7 day itinerary for Albania

Itinerary

Albania is a hidden gem in the Balkans, offering stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and breathtaking mountains. Let’s dive into an exciting 7-day itinerary that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tirana

Morning: Arrive in Tirana, the capital city. Check into your hotel and freshen up. Grab a traditional Albanian breakfast at a local café—try some byrek (savory pastry) and a strong coffee!

Afternoon: Explore the city! Start with Skanderbeg Square, where you can visit the National History Museum to get a glimpse of Albania’s rich history. Don’t miss the colorful buildings of the Blloku district, once reserved for the communist elite, now a trendy area filled with cafes and shops.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some grilled meats and a glass of raki (a traditional Albanian spirit). If you’re up for it, check out the nightlife in Blloku!

## Day 2: Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows

Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Berat (about 2 hours). This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture.

Afternoon: Explore the Berat Castle, where you can wander through ancient streets and visit the Onufri National Museum. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the Osum River and the surrounding hills!

Evening: Enjoy dinner in the old town, perhaps at a restaurant with a view of the castle. Try the local wine—Albania has some fantastic vineyards!

## Day 3: Gjirokastër – The Stone City

Morning: Head to Gjirokastër (about 2 hours from Berat). This is another UNESCO site, famous for its stone houses and rich history.

Afternoon: Visit the Gjirokastër Castle, which offers panoramic views and houses a fascinating museum. Explore the cobbled streets and check out the Ethnographic Museum, located in the former home of the dictator Enver Hoxha.

Evening: Dine at a local restaurant and try the traditional dish of qifqi (rice balls with herbs). Spend the night in Gjirokastër, soaking in the charming atmosphere.

## Day 4: Saranda and the Albanian Riviera

Morning: Drive to Saranda (about 1.5 hours). This coastal town is your gateway to the stunning Albanian Riviera.

Afternoon: Spend the day at the beach! Relax on the beautiful beaches of Ksamil, known for their crystal-clear waters and picturesque islands. You can also rent a kayak or take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands.

Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant in Saranda. The sunset views here are simply magical!

## Day 5: Butrint National Park and Blue Eye Spring

Morning: Visit Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient ruins, including a Roman theater and a Byzantine basilica, all set in a lush landscape.

Afternoon: After exploring Butrint, head to the Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër), a stunning natural spring with vibrant blue waters. You can take a dip if you’re feeling adventurous!

Evening: Return to Saranda for dinner. Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the promenade, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 6: The Albanian Alps – Theth

Morning: Depart early for Theth in the Albanian Alps (about 4 hours). The drive is scenic, with breathtaking views of mountains and valleys.

Afternoon: Once in Theth, check into a guesthouse and grab lunch. Spend the afternoon hiking to the Grunas Waterfall or exploring the village. The landscape here is stunning, with dramatic peaks and lush greenery.

Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner at your guesthouse, often featuring local ingredients and recipes. Spend the night in Theth, surrounded by nature.

## Day 7: Hiking and Return to Tirana

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a hike to the Theth to Valbona trail (or a shorter hike if you prefer). The views are absolutely worth it!

Afternoon: After your hike, return to Tirana (about 4-5 hours). You can stop for lunch along the way and enjoy the scenic drive back.

Evening: Spend your last evening in Tirana. Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, perhaps trying some traditional Albanian dishes you haven’t yet tasted.

Bonus Tips:

• Transportation: Renting a car is a great way to explore Albania at your own pace.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying local dishes like tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) and fërgesë (a pepper and cheese dish).
• Cultural Etiquette: Albanians are known for their hospitality, so don’t hesitate to engage with locals!

This itinerary is packed with adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy your trip to Albania! 🌍✈️🏖️🏔️