7 day itinerary
Albania
Itinerary
Albania is a hidden gem with stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here’s a fun and active 7-day itinerary that balances beautiful sites, adventure, and relaxation, starting from Corfu and ending in Tirana with a stop in Berat. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in Corfu
Morning:
- Arrive in Corfu and take some time to explore the charming Old Town. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit the , and enjoy a coffee at a local café.
Afternoon:
- Head to the beach! Spend some time at one of Corfu’s beautiful beaches like Paleokastritsa. You can swim, sunbathe, or even rent a kayak to explore the coastline.
Evening:
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at a seaside taverna, savoring some fresh seafood and local Greek dishes.
Day 2: Ferry to Saranda
Morning:
- After breakfast, take the ferry from Corfu to Saranda. The ride is about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the Ionian Sea.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Saranda and check into your accommodation. After settling in, explore the town. Visit the and enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
Evening:
- Have dinner at a local restaurant with a view of the sea. Try some Albanian specialties like “tavë kosi” (baked lamb with yogurt).
Day 3: Explore the Albanian Riviera
Morning:
- Take a day trip to the stunning beaches of the Albanian Riviera. Head to Ksamil, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful islands. You can rent a boat or just relax on the beach.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy lunch at a beachside café in Ksamil. Afterward, consider hiking to the nearby , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the ancient ruins and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Evening:
- Return to Saranda and unwind with a sunset drink at a beach bar. Dinner at a local restaurant to wrap up the day.
Day 4: Day Trip
Morning:
- After breakfast, take a day trip to , a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Saranda.
Afternoon:
- Explore the , which offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Visit the , located in the former home of the Albanian dictator Enver Hoxha.
Evening:
- Enjoy dinner in at a traditional restaurant before heading back to Saranda for the night.
Day 5: Saranda to Berat
Morning:
- After breakfast, check out and start your journey to Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows.” It’s about a 2.5-hour drive.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Berat and check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the , where you can wander through the ancient streets and enjoy the views of the Osum River.
Evening:
- Have dinner in the Mangalem district, where you can enjoy local dishes and perhaps some Albanian wine.
Day 6: Explore Berat and Surroundings
Morning:
- After breakfast, visit the , located within the castle, to learn about the region’s history and art.
Afternoon:
- Take a hike in the nearby . There are various trails to choose from, offering beautiful views and a chance to connect with nature.
Evening:
- Return to Berat and enjoy a relaxed dinner. Take a stroll along the river and soak in the charming atmosphere of this historic town.
Day 7: Berat to Tirana
Morning:
- After breakfast, check out and head to Tirana, the capital city of Albania. It’s about a 2-hour drive.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Tirana and start exploring. Visit , the , and the colorful buildings of the city. Don’t miss the and the .
Evening:
- For your last dinner in Albania, treat yourselves to a nice restaurant in the , known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
Bonus Tips:
- Make sure to try local delicacies like “byrek” (savory pastry) and “fërgesë” (a traditional dish made with peppers and cheese).
- Keep your camera handy; Albania is incredibly photogenic!
- If you have extra time, consider visiting the for a refreshing swim.
Enjoy your adventure in Albania! It’s going to be a trip filled with beautiful memories! 🌍✨
