Itinerary

Tirana is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful parks, and delicious food, making it a fantastic destination for families. Here’s a fun and engaging 7-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City Center

Morning:

• Arrive in Tirana and check into your family-friendly hotel. The Tirana International Hotel or Hotel Vila 60 are great options with family amenities.
• After settling in, head to Skanderbeg Square. This is the heart of the city, and you can take a family photo with the iconic statue of Skanderbeg.

Afternoon:

• Visit the National History Museum. The exhibits are engaging, and there’s a lot to learn about Albania’s past. Kids will enjoy the dinosaur fossils and the ancient artifacts.
• Grab lunch at a nearby café. Try some traditional Albanian dishes like tavë kosi (baked lamb with yogurt) or byrek (savory pastry).

Evening:

• Stroll through the Grand Park of Tirana. It’s a lovely place for a family walk, and there’s a playground for the kids.
• Have dinner at Era Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of local dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.

## Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a day trip to Dajti Mountain National Park. You can take the Dajti Ekspres cable car for stunning views. The ride is exciting for kids!

Afternoon:

• Once at the top, enjoy a picnic lunch with a view. There are also hiking trails if your family is up for some adventure.
• Explore the park and let the kids run around. There are also opportunities for activities like horseback riding.

Evening:

• Return to Tirana and have dinner at Pizzeria Blloku. The pizzas are delicious, and the atmosphere is lively.

## Day 3: Culture and History

Morning:

• Visit the Et'hem Bey Mosque and learn about its history. The intricate frescoes are fascinating!
• Next, head to the National Art Gallery. The art can spark interesting conversations with your kids about creativity.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at Mulliri I Vjeter, a cozy spot with great local food.
• After lunch, visit the Bunk'Art 2 museum, which is located in a former nuclear bunker. It’s educational and intriguing for older kids.

Evening:

• Have dinner at Taverna Tafaj, where you can enjoy traditional Albanian cuisine in a charming setting.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Krujë

Morning:

• Take a short drive (about 30 minutes) to Krujë, a historic town. Visit the Krujë Castle and explore its fascinating history.

Afternoon:

• Check out the Ethnographic Museum located in the former home of the national hero, Skanderbeg. It’s a great way to learn about Albanian culture.
• Have lunch at a local restaurant with a view of the castle.

Evening:

• Return to Tirana and enjoy a relaxed dinner at Sofra e Ariut, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious food.

## Day 5: Fun and Relaxation

Morning:

• Spend the morning at Tirana Zoo. It’s small but perfect for younger kids, and they can see various animals.

Afternoon:

• Head to Lake Tirana for a leisurely afternoon. You can rent pedal boats or just relax by the water. There are also playgrounds nearby.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake or grab a bite at one of the lakeside cafes.

Evening:

• For dinner, try Pasta e Vino, where you can enjoy a family meal in a cozy setting.

## Day 6: Local Markets and Shopping

Morning:

• Visit the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri). It’s a vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. Let the kids pick out some snacks!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at one of the market’s eateries. Try some fresh seafood or local specialties.
• After lunch, explore the Tirana City Park. It’s a great place for the kids to play and for the family to relax.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at Vila 31, which offers a variety of dishes in a family-friendly environment.

## Day 7: Departure and Last-Minute Exploration

Morning:

• Depending on your flight time, you can visit the Pyramid of Tirana and take some fun photos. It’s a unique structure with a fascinating history.
• If time allows, stop by the Tirana Castle for a quick visit.

Afternoon:

• Have a farewell lunch at Café Bar Blloku, a trendy spot with a relaxed vibe.
• Head to the airport for your departure, filled with wonderful memories of your family trip to Tirana!

Tips:

• Always check the opening hours of attractions in advance, as they can vary.
• Consider using public transport or taxis for convenience, especially with kids.
• Don’t forget to try some local ice cream or pastries during your stay!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family adventure in Tirana! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️