The Ultimate 2 Weeks in Albania Itinerary

Albania is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations. This small country features a stunning mix of rugged landscapes, ancient hilltop towns, and some of the best beaches we’ve seen – but without the high price tag or heavy crowds.

In this post, I’m sharing our 2-week Albania itinerary based on our recent road trip through the country. It covers everything you need to know for planning your perfect trip to Albania from how to get around and where to stay, to what to do in Albania, plus a detailed day-by-day route.

We explored both the north and south of the country, so this Albania itinerary covers both the dramatic mountain scenery of the Albanian Alps and the laid-back beaches of the Albanian Riviera. If you’re looking for a unique, off-the-beaten-path European getaway that combines picturesque towns, natural beauty, and great food, you’ll love Albania.

Albania Itinerary – Quick Tips

Dive right into my top picks for tours, places to visit, insider tips, and more, and make the most of your 2 weeks in Albania. Your journey starts here!

Best Time to Visit | May-June, September-October

How to Get Around | Rental Car, Bus, Taxi

Top Places to Visit | Berat, Kruje, Gjirokaster, Ksamil, Theth, Tirana

Insider Tips | Lumi i Shales, Shkoder, Himare, Dhermi

Stay Connected | Get your Albania eSIM

Best Experiences & Tours

🛶 Komani Lake & Shala River Day Trip (my top tip!)

⛰️ Theth National Park Day Tour (perfect for mountain lovers!)

🛥️ Himara Coastline Boat Trip (one of our absolute highlights!)

🕌 Tirana Walking Tour (discover Tirana’s hidden treasures!)

⛰️ Gamti Mountain Hike with Bovilla Lake (from Tirana)

🥘 Traditional Albanian Cooking Class (a must for food lovers!)

💦 Osum Canyon and Bogove Waterfall Tour (from Berat)

Keep reading for my complete Albania travel guide!

How to Get to Albania

Getting to Albania is relatively easy. The most common entry point is by air, with Tirana airport (officially Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza) serving as the country’s main international gateway. It’s located just 17 kilometers northwest of the capital city, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Albania.

Direct flights to Tirana airport are available from many major cities across Europe, including London, Rome, Vienna, Frankfurt, and Istanbul. If you’re flying from outside Europe, you’ll likely need a connecting flight through a major European hub.

For those already in the Balkans, overland travel is another great option. Buses run regularly from neighboring countries like Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, and Greece. Driving into Albania is also popular, especially for travelers on a regional Balkan road trip. Border crossings are generally straightforward, though it’s always best to check entry requirements in advance.

💡 Why not combine your Albania road trip with one week in Montenegro?

How to Get Around Albania

When it comes to exploring Albania, having a rental car is the most convenient and flexible way to travel – especially if you love scenic road trips as much as we do. We’re big fans of beautiful drives, open roads, and soaking in the views along the way, which is why we always choose to rent a car when we travel.

In Albania, many roads outside the busy cities and tourist hot spots are quiet and easy to navigate using Google Maps. We found the main roads to be in surprisingly good condition, and there’s visible progress being made on infrastructure throughout the country.

Just keep in mind that driving in Albania can be a bit unpredictable at times. Some locals drive more aggressively than you might be used to, particularly in cities or during rush hour. If you’re heading into the mountains – like on the road to Theth or Koman – expect some narrow curves, bumpy roads, and winding sections, but the views are absolutely worth it.

Traveling Albania by bus works for getting between larger cities, but it’s not the best option for exploring more remote areas. Bus stations are often on the outskirts of towns, and schedules tend to be loose at best. So, if you’re working with a set itinerary, relying solely on buses can be challenging.

That’s why we highly recommend having your own car to make the most of your time and freedom in Albania. However, in cities, you can also explore the old town centers easily on foot.

Taxis are also available, but they’re mostly limited to urban areas. Always confirm the fare in advance or ask the driver to use the meter to avoid surprises.

Best Time to Visit Albania

Albania is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit really depends on what kind of experience you’re after.

For mild weather, fewer crowds, and better prices, spring (May – June) and fall (September – October) are ideal. These months are great for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the country’s charming towns, without the intense summer heat. You’ll also find that rental cars, hotels, and tours are generally more affordable during shoulder season.

We visited in early June and couldn’t have been happier with the timing. The weather was just right – warm but not too hot – and the beaches weren’t overcrowded. The water was already warm enough for swimming, and we still got to enjoy peaceful landscapes without the peak season hustle. We’d definitely choose the shoulder season again.

If your trip is all about beach time and a lively coastal vibe, then summer (July – August) is when the Albanian Riviera really comes to life. Places like Ksamil and Himara are at their busiest, and while prices are higher and the beaches more crowded, you’ll also find plenty of beach parties and sunshine. Compared to its neighbors – Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro – Albania still feels a bit more under the radar, though that’s starting to change.

Things to Know Before Visiting Albania

If you’re planning your first trip to Albania, there are a few things we really wish we had known before going. These insider tips will help you avoid surprises and make your trip a lot smoother.

• Currency and Cash: Albania uses the Albanian Lek (ALL), but you’ll find that euros are also accepted, especially in touristy areas. The unofficial exchange rate is roughly 100 lek to 1 euro, which makes it easy to calculate prices on the go. That said, always carry cash, as many restaurants, small shops, and guesthouses don’t accept cards. Even some hotels prefer cash over card payments.
• Avoid ATM Withdrawals: Withdrawing cash from ATMs in Albania can come with steep fees. Seriously, some of the charges are outrageous and the highest we have ever seen. If possible, bring euros or US dollars with you and exchange them for lek once you’re in Albania. Currency exchange offices are easy to find in most cities and offer much better rates than your bank back home.
• Driving Habits: Driving in Albania is an adventure. Local drivers can be impatient and unpredictable, often overtaking on blind curves or ignoring lane markings and speed limits altogether. At first, we were irritated but got used to it pretty quickly. If you stay alert and go with the flow, driving in Albania can still be enjoyable, especially with the stunning scenery along the way.

Where to Stay in Albania

In most towns and villages, private guesthouses and small hotels are the most common type of accommodation. Many are family-run with just a few rooms. That said, a lot of these places have what we’d call “Albanian charm”: they’re cozy and authentic but can be a bit outdated in terms of decor or amenities.

However, you’ll also find modern and stylish apartments and stays, often run by younger locals who’ve renovated the interior of older buildings with a fresh, contemporary touch. Breakfast is usually not included unless you’re staying in a larger or more expensive hotel, so don’t expect it by default and check in advance.

In bigger cities like Tirana, Shkoder, or popular beach destinations such as Ksamil and Sarande, there are also larger hotels and resorts with more amenities and newer interiors. These are better suited if you prefer a more conventional hotel experience or want extras like a pool or onsite restaurant.

🛏️ I’ve linked the accommodations we stayed at in each city directly within the relevant blog sections.

Wherever you’re headed, we recommend booking in advance, especially in coastal towns, to secure the type of accommodation you want – whether it’s a specific room, a view, or a certain location. Outside of July and August, there’s usually more availability and you might even grab a better deal.

2-Week Albania Itinerary Overview

Below, you can find a breakdown of our 2-week Albania road trip itinerary. We traveled from north to south, but you can easily follow this itinerary in reverse.

• Day 1: Shkoder
• Day 2: Komani Lake and Lumi i Shales
• Day 3: Kruje
• Day 4-5: Berat
• Day 6: Gjirokaster
• Day 7-8: Ksamil
• Day 9: Butrint National Park
• Day 10-12: Himare
• Day 13: Dhermi
• Day 14: Tirana

If you have more than 2 weeks in Albania:

If you’ve got extra time to explore, we’d definitely recommend heading north to the Albanian Alps. Adding Theth, Valbona, and the iconic Valbona to Theth hike to your itinerary is an incredible way to experience Albania’s wild mountain landscapes. The views are stunning, the trails are peaceful, and the tiny alpine villages feel like stepping back in time.

Also, don’t miss the Blue Eye of Theth. It’s a bit of a hike but well worth the effort for the crystal-clear, icy water surrounded by dramatic scenery. This region is best visited between late spring and early fall, when the trails are open and weather conditions are ideal for hiking.

In the following, you can find our detailed 2-week Albania itinerary with tips on where to go, what to do in Albania, and how to make the most of your time in this incredibly diverse country.

Complete 2 Weeks in Albania Itinerary

Day 1: Shkoder

🛏️ Stay at: NÓS Luxury Rooms Shkoder

Shkoder is the perfect place to kick off your Albania travel itinerary. This northern Albanian city may fly under the radar with its low-key vibe, but it’s full of charm and makes a great base for some of the best day trips in the country including a day trip to Theth, Komani Lake, Lumi i Shales, or even multi-day hikes into Valbona.

Take some time to wander through the Old Town’s pedestrian zone, where you’ll find colorful buildings, churches and mosques, laid-back cafés, and some of the best budget-friendly eats in Albania. Dinners, coffee, and ice cream were the cheapest we found on our trip. The relaxed vibe makes it a great place to ease into your 2 weeks in Albania.

Insider Tip: If you’re a foodie, make sure to grab dinner at Arti’ Zanave, tucked away in a quiet side street. We had a mixed platter with all the Albanian classics: meatballs, stuffed peppers and eggplant, fërgesë, moussaka, and more. At just 1,000 lek per person (with profits going to charity), it was not only delicious but meaningful and one of our favorite meals of the trip.

Also, don’t miss Rozafa Castle, located high on a hill just outside town. While mostly ruins today, the panoramic views over Lake Skadar and the surrounding landscape are reason enough to go. Entry is just 400 lek and it’s especially beautiful around sunset.

Day 2: Komani Lake and Lumi i Shales

If there’s one place that belongs at the very top of your Albania bucket list, it’s Lumi i Shales (Shala River). Flowing at the foot of the Albanian Alps, this emerald-green river, often nicknamed the ‘Thailand of Albania’, left us absolutely speechless and quickly became one of our favorite spots in the entire country.

We visited Lumi i Shales on a day trip from Shkoder, and it’s a journey that’s just as beautiful as the destination. It takes about 90 minutes to drive to the village of Koman, where the boat ride begins, as Lumi i Shales can only be reached by water.

We recommend booking either a small group tour or a private boat so you can set off early and beat the crowds. This also gives you the freedom to stop at waterfalls along the way and spend longer at the river than the big group tours. The ride through Komani Lake is breathtaking, with towering cliffs and dramatic views along the way.

Tip: If you’re going to Koman by car instead of joining a guided tour with transfer, it’s best to park in one of the lots before the tunnel as it’s easier, less chaotic, and most offer shuttle services to the dock.

When you reach Lumi i Shales, you’ll be dropped off at a narrow, pebbled stretch of emerald water surrounded by mountains. Here, you can rent sunbeds (€10 or 1,000 lek per pair), enjoy a drink, have lunch, or rent a kayak for more exploring. The water is crystal clear, and freezing at 7°C, but we couldn’t resist a swim.

By the end of the day, we wished we had stayed overnight. Next time, we’ll definitely book one of the charming guesthouses along the river, which are perfect for a longer mountain escape.

Day 3: Kruje

🛏️ Stay at: Villa Castriota

Kruje makes a great cultural stop, whether as a day trip from Tirana or a short overnight stay on your way south during your Albania itinerary. It’s a 1.5-hour drive from Shkoder and only an hour from the capital. Kruje offers a lovely mix of historical sites, scenic views, and traditional Albanian charm.

We stayed right in the heart of the Old Town, in a lovely room with a balcony overlooking Kruje Castle. Waking up to that view was something we’d definitely recommend – it really adds a special touch to the experience and somewhat reminded us of the Italian countryside.

The castle sits on top of the hill and was once the headquarters of national hero Skanderbeg during the 13th-century resistance against the Ottomans. Entry to the castle grounds is free, while the Skanderbeg Museum and Ethnographic Museum inside charge a small fee.

The walk up to the castle takes you through the Old Bazaar, where wooden shops sell handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and locally made souvenirs. The cobblestone streets and views over the surrounding valleys give the town an authentic feel, perfect for a slow afternoon of wandering around and learning about Albania’s past.

Day 4-5: Berat

🛏️ Stay at: Hotel Plaza Berat

Berat is one of the most beautiful towns in Albania and a must-stop on any Albania road trip itinerary. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s known for its distinctive Ottoman architecture, whitewashed stone houses, and the endless rows of windows that gave it the nickname ‘the city of a thousand windows’.

We loved wandering through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, surrounded by traditional houses stacked along the hillsides. The contrast between the white facades and dark wooden windows gives Berat such a unique and timeless look. It’s a photographer’s dream!

One of the best things to do in Berat is to hike up to Berat Castle, one of the few castles in Albania still inhabited. It’s a steep climb, but we took a shortcut via the stairs, which made it a bit easier. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views over the Mangalem and Gorica quarters and the Osum River cutting through town.

Inside the castle walls, you can explore the ruins of the Red Mosque, the White Mosque, and the Onufri Icon Museum. Don’t miss the beautiful Holy Trinity Church, which is tucked behind the inner walls.

Other popular activities in Berat include visiting the Ethnographic Museum, taking a slow walk down the Republic Boulevard (the town’s bustling pedestrian street), and pausing for a coffee at one of the many local cafés, just like the locals do.

Make sure to also cross the bridge to the Gorica quarter for the best views onto the Mangalem quarter, especially in the soft light of late afternoon.

Insider Tip: We had one of the best traditional meals of our trip at Amalia Homemade Food, a cozy, family-run place offering a homemade set menu with appetizers, a main course, and dessert. It was the kind of meal you remember long after the trip ends.

If you have extra time on your second day in Berat, consider a day trip to Osumi Canyon and Bogove Waterfall. It’s a great way to experience a completely different side of Albania, with impressive cliffs, and the chance to go river tubing or rafting at Osumi Canyon between stunning waterfalls, when visiting during the right season.

Day 6: Gjirokaster

🛏️ Stay at: N’SOKAK Boutique Hotel

Our Albanian road trip continued to Gjirokaster, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most unique towns in the country. Often called the ‘City of Stone’, Gjirokaster is perched on a hillside and known for its slate-roofed Ottoman houses, cobblestone streets, and layered history.

This town was also the birthplace of Ismail Kadare, Albania’s most celebrated writer, and Enver Hoxha, the country’s former dictator, so it carries a lot of historical weight.

The highlight here is the Gjirokaster Castle, one of the most impressive fortresses we visited in Albania. It sits high above the city and offers dreamy views over the iconic rooftops and surrounding landscape.

Inside, you’ll also find the National Arms Museum, old cannons, and even an abandoned US Air Force jet, which is a curious Cold War relic. There’s plenty to explore without a set route, so just take your time.

The Old Bazaar is the heart of the town and a great place to grab lunch or dinner, and browse the shops for local crafts, rugs, and souvenirs.

Gjirokaster is also full of well-preserved historic homes that give you a glimpse into how Albania’s wealthy families once lived. If you have time, we recommend visiting the Skenduli House, the Zekate House, or the Ethnographic Museum (formerly Enver Hoxha’s home). Each one is unique and tells its own story.

If you want to stretch your legs, consider a short hike to Ali Pasha’s Bridge. It takes about 30–45 minutes one way, and it’s a nice way to get out of the city for a bit and enjoy the quieter side of the valley.

Day 7-8: Ksamil

🛏️ Stay at: GL Hotel Ksamil

After a full week of exploring the country’s rich culture and beautiful nature, we decided to slow down and recharge a bit, and Ksamil was the perfect place to do just that. Known for its white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and lively summer atmosphere, this small seaside town is one of Albania’s most popular coastal spots.

While it’s often called the ‘Maldives of Europe’, we’re not fully on board with that comparison (especially after visiting more than 30 islands in the Maldives), but there’s no denying that many of the beaches here are truly beautiful.

Beach clubs line nearly every corner of Ksamil, offering everything from simple sunbed setups to luxurious cabanas with Maldivian-style overwater nets. During the shoulder season, we paid around €10–30 per set, but prices rise sharply in summer. So it’s smart to shop around and arrive early for the best spots.

Swimming in Ksamil is a joy, thanks to calm, clear waters. You can even rent a kayak to paddle out to the four tiny, uninhabited islands just offshore.

If you’re up for a little exploring, the nearby Shpella e Pellumbave Beach is worth checking out. Or take a half-day trip to Sarande, just 20 minutes away. It’s a bigger, touristy town with a charming marina, perfect for a relaxed seaside lunch or evening stroll along the promenade.

💡 Fun fact: In Albania, the evening stroll is a beloved tradition called xhiro (pronounced ‘ji-ro’). It’s more than just a walk – it’s a chance to socialize, people-watch, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Fancy a day trip to Greece? From Ksamil, you’ll spot the Greek Island of Corfu across the water. A ferry runs from Sarande if you want to hop over, but don’t forget your passport and check visa regulations beforehand, as you’ll be entering the EU and Schengen Zone.

Day 9: Butrint National Park

When staying in Ksamil or Sarande, you shouldn’t miss the Butrint National Park. This place is one of the most important archaeological sites in Albania and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park is home to ancient city walls and gates, a basilica, a well-preserved amphitheater, a baptistery, and even a Venetian castle perched on a hill overlooking the site.

The ancient Greek and Roman city ruins are scattered across a peaceful, tree-covered area, making it easy and enjoyable to explore. Expect to walk around for about two hours, mostly in the shade. Also, bring some water as it’s still a decent walk and there’s no kiosk around.

We especially loved the view from the top of the castle and spotting small turtles right at the bridge towards the amphitheater. Entry is 10 euros or 1,000 lek, and in our opinion, absolutely worth it. You also don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate this place.

Butrint combines nature, history, and calm surroundings, which is perfect for a slow morning or afternoon during your Albania road trip.

Day 10-12: Himare

🛏️ Stay at: Ion Rooms

Himare quickly became one of our favorite stops during our 2-week Albania itinerary and a perfect base for exploring the stunning southern coast of the Albanian Riviera. This laid-back beach town offers a much more relaxed vibe than Ksamil, with fewer crowds, less partying, and just the right amount of restaurants and cafés along the seafront promenade to keep things lively. As a couple, we definitely preferred Himare over Ksamil.

While the town and its main beach are beautiful, what really makes Himare shine is what surrounds it. Just a short drive or boat ride away, you’ll find some of Albania’s most breathtaking beaches – think crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, hidden sea caves, and soft, white sand.

One of the highlights of our three days in Himare was a doing a boat tour along the breathtaking coastline. Our captain shared fascinating stories and local insights as we cruised from one secluded cove to another. We swam through sea caves, relaxed on hidden beaches, and soaked in the stunning scenery all day. If you’re visiting during high season, be sure to book your boat trip early – these tours fill up fast!

On your second day, take a half-day trip to Porto Palermo and Qeparo. Porto Palermo’s triangle-shaped castle, built by Ali Pasha, sits above a small, quiet beach that’s great for a swim. Just down the road, Qeparo is a peaceful seaside village perfect for a relaxed stroll and a coffee stop.

For your last day in Himare, we highly recommend doing some beach-hopping. Start with Gjipe Beach, one of the most breathtaking beaches in the entire Albanian Riviera. It’s tucked between cliffs at the end of Gjipe Canyon and you’ll have to hike 30–45 minutes to get there, but it’s well worth the effort.

Later in the afternoon, move on to Jale Beach and Livadhi Beach, both super chill and great spots for swimming and lounging under an umbrella.

Day 13: Dhermi

🛏️ Stay at: Sea Apartments Dhermi

Tucked into the hillside just 30 minutes northwest of Himare, Dhermi is a picture-perfect village that feels straight out of a postcard. With whitewashed houses, red rooftops, and a blue-domed church reminiscent of the Greek islands, it’s one of the most charming old towns on the Albanian Riviera.

Wandering the cobblestone streets is the main attraction here. The atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing. Don’t miss the walk up to the Church of Saint Mary, a small monastery perched above the village. From there, you’ll get sweeping views of both the old town and the coastline below.

Tip: You can easily visit Dhermi as a day trip from Himare if you’d rather not change hotels for just one night.

After exploring the village, we headed down to Dhermi Beach for the afternoon. The wide beach has crystal-clear water and a laid-back vibe, and is lined with sunbeds and cabanas, perfect for a relaxing break.

Day 14: Tirana

🛏️ Stay at: Villa Noem

Tirana is a city full of surprises. Albania’s capital buzzes with energy and striking contrasts, making it well worth dedicating at least one full day to explore at the end of your 2-week itinerary.

Start at Skanderbeg Square, the heart of the city, surrounded by grand buildings like the National History Museum (with its iconic mosaic), the Et’hem Bey Mosque, the clock tower of Tirana, and government buildings from the communist era.

From there, explore the trendy restaurants, cafés, and shops in the Blloku neighborhood, a once-exclusive area reserved for the communist elite during Enver Hoxha’s regime. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the iconic Pyramid of Tirana.

Make sure to also visit Bunk’Art 2, a Cold War-era bunker turned into a museum that offers powerful insights into Albania’s communist regime. If you have more time, Bunk’Art 1 on the outskirts of the city dives even deeper as this is the place where the leaders of the communist regime would have hidden.

We also loved exploring Tirana Castle, which is not a traditional castle, but a charming pedestrian area filled with unique restaurants, cozy cafés, and boutique shops. Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Namazgah Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of Tirana, which is the largest mosque in the Balkans and an impressive sight to see.

💡 Want to learn more about the city, its history, sights, and culture? Join this top-rated guided walking tour of Tirana! Or immerse yourself in the local food scene with a traditional Albanian cooking class or a food walking tour.

Tirana may not be the most picturesque capital at first glance, but it’s one of those cities that grows on you the more you discover. It’s full of energy, stories, and change, and a fitting end to your Albania road trip.

— My Travel Photography Gear —

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I really hope our Albania travel guide sparked your wanderlust to check out this incredible country. Whether it’s your first time or you’re coming back for more, Albania has a way of surprising you with its unparalleled natural beauty, fascinating history, and the friendliest people around. Trust me, it’s a place you won’t forget anytime soon.

If you’re thinking about a longer Balkan adventure, don’t miss my Montenegro travel guide and itinerary – it’s an ideal add-on to your Albania trip.

FAQ – Albania Itinerary

Want to explore more of the Balkans? Check out my other Balkan travel guides below!

• Perfect Montenegro Itinerary: 7 Days in Montenegro

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