14 day itinerary for Albania

Itinerary

Albania is a hidden gem with stunning beaches, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Here’s a relaxed 14-day itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty of the country while enjoying its charming culture. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tirana

• Morning: Arrive in Tirana, the vibrant capital. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll around Skanderbeg Square, visit the National History Museum, and admire the colorful buildings.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like “tavë kosi” (baked lamb with yogurt).

## Day 2: Explore Tirana

• Morning: Visit the Bunk’Art museum, a fascinating underground bunker turned art space.
• Afternoon: Head to the Grand Park (Parku i Madh) for a leisurely walk or a picnic by the lake.
• Evening: Explore the trendy Blloku district for dinner and maybe some nightlife.

## Day 3: Tirana to Berat

• Morning: Drive or take a bus to Berat (about 2 hours). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Berat, known for its Ottoman architecture. Visit the Berat Castle and the Onufri National Museum.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view of the Osum River.

## Day 4: Berat to Gjirokastër

• Morning: Depart for Gjirokastër (about 2 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Gjirokastër Castle and the Ethnographic Museum, which is housed in the former home of the dictator Enver Hoxha.
• Evening: Stroll through the cobbled streets and enjoy a traditional dinner.

## Day 5: Gjirokastër to Saranda

• Morning: Head to Saranda (about 1.5 hours). Check into your beachside hotel.
• Afternoon: Relax on the beautiful beaches of Saranda. Visit the nearby archaeological site of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant.

## Day 6: Beach Day in Saranda

• All ## Day: Spend a leisurely day at the beach. You can visit Ksamil Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning islands. Rent a kayak or just relax on the sand.
• Evening: Have dinner at a beach bar and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 7: Saranda to Himara

• Morning: Drive along the Albanian Riviera to Himara (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Explore Himara’s beautiful beaches, like Jale Beach or Livadhi Beach.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local taverna.

## Day 8: Beach Hopping in the Albanian Riviera

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to explore nearby beaches like Dhermi and Gjipe. You can hike to Gjipe Beach, which is a bit secluded and stunning.
• Evening: Return to Himara for dinner and a stroll along the waterfront.

## Day 9: Himara to Vlorë

• Morning: Depart for Vlorë (about 1 hour). Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Independence Square and the Muradie Mosque. Spend some time at the beach.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the bay.

## Day 10: Vlorë to Dhermi

• Morning: Head back to Dhermi (about 1 hour). Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Spend the day at Dhermi Beach, known for its stunning turquoise waters.
• Evening: Enjoy a beachside dinner and relax under the stars.

## Day 11: Dhermi to Apollonia and back to Tirana

• Morning: Visit the ancient city of Apollonia (about 2 hours from Dhermi). Explore the ruins and the museum.
• Afternoon: Return to Tirana (about 1.5 hours). Check into your hotel.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Tirana, perhaps at a rooftop restaurant.

## Day 12: Day Trip to Lake Ohrid

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s oldest and deepest lakes. Explore the town of Pogradec and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
• Evening: Return to Tirana for a relaxed evening.

## Day 13: Relax in Tirana

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Visit the Pyramid of Tirana and the nearby artificial lake.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about your trip.

## Day 14: Departure

• Morning: Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final stroll around Tirana or visit any spots you may have missed.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Albania at a relaxed pace, with plenty of time to enjoy the stunning beaches and rich culture. Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to capture all the beautiful moments! Safe travels! 🌊🏖️