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Albania Itinerary by Car or Bus
Albania might just be Europe’s worst-kept secret, as everyone’s heard of this “hidden gem” by now. With some of the most breathtaking mountains in Europe, beaches that will make you gasp, and a cuisine so good you will wish you had packed some tupperwears, this Albania itinerary is here to help you soak up as much of this incredible country as possible.
From deciding whether Albania buses are the way to go or if renting a car is the smarter move, to finding the top places to visit, where to stay, and the best tips to save you both time and money, we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into this ultimate Albania travel itinerary & guide.
Albania Itinerary by Car or Bus
Albania might just be Europe’s worst-kept secret, as everyone’s heard of this “hidden gem” by now. With some of the most breathtaking mountains in Europe, beaches that will make you gasp, and a cuisine so good you will wish you had packed some tupperwears, this Albania itinerary is here to help you soak up as much of this incredible country as possible.
From deciding whether Albania buses are the way to go or if renting a car is the smarter move, to finding the top places to visit, where to stay, and the best tips to save you both time and money, we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into this ultimate Albania travel itinerary & guide.
Albania by Bus or Car?
The two main ways to plan an Albania itinerary are by car or bus. Albania’s infrastructure is still a work in progress (but growing fast), with limited public transportation options, many roads in the process of being upgraded, and accurate online information hard to come by.
Until around 1990, Albania was one of the most isolated countries in the world, with virtually no tourism and very limited contact with the outside world. This period was known as the Communist Isolation.
Albania by Bus
Relying on Albania’s buses might not be the most comfortable or flexible option, but it’s far from the horror story people sometimes make it out to be. Is there a bit of luck involved? Absolutely! But if you plan things right, everything can line up perfectly for a smooth and memorable experience traveling across Albania by bus.
What to expect from traveling across Albania by bus:
Even if you buy your bus ticket online, you’re not guaranteed a seat unless you arrive early to claim it. The option to book online is still quite new and currently offered by only one website, so drivers still lack a proper system to verify bookings.
For long routes, it’s best to catch the earliest buses in the morning. They’re the most likely to leave on time, and if there’s no AC, you won’t boil on the way to your destination.
Speaking of Tirana, it doesn’t really have a bus station (for now). What it has is a massive open field with dozens of buses parked in no particular order.
Albania by Car
Why explore Albania by bus when you can do it comfortably by car? Well, apart from the fact that not everyone can or likes to drive, Albanian drivers don’t exactly have the best reputation around. They’re known for a somewhat “creative” driving style, especially in Tirana and surrounding areas. Outside the capital, though, things tend to be much calmer. That said, always drive carefully.
During the Communist era, few Albanians owned cars, so many older locals never learned to drive properly or got a license.
What to expect from traveling across Albania by car:
If you plan to include neighboring countries such as North Macedonia, Montenegro, or Greece in your Albania itinerary, make sure to inform your rental company when booking.
Albania Itinerary
Albania has something for everyone – from stunning mountains with memorable hikes, to cities with a crazy food scene, and beaches so clear it looks like someone cranked up the brightness in photoshop. So, the ideal Albania travel itinerary really depends on the kind of trip you’re after.
This complete route is designed with a 10 day Albania itinerary in mind, which we believe is the sweet spot to experience a bit of everything the country has to offer. If you’re short on time and prefer a 5 day Albania Itinerary, your best bet is to focus either on the north (mountain boots vibe) or the south (sandy toes vibe).
This Albania itinerary was designed to be flexible and easy to adapt to your own pace and interests. However, don’t be one of those travelers who skip the north and rush straight to the beach. I get it… we all need Vitamin D! But trust me, the north is breathtaking!!
Route
The main stops and attractions are the same for both the car and bus routes, with only slight adjustments, in order to make the journey run smoothly. You won’t have to miss out on any part of your Albania itinerary, no matter which mode of transportation you choose.
Tirana: 1 day
Albanian Alps: 3 days
Berat: 1 day
Girokaster: 1 day
Albanian Riviera: 4 days
Chances are you’ll be landing in Tirana International Airport (currently the country’s only airport), so this Albania itinerary starts there. Nevertheless, keep in mind that you can also plan your arrival or departure via Corfu airport, as the island is conveniently connected by ferry to Saranda in southern Albania.
Vlora International Airport was originally scheduled to open in the summer of 2025 – that ship has sailed. Hopefully, there will be good news for travelers in 2026.
Albania Itinerary Breakdown
Tirana
Tirana is the perfect example of a city confidently marching toward a bright future, with its history still visible around every corner: sipping coffee at Komiteti, a quirky bar with over 3000 objects from Albania’s communist era; strolling through Blloku, once the neighborhood of the communist elite, now adorned with street art; or browsing souvenirs in Tirana’s Castle (spoiler: not much of a fortress these days, but a hub of cool restaurants and shops).
Tirana is perfect for exploring on foot, as most of the main sights are just a short stroll from each other.
Don’t skip Tirana’s must visit spots like Skanderbeg Square, right by the Et’hem Bey Mosque and the National History Museum. Speaking of museums, the Bunk’Art sites turned giant underground bunkers into fascinating art and history spaces. Swing by Pazari i Ri (New Bazaar) for some local raki and byrek, then head to the renovated Pyramid of Tirana before sunset for some of the best (and free) city views! And if you’re up for a drink with a view, the Sky Tower Bar is a classic choice.
The best way to kick off your Albania itinerary is with a food tour in Tirana. The food scene here is FIRE, and the local cuisine is worth exploring! Get a walking tour and a feast all in one – check here for availability*.
Where to Stay in Tirana
The best places to stay in Tirana are either near Skanderbeg Square – ideal for exploring the city’s main highlights on foot – or in the Blloku neighborhood, the liveliest area, packed with cafés, bars, and restaurants. Here are our favorite accommodations in Tirana:
Most places to stay in Tirana are actually apartments managed by independent hosts.
How to Get to Tirana from the Airport
By Car: Pick up your rental car at the airport*, drive to your hotel, park that bad boy, and don’t look back. Tirana is a walkable city, and driving around won’t add much joy to your trip.
By Public Transportation: You have three options to get from the airport to Tirana’s city center:
Bus
This will drop you at Skanderbeg Square. The ride takes around 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online for about 400 Lek (€4).
Transfer to Your Accommodation
If you’re traveling alone a shared group van is more cost-effective. Otherwise, a private transfer* costs around €25.
Taxi
A taxi should cost about the same as a private transfer to the city center.
For a 10 day Albania itinerary, getting an eSIM is the way to go. We used Saily, and after seeing airport SIM prices (over €27!), we knew we’d made the right call. Click here for a Saily discount (use code “gambozinos”)*.
Albanian Alps
Over the next few days of your Albania Itinerary you’ll explore the Accursed Mountains (also known as the Albanian Alps), which give off ultimate Sound of Music vibes. You can either tackle the iconic 3 day Theth to Valbona hike or explore some of the area’s highlights without committing to so much walking at once.
Shkodër is often used as the starting point for many of these Albanian Alps adventures, as nearly every transfer, hike, or tour starts here. This city also has a charming old center, complete with cozy accommodations and nice restaurants.
Where to Stay in Shkodër
How to Get to Shkodër
Getting to Shkodër from Tirana is very easy. This 2h30min drive can be either done:
Car
The roads are in quite good condition, though traffic leaving Tirana can be heavy during rush hour.
Bus
If you’re exploring Albania by bus, head to Tirana’s South and North Albania Bus Terminal (the main terminal in Tirana, from where buses go all over the country). Buses to Shkodër depart hourly, and tickets cost around 5 to €7.
Private Transfer
Book a private transfer from your hotel in Tirana to your hotel in Shkodër. Check here for the best options for your travel dates*.
If you’re driving to Shkodër, stop at Ballkoni Boville, an amazing viewpoint overlooking Bovilla Lake. Reach it via a manageable hike and metal cliff stairs (costs around €1 to go up). A heads-up: the road to get there is quite bumpy, so a jeep is recommended. Alternatively, history lovers or those seeking a romantic stop can enjoy lunch in Kruje, where you can visit the castle & Old Bazaar.
How you spend your days in the mountains will depend on the type of traveler you are. Here are, in our opinion, the top places and activities to consider adding to your Albania travel itinerary:
Theth
A dreamy, tiny alpine village that we absolutely loved, about two hours from Shkodër. The scenery on the journey here is stunning, but it requires caution, as the road winds through narrow mountain passes (mostly single-lane) with frequent blind curves.
From Theth you can hike to the Blue Eye, where you can refresh yourself in the (absolutely freezing) clear water, and on the way make a small detour to Grunas Waterfall. But honestly, you’ll also be perfectly fine just soaking in the fantastic mountain views.
If you are exploring Albania by car, you can drive to the nearby village of Nderlysaj and start the Blue Eye hike from there, saving a few hours of hiking.
We suggest spending a night in Theth to make the most of the experience and hikes. That said, it is a very VERY small village, so one night is more than enough. We recommend staying at the cozy Bujtina Tinari Theth*.
How to get to Theth
If you’re exploring Albania by car, Theth is only about a 2h15minutes drive from Shkodër. Other alternatives to get to Theth include:
Mini Bus
Budget-friendly (around €12 one way), but with limited daily departures (usually one around 7am). Most accommodations can help you book it.
Tour
Great value for money option (around €50). Have a local expert guide you not only through Theth but also other worthwhile sites, while learning about Albania’s history and culture.
During Winter and early Spring the road to Theth may be blocked by snow. Check ahead!
Lake Koman
One of the most beautiful ferry rides in Europe is about to be added to your Albania itinerary. Over roughly 2h30min, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the heart of the Albanian Alps – about 30 km of fjord-like landscapes, with magnificent cliffs, and emerald canyons.
Good to know before you visit:
Most travelers visit Lake Koman as part of their Theth to Valbona hike. However, it’s also possible to enjoy it as a day trip, either by car or on a guided tour that includes the beautiful Shala River. Book your day trip from Shkodër here*.
What is the Theth to Valbona Hike?
This is the most famous mountain trail in Albania. A moderate 17km hike crossing a high alpine pass that links two of the most stunning valleys in the Albanian Alps. It takes between 6 to 8 hours to complete, and most people hike it between June and October (when there is no snow around).
You can start the hike either in Theth or Valbona. Most hikers leave their luggage in Shkodër, take a transfer to Koman, hop on the ferry to Fierzë, get another transfer to Valbona, and then hike all the way to Theth. Doing the full loop requires blocking off 3 days of your Albania itinerary.
This hike does not require a guide. However, if you’d rather skip the logistics, you can book a self-guide package with everything arranged for you. Or, if you feel safer with a local guide, check out this tour*.
Attention: There are no ATMs in Theth or Vabona, so be sure to withdraw cash before leaving Shkodër. If you don’t have a Wise account, open one here for free* – it will drastically reduce the already hefty fees charged at Albanian ATMs.
Shala River
Shala River is kind of a deal package with Koman Lake – not only because their waters are connected, but also because they share the same departure ferry terminal. Yet this stunning turquoise river is often skipped in travelers’ Albania itineraries… and oh boy, do they miss a treat!
If swimming in crystal-clear water surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery doesn’t sound like the perfect day trip, keep scrolling. Otherwise, this is for you! Tours to Shala River usually allow about 3 hours to enjoy this little piece of heaven, but if you really want to disconnect for a couple of days, you can stay the night. We suggest checking out Guri i Lekës Guesthouse*.
Reaching Shala River takes approximately 1h30minutes from the terminal. Leave your car in Shkodër or park near Koman Dam, as vehicles cannot access the area.
Berat
The City of a Thousand Windows earned its nickname thanks to its lovely white stone houses in Ottoman style, perched on the hillside. And yes, these houses have a lot of windows! This city has existed for over 2400 years, and it is a staple of any Albania itinerary.
The historic neighborhoods of Mangalem and Gorica are connected by the old Gorica Bridge. You don’t need a guide to explore them, simply enjoy wandering down the cobbled streets and enjoy the views along the riverbanks – both sides are equally lovely.
Head up to Berat Castle to enjoy the views and explore the area within the ancient walls, where people still live today. Before heading back down, stop by the Onufri Museum, housed in a 16th century cathedral. If you still have energy for one more museum, the Ethnographic Museum, offers a glimpse into traditional Albanian life.
Berat is also one of Albania’s top wine regions. While visiting the vineyards isn’t for free, some tours are very interesting and include wine tastings.
Where to Stay in Berat
Here are our favorite places where to stay in Berat:
How to Get to Berat
From Tirana to Berat is about a 2 hour drive, so, from Shkodër you can expect to take around 4 to 5 hours. If you’re exploring Albania by bus, you can reach Berat from either Tirana or Shkodër. However, it is important to know that the bus terminal in Berat is not in the city center! From the parking of the terminal you’ll need to catch a local bus to the city center. The ride takes around 20minutes and costs around 30 lek (€0.30).
If you want to skip check-ins and check-outs, Berat can be done as a day trip from Tirana. It’s a long day – around 4 hours spent on public buses – but completely doable if you’re up for it. Another great option is joining a guided tour so you don’t have to worry about any logistics and can make the most of your visit. Tours from Tirana are often quite a bargain.
Gjirokaster
Gjirokaster might be small, but it’s full of character! This was one of our favorite historic stops during our 10 day Albania itinerary. Known as the “City of Stone”, this beautifully preserved Ottoman town has the most charming historic center with cobbled streets and its famous Old Bazaar – with endless handmade rugs, silver jewelry, and traditional woodwork being sold in every corner.
Fuel up with some gifgi (Gjirokaster’s signature rice balls) at a local restaurant before visiting Gjirokaster Castle (entrance is 400 Lek | €4), from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the valley, and explore the Armaments Museum (for an extra cost).
A short drive from Gjirokaster is the most famous Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a beautiful natural spring famous for its depth and intense blue color. No Albania itinerary goes without mentioning it, so, as you can imagine, it gets pretty busy. Swimming is technically prohibited, but you’ll see many people taking the plunge anyway.
Where to Stay in Gjirokaster
We must say…while many people visit Gjirokaster as a day trip, this town has some of the best hotels we came across during our Albania itinerary. Here are some of our favorites:
How to Get to Gjirokaster
By car: Gjirokaster is about a 3h30min to 4 hour drive from Berat. The roads are mostly paved, but some sections wind through the mountains, so expect slower stretches along the way.
By bus: At the time of writing this guide, there is only one direct bus from Berat to Gjirokaster, departing right in the middle of the day – which is not ideal. If you’re depending on Albanian buses to visit, we strongly suggest making it a day trip from Saranda instead.The ride takes just over an hour, and you can easily catch the bus in the city’s “bus station” (which, to be fair, is more of a one-way street where buses park).
From Gjirokaster’s bus station, it’s about a 30-minute uphill walk to the historic center. Alternatively, you can take a taxi.
Guided tours from Saranda are also a great option if you wish to combine Gjirokaster and the Blue Eye in one trip. The value for money is quite good and definitely worth checking out.
Albanian Riviera
No Albania travel itinerary is complete without dipping your toes on the crystal clear water of the Albanian Riviera. Now, if you want to tick off your list a handful of hot spots from this coast, or find one that suits your needs and rest for the remainder of your trip to Albania, that is up to you.
If you are counting on Albanian buses, to enjoy the Albanian Riviera you will need to first go to Saranda – the main public transportation hub down south. From there you can either decide to head to Ksamil or Himare and relax the rest of your stay.
Here is a breakdown of the best areas along the Albanian Riviera, to help you decide which ones to add to your Albania itinerary:
Saranda
If your last stop was Gjirokaster, Saranda is just a short ride away. While we have to admit that Saranda isn’t our favorite stop on this route, the truth is that it’s extremely well connected – with buses arriving from all over Albania, a ferry link to Greece*, and the widest selection of day trips in the entire Albanian Riviera. So, if your plans are not so much to lay on the beach and relax, and more to join day trips and take long walks down the promenade, Saranda is a great base for you.
The most popular independent day trips from Saranda include the Blue Eye, Gjirokaster*, Ksamil, and Butrint National Park (one of Albania’s most important archaeological sites). When it comes to organized tours, though, nothing beats the beach hopping tours available.
Where to Stay in Saranda
Depending on your plans in Saranda, you might prefer to stay near the ferry terminal, the bus station, or right by the beach. That said, we recommend checking out these accommodations in Saranda to see which one fits your travel needs:
Ksamil
Ksamil might just be home to the most popular beaches in Albania – think crystal clear, calm waters, little islets you can kayak to, and modern beach clubs to suit every kind of traveler. So, what’s the catch? Well, it’s a given on most travelers’ Albania itineraries, which means it can get quite busy (and pricey) during the summer months.
We visited in September, and it was a completely different story: peaceful, beautiful, and with good prices. We had an amazing time here!
One thing to note is that Ksamil doesn’t really have public beaches – unless you count a couple of scrappy square meters of sand where the early risers pile in. So, factor in the cost of renting sunbeds as part of your Albania travel budget (prices can range from €10 to about €70 per day for two sunbeds and an umbrella).
Getting to Ksamil is quite easy: there’s a bus from Saranda’s city center, which takes around 30 minutes and costs 150 Lek (€1.50). However, it doesn’t run as often as it should, and it’s usually packed with both locals and tourists – providing the ultimate sweaty sardine can experience. Keep that in mind if you’re planning to travel back and forth daily… we wouldn’t recommend it.
Where to Stay in Ksamil
Ksamil is a pretty walkable town, so there’s no need to stress about distances as long as you stay near the center. At the same time, some hotels are close to bars and beach clubs that (especially during the high season) blast music until late. So, if a good night’s sleep is part of your vacation plans, keep that in mind. Here are some of the best value for money hotels in Ksamil:
Himare
Himare isn’t on most travelers’ Albania itinerary…for now. But this quiet, authentic coastal village is worth considering. The pace here is relaxed, and there are plenty of great beaches, like Livadhi Beach. However, the area still doesn’t offer as many accommodations or services as other towns along the Albanian Riviera.
If you’re exploring Albania by car, about 25 minutes from Himare center you’ll find Jale Beach – home to some cool beach clubs and perfect for a lively day escape.
Finding a parking spot during the Summer in this area can be tricky, so try to book an accommodation that offers it. Still, it’s worth taking the car for a ride to explore nearby sites, such as the Porto Palermo Castle.
From Saranda to Himare, there are around three buses a day, and the ride takes approximately 1h30minutes.
Where to Stay in Himare
Most places where to stay in Himare are humble guesthouses or apartments. There aren’t many central hotels, so the quality ones that do exist tend to bump up their prices a bit. With that in mind, here are some of the best hotels in Himare:
Dhermi
Dhermi is a charming stone village perched above the sea, with white pebble coves and crystal clear beaches – our favorites are Drymades Beach and Gjipe Beach (accessible by hike or boat).
Notice how we describe the pebble coves in a very “cutesy” way? Well, your feet won’t feel quite so cute after walking barefoot on most Albanian beaches and coves. Many aren’t soft sand at all, but pebbles and seashells, so be sure to pack some watershoes for your trip.
Dhermi has a slightly trendier vibe than Himare, but the roads can be narrow and steep, and parking is a nightmare during high season. Keep in mind, this isn’t the destination for travelers exploring Albania without a car – public transport options are limited, and the village feels more spread out because it’s built along a hillside.
Where to Stay in Dhermi
Accommodation options in Dhermi are limited compared to its growing popularity, so be sure to book your hotel in advance.
If you’re driving and your flight back home is from Tirana, you can start your Albanian Riviera journey in Ksamil and make your way up the coast, stopping along the way to gradually get closer to the capital. For reference, Dhermi is about 2h50min from Tirana – driving through the Llogara National Park, from Dhermi to Tirana, is one of the most scenic drives in Albania.
When to Visit Albania
The best time to visit Albania is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and the mountain routes are open for hiking. Still, not all months are built the same, so choose the time that best suits your needs and style:
Albania Itinerary FAQ
How much time should I spend in Albania?
In our opinion, 10 days in Albania is the sweet spot for a first visit – enough time to explore the main highlights without feeling rushed. If you only have time for a 5 day Albania itinerary, we suggest focusing on either the north or the south of the country. This guide was created with a 10 day Albania itinerary in mind.
Do I need a visa to visit Albania?
European citizens can visit Albania visa-free for up to 90 days. This applies to all EU and Schengen Area countries. Citizens of many other countries (including the US, Canada, Australia and 70+ others) can also enter visa free. Nonetheless, these regulations can change at any time, so make sure to check the latest travel requirements before your trip.
Should I pay by card or cash in Albania?
In Albania, it’s best to carry cash – many restaurants and accommodations in smaller towns don’t accept card payments. The currency in Albanian is the Lek, though euros are sometimes accepted in touristy areas.
When withdrawing money in Albania, expect a fee of around 500 to 800 Lek (roughly 4 – €7) per transaction. On top of that, your home bank may charge foreign transaction or currency conversion fees. Using a Wise card can reduce these extra charges significantly. You can open your account for free here.*
Is there Uber in Albania?
Quick answer: No! There is no Uber in Albania. A few apps exist to request taxi services, but don’t expect them to work outside of Tirana (and maybe Saranda), and most don’t accept non-Albanian cards. Your best bet is to ask your accommodation for the contact of the main taxi company in the area. While in Tirana, we used Blue Taxi, booking rides via WhatsApp (service was available in English).
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