Putting together 10 days in Albania and wondering how to make it all fit? We know the feeling. After three separate road trips around the country — and more mountain switchbacks than we can count — we finally shaped the Albania road trip itinerary we wish we’d had the first time.
This route brings together Albania’s best bits: wild Alpine valleys, UNESCO towns that feel beautifully preserved, and those bright turquoise bays along the Albanian Riviera that make you wonder how this coastline still feels so underrated. Driving in Albania is much easier than many online stories make it sound, and having your own car lets you stop at all the little places between the headline sights.
Below is our complete 10-day Albania itinerary, including an interactive map, driving distances, and our favourite stops, restaurants, and hotels with parking. Time to get moving. 🚗🇦🇱
10 Days in Albania Road Trip at a Glance
- 🚗 Route Overview
- Tirana → Kruje → Shkoder → Theth → Berat → Gjirokaster → Ksamil → Himare
- 🗓️ Ideal Duration
- 10 days in Albania gives you enough time for mountains, UNESCO towns, and the Riviera without rushing every stop.
- 🕒 Best Time to Visit
- June or September are our favourite months for warm weather and fewer crowds.
- July–August are sunny and lively, but expect higher prices and more traffic.
- 🚘 Renting a Car
- We usually book through Discover Cars because we like the free cancellation, good prices, and affordable full insurance — something we definitely recommend for an Albania 10 day itinerary.
- 🧭 Driving Notes
- Most roads are in decent condition, and you do not need a 4×4
- The road to Theth is now fully paved, though still narrow — leave early
- Save offline maps before you go, as signal can disappear quickly
- 📍 Must-See Highlights
- The Blue Eye in Theth
- Early morning views from Berat Castle
- Gjirokaster’s stone lanes and old bazaar
- The unreal blue beaches around Ksamil
- Himare’s coastal walks and sunset viewpoints
Albania Road Trip Map & Route Overview
This is the full route we recommend for 10 days in Albania, including the main overnight stops, detours, viewpoints, beaches, and places to stay. We always travel with a custom Google Map, and this one has been refined over several Albania trips — save it, use it, or shamelessly copy the pins. 😄
👉 Click the map to open the interactive version
(It is especially useful on longer drive days and in areas where mobile signal decides to vanish.)
Tirana → Kruje → Shkoder → Theth → Berat → Gjirokaster → Ksamil → Himare
Driving Distances & Road Conditions Table
How to Start Your Albania Road Trip
Before setting off, here are the practical details we wish we had known on our first visit. Albania is simple to travel once you are on the road, but your starting point makes a difference — especially if you are choosing between Tirana and Corfu or renting a car here for the first time.
Flying Into Tirana vs Corfu (Pros & Cons)
Most travellers begin an Albania road trip in Tirana, but flying into Corfu can also work brilliantly — sometimes it is cheaper, sometimes more convenient, and occasionally both.
Here is the short version:
Flying Into Tirana (TIA)
Pros
- The best starting point for Kruje, Shkoder, and Theth
- All the main rental companies operate at the airport
- No ferry or border crossing needed
- The simplest way to start a loop around Albania
Cons
- Flights can occasionally cost more than Corfu
- Tirana traffic can feel messy during busy hours
Flying Into Corfu (CFU)
(then taking the 30-minute ferry to Sarandë)
Pros
- Often has very affordable flights from Europe
- Ideal if you mainly want Ksamil, Himare, and the Riviera
- The ferry crossing is quick and scenic
Cons
- You need to factor in ferry and border logistics
- You start in the south and reverse the itinerary
- Car rental choices in Sarandë can be more limited
Our take:
For the full 10-day loop, Tirana is the easiest option.
For a trip focused on the Riviera and Gjirokaster, Corfu is a very handy shortcut.
Renting a Car in Albania (Quick Tips)
We have now rented cars in Albania three times, and honestly, it has been much smoother than many Balkan driving horror stories online would make you expect.
Our honest advice:
- Book early for June–September, as cars disappear quickly.
- We compare prices on Discover Cars, because it is the easiest way to see local and international rental options in one place.
- Automatic cars are not widely available, so reserve one well ahead if needed.
- Full insurance is worth it — potholes are part of the Albanian driving experience.
- Check the fuel policy; reputable companies usually offer full-to-full.
- Photograph the car before leaving, especially bumpers, wheels, and mirrors.
- Pick up at the airport for the widest selection.
Good news: You do not need a 4×4 for this route.
The road to Theth is now fully paved, although it remains narrow and winding.
Is It Safe to Drive in Albania? (The Real Experience)
Short answer: Yes — if you are a confident driver.
Long answer: Albania’s roads vary a lot, and knowing what to expect makes the whole trip easier.
What we learned after three visits:
- Highways: Usually good, wide, and easy to follow.
- City driving: Tirana is lively, with honking, lane swapping, and creative manoeuvres.
- Mountain roads: Beautiful but slow, with hairpins, goats, and surprise potholes.
- Night driving: Best avoided on rural and coastal roads because lighting is limited.
- Police: Visible but generally friendly; carry your licence and insurance documents.
- Locals: They drive assertively rather than aggressively, and you adjust quickly.
👉 The key thing to remember: Distances look short, but mountains add time. If Google says 2 hours, allow 2.5. If it says 4, plan closer to 5.
Overall, we genuinely like driving in Albania — it is scenic, flexible, and the best way to see the country properly.
Albania Itinerary 10 Days – Detailed Day-by-Day Plan
Day 0: Tirana → Start Of Your Albania Itinerary
Drive: No driving today
Recommended Time: Half a day
Best For: Culture and an easy introduction to Albania
Most international flights arrive in Tirana, so it is the natural starting point for this Albania itinerary. Tirana is not a capital that demands several days, so we use it as a relaxed warm-up. Half a day is enough to walk around, eat well, and see the main sights.
We have passed through Tirana several times, and we usually follow the same easy loop: Tirana Castle → Skanderbeg Square → Bunk’Art 2 → dinner. It is simple, low-pressure, and ideal after a travel day.
Tirana Castle (which is not really a castle)
If you arrive before lunchtime, start at Tirana Castle. Despite the name, it is more of a preserved Ottoman wall surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops. It is touristy, but convenient for getting your bearings and ordering your first qofta or byrek.
Tip: Portions are big. Albania is not a small-plates destination.
Skanderbeg Square + Main Sights
Just north of the “castle” is Skanderbeg Square, Tirana’s main plaza and the centre of the city. You will see the statue of Skanderbeg, Albania’s national hero, plus several important landmarks around the square.
Our favourites:
- Et’hem Bej Mosque: modest outside, beautifully decorated inside
- National Historical Museum: useful background, though English information is uneven
- Clock Tower and Opera House: good for a quick wander
We usually keep this part casual — take photos, enjoy the scale of the square, then continue.
Bunk’Art 2 — Albania’s Darker History
A short walk from the square, Bunk’Art 2 is one of Tirana’s most memorable museums. Set inside a former nuclear bunker, it explains the role of Albania’s secret police during the Enver Hoxha era. It is intense, atmospheric, and a little claustrophobic — but very worthwhile.
Tip: If you need fresh air afterwards, head straight to Rinia Park.
Dinner at Oda Restaurant
Finish the day with Albanian comfort food at Oda Restaurant, around 10 minutes from Skanderbeg Square. It is hearty, traditional, and sometimes comes with live music. We go back almost every time we are in Tirana — it has become our “hello again, Albania” meal.
Where To Stay In Tirana
🌟Airport Hotel Pick🌟
MK Hotel Tirana
If your flight lands late, MK Hotel is close to the airport and very convenient. It has a good outdoor pool and free private parking, which is ideal when starting an Albanian road trip.
🌟Top Pick🌟
Hotel Restaurant Bujtina e Gjelit
This traditional-style inn is around 30 minutes on foot or 20 minutes by public transport from Skanderberg Square. It has a restaurant, outdoor pool, and free private parking.
Day 1: Kruje
Drive: Tirana → Kruje → Shkoder | ~2.5 hours total
Distance: ~115 km
Parking: 24-hour public car park near the bazaar
Kruje ended up being one of our favourite places in Albania — we even spent a full week living here beside the castle on one trip. For this 10-day Albania itinerary, though, half a day is enough to enjoy the atmosphere before continuing north.
Kruje Bazaar
Just above the main parking area, Kruje Bazaar is the first place you will reach. This short cobbled street is lined with wooden shops selling woven rugs, felt hats, copper goods, and souvenirs.
It is touristy, yes, but it is also one of Albania’s oldest bazaars. Early in the morning, before the day-trippers arrive, it feels especially atmospheric.
Kruje Castle & Skanderbeg Museum
At the top of the bazaar stands Kruje Castle, closely linked to Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg. The fortress has been partly reconstructed, but its mountainside position is what makes it memorable.
Within the castle walls, visit the Gjergj Kastrioti (Skanderbeg) National Museum. Even if history is not usually your thing, it gives useful context and offers excellent views over the countryside.
Ethnographic Museum of Kruje
Also inside the castle area is the Ethnographic Museum, located in a traditional Ottoman-era house. It gives a compact look at rural Albanian life through household items, tools, furniture, and clothing.
It is not a long visit, but it adds helpful context, especially if this is your first time in Albania.
Lunch at Restaurant Emiliano
If we could recommend only one place to eat in Kruje, it would be Restaurant Emiliano.
We stayed here for a week and loved the relaxed feel, generous portions, and sweeping valley views. Even as a lunch stop, it is the perfect reward after exploring the castle.
In short: Kruje is compact, historic, and full of character — a brilliant cultural stop that gives you a real feel for Albania’s past without needing a full day.
Continue to Shkoder
After lunch, get back on the road and drive north to Shkoder, the gateway to the Albanian Alps.
Day 2: Shkoder
Drive: Kruje → Shkoder | ~1.5 hours
Distance: ~85 km
Sleep: Shkoder
Shkoder is one of Albania’s oldest cities and a logical stop before entering the mountains. We see it as a practical but enjoyable base — relaxed, well-positioned, and great for cycling, lake views, and preparing for the drive to Theth.
Explore Shkoder by Bike
One of the nicest ways to enjoy Shkoder is by renting a bicycle. The city is flat, calm, and much more fun on two wheels than by car.
We enjoyed cycling through the centre and out towards Lake Shkoder, where the pace slows and the scenery opens up. It is an easy way to stretch your legs before the mountain section of the trip.
Rozafa Castle
Just outside the city, Rozafa Castle sits dramatically on a rocky hill where three rivers meet. Built by the Venetians, much of the castle remains intact, and the views are among the best in northern Albania.
If you reach Shkoder early enough, visit the castle the same day. It usually stays open until late afternoon in summer, and the evening light is beautiful.
Lake Shkoder
Lake Shkoder, shared by Albania and Montenegro, feels peaceful after the city. You can rent a kayak or simply walk by the water, stopping at fishing villages and lakeside cafés.
We especially liked it in the late afternoon, when the heat drops and the lake feels wonderfully calm.
Ebu Bekr Mosque & City Centre
Shkoder’s centre is easy to explore on foot, with cafés and shops along its pedestrian streets. The Ebu Bekr Mosque, rebuilt in the 1990s, stands out for its size and modern style, even though the interior is quite simple.
Shkoder may not be Albania’s prettiest city architecturally, but it has a friendly, lived-in atmosphere that makes it a comfortable overnight stop.
Dinner at Arti Zenave
For dinner, we recommend Arti Zenave, a cosy spot close to the centre. It is good for vegetarian-friendly Albanian dishes and a relaxed evening before the early drive to Theth.
In short: Shkoder is the calm before the mountains — easy-going, practical, and perfectly placed for the Albanian Alps.
Where To Stay In Shkoder
🌟Top Pick🌟
Çoçja Boutique Hotel
This charming B&B occupies a characterful building with a lovely enclosed terrace. Private basement parking makes it a particularly strong choice for a road trip in Albania.
🌟Mid-Range Pick🌟
Hotel Chicago
Close to the Ebu Bekr Mosque, Hotel Chicago offers compact modern rooms and breakfast, which can be served in your room. Limited free private parking is available.
Day 3: Theth National Park
Drive: Shkoder → Theth | ~2 hours
Distance: ~75 km
Road condition:Fully paved, narrow, winding
Sleep: Theth
This is where Albania really starts showing off. The drive into Theth National Park climbs into the Albanian Alps, with dramatic switchbacks and mountain views all the way. Leave early so you have daylight, lighter traffic, and enough time for hikes.
The Drive to Theth (What It’s Really Like)
Despite older reports online, the road to Theth is now completely paved. It is still a proper mountain road, though — narrow, twisty, and used by locals who know every corner.
We have driven it more than once in normal rental vehicles and had no problems. Go slowly, pull over when locals want to pass, and enjoy one of Albania’s most scenic drives.
Tip: Do not drive this route at night — mostly because the views are too good to miss.
The Blue Eye of Theth
One of the area’s best-known hikes leads to the Blue Eye, a bright turquoise pool fed by icy mountain water. The walk takes about 45 minutes each way from the car park and is fairly easy. (This is the parking lot we used.)
We loved this hike — scenic, refreshing, and manageable even if you are not a serious hiker. You can swim, but be prepared: the water is brutally cold.
Theth Village & Historic Landmarks
Back in the village, spend time wandering through Theth itself. Stone houses, steep mountain walls, and a wonderfully slow pace make it feel beautifully remote.
Do not miss:
- The Church of Theth, set perfectly against the valley
- The Reconciliation Tower, a strong reminder of Albania’s history
Both are easy to reach on foot and add cultural depth to the mountain scenery.
Grunas Waterfall
If you still have energy, walk to Grunas Waterfall. The trail takes around 45 minutes from the village and ends at a dramatic cascade tucked into a rocky gorge.
We found this hike quieter than the Blue Eye and just as rewarding, especially later in the day.
Dinner in Theth
Head back to the village for dinner at GJECAJ Restaurant, which has lovely outdoor seating lit with fairy lights.
In short: Theth is the heart of the Albanian Alps — slow roads, icy water, stone villages, and some of the most unforgettable scenery of the trip.
Where To Stay In Teth
🌟Top Pick🌟
Bujtina Terthorja
With plenty of wood in the rooms, Bujtina Terthorja has a cosy chalet feel that suits the Alpine setting. Book a balcony room if you want to wake up to crisp mountain air.
🌟Mid-Range Pick🌟
Villa Molla
Villa Molla feels more like a rustic homestay and sits a little outside the main village. It has an onsite restaurant, free parking, and rooms with lovely views.
Day 4: Drive – Theth To Berat
Drive: Theth → Berat | ~5 hours
Distance: ~275 km
Road condition: Mountain roads → highways
Sleep: Berat
This is the longest driving day of the 10-day Albania itinerary. The good news is that once you leave the mountains, the roads are mostly straightforward, and a couple of stops make the journey much easier.
We suggest leaving Theth early. Not because the drive is difficult, but because arriving in Berat by mid-afternoon gives you time to settle in and enjoy the town slowly.
Where to Stop on the Way South
This is not a scary drive; it is just long. Short breaks make a big difference.
Good options:
- Lezhë – easy coffee stop and quick walk
- Fier – useful for fuel, cafés, and supermarkets
- Any roadside café once you are back on flatter roads
We no longer try to push through. Even 15 minutes with coffee helps reset the day.
Arriving in Berat
By early or mid-afternoon, you should reach Berat, one of Albania’s most beautiful towns. After the rugged north, its white Ottoman houses climbing the hillside feel almost unreal.
We highly recommend two nights in Berat. This long drive day is exactly why — once you arrive, slow down.
Evening Stroll Through the Old Town
If you still have energy, take a gentle walk through Mangalem or Gorica at sunset. The cobbled lanes, river views, and warm evening light are magical after the mountains.
Keep tonight simple. Save the proper sightseeing for tomorrow.
In short: Day 4 is a transition day — long but manageable. Start early, stop for breaks, and reward yourself with a slow evening in Berat.
Where To Stay In Berat
🌟Top Pick🌟
Hotel Kapllani
Set in a beautiful heritage building, Hotel Kapllani offers stylish rooms with lots of character in the Gorica District. Breakfast and free parking are included.
🌟Mid-Range Pick🌟
Olive B&B
Olive B&B is a comfortable, good-value stay in Berat, with welcoming hosts, breakfast, and practical parking for travellers exploring Albania by car.
Day 5: Berat
Drive: No driving today
Sleep: Berat
Best For: UNESCO old town
Berat was one of the standout places on our Albania road trip itinerary. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, it is the perfect place to slow down after the long drive from the north.
We were very glad we planned two nights in Berat — this is not a town to rush through.
Berat Castle (Visit Early)
Begin the day at Berat Castle, which sits high above the city. Parts of the fortress are more than 800 years old, and what makes it special is that people still live inside the castle walls.
We strongly suggest visiting early in the morning. On our trip, daytime temperatures were close to 40°C, so we went before sunrise. The streets were quiet, the light was soft, and the views were incredible.
Holy Trinity Church & Red Mosque Ruins
Inside the castle complex, wander rather than follow a strict route. Two places we really liked:
- Holy Trinity Church — a beautiful Byzantine-style church worth seeing even from outside
- Ruins of the Red Mosque — only the minaret remains, but it adds another layer to Berat’s story
This mix of faiths and historical periods is part of what makes Berat so fascinating.
National Ethnographic Museum
On your way down from the castle, stop at the National Ethnographic Museum. It is not Albania’s most spectacular museum, but entry is inexpensive and it gives useful insight into traditional Albanian life.
We thought it was a worthwhile short stop before exploring the lower town.
Explore Mangalem & Gorica Quarters
Spend the afternoon wandering through Mangalem, the old Muslim quarter, where the white houses with countless windows seem to climb over one another on the hillside.
Then cross the Gorica Bridge to explore the Christian quarter on the opposite side of the river. This is one of our favourite simple things to do in Berat — no schedule, just photos, coffee, and wandering.
Dinner at Temi Restaurant
End the day at Temi Restaurant. We had some of the best fërgesë of the trip here — a rich Albanian dish made with roasted red peppers, tomatoes, and cheese, cooked by a very sweet local lady.
Day 6: Gjirokaster (+ Optional Blue Eye)
Drive: Berat → Gjirokaster | ~2.5 hours
Distance: ~160 km (parking)
Road condition: Good highways, winding near arrival
Sleep: Ksamil (or Sarandë)
Today you drive south to Gjirokaster, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most atmospheric stops on this Albania road trip itinerary. Compared with Berat, Gjirokaster feels steeper, moodier, and more dramatic.
We recommend visiting on the way to the Riviera rather than staying overnight, unless you have extra time and want to slow the route down.
Gjirokaster Old Town & Bazaar
Start with a wander through the Old Town, especially the lanes leading away from the bazaar. The main market area is quite touristy, but the steep cobbled side streets are where Gjirokaster really shines.
This is one of our favourite places in Albania for aimless wandering — stone houses, wooden balconies, and viewpoints appearing between buildings.
Gjirokaster Castle
High above town, Gjirokaster Castle is impossible to miss. It is large, atmospheric, and full of tunnels, courtyards, and unexpected corners.
We enjoyed it, although we slightly preferred Berat Castle for its layout and views. Still, Gjirokaster Castle offers excellent panoramas and strong historical atmosphere, especially around the clock tower and old weapons displays.
Lunch in Gjirokaster
There are lots of restaurants hidden among the old town streets. We ate at Odaja, where the menu includes comforting Albanian classics like stuffed aubergine and meatballs in yoghurt sauce.
Historic Ottoman Houses
One of Gjirokaster’s most distinctive features is its fortified Ottoman houses, built by wealthy families as both homes and defensive structures.
If you visit just one, choose from:
- Zekate House – beautifully preserved, with painted ceilings
- Skenduli House – great explanations from the owner about everyday life and local history
These houses add a lot of depth to your understanding of the town.
Cold War Tunnel
If you have half an hour spare, visit the Cold War Tunnel beneath the city. It is damp, dark, and slightly eerie, but the guided explanations offer useful insight into Albania’s communist past.
Optional Stop: The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër)
If you still have energy, detour to the Blue Eye on the way south.
Drive from Gjirokaster: ~45 minutes
Extra time needed: ~1.5 hours total
The Blue Eye is a powerful natural spring with water so intensely blue it almost looks edited. It is beautiful, but also one of the more touristy places in Albania, especially in summer.
We did swim here, and we can confirm: the water is absolutely freezing. Not pleasantly cool — genuinely freezing. Robin even jumped in with the locals, which was both impressive and slightly ridiculous.
If you dislike crowds or are short on time, it is not a disaster to skip it. But if you are curious and brave enough for the cold, it is memorable.
Continue to Ksamil
From here, continue towards Ksamil, where your Albania road trip changes from mountains and culture to beaches and turquoise sea.
Day 7 & 8: Ksamil
Drive: Gjirokaster → Ksamil | ~1 hour
Distance: ~55 km
Road condition: Good
Sleep: Ksamil
After mountains and historic towns, these two days are for slowing down on the Albanian Riviera. Ksamil is one of the most popular beach stops on any Albania road trip itinerary. It is definitely touristy, but the colour of the water really is spectacular.
Ksamil Beaches
Ksamil’s beaches are small sheltered coves with shallow turquoise water. Many are private, so you pay for sunbeds, and prices rise sharply in July and August — but the scenery is hard to argue with.
Our favourite area is near Bianco Lounge, where the sand is bright, the sea is clear, and the setting feels more polished than hectic. You will also find the famous Ksamil jetty, which appears all over Instagram.
Ksamil Islands
Just offshore, the Ksamil Islands are easy to reach by swimming or renting a pedal boat. We hired one for an hour and slowly looped around them, which was a fun way to see the coastline from the water.
When the sea is calm, it is a lovely change from lying on the beach.
Butrint National Archaeological Park
One afternoon, drive 10 minutes south to Butrint National Archaeological Park, one of Albania’s best historical sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The ruins cover Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian periods, all surrounded by lush greenery. We found it more atmospheric than many urban ruins — peaceful, shaded, and surprisingly quiet.
Allow at least 1.5–2 hours.
Day Trip: Monastery Beach & Mirror Beach
On your second day, get back in the car and explore beyond Ksamil village.
- Monastery Beach – a calm pebble beach 10–15 minutes away, with clear water and fewer people
- Mirror Beach (Plazhi i Pasqyrave) – one of the Riviera’s prettiest beaches, especially at low tide when you can walk to the next cove
Both are great alternatives if Ksamil feels too crowded.
Where to Eat in Ksamil
After a week of traditional Albanian dishes, we were happy to switch to seafood. Tre Ishujt Restaurant is expensive by local standards, but the waterfront setting makes it a lovely dinner choice.
For something simpler, there are plenty of beach restaurants serving salads, grilled fish, and cold drinks.
In short: Ksamil is busy but beautiful — a great place to pause on your Albania road trip, with Butrint and some of the Riviera’s best beaches close by.
Where To Stay In Ksamil
🌟Top Pick🌟
Hotel Meta Ksamil
Just a short walk from Ksamil Beach 9, Hotel Meta has rooms with balconies facing either the town or the sea. Breakfast and free private parking are included.
🌟Mid-Range Pick🌟
John’s Guesthouse
Rooms at John’s Guesthouse are simple, but the views are among the best in town. It is also affordable, with parking included.
Day 9 & 10 Of Albania road trip: Himare
Drive: Ksamil → Himare | ~1 hour 45 minutes
Distance: ~65 km
Road condition: Curvy coastal road, good quality
Sleep: Himare
Himare is our favourite stop on the Albanian Riviera and the place we would happily stay longer. Compared with Ksamil and Sarandë, it feels calmer, less commercial, and better balanced, with beautiful beaches and more space to breathe.
The Coastal Drive to Himare
The road north from Ksamil to Himare is one of the prettiest drives on this Albania road trip itinerary. Expect bends, sea views, and plenty of places where you will want to pull over for “just one quick photo”.
Do not rush this section — leave room for viewpoints and short stops.
Livadhi Beach Walk
Start with the walk to Livadhi Beach, around 60 minutes on foot from Himare town via scenic paths. The beach is a mix of pebbles and sand, with clear calm water and more space than you often find further south.
There are loungers and a beach bar if you want them, but we were just as happy with towels on the beach.
Golden Hour Paddleboarding
If the sea is calm, try stand-up paddleboarding in the late afternoon. The water around Himare is often flat, making it beginner-friendly, and the sunset light is gorgeous.
It is one of those simple experiences that quietly becomes a trip highlight.
Himare Castle (Sunset Viewpoint)
For sunset, drive or walk up to Himare Castle. The ruins are modest, but the coastline views are excellent, especially as the sun drops into the sea.
There is also a small chapel with colourful frescoes, which gives the site a little extra character.
Day Trip: Gjipe Beach
On your second day, drive north to Gjipe Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on the Albanian Riviera.
From the car park, it is a 2 km walk down to the beach, so wear decent shoes. The reward is soft sand, turquoise water, and a wilder, less developed feel.
We could easily spend half a day here without getting bored.
Where to Eat in Himare
For dinner, eat by the sea at Soren. Expect big plates of grilled seafood, local wine, and an easy coastal atmosphere — our favourite kind of Riviera evening.
In short: Himare is the perfect finale — quieter beaches, coastal walks, and sunset views that remind you why road tripping Albania is so rewarding.
Where To Stay In Himare
🌟Top Pick🌟
Geo & Art Boutique Hotel Himara
Right on Himare’s main beach, this Grecian-style property is ideal if you want to wake up by the sea and step straight onto the sand. Rooms include free private parking.
🌟Mid-Range Pick 🌟
Endless Blue Himara
The simple, compact rooms at Endless Blue are good for travellers on a budget who still want to stay close to the beach. Pay a little more for a balcony with sea views.
From Himare, it is around a 4-hour drive back to Tirana. Start early if possible to avoid heavier traffic.
Alternative Albania Itineraries (5, 7, and 9 Days)
If you are not doing the full 10-day loop, these shorter versions are the most realistic. Albania looks small on a map, but mountain roads and hairpin bends stretch drive times, so these are the routes that actually work without spending the whole holiday in the car.
5-Day Albania Itinerary (Choose North OR South — Not Both)
Trying to squeeze both Theth and the Riviera into five days is a classic mistake — we tried it once and regretted it. Pick one region and enjoy it properly.
⭐ Option A: North Albania Itinerary 5 days
Best for mountains, nature, and hiking.
Day 1: Tirana (city sights)
Day 2: Tirana → Kruje → Shkoder (🚗 total driving time: 2.5 hours)
Day 3: Shkoder →Theth (🚗 2 hours)
Day 4: Theth (Blue Eye or Grunas Waterfall)
Day 5: Theth → Tirana (🚗 3.5 hours)
⭐ Option B: Albanian Riviera Itinerary (South)
Perfect if you want beaches, turquoise water, and ancient ruins.
Day 1: Tirana Airport → Berat sightseeing (🚗 total driving: 2 hours)
Day 2: Berat → day in Gjirokaster (🚗 2.5 hours)
Day 3: Gjirokaster → Ksamil (Blue Eye + Butrint) (🚗 1 hour)
Day 4: Ksamil (beach day)
Day 5: Ksamil → Tirana (Himare on the way) (🚗 4+ hours)
👉 Our advice:
Choose ONE area. Theth and Ksamil in five days is not a holiday; it is a driving challenge.
7-Day Albania Itinerary (Balanced + Realistic)
Seven days is enough to see the Albanian Alps, UNESCO towns, and a taste of the Riviera without feeling completely ruled by Google Maps.
This is the one-week version we recommend most:
Day 1: Tirana → Theth (big drive day) (🚗 3.5+ hours)
Day 2: Theth (Blue Eye hike)
Day 3: Theth → Berat (arrive late afternoon) (🚗 5 hours)
Day 4: Berat (full day)
Day 5: Berat → Gjirokaster (🚗 2.5 hours) → Ksamil (🚗 1 hour)
Day 6: Ksamil (beaches + Butrint)
Day 7: Ksamil → Tirana (stop in Himare on the way) (🚗 4+ hours)
👉 Why this works:
You still get mountains, culture, and Riviera sunshine without changing hotels every single day.
Albania 9-DayItinerary
If you want almost the full 10-day route but can spare one less beach day, this is the strongest option.
Day 1: Tirana → Kruje → Shkoder (🚗 total driving time: 2.5 hours)
Day 2: Shkoder
Day 3: Shkoder → Theth (🚗 2 hours)
Day 4: Theth → Berat (🚗 5 hours)
Day 5: Berat
Day 6: Berat → Gjirokaster (🚗 2.5 hours)
Day 7: Gjirokaster → Ksamil (🚗 1 hour)
Day 8: Ksamil
Day 9: Ksamil → Tirana with a stop in Himare (🚗 4+ hours)
👉 Why this works:
You see the north, the centre, and the Riviera, but swap extended beach time for a coastal stop on the return to Tirana.
Driving Tips for an Albania Self-Drive Itinerary
After three road trips across Albania, from the Alps to the Riviera, we can honestly say driving here is very manageable if you know what to expect. Roads improve every year, but Albania can still surprise you with potholes, sheep crossings, or missing signs.
These are the tips we wish we had before our first Albania self-drive itinerary:
Road Rules & What Tourists Need to Know
- Headlights are required 24/7, even during daylight.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for everyone in the vehicle.
- Speed limits:40 km/h in cities and towns
- 80 km/h on rural roads
- 90–110 km/h on highways
- International Driving Permit:
- Many visitors do need one, so check before travelling.
- Alcohol limit: effectively zero at 0.01 mg/ml. Do not risk it.
- Toll roads: Albania has very few tolls; the Llogara Tunnel is the main one to watch for soon.
- Roundabouts: In theory, traffic inside has priority. In practice, confidence often wins.
👉 Do not panic — after a day or two, the rhythm starts to make sense.
Fuel, Tolls & Road Conditions
- Fuel stations are common on major roads but less frequent in rural areas, so fill up before mountain drives.
- Card payments are inconsistent; keep cash handy.
- Potholes: expect them, especially on older rural roads.
- Mountain passes: scenic but slow, with hairpins, blind corners, and animals.
- Road signs: better than before, but not always reliable. Download offline maps.
- Waze & Google Maps: both help, but signal drops around Theth, Valbona, and remote inland areas.
👉 Our rule: if a road looks overly adventurous, it probably is. Stick to main routes unless you know the area.
Safety Tips for Mountain Roads
- Start early. Daylight makes mountain driving much easier.
- Avoid night driving unless necessary — sharp curves and no lighting are not fun.
- Use lower gears on descents to protect your brakes.
- Stop often. The views are worth it, and breaks help.
- Watch for animals: goats, sheep, cows, dogs, and sometimes all at once.
- Keep right on narrow stretches and let locals pass when needed.
👉 We drove a rental van to Theth and Valbona without problems. The roads are paved now, just slow and scenic.
What to Do if You Get Stopped by Police
Police checkpoints are common in Albania. They usually check for speeding or documents. If you are stopped:
- Stay calm — officers are usually polite.
- Have ready:
- driving licence
- passport
- rental agreement
- Say you are a tourist; you will often be waved on.
- Bribes: do not offer one. That stereotype is outdated.
👉 We have been stopped twice, and both times were quick and friendly.
Offline Maps & Navigation Tips
Albania has a talent for losing signal exactly when you need directions most, so prepare ahead:
- Download Google Maps offline for the whole route.
- Save hotels, restaurants, beaches, and hikes as starred pins.
- Use satellite view around Theth, Valbona, and SH8 to check road layouts.
- If Google suggests a suspicious “shortcut”, avoid it unless the route is clearly reliable.
- Keep a paper map if you like backup plans or have been emotionally damaged by Balkan GPS.
Albania Road Trip FAQs
Is 10 Days Enough for Albania?
Yes — 10 days in Albania is an excellent amount of time for a first trip. You can see the Albanian Alps, UNESCO towns, and the Riviera without feeling too rushed. With less than a week, choose north or south. With more than 10 days, add Valbona, Dhermi, or Lake Koman.
Do You Need a 4×4 for Albania?
No. You do not need a 4×4 for this itinerary. The Shkoder–Theth road is now fully paved, and the other roads on this route are normal highways or mountain roads. A 4×4 is only useful for remote villages or off-road detours.
How Are the Roads to Theth?
Much better than many old online reports suggest. The road is paved all the way, though narrow and winding, with slow speeds and the occasional goat. Start early, drive carefully, and enjoy the views — even our rental van managed it easily.
Is It Safe to Drive in Albania?
Yes, Albania is safe to drive if you are confident behind the wheel. Highways are good, cities can feel chaotic, mountain roads are slow, and night driving is best avoided. Police checks are common but usually friendly; we have never had issues.
What Is the Best Month for an Albania Road Trip?
June and September are the best months for warm weather, fewer crowds, and better prices.
July–August are beautiful but busy and more expensive.
April–May and October are great for culture and sightseeing, though not always ideal for beach time.
Can You Start an Albania Road Trip in Corfu?
Yes — lots of travellers do.
Fly into Corfu, take the 30-minute ferry to Sarandë, and begin the itinerary from the south.
It is especially useful if Tirana flights are expensive or you want more time on the coast.
Are ATMs and Card Payments Reliable?
Mostly yes, but:
- Cash is still preferred in smaller towns and mountain villages
- Many ATMs charge withdrawal fees
Is Parking Easy in Albania?
Generally, yes.
Berat, Shkoder, and Gjirokaster all have simple, inexpensive parking options.
Ksamil charges for beach parking in summer.
Tirana can be trickier, but most hotels can help.
Do Albanians Speak English?
In cities and tourist areas, yes. In rural places and mountain villages, not always — Google Translate is useful. Everyone we met was warm, patient, and happy to help.
The Wrap-Up
We could easily turn this Albania road trip into a month-long adventure, but 10 days is a fantastic length for a first visit. It gives you time to understand the country, meet its people, taste the food, and decide where you would love to return for longer.
Spoiler: you probably will.
