Albania-7-day-itinerary

August 8, 2024

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana

Arrive at Tirana International Airport
Visa Requirements: Citizens of most countries can enter Albania without a visa. Check with your government’s website for the latest information.
Transportation: Take a taxi or bus from the airport to your hotel in Tirana ( approx. 30-40 minutes, €10-20)
Places to Visit:
- National Museum of Albania (open daily 9am-5pm, €2 entrance fee)
- Et’hem Bey Mosque (one of the oldest mosques in the Balkans, open daily 9am-5pm, free admission)
- Skanderbeg Square (the heart of Tirana’s historic center, surrounded by cafes and shops)
Things to Know:
- Albanian language is not widely spoken among locals, but many speak English.
- Try some traditional Albanian food like fëkë (a type of pizza), qofte (meatballs), or baklava.

Day 2: Tirana

Places to Visit:
- Bunk’Art Museum (a museum showcasing Albania’s communist past, open daily 9am-5pm, €10 entrance fee)
- National Gallery of Arts (features a collection of Albanian and international art, open Tuesday-Sunday 9am-5pm, free admission)
- Mount Dajt (offers panoramic views of Tirana, take a cable car ride for €5 return)
Activities:
- Explore the lively Blloku neighborhood, known for its cafes, bars, and nightlife.
- Visit the local markets to buy some traditional souvenirs.

Day 3: Butrint and Saranda

Transportation: Take a bus from Tirana to Butrint (approx. 2 hours, €10)
Places to Visit:
- Butrint Archaeological Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site, open daily 9am-5pm, €15 entrance fee)
- Blue Eye Spring (a natural spring with crystal-clear waters, free admission)
- Saranda City (explore the city’s historic center and enjoy some seafood at one of the local restaurants)
Things to Know:
- Be prepared for crowds during peak season.
- Try some fresh seafood in Saranda.

Day 4: Ksamil and Gjirokaster

Transportation: Take a bus from Butrint to Ksamil (approx. 1 hour, €5) or drive to Ksamil ( approx. 2 hours)
Places to Visit:
- Ksamil National Park (a beautiful park with beaches and hiking trails, open daily 9am-5pm, free admission)
- Gjirokaster Castle (a historic castle offering stunning views of the city, open daily 9am-5pm, €10 entrance fee)
Activities:
- Hike to the top of Gjirokaster for panoramic views.
- Relax on one of Ksamil’s beautiful beaches.

Day 5: Berat and Osum Canyon

Transportation: Take a bus from Gjirokaster to Berat (approx. 2 hours, €10) or drive to Berat (approx. 3 hours)
Places to Visit:
- Berat Historic District (a UNESCO World Heritage Site, open daily 9am-5pm, free admission)
- Osum Canyon (a stunning canyon with hiking trails and waterfalls, open daily 9am-5pm, free admission)
Things to Know:
- Be prepared for some uphill walking in Berat.
- Try some traditional Albanian coffee in one of the local cafes.

Day 6: Apollonia and Vlorë

Transportation: Take a bus from Berat to Apollonia (approx. 1 hour, €5) or drive to Apollonia (approx. 2 hours)
Places to Visit:
- Apollonia Archaeological Park (a historic site with ancient ruins, open daily 9am-5pm, free admission)
- Vlorë City (explore the city’s historic center and enjoy some seafood at one of the local restaurants)
Activities:
- Visit the local markets to buy some souvenirs.
- Enjoy some fresh seafood in Vlorë.

Day 7: Departure from Tirana

Transportation: Take a bus or drive back to Tirana (approx. 3-4 hours) for your departure flight
Things to Know:
- Make sure to check with your airline for any travel restrictions.
- Enjoy some last-minute shopping for souvenirs in Tirana.

Other Tips and Recommendations:

Try to learn a few basic Albanian phrases, like “hello” (përshëndetje), “thank you” (mirupaf!), and “goodbye” (tutjepas).
Be prepared for some crowds during peak season.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.
Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
Try some traditional Albanian cuisine, like qofte or baklava.

Accommodation:

Tirana:

Saranda:

Berat:

Budget:

Total Estimated Budget: €500-1,000 for 7 days