9-Day Albania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Tirana to Berat, Gjirokastra, and Saranda

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Tirana, where you have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Tirana on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Rruga Murat Toptani, a popular street in Tirana. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

Grand Park Of Tirana leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Tirana. Next, head to Bunk’art 2, an up-and-coming museum, known for its heritage-rich features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Et'hem Bej Mosque. This photogenic mosque is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Skanderbeg Square Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Linzë, home to many well-known sights in the region. Upon arrival in Linzë, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bunk’art. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Tirana's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Tirana International Hotel & Conference Center, 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 Artigiano, 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 Hotel Elysee, Tirana, a hidden gem nestled in Tirana. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Kafe Flora, known for its lively atmosphere. Bufe Wine Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Whisky Bar Tirana offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Albania.

On day 3 of your road trip in Albania, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Berat are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Berat, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tirana and set your GPS to Berat. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 45 min. Upon reaching Berat, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Berat Castle. Spend some time admiring the visually striking features of the castle before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Onufri Iconographic Museum. This locally appreciated museum is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Old Town Berat. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the historical landmark.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Berat. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Berat's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Savor the flavors at Homemade Food Lili, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Zonja Gjene beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Eni Traditional Food Berat. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Berat tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Te Albani after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Albania!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Albania. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Gjirokastra. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Gjirokastra, where you'll spend 2 nights.

After soaking in Berat’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gjirokastra. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 36 min. When you arrive in Gjirokastra, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ali Pasha Bridge, a curiosity-inducing monument in Gjirokastra. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Castle Of Gjirokastra. This intriguing castle is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Staryj Gorod Girokastry is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most UNESCO world heritage-listed historical landmark in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Gjirokastra. Gjirokastra offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Gjirokastra. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taverna Tradicionale KARDHASHI, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Taverna Brahimi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restorant Tradicional Urat is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Gjirokastra.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bukowksi Bar Gjirokaster is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Hangover Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Albania.

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Albania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Vrinë and Krongj. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Saranda, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Vrinë. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 13 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Butrint National Park and explore the UNESCO world heritage-designated features. Next, make your way to Venetian Castle, another highlight in Vrinë.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Krongj. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Blue Eye, an often recommended karst spring that draws visitors from near and far.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Saranda, 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 Saranda's best restaurants.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Italian Mattarello pizzeria, a highly-rated dining destination in Saranda. If you're eager to try something different, consider Gerthela, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Meat House Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Saranda this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Elvis Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Tipsy Drinks And More is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Jamaica also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Albania!

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Albania includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Vlore. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Tirana, where you'll spend 1 night.

Vlore’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Saranda behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 27 min. Vlore welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

National Museum Of Independence is an underrated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its respected features before continuing your self-guided tour to Kuzum Baba, an inviting historical landmark that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Independence Monument, an instagrammable monument.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Tirana. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Komiteti Bar - Tiranë. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Hemingway Bar Tirana, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tribeca Bar Tirana provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Albania!