DURATION: 4 to 8 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Moderate

Explore Albania

Embark on a scenic road trip across Albania, from the Adriatic shores of Durrës to the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian coast. This journey blends UNESCO heritage, dramatic canyons, untouched nature and Mediterranean coastline, offering a perfect balance of discovery, relaxation and freedom.

Your suggested 7-night road trip:

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana → Durrës

Day 2: Durrës ⇄ Berat & Sineci Canyons

Day 3: Durrës

Day 4: Durrës → Saranda (Albanian Riviera)

Day 5: Saranda ⇄ Blue Eye & Lëkurësi Castle

Day 6: Saranda ⇄ Ksamil & Butrint

Day 7: Saranda ⇄ Gjirokastër

Day 8: Departure from Tirana

By opting for a shorter or longer stay (4, 5, 6 or 8 nights), your journey follows the same route while adjusting the time spent in each destination. You’ll enjoy more or fewer nights in Durrës and Saranda, allowing you to tailor your experience between relaxation, cultural visits and coastal exploration, without missing the highlights of this unforgettable Albanian escape.

Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.

The freedom to explore:

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TIRANA (TIA) → DURRËS

Arrive at Tirana International Airport (TIA) and pick up your rental car before heading to Durrës, a historic seaside city on the Adriatic coast. Settle into your beachfront hotel and enjoy your first moments between sea views and Mediterranean atmosphere.

Included:

• Car hire pick-up at Tirana Airport (TIA)
• Night at a 5* hotel (Durrës)

DAY 2: DURRËS ⇄ BERAT & SINECI CANYONS

Set off on a full-day guided excursion combining spectacular nature and UNESCO heritage. Discover the Sineci Canyons, carved by time, before exploring Berat, known as the “city of a thousand windows”, with its hilltop castle and Ottoman quarters.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Full-day excursion to Berat & Sineci Canyons (guide, transport & transfers included)
• Night at a 5* hotel (Durrës)

DAY 3: DURRËS 

Enjoy a day at leisure in Durrës, one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean. Explore its Roman amphitheatre, wander through historic streets or relax by the sea and take advantage of your hotel’s wellness facilities.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at a 5* hotel (Durrës)

Suggestions:

• Visit the Roman amphitheatre & Venetian tower
• Walk along the seafront promenade
• Enjoy fresh seafood by the Adriatic

DAY 4: DURRËS → SARANDA

Drive south along the spectacular Albanian Riviera, passing through Vlora before crossing the breathtaking Llogara Pass. Admire dramatic coastal views and charming hillside villages before reaching Saranda, overlooking the Ionian Sea and Corfu.

Included:

• Breakfast & dinner 
• Night at a 4* hotel (Saranda)

Suggestions:

• Visit the Roman amphitheatre & Venetian tower
• Walk along the seafront promenade
• Enjoy fresh seafood by the Adriatic

Discover the magical Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring with striking turquoise waters. In the evening, head up to Lëkurësi Castle for a breathtaking sunset over Saranda, the Ionian Sea and Corfu.

Included:

• Breakfast & dinner
• Excursion to Blue Eye & Lëkurësi Castle (transport, entrance & panoramic train included)
• Night at a 4* hotel (Saranda)
  
  

DAY 6: SARANDA ⇄ KSAMIL & BUTRINT

Explore the idyllic Ksamil islands, known for their crystal-clear waters, before discovering Butrint, a UNESCO-listed archaeological site blending Greek, Roman and Byzantine history in a lush natural setting.

Included:

• Breakfast & dinner
• Night at a 4* hotel (Saranda)

Suggestions:

• Swim in Ksamil’s turquoise waters
• Visit Butrint National Park
• Enjoy lakeside dining with local specialities

DAY 7: SARANDA ⇄ GJIROKASTËR

Travel inland to Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-listed Ottoman town known for its stone houses and historic bazaar. Explore its impressive fortress and soak up the authentic atmosphere of southern Albania.Enjoy a day at leisure in Durrës, one of the oldest cities in the Mediterranean. Explore its Roman amphitheatre, wander through historic streets or relax by the sea and take advantage of your hotel’s wellness facilities.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at a 4* hotel (Saranda

DAY 8: DEPARTURE FROM TIRANA (TIA)

After breakfast, drive back to Tirana International Airport (TIA), enjoying a final journey through Albania’s diverse landscapes before returning your car and departing.

Included:

• Breakfast 
• Car hire drop-off at Tirana Airport (TIA)

You may also choose 4, 5, 6 or 8 nights, with the same route adapted to your duration, allowing for more or less time in Durrës and Saranda depending on your travel pace.

At each of your stops, you will be staying in Standard Rooms in thoughtfully selected 4* and 5* hotels.

Your hotels (or similar):

Durrës: Crowne Plaza Durrës 5* (King Sea View Room)

Saranda: Hotel Apollon 4* (Deluxe Partial Sea View Room)

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.

Discover the cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes of Albania during a full-day guided excursion combining the UNESCO-listed city of Berat with the natural beauty of the Sineci Canyons. This immersive experience blends history, traditional architecture and spectacular scenery, offering a fascinating insight into one of Albania’s most authentic regions.

Discover two of southern Albania’s most spectacular highlights during this scenic afternoon and sunset excursion from Sarandë. Combining breathtaking natural landscapes with panoramic coastal views, this experience offers the perfect balance of relaxation, sightseeing and photography opportunities.

Discover the natural beauty of Lake Bovilla with a panoramic hike to Mount Gamti and spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and forests. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in history in Kruje, the birthplace of national hero Skanderbeg, and explore its Ottoman bazaar filled with handcrafted treasures.

Spend a day exploring the treasures of northern Albania, from the panoramic Rozafa Fortress in Shkodër to the historic cradle of Kruja, symbol of Albanian resistance.

Set off on a day trip from Tirana to explore Prizren, with its Ottoman heritage, iconic historic sites and authentic Balkan atmosphere.

Set off from Tirana for a day trip to discover the spectacular landscapes of the Sineci Canyons and the historic town of Berat, combining nature walks with UNESCO-listed heritage sites.

Situated on Albania’s Adriatic coast, Durrës is one of the country’s oldest and most dynamic cities, blending seaside charm with ancient heritage. Once an important port of the Roman Empire, today it is a lively resort destination where golden beaches meet archaeological treasures and Mediterranean flavours. Its relaxed coastal atmosphere, rich history, and vibrant culture make Durrës a perfect getaway for sunseekers and explorers alike.

Must-sees:

• Durrës Amphitheatre: Discover one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the Balkans, right in the heart of the city.
• Durrës Archaeological Museum: Explore artefacts spanning millennia, from Illyrian relics to Byzantine icons.
• Venetian Tower: Climb this 15th-century fortification for panoramic views of the waterfront and old town.
• Durrës Beach: Stretch out on long sandy shores lined with cafés, beach clubs, and family-friendly resorts.
• Byzantine Forum: Wander through the remains of ancient columns and mosaics that reveal the city’s layered history.

Culinary culture

Durrës cuisine celebrates fresh seafood, Mediterranean ingredients, and local traditions. Enjoy grilled fish, seafood risotto, or pasta with prawns at beachfront restaurants. Pair your meal with Albanian wine or raki, and finish with a dessert like trileçe or baklava. The city’s promenade is perfect for an evening stroll followed by gelato or espresso at a seaside café.

Dive deeper

Take a short drive to nearby vineyards and olive groves, or explore the countryside dotted with castles and archaeological sites. The Durrës Marina area offers yachting, sunset cruises, and lively nightlife, while day trips to Tirana or the rugged Karaburun Peninsula provide a broader glimpse of Albania’s beauty.

Good to know

The currency is the Albanian lek (ALL), though euros are often accepted in tourist areas. Durrës is about 35 km from Tirana International Airport, making it easily accessible for short stays. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the Adriatic waters are warm and the coastal vibe is at its liveliest.

Welcome to Albania

Nestled along the shimmering Ionian coast, Sarandë is Albania’s ultimate seaside escape, where turquoise waters meet golden beaches, and history lingers in ancient ruins. Just a short ferry ride from Corfu, this lively coastal town is the gateway to the Albanian Riviera, blending Mediterranean charm with Balkan soul.

Don’t miss

• Butrint National Park – A UNESCO-listed wonder just 20km south of Sarandë, this ancient city boasts Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins set against lush greenery and tranquil lagoons.
• The Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër) – A mesmerising natural spring where deep sapphire waters bubble up from the earth, creating an oasis perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
• Lekursi Castle – Perched on a hilltop above Sarandë, this fortress offers jaw-dropping sunset views over the bay, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine.
• Ksamil Beach – Just a short drive away, Ksamil’s white sands and crystal-clear waters rival the Greek islands, with small islets you can reach by kayak or paddleboard.
• The Monastery of Forty Saints – A hidden historical gem, this ancient ruin sits on a hillside overlooking Sarandë and holds the town’s namesake legend.

Culinary culture

Fresh seafood is the star of the show—grilled sea bass, octopus, and stuffed mussels are local favourites, often served with citrusy salads and warm homemade bread. Traditional byrek (flaky pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or minced meat) is a staple, while slow-cooked lamb with rosemary and garlic is a must-try for meat lovers. Wash it all down with a glass of local raki, or sample one of the region’s emerging wines from the rolling vineyards of Albania’s south.

Dive deeper

The ruins of Phoenice, an ancient Greek city-state, lie hidden in the hills, offering an off-the-beaten-track archaeological treasure with panoramic views. Venture to the old stone village of Qeparo, where time seems to stand still among citrus groves and Ottoman-era houses. Inland, the untouched beauty of the Muzinë Pass unfolds, leading to sleepy villages where locals still craft olive oil and honey using time-honoured traditions.

Good to know

Sarandë enjoys a long summer season, with warm temperatures stretching from May to October—though July and August see the highest influx of visitors. The local currency is the Albanian lek (ALL), though euros are often accepted in tourist areas. Ferries run regularly between Sarandë and Corfu, making it easy to hop between the two. For exploring the coastline, hiring a car provides the most flexibility, though Albania’s iconic furgons (shared minibuses) offer a cheap and adventurous way to get around.