Itinerary

A week in Albania sounds like a fantastic adventure, especially with your furry friend in tow! Let’s create a fun-filled, pet-friendly itinerary that’s perfect for families and packed with parks and green spaces. Here we go!

## Day 1: Arrival in Tirana

Morning:

• Arrive in Tirana and check into a pet-friendly hotel. The Tirana International Hotel is a great option!
• Take a leisurely stroll in Grand Park (Parku i Madh). It’s a beautiful green space with a lake, perfect for a morning walk with your pet.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch at the park. Grab some local snacks from a nearby bakery or café.
• After lunch, let the kids play at the Tirana Zoo, which is located within the park. It’s a small zoo, but the kids will love it!

Evening:

• Head to Blloku, a vibrant neighborhood with lots of outdoor cafes. Enjoy dinner at a pet-friendly restaurant like Era Restaurant, where you can savor traditional Albanian dishes.

## Day 2: Day Trip to Dajti Mountain

Morning:

• After breakfast, take the Dajti Ekspres cable car to Dajti Mountain. The views are breathtaking!
• Once at the top, explore the Dajti National Park. There are plenty of trails for hiking, and your pet will love the fresh mountain air.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the Dajti Mountain Restaurant, which has outdoor seating and stunning views.
• Spend the afternoon hiking or simply relaxing in the park. There are picnic areas where you can unwind.

Evening:

• Return to Tirana and enjoy a casual dinner at Mulliri I Vjeter, which has a lovely outdoor terrace.

## Day 3: Explore Shkodra

Morning:

• Drive to Shkodra (about 2 hours from Tirana). Check into a pet-friendly hotel like Hotel Colosseo.
• Visit Shkodra Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Balkans. It’s a great spot for a walk with your pet.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant. Try some fresh fish dishes!
• Spend the afternoon at Shkodra Castle. While the castle itself is historical, the surrounding area has beautiful gardens and views.

Evening:

• Stroll through the city center and enjoy dinner at Tradita, which offers a cozy atmosphere and outdoor seating.

## Day 4: The Albanian Riviera - Dhermi

Morning:

• Head to Dhermi (about 3 hours from Shkodra). Check into a pet-friendly beach hotel like Hotel Dhermi.
• Spend the morning at Dhermi Beach. It’s a beautiful spot where your family and pet can enjoy the sun and sand.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a beachside café.
• After lunch, explore the nearby Llogara National Park. There are plenty of trails and stunning views of the coastline.

Evening:

• Enjoy a beachside dinner at Taverna Koral, where you can dine with your pet while watching the sunset.

## Day 5: Relaxing in Saranda

Morning:

• Drive to Saranda (about 1.5 hours from Dhermi). Check into a pet-friendly hotel like Hotel Brilant.
• Spend the morning at Saranda Beach. It’s family-friendly and perfect for a day of relaxation.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant.
• Visit Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While it has historical ruins, the park itself is lush and great for walking with your pet.

Evening:

• Head back to Saranda for dinner at La Petite, which has a lovely outdoor area.

## Day 6: Gjirokastër Adventure

Morning:

• Drive to Gjirokastër (about 2 hours from Saranda). Check into a pet-friendly hotel like Hotel Gjirokastra.
• Explore the Gjirokastër Castle area. The gardens around the castle are lovely for a stroll.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Kujtimi, which has outdoor seating.
• Spend the afternoon in the Ethnographic Museum area, which has beautiful gardens and views of the city.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Restaurant Kodra, where you can relax with your family and pet.

## Day 7: Return to Tirana

Morning:

• Head back to Tirana (about 3 hours from Gjirokastër).
• Stop at Divjakë-Karavasta National Park along the way. It’s a great spot for a walk and to enjoy nature.

Afternoon:

• Have a picnic lunch in the park.
• Continue your journey back to Tirana and spend your last afternoon at Lake Artificial Park. It’s a lovely spot for a final stroll.

Evening:

• Enjoy a farewell dinner at Sky Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the city.

Tips:

• Always check with hotels and restaurants in advance to confirm their pet policies.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for your pet during your travels.
• Make sure to have a leash and waste bags for your furry friend.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing week in Albania with your family and pet! Enjoy every moment! 🐾🌍✨