenade and marina, taking in the sights of the Ionian Sea and the colourful buildings that line the shore.

You can stop by the ruins of a 5th-century synagogue in the centre of Sarandë. There is not too much to see here but there are some interesting mosaics and it’s worth a quick look whilst you are in town.

In the evening you can dance the night away in one of Saranda’s fun nightclubs. My favourite is Mango Beach Club.

Day 8: Butrint & Ksamil

Today you can explore two of  Albania’s top sites – Butrint and Ksamil.

Start your day by heading to Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to an ancient city that has been inhabited since prehistoric times.

Take your time to explore the site and see the impressive Roman ruins, including the theatre, temple and forum. You’ll experience some incredibly well-preserved Roman ruins but with only a fraction of the crowds that you would expect at similar ruins in nearby Italy or Greece.

To get to Butrint, you can take a local bus (furgon) or taxi from Saranda. You can then take another furgon to Ksamil.

The furgons are infrequent so you may find yourself waiting around for a while at Butrint. If you would prefer a more convenient option, you can also go on a guided tour to Butrint and Ksamil from Saranda.

Afterwards, head to the nearby seaside village of Ksamil for a relaxing afternoon on its beautiful beaches. It is the most popular and well-known beach on the Albanian Riviera.

Ksamil is popular for its many beach clubs and beach bars which will provide you with everything you need for the perfect beach day. It’s also one of the best places to go snorkelling or paddleboarding as the waters are so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom.

I recommend staying in Ksamil for dinner and sunset and then hitchhiking or taking a taxi back to Saranda.

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: Due to its popularity Ksamil does get extremely busy during the summer months and the prices here are higher than elsewhere on the Riviera. If you are on a budget bring a packed lunch with you and walk to the end of the beach, past all the beach clubs, where you can find a small section of free public beach.

Day 9: Gjirokaster & The Blue Eye

Next up is Gjirokaster, a city that has been preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site with its beautiful Ottoman-era architecture.

To get there, you can take a bus from Saranda or for a fun adventure you can rent a moped for the day. My friends and I did this and had a blast! Of course, if you don’t fancy driving a moped, you can also take a private tour of Gjirokaster and the Blue Eye from Saranda with a tour guide.

Once you reach Gjirokaster head to the castle at the top of the hill, take in the views and appreciate the remarkably well-preserved 12th-century fortress. Be sure to check out the old Cold War era American ‘spy plane’, displayed within the grounds.

There’s also an Ottoman bridge located behind the castle, which you can hike to. Use the maps.me app to find the viewpoint (search for Ali Pasha’s bridge).

In the afternoon head to The Blue Eye Spring – a clear water spring with a more than 50-metre-deep pool. The water is an intense blue and turquoise colour and looks unreal! 

Divers have attempted to dive to the bottom of the Blue Eye to calculate its depth but it’s still unclear how deep It really goes.

There are signs around that ban swimming but that doesn’t seem to deter people from jumping in. Just let me warn you… If you fancy a swim, the water is extremely cold! 

💁🏻‍♀️JJ’s Top Tip: Getting to the blue eye can be a bit of a pain if you don’t have your own vehicle. So I highly recommend booking a tour to visit The Blue Eye on a day trip from Sarandë.

Day 10: Saranda

For your last day in Saranda, I recommend taking it easy and enjoying the beautiful beaches. Saranda has several picturesque beaches to choose from, each with its own unique charm.

For a more laid-back vibe, head to Mirror Beach or Santa Quaranta Beach, where you can relax in peace and quiet. If you prefer a livelier atmosphere, check out Mango Beach with its resident DJs and fun party vibes.

If you don’t fancy a beach day and would rather do something a little more adventurous then you can head out on an open-top jeep safari which will take you to some of the best spots along the coast.

You can also take a boat trip from Saranda Harbour. Hop on a cool sailing catamaran and kick off a fun boat tour along the coast. Dive into crystal clear waters, jam out to some tunes, and maybe even enjoy a BBQ if you’re up for it.

For your last evening in Albania, make sure to catch an unforgettable sunset at the Lekursi Castle. This ancient castle sits atop a hill and offers stunning panoramic views of Saranda and the coast. You can grab some drinks and snacks at the castle’s bar and enjoy a magical evening watching the sun go down.

💕 If you use this itinerary or follow any of my recommendations, feel free to send me a DM or tag me on Instagram! I love to follow along on your adventures!

Where To Go Next After Your 10 Day Albania Itinerary

After exploring Albania for 10 days, you may be wondering where to go next. Luckily, there are plenty of options for continuing your travels.

Montenegro

If you’re looking for another coastal destination, neighbouring Montenegro is a great choice. With its stunning beaches and charming old towns, it’s a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Corfu, Greece

If you want to experience a different culture and cuisine, why not hop over to the nearby Greek island of Corfu? With its picturesque beaches and lively nightlife, it’s a popular destination for tourists.

Corfu is extremely easy to reach from Albania as there is a regular ferry service which runs daily between Saranda and Corfu.

Northern Albania

If you have more time to spend in Albania and are craving more mountain scenery and outdoor activities, head to the North of Albania.

The region is home to the stunning Theth National Park and Valbona Valley National Park where you can hike, camp and experience traditional village life.

The Albanian Riviera

This Albania itinerary for 10 days has given you a brief introduction to the Albanian Riviera. However, If you want to spend more time in the Albanian Riviera then check out my Albanian Riviera road trip guide.

Tips For Planning A Trip To Albania

• Research the weather: The best time to visit Albania is during the shoulder season from April to June or September to October when the weather is pleasant and prices are lower.
• Pack appropriately: Depending on which regions you plan to visit, make sure to pack accordingly. For coastal areas, bring swimwear and light clothing, while for mountainous regions, pack warmer clothes and sturdy shoes for hiking.
• Learn some basic Albanian phrases: While many people in Albania speak English, it’s always appreciated if you can greet locals in their native language. Plus, learning a few key phrases can come in handy when navigating smaller towns and villages.
• Be careful on the roads: If you plan to rent a car in Albania, be aware that the road conditions can be challenging, especially in mountainous areas. Drive carefully and be prepared for narrow roads and sharp turns.
• Try the local food: Albanian cuisine is delicious and often influenced by Mediterranean and Balkan flavours. Don’t miss out on trying traditional dishes such as byrek (savoury pie) or fërgesë (a meat and cheese casserole).

FAQs: Albania 10 Day Itinerary

Is Albania Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Albania is worth visiting! Albania is a hidden gem in Europe, with stunning natural beauty, rich history and culture, delicious food, and welcoming locals. It’s definitely worth adding to your travel bucket list.

What time of year is it best to visit Albania?

The best time to visit Albania is during the shoulder season from April to June or September to October when the weather is pleasant and prices are lower. However, if you prefer warmer temperatures, summer (July-August) is also a good time to visit. Just be prepared for higher prices and more crowds.

Is Albania expensive to visit?

Compared to other European countries, Albania is generally more affordable. Accommodation, transportation and food are all very reasonably priced. However, prices can be higher in touristy areas during peak season. It’s always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly.

How many days are sufficient for Albania?

It really depends on your travel style and the places you want to visit. A 10-day itinerary, like the one provided in this guide, can give you a good overview of Albania’s main highlights. If you have more time, consider extending your trip to explore more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

How to spend 10 days in Albania?

There are many ways to spend 10 days in Albania, but I recommend a combination of exploring the country’s history and culture, enjoying its stunning nature, and trying traditional dishes. This itinerary covers all these aspects, but feel free to customize it according to your preferences.

What is the currency used in Albania?

The official currency of Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). It’s recommended to exchange some currency before arriving in Albania or withdraw from an ATM once you’re there. US dollars and euros are also accepted in some places.

Which are the best places to visit in Albania?

Albania is a diverse country with many beautiful destinations to discover. Some of the must-visit places include Tirana, Berat, The ancient city of Butrint and The Albanian Riviera, for its stunning beaches and coastal towns like Saranda and Himare. These are just a few suggestions, but there are many more hidden gems.

Should I visit North or South Albania?

Both North and South Albania have their own unique charms, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. The North offers stunning mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and historical attractions like Shkodra and Kruja. The South boasts beautiful beaches, charming coastal towns, and ancient ruins in cities like Apollonia and Gjirokastra.

Can you travel around Albania without a car?

Yes, it is possible to travel around Albania without a car. The country has a well-connected bus system and many popular destinations can be reached by public transportation.

Is it safe to visit Albania?

Albania is generally a safe country to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, like travelling to any other destination, it’s important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Overall, Albania is a welcoming and hospitable country for tourists. 

Is Albania safe for solo female travellers?

Albania is considered safe for solo female travellers, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. I travelled to Albania as a solo female and felt safer here than in some other more popular European destinations.

Are Albanians friendly to tourists?

Albanians are some of the friendliest people I have ever met. Tourism is still relatively new in Albania and most people there are genuinely delighted to meet tourists and show them their country. Don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to help you or invite you into their homes for tea.

Do I need a visa for Albania?

Citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada and Australia do not need a visa to enter Albania for stays up to 90 days within a six-month period. However, it’s always best to check with your local embassy or consulate for the latest entry requirements.

💕 If you use this itinerary or follow any of my recommendations, feel free to send me a DM or tag me on Instagram! I love to follow along on your adventures!