7-Day Albania Itinerary: The Perfect Week of Beaches, Mountains & Culture
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Why Choose Albania for Your Next Adventure?
After visiting 30+ countries across Europe, I can confidently say Albania offers some of the best value for adventurous travelers. Here’s why:
- Incredibly Diverse Landscapes: From the rugged Albanian Alps to 476km of pristine Mediterranean coastline, you’ll find everything from mountain hikes to secluded beaches.
- Rich History: Ancient ruins, Ottoman-era cities, and communist bunkers tell the story of Albania’s fascinating past.
- Budget-Friendly: Your money goes incredibly far here – I regularly find beautiful beachfront hotels for under $50/night!
- Off the Beaten Path: While Croatia and Greece overflow with tourists, Albania remains delightfully authentic. But visit soon – tourism is growing fast!
💡 Pro Tip: Book your accommodation now for the best deals, especially if visiting between June-September. Last summer, I waited until May to book my beach hotels and ended up paying nearly double what my friends paid who booked in January!
🏨 BROWSE ALBANIA’S TOP-RATED HOTELS – Free cancellation options available!
Essential Planning Tips for Your Albania Adventure
After countless trips through Albania (and many travel mishaps!), I’ve learned exactly what you need to know before visiting. Let me save you some headaches with these essential tips!
Best Time to Visit Albania
The sweet spot for visiting Albania is May to September, but here’s my insider take:
- May-June: My favorite time! Perfect temperatures (20-25°C) and fewer tourists
- July-August: Beach season but VERY hot (35°C+) and crowded
- September: Still warm enough to swim but with smaller crowds
- October-April: Cooler temps but great for cultural exploration
🌟 My Experience: Last September, I had the entire Ksamil beach to myself on a Tuesday morning, and the water was still a perfect 24°C. Just two months earlier in July, finding a spot to put my towel down was nearly impossible!
Getting Around Albania
Let me be honest – transportation in Albania can be… interesting. Here are your main options:
Rental Car (Highly Recommended)
From €25/day Full flexibility
After trying every transportation method possible in Albania, I’ve found that renting a car is absolutely the way to go, especially for this 7-day itinerary. The freedom to stop at viewpoints (there are dozens!), change plans spontaneously, and reach remote beaches makes it worth every penny.
Why rent a car in Albania:
- Roads are generally good on main routes
- Gas is affordable (similar to US prices)
- Very little traffic outside Tirana
- Parking is usually free or very cheap
Price Range: €25-€45 per day depending on season
| Transportation Option | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car | €25-45/day | Complete freedom, reach remote areas | Occasional poor road conditions |
| Public Bus | €1-5 per ride | Very cheap, local experience | No fixed schedules, very time-consuming |
| Private Driver | €80-120/day | Comfortable, local knowledge | Expensive, less flexibility |
| Organized Tour | €45-70/day | No planning needed, includes guide | Fixed itinerary, crowded |
⚠️ Warning: If you’re renting a car, book EARLY. The best deals get snapped up quickly, especially in summer. Last July, my friend waited until arrival and ended up paying triple what I did for a much smaller car.
Money Matters in Albania
- Currency: Albanian Lek (ALL)
- Budget per day:
- Budget: €30-50
- Mid-range: €50-100
- Luxury: €100+
- Cash is king: Many places don’t accept cards
- ATMs: Widely available in cities but rare in rural areas
How to Save Money in Albania:
- Travel in shoulder season (May-June or September)
- Stay in guesthouses rather than hotels (bonus: home-cooked breakfast!)
- Eat where locals eat (follow the crowds, not the TripAdvisor stickers)
- Book accommodations with free cancellation well in advance
- Withdraw larger amounts from ATMs to minimize fees
Quick Packing List for Albania
Don’t forget these essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes – Albanian cities have lots of cobblestones
- Water shoes – Most beaches are pebbly rather than sandy
- Power adapter – European style (round prongs)
- Cash in euros – Easy to exchange for good rates
- Reusable water bottle – Bottled water is recommended
- High SPF sunscreen – The Albanian sun is intense!
Day 1: Discovering Tirana & City Secrets
Let’s kick off your 7-day Albania itinerary in the colorful capital! Tirana perfectly blends communist-era history with modern energy, and I’ll show you how to make the most of your first day.
Morning: Arrival & City Center
💡 Pro Tip: Book your airport transfer in advance through GetYourGuide for a stress-free arrival (€20). Taxis from the airport should cost around €20-25, but always agree on the price beforehand! On my first visit, the taxi driver tried charging me €50 until I mentioned knowing the standard rate.
Start your Albania adventure by checking into your hotel. Here are my personally-tested recommendations:
Plaza Tirana (Luxury Option)
Central Location Stunning Views
I splurged on a stay here during my last visit, and the panoramic views of Skanderbeg Square were absolutely worth it. The rooftop restaurant offers the best sunrise views in the city, and you’re literally steps away from all the main attractions.
Hotel Highlights:
- 5-minute walk to Skanderbeg Square
- Rooftop restaurant with panoramic views
- Modern, spacious rooms
- Excellent concierge service
Price Range: From €120/night
Hotel Baron (Mid-Range Option)
Great Value Excellent Breakfast
This is my go-to hotel in Tirana for the perfect balance of comfort and value. I’ve stayed here three times and love the location near Blloku district, which puts you within walking distance of the best restaurants and nightlife.
Hotel Highlights:
- 10-minute walk to Blloku district
- Fantastic breakfast with local specialties
- Helpful, English-speaking staff
- Clean, modern rooms
Price Range: From €60/night
Trip’n’Hostel (Budget Option)
Social Atmosphere Central Location
On my first solo trip to Albania, I stayed here and immediately made friends with other travelers. The communal kitchen and outdoor garden are perfect for meeting people, and the staff organize walking tours and pub crawls several times a week.
Hostel Highlights:
- Both dorms and private rooms available
- Free city walking tour
- Communal kitchen and lounge
- Excellent for solo travelers
Price Range: From €15/night
Afternoon: Exploring Central Tirana
Here’s your perfect afternoon walking route:
- Skanderbeg Square
- Albania’s main square
- Great photo opportunities
- Visit the National History Museum (400 ALL/€3.30)
- Et’hem Bey Mosque
- Beautiful frescoes
- Free entry
- Remember to dress modestly
- Bunkart 2
- Former nuclear bunker turned museum
- Fascinating communist history
- Entry 500 ALL/€4.15
🌟 My Experience: When visiting Bunkart 2, I had an unexpected encounter with an elderly guide who had actually worked in the bunker during the communist era! His personal stories about the paranoia of that time were incredibly moving. If you see an older gentleman named Genti there, definitely ask for his perspective.
💡 Local Secret: Visit the secret rooftop café at the Plaza Shopping Center for the best views of Skanderbeg Square. Order a macchiato (100 ALL/€0.80) and watch the sunset! The entrance is a bit hidden – take the elevator to the top floor, then follow signs for “Sky Tower.”
Evening: Blloku District
End your day in Tirana’s trendiest neighborhood:
Must-Try Restaurants:
Era Restaurant
Traditional Cuisine Local Favorite
This is where I bring all my friends on their first night in Albania. The traditional dishes here give you a perfect introduction to Albanian cuisine, and the outdoor garden seating is magical on summer evenings. Their fergese (pepper and cheese dish) is the best I’ve had anywhere in the country.
What to order:
- Fergese (peppers with cheese)
- Tavë kosi (yogurt baked lamb)
- Local Korça beer
- Baklava for dessert
Price Range: €10-15/person
🚕 BOOK YOUR TIRANA AIRPORT TRANSFER – Skip the taxi haggling!
Where to Stay in Tirana
I highly recommend staying in these areas:
- Blloku District
- Best for nightlife
- Walkable to attractions
- More expensive
- City Center
- Near Skanderbeg Square
- Perfect for sightseeing
- Mid-range prices
Day 1 Budget Breakdown:
- Hotel: €60-120
- Activities: €10
- Food: €30
- Transport: €25
- Total: €125-185
Day 2: Kruja – Albania’s Medieval Heart
Just 45 minutes from Tirana lies Kruja, a historic gem perched dramatically on a mountainside. This is where Albania’s national hero, Skanderbeg, defended the country from Ottoman invasion. Trust me, the views alone are worth the trip!
Morning: Getting to Kruja
Here are your transportation options:
| Option | Duration | Cost | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rental Car (Recommended) |
45 minutes | €30 + parking (200 ALL) | Flexibility, scenic drive, easy parking |
| Organized Tour | Half-day | From €45/person | Includes guide, hassle-free, includes pick-up |
| Public Bus | 1 hour | 200 ALL (€1.65) | Cheap, but infrequent departures, drops at town base (uphill walk) |
🏰 BOOK A KRUJA GUIDED TOUR – Includes transportation & expert guide!
💡 Driving Tip: The road to Kruja is well-maintained, but watch for shepherd crossings! On my last trip, we had to stop for a flock of sheep that blocked the road for 10 minutes – but it made for great photos! Follow signs for “Kalaja e Krujës” (Kruja Castle).
Afternoon: Exploring Kruja’s Highlights
- Kruja Castle Complex
- Entry fee: 400 ALL (€3.30)
- Opening hours: 9:00-19:00
- Must-see spots:
- Skanderbeg Museum
- Ethnographic Museum
- Panoramic viewpoint
- Old Bazaar (Pazari i Vjetër)
This 500-year-old market is my favorite spot for authentic souvenirs!
What to Buy:
- Traditional qeleshe (felt caps)
- Hand-woven rugs
- Antique copper items
- Local mountain tea
🌟 My Experience: When shopping in the Old Bazaar, I befriended a shopkeeper named Besnik who invited me for coffee and showed me how they hand-craft the traditional felt hats. After some friendly bargaining, I bought a beautiful hand-woven rug for €35 that would have cost hundreds in Western Europe!
💡 Bargaining Tip: Start at 70% of the asking price. Always smile and be friendly – Albanian merchants love to chat! I’ve found that showing genuine interest in their craft often leads to better prices than aggressive haggling.
Evening in Kruja
Recommended Restaurants:
Restaurant Panorama
Stunning Views Traditional Food
The view from this restaurant’s terrace is absolutely mind-blowing – you can see all the way to the Adriatic Sea on clear days! I recommend timing your visit for sunset when the mountains turn golden. Their slow-cooked lamb is fall-off-the-bone tender.
What to order:
- Tavë kosi (baked lamb)
- Byrek (savory pastry)
- Local raki (fruit brandy)
- Mountain herbs tea
Price Range: €10-15/person
Where to Stay in Kruja
I recommend spending the night in Kruja to fully experience its charm:
Hotel Panorama Kruje
Mountain Views Traditional Decor
Staying here was one of the highlights of my first Albania trip. The rooms are decorated with traditional Albanian textiles, and waking up to those mountain views is simply magical. The family who runs the hotel treats you like one of their own.
Hotel Highlights:
- 5-minute walk to the castle
- Incredible mountain views
- Home-cooked breakfast
- Traditional Ottoman-style rooms
Price Range: From €50/night
Day 2 Activity Schedule
09:00 - Leave Tirana 10:00 - Arrive in Kruja 10:30 - Castle & Museums 13:00 - Lunch break 14:30 - Old Bazaar 16:30 - Free time/photos 19:00 - Dinner with a view
Day 2 Budget Breakdown:
- Transport: €30 (car rental)
- Activities: €5
- Shopping: €20-50
- Food: €25
- Hotel: €35-50
- Total: €115-160
💡 Photography Tip: The best castle photos are taken from the bazaar area during golden hour (around 17:00 in summer). The light hits the fortress walls perfectly! I discovered a secret spot behind the ethnographic museum that frames the castle perfectly – ask the staff to point you to the “photographers’ corner.”
Day 3: Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
Today we’re heading to my absolute favorite city in Albania! Berat’s Ottoman architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status make it a must-see on any 7-day Albania itinerary. I’ve visited Berat five times, and it still takes my breath away every time.
Morning: Journey to Berat
Getting There:
- Drive time from Kruja: 2.5 hours
- Route: SH1 → SH4
- Scenic mountain views en route
💡 Road Trip Tip: Stop at Divjakë-Karavasta National Park halfway through your drive. It’s home to flamingos and pristine beaches! Add this to your GPS coordinates: 40.8774° N, 19.4947° E. I spent an unexpected two hours here watching flamingos feed in the shallow lagoons – a highlight of my trip!
Afternoon: Exploring Berat
- Berat Castle (Kalaja)
- Entry fee: 400 ALL (€3.30)
- Opening hours: 9:00-18:00
- Still inhabited by locals!
- Must-see spots inside:
- Onufri Museum (stunning icons)
- Red Mosque ruins
- White Mosque
- Castle viewpoints
- Mangalem & Gorica Quarters
These historic neighborhoods showcase the famous “windows of Berat”:
Mangalem Quarter:
- Ottoman houses
- Local artisan shops
- Best photo opportunities
Gorica Quarter:
- Across the river
- More peaceful
- Great sunset views
Where to Stay in Berat
Guesthouse Arben Elezi
Family-run Amazing Breakfast
This is where I always stay when in Berat – a 300-year-old Ottoman house that’s been lovingly restored. The Elezi family welcomes you like relatives, and Grandma’s homemade byrek pastry at breakfast is worth the stay alone! The rooms feature original wood ceilings and traditional details.
Guesthouse Highlights:
- Authentic Ottoman architecture
- Homemade traditional breakfast
- Perfect location in Mangalem Quarter
- Lovely garden terrace
Price Range: From €40/night
🚶♀️ BOOK A PRIVATE BERAT WALKING TOUR – Discover the city’s hidden stories!
Evening in Berat
Homemade Food Lili
Home Cooking Local Favorite
This is my favorite restaurant in all of Albania! Lili cooks everything in her home kitchen, and there’s no menu – she simply tells you what she made that day. The stuffed eggplant is legendary, and I’ve literally dreamed about her homemade bread since my first visit. Come hungry!
Why I love it:
- No menu – just daily fresh dishes
- Everything made from scratch
- Learn about Albanian family recipes
- Incredible value for money
Price Range: €8-12/person
Sample Day 3 Schedule
09:00 - Leave Kruja 11:30 - Arrive in Berat 12:00 - Check-in & lunch 14:00 - Castle exploration 16:30 - Mangalem Quarter 18:00 - Gorica Quarter 19:30 - Dinner at Lili's
Day 3 Budget Breakdown:
- Transport: €30 (car rental)
- Activities: €5
- Food: €30
- Hotel: €40-80
- Total: €105-145
💡 Photography Tips for Berat: The best light for photography is early morning (around 7-8am) when the sun catches the famous windows of the Ottoman houses. For sunset, head to the Gorica bridge for perfect reflection shots of the city in the Osum river!
🌟 My Experience: One evening in Berat, I was wandering through the castle grounds at sunset when an elderly resident invited me onto his terrace for raki (local brandy) and fresh figs from his garden. We couldn’t speak each other’s language but shared an unforgettable evening watching the sun set over the valley. These spontaneous moments are what make Albania so special.
Day 4: Himara & The Albanian Riviera
Today we’re trading Ottoman architecture for crystal-clear waters! The drive to Himara along the Albanian Riviera is one of Europe’s most spectacular coastal routes. I’ve done this journey countless times, and the views still leave me speechless.
Morning: The Journey South
Berat to Himara:
- Drive time: 4 hours
- Distance: 185 km
- Route: SH4 → SH8 (coastal road)
💡 Scenic Stops En Route: The Llogara Pass viewpoint (1,043m elevation) is a MUST-stop for photos. The way the mountains dramatically drop into the sea is breathtaking. There’s a small café at the top where I like to stop for mountain tea and admire the view. Also worth visiting are the ancient ruins of Apollonia and the dramatic hairpin turns of Caesar’s Pass.
Best Beaches in Himara
I’ve explored every cove around Himara, and these are the absolute must-visits:
Spile Beach
Crystal Clear White Pebbles
Spile is the main beach in Himara, but don’t let that deter you – it’s absolutely gorgeous. The water here is so clear you can see fish swimming around your feet from the shore. I spent three days here last summer and was mesmerized by the color gradient from turquoise to deep blue.
Beach Highlights:
- Beach bars and restaurants along the shore
- Sunbed rentals available (600 ALL/€5 per day)
- Perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Walking distance from most hotels
Livadhi Beach (My Secret Favorite)
Local Favorite Less Crowded
Just a 10-minute drive north of Himara town lies my personal favorite beach. Livadhi has a more laid-back vibe, with fewer foreign tourists and more local families. The shallow bay makes it perfect for swimming, and the surrounding olive groves provide natural shade in the afternoon.
Beach Highlights:
- Longer, wider beach with more space
- Better prices at beach bars
- Mountain backdrop makes for stunning photos
- Excellent seafood restaurants nearby
💡 Beach Essentials: Most beaches are pebbly, so pack water shoes! Your feet will thank you when walking on the hot stones. I learned this the hard way on my first visit – hopping across scorching pebbles while locals watched in amusement!
Where to Stay in Himara
Ideal Himara (Mid-Range Option)
Sea Views Great Breakfast
I’ve stayed here twice and love its location just steps from the beach. The rooms with sea-view balconies are worth the small upgrade – I spent hours watching the sunset with a glass of local wine. The family who runs the place makes you feel right at home.
Hotel Highlights:
- 2-minute walk to Spile Beach
- Delicious breakfast with homemade jams
- Rooms with private balconies
- Free parking (rare in Himara!)
Price Range: From €60/night
🚤 BOOK A BOAT TOUR ALONG THE COAST – See hidden beaches only accessible by sea!
Evening in Himara
Best Restaurants:
Ostria Restaurant
Fresh Seafood Sunset Views
This beachfront restaurant is my favorite dinner spot in Himara. You can literally watch the fishing boats return to shore with your dinner! Their grilled octopus is the best I’ve had anywhere in the Mediterranean, and requesting a table at sunset is absolutely magical.
What to order:
- Grilled octopus
- Fresh mussels in white wine
- Seafood pasta
- Local white wine (Shesh i Bardhë grape)
Price Range: €15-20/person
Activity Schedule
09:00 - Depart Berat 11:00 - Apollonia Ruins stop 13:00 - Llogara Pass lunch 15:00 - Arrive Himara 16:00 - Beach time 19:00 - Sunset dinner
Day 4 Budget Breakdown:
- Transport: €30 (car rental)
- Activities: €10 (beach chairs/umbrella)
- Food: €35
- Hotel: €60-120
- Total: €135-195
💡 Himara Pro Tips: Book accommodations well in advance for July-August. Last year I tried booking just one month ahead and nearly everything was full! For the best swimming spots with fewer crowds, head to the beaches before 9am or after 5pm when day-trippers have left.
Day 5: Saranda & Ksamil – Albania’s Beach Paradise
Today we’re exploring what I consider the jewel of the Albanian Riviera! Having visited Saranda and Ksamil countless times, I can tell you these turquoise waters rival the Maldives (but at a fraction of the price!).
Morning: Himara to Saranda
Journey Details:
- Drive time: 1.5 hours
- Distance: 64 km
- Route: SH8 (coastal road)
💡 Must-Stop Views: Porto Palermo Castle is a quick detour off the main road that’s absolutely worth it! This 18th-century fortress sits on a tiny peninsula with 360° sea views. I spent an unexpected hour here exploring the underground tunnels – they were used as a submarine base during the communist era!
Exploring Saranda
Morning Activities:
- Lëkurësi Castle
- Panoramic city views
- Entry: 200 ALL (€1.65)
- Best for morning photos
- 15-minute drive from center
- Saranda Promenade
- 1km seaside walk
- Local cafes
- Shopping
- People watching
Afternoon: Ksamil Paradise
Just 15 minutes from Saranda lies Ksamil, home to Albania’s most beautiful beaches. Here’s where to go:
Paradise Beach
Crystal Waters Swimming to Islands
I’ve been to beaches across 30+ countries, and Ksamil’s Paradise Beach still makes my jaw drop every time. The water is so clear you can see your shadow on the seafloor even at 10 meters depth! The highlight is swimming to the small islands just offshore – I timed it at about 7 minutes of leisurely swimming to reach them.
Beach Highlights:
- Three tiny islands within swimming distance
- Beach beds with service (1000 ALL/€8)
- Perfect for snorkeling around the islands
- Small boats available for rental (€20/hour)
💡 Beach Club Tip: Reserve beach beds through your hotel a day before. During my last August visit, all the beach clubs were fully reserved by 10am! If you’re comfortable with early mornings, arrive by 8am to secure the best spots directly on the waterfront.
Where to Stay
Hotel Brilant (Saranda)
Sea Views Central Location
My go-to hotel in Saranda offers the perfect balance of location and comfort. I particularly love the sea-view rooms where you can watch the sunset right from your balcony. The promenade is just steps away, putting you within walking distance of restaurants and nightlife.
Hotel Highlights:
- Beachfront location
- 10-minute drive to Ksamil
- Modern, clean rooms
- Very helpful staff for arranging activities
Price Range: From €70/night
🏊♀️ BOOK A BOAT TOUR TO KSAMIL ISLANDS – Includes snorkeling equipment!
Evening: Sunset & Dining
Mare Nostrum (Saranda)
Fresh Seafood Sunset Views
My favorite restaurant in Saranda sits right on the water with unobstructed sunset views. Their seafood platter is a feast – I still dream about the grilled sea bass with herbs that I had last summer! Make a reservation for sunset (around 7:30pm in summer) to get the best tables.
What to order:
- Seafood platter for two
- Fresh calamari
- Local white wine
- Sea bass with Mediterranean herbs
Price Range: €20-25/person
Day 5 Schedule
09:00 - Leave Himara 10:30 - Arrive Saranda 11:00 - Lëkurësi Castle 12:30 - Promenade lunch 14:00 - Ksamil beaches 19:00 - Sunset dinner
Day 5 Budget Breakdown:
- Transport: €30 (car rental)
- Activities: €20 (beach facilities)
- Food: €40
- Hotel: €70-150
- Total: €160-240
💡 Ksamil Tips: Visit beaches before 10am for best spots and fewer crowds. During my last visit in August, I arrived at 7:30am and had entire sections of the beach to myself for nearly two hours! Also, while most beach bars accept cards, always keep cash handy for smaller establishments.
Days 6-7: Butrint, Gjirokaster & Return to Tirana
Let’s wrap up our 7-day Albania itinerary with some UNESCO World Heritage sites and a scenic drive back to Tirana! These last two days pack in ancient ruins, Ottoman architecture, and one of Albania’s most magical natural wonders.
Morning: Butrint National Park
Just 30 minutes from Saranda lies my favorite archaeological site in Albania!
Butrint Archaeological Site
UNESCO Site 3,000 Years of History
Butrint absolutely blew me away on my first visit. Unlike many archaeological sites that focus on just one historical period, Butrint takes you through 3,000 years of civilization – from ancient Greek and Roman to Byzantine and Venetian. The entire site is surrounded by a lagoon, creating a mystical atmosphere as you wander through ruins partially reclaimed by nature.
Must-See at Butrint:
- Ancient Greek theater (3rd century BC)
- Roman baths with intact mosaics
- Medieval castle with panoramic views
- Venetian tower and Lion Gate
- Early Christian baptistery
Practical Info: Entry fee: 1000 ALL (€8) | Hours: 8:00-19:00 | Time needed: 2-3 hours
🌟 My Experience: I hired a local guide named Ermal at Butrint (€15 for 2 hours), and it completely transformed my experience. He showed me hidden corners I would have missed, including a secret path to the highest point of the fortifications with panoramic views of the entire site and surrounding lagoon. Worth every penny!
Afternoon: The Blue Eye & Drive to Gjirokaster
The Blue Eye Spring (Syri i Kaltër)
Natural Wonder Icy Cold Water
On your way to Gjirokaster, you absolutely must stop at this natural marvel. The Blue Eye is a natural spring where crystal-clear water bubbles up from over 50 meters deep, creating the most intense blue color I’ve ever seen in nature. The center looks like a giant blue pupil (hence the name), and the water is so clear you can see the bubbles forming at the bottom.
Blue Eye Tips:
- Entrance fee: 50 ALL (€0.40)
- Water is freezing (11°C/52°F) year-round
- Brave swimmers can jump in (I tried for 30 seconds!)
- Small café on-site for refreshments
💡 Pro Tip: Visit the Blue Eye before 11am if possible. Tour buses arrive around noon, and the peaceful atmosphere completely changes. I arrived at 9:30am once and had the entire place to myself for almost an hour!
Evening: Arrive in Gjirokaster
After the Blue Eye, continue to Gjirokaster, a UNESCO-protected Ottoman town known as the “City of Stone.”
Hotel Kalemi 2 (Gjirokaster)
Ottoman Mansion City Views
This authentic 18th-century Ottoman mansion has been lovingly converted into a hotel, and staying here was a highlight of my Albania travels. Each room is uniquely decorated with hand-carved wooden ceilings, traditional rugs, and antique furniture. The terrace breakfast with views over the slate rooftops of Gjirokaster is an experience I’ll never forget.
Hotel Highlights:
- Authentic Ottoman architecture
- Central location in the old town
- Panoramic terrace with castle views
- Family-run with incredible hospitality
Price Range: From €60/night
Day 7: Gjirokaster Castle & Return to Tirana
Gjirokaster Castle
Massive Fortress Military Museums
Start your final full day in Albania exploring this impressive fortress overlooking the city. What makes Gjirokaster Castle unique is its size – it’s one of the largest castle complexes in the Balkans! Inside, you’ll find a fascinating military museum with everything from Italian WWII tanks to Cold War-era submarines and fighter jets.
Castle Highlights:
- Entry fee: 400 ALL (€3.30)
- Panoramic views of the entire city
- Military museum with artillery collection
- Ancient cisterns and dungeons
- US Air Force spy plane shot down in 1957
🌟 My Experience: The most unexpected delight in Gjirokaster was stumbling upon a local artisan who creates traditional qeleshe felt hats. He invited me into his workshop and demonstrated the entire process, from raw wool to finished hat. I still have the small miniature version he gave me as a souvenir.
Afternoon: Return to Tirana
Drive Details:
- Drive time: 3.5 hours
- Distance: 230 km
- Suggested stop: Berat for lunch
💡 Final Night Suggestion: For your last evening in Albania, I recommend returning to Tirana and splurging on a nice hotel and dinner. After a week of exploring, it’s lovely to end with some urban comforts before departure. Plus, you’ll be close to the airport for your flight home!
Dinner Recommendation: Mullixhiu Restaurant
Modern Albanian Farm-to-Table
For your final night in Albania, treat yourself to dinner at Mullixhiu, my absolute favorite restaurant in Tirana. Chef Bledar Kola trained at Noma in Denmark before returning to reinvent Albanian cuisine. The restaurant looks like a modern mountain cabin, and everything from the bread to the butter is made in-house using traditional methods.
Menu Highlights:
- Tasting menu for the full experience (€25)
- Slow-cooked lamb with mountain herbs
- Homemade pasta with wild mushrooms
- Desserts featuring local honey and nuts
Price Range: €25-35/person
Days 6-7 Budget Breakdown:
- Day 6:
- Transport: €30 (car rental)
- Activities: €25 (Butrint, Blue Eye)
- Food: €30
- Hotel: €60
- Subtotal: €145
- Day 7:
- Transport: €30 (car rental)
- Activities: €10 (Gjirokaster Castle)
- Food: €35
- Hotel: €100
- Subtotal: €175
Conclusion: Your Perfect Week in Albania
This 7-day Albania itinerary combines the best of everything: ancient ruins, pristine beaches, mountain views, and authentic culture. While you could spend months exploring this fascinating country, one week gives you a perfect taste of what Albania has to offer.
From the vibrant streets of Tirana to the crystal waters of Ksamil, and from the Ottoman architecture of Berat to the ancient ruins of Butrint, Albania offers an incredible diversity of experiences in a compact area.
Total 7-Day Budget:
- Budget: €700-900
- Mid-range: €900-1200
- Luxury: €1200-1500
Ready to Experience Albania’s Magic?
Albania won’t stay undiscovered for much longer. Now is the perfect time to experience this Mediterranean gem before the crowds arrive! Book your trip today and discover what might be Europe’s best-kept secret.
Suggested Meta Description: Discover the perfect 7-day Albania itinerary with this comprehensive guide covering Tirana, Kruja, Berat, the Albanian Riviera, and UNESCO sites. Find where to stay, what to eat, and insider tips from a travel expert who’s visited 30+ times!
