Albania-5-day-itinerary

Albania Travel Itinerary - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrival and Tirana Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Tirana International Airport (TIA)
  • Visa Requirements: No visa required for citizens of the US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries. Check with your country’s embassy or consulate for requirements.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in Tirana city center (~ €10-€15). Alternatively, rent a car from the airport for self-driving.
  • Places to Go:
    • National Museum of Albania (open 9am-5pm)
    • Et’hem Bey Mosque (historic mosque and cultural icon)
    • Skanderbeg Square (main square with cafes and shops)
  • Activities:
    • Explore Tirana’s vibrant nightlife, including bars and restaurants
    • Visit the nearby Mount Dajti National Park for hiking or cable car rides

Day 2: Butrint and Saranda

  • Morning: Drive to Butrint (approx. 1 hour) and explore the ancient ruins (open 9am-6pm)
  • Places to Go:
    • Ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Museum of Butrint (on site)
  • Activities:
    • Hike in the nearby Lekuresi Castle or surrounding hills
    • Enjoy a traditional Albanian lunch at a local restaurant
  • Evening: Drive to Saranda (~ 30 minutes) and enjoy dinner at one of its many seafood restaurants

Day 3: Blue Eye and Vlorë

  • Morning: Visit the stunning natural wonder, the Blue Eye (open 9am-6pm)
  • Places to Go:
    • The Blue Eye, a crystal-clear spring in a scenic area
    • Nearby beaches for swimming or sunbathing
  • Activities:
    • Hike in the surrounding hills or nearby Lekuresi Castle
    • Visit the Vlorë Castle (open 9am-6pm)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner and relax in Vlorë city

Day 4: Accursed Mountains and Theth

  • Morning: Drive to the stunning Accursed Mountains (~ 2 hours) and explore the traditional village of Theth
  • Places to Go:
    • The Accursed Mountains, a rugged natural wonder
    • Traditional village of Theth with its scenic surroundings
  • Activities:
    • Hike in the surrounding hills or take a local guide for trekking
    • Visit the nearby Taçi Waterfall and enjoy a traditional lunch

Day 5: Departure from Tirana

  • Morning: Drive back to Tirana (~ 2 hours)
  • Places to Go (if time permits):
    • National Archaeological Museum of Albania (open 9am-5pm)
    • Enver Hoxha’s Pyramid, a quirky monument
  • Transportation: Return to the airport or enjoy your last day in Albania exploring Tirana city

Tips and Essentials:

  • Albanian language: while many speak English, it’s still a good idea to learn basic phrases.
  • Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL) is the official currency, although euros are widely accepted.
  • Weather: temperate climate with mild winters and warm summers. Pack accordingly.
  • Safety: generally safe country, but take normal precautions for valuables and personal safety.

This itinerary should give you a good taste of Albania’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Enjoy your trip!