Albania Road Trip Route: Best Stops, Beaches & Hidden Gems (2025 Guide)

I still remember my first drive through Albania — winding mountain passes, sparkling turquoise bays, and the thrill of discovering a country that still feels untouched by mass tourism. This 7-day Albania road trip combines everything that makes the Balkans so special: ancient stone towns, Mediterranean beaches, and the warmth of local life that greets you in every small café and seaside village.

Starting in vibrant Tirana, you’ll trace a scenic route south through Berat’s UNESCO-listed old town, the fortress city of Gjirokastër, and the dreamy Riviera beaches of Himarë and Ksamil, before looping back through the historic port of Vlorë and the northern gem of Shkodër.

Over just one week, you’ll travel from mountains to sea, taste homemade olive oil, explore winding bazaars, and dive into waters so clear they rival the Greek islands — all while enjoying the freedom of the open Albanian road.

Before You Go

A week on the Albanian roads is a journey through contrasts — medieval towns, turquoise beaches, rugged mountains, and warm hospitality at every turn. From the cobbled streets of Berat to the sunsets over Himarë, you’ll quickly see why Albania is becoming one of Europe’s most talked-about hidden gems.

Before you pack up, double-check your essentials — car rental papers, travel insurance, navigation apps, and that extra memory card for all those Riviera photos. Then roll down the windows, turn up your favorite playlist, and let Albania surprise you with every twist of the road.

Day 1–2: Tirana & Berat – From the Capital’s Buzz to a Timeless Hill Town

Day 1 – Explore Tirana’s Colorful Capital

Your Albanian road trip begins in Tirana, a city full of contrasts — where pastel-painted buildings meet brutalist architecture, and every corner hides a new story. Stroll through Skanderbeg Square, visit the thought-provoking Bunk’Art Museum, and soak up the lively vibe at New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri), where locals sip espresso and bargain for fresh produce.

💡 Tip: Skip renting your car on arrival day — Tirana’s traffic can be chaotic. Explore the city on foot or by taxi, then pick up your rental the next morning to start your adventure fresh and stress-free.

Day 2 – Tirana to Berat (Approx. 2 hours / 100 km)

Leaving the capital, the road soon opens into rolling hills and olive groves. As you approach Berat, the “City of a Thousand Windows,” its whitewashed houses climb the hillside beneath a centuries-old castle. Explore the Mangalem and Gorica quarters, cross the historic bridge linking the two sides, and wander through cobbled alleys that seem frozen in time.

Up on Berat Castle, the views stretch over red rooftops and the Osum River valley — perfect for sunset. End the day with a glass of local wine and traditional Tave Kosi at a family-run tavern overlooking the town.

🛏️ Stay: Choose a charming guesthouse inside Berat’s old quarter — where stone walls, handmade carpets, and warm smiles await.

Day 3–4: Gjirokastër & the Southern Highlands – Stone Streets and Timeless Views

Day 3 – Berat to Gjirokastër (Approx. 3.5 hours / 160 km)

Leaving Berat behind, the road winds through lush valleys and sleepy rural villages where life seems to move at its own rhythm. As you approach Gjirokastër, you’ll immediately notice its nickname — “The City of Stone” — coming to life through slate rooftops and steep cobblestone lanes cascading down the hillside.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest in the Balkans, offering panoramic views over the Drino Valley. Wander through the Old Bazaar, where artisans sell copper crafts and woven rugs, and pop into the Ethnographic Museum, located in the house where Enver Hoxha, Albania’s former leader, was born.

💡 My Tip: Park your car just below the castle and explore the rest on foot — the alleys are steep, narrow, and full of charm, best discovered slowly.

Day 4 – From Gjirokastër to the Albanian Riviera (Approx. 2.5 hours / 120 km)

Today, the landscape transforms dramatically. You’ll trade mountain views for the sparkling Ionian Sea as the road dips toward the coast. Stop at Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a surreal natural spring with water so clear it looks like glass. It’s the perfect place for a coffee break and a few photos before continuing to Sarandë, the gateway to Albania’s Riviera.

Once you reach the coast, settle into seaside life — dine on grilled fish and olive salad while watching the sun sink over the sea. Tomorrow, the adventure continues along the Riviera’s most breathtaking stretches of road.

🛏️ Stay: Choose between the lively vibe of Sarandë or the quieter charm of Himarë, both ideal bases for exploring the southern coast.

Day 5–6: Sarandë, Ksamil & Himarë – The Ionian Riviera Magic

Day 5 – Sarandë & Ksamil: Beaches and Ancient Wonders

Wake up to the sound of waves in Sarandë, one of Albania’s most famous seaside towns. Just south lies Ksamil, a tropical dream with white sand coves and tiny islands you can swim or kayak to. Spend your morning beach-hopping — Ksamil’s turquoise water rivals the Greek islands across the bay.

In the afternoon, explore Butrint National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site only 30 minutes away. The ruins here tell stories of Greek, Roman, and Venetian civilizations surrounded by lush lagoons and olive trees. Return to Sarandë for a seafood dinner by the promenade — fresh grilled octopus and a glass of local white wine are the perfect combo.

💡 My Tip: Visit Ksamil early in the day (before 10 a.m.) to enjoy the beaches before they fill up.

Day 6 – Himarë & the Riviera Drive (Approx. 1.5 hours / 60 km)

Today’s drive is pure joy — winding along the Llogara Pass, one of Europe’s most spectacular coastal roads. The road climbs above the Ionian Sea, offering endless views of blue horizons and mountain slopes that plunge straight into the water.

Stop in Borsh for a swim under the medieval castle ruins, or detour to the hidden Gjipe Beach, a secluded gem reached via a short hike through a canyon. Continue north to Himarë, a laid-back coastal village with traditional stone houses and a peaceful seaside promenade.

🛏️ Stay: At Geo & Art Boutique Hotel in Himarë — stylish rooms, sea-view balconies, and a perfect base for exploring nearby beaches like Livadhi, Jale, and Filikuri.

🍽️ Dinner Idea: Try local fish dishes or fërgesë at a family-run taverna as the sun sets over the bay.

Day 7 – Vlorë & Shkodër – From Coastline to Castles

Morning – Vlorë and the Llogara Pass
Start early to enjoy one last drive along the Riviera before reaching Vlorë, where the Ionian and Adriatic Seas meet. This port city holds a special place in Albanian history — it’s where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1912. Stroll along the seaside promenade, visit Zvernec Monastery on its tiny island connected by a wooden bridge, and treat yourself to a seaside brunch before heading north.

Afternoon – The Long Drive North (Approx. 4 hours / 230 km)
From Vlorë, follow the scenic coastal road back toward Shkodër, a city brimming with culture, lakeside charm, and a distinct northern rhythm. Once you arrive, climb up to Rozafa Castle for sweeping views of Lake Shkodër, Albania’s largest lake, shared with Montenegro. Wander through the historic center, lined with colorful houses, small cafés, and local artisan shops — a peaceful way to end your week-long adventure.

🍽️ Dinner Idea: Try traditional northern dishes like jufka me kos (homemade pasta with yogurt) or fli, a layered crepe-style specialty served with honey.

Evening – Reflections on the Road
As the sun dips behind the Albanian Alps, you’ll realize how much ground you’ve covered — from Tirana’s urban buzz to the cobblestone lanes of Berat, from Ottoman fortresses to hidden beaches that feel like the Mediterranean decades ago.

🛏️ Stay: Choose a lakeside guesthouse in Shkodër — the calm views are the perfect way to end your journey.

Practical Tips for Driving in Albania

Albania Road Conditions & Driving Style
Albania’s main highways (like SH4 and SH8) are generally in good shape, but expect occasional potholes and sharp bends on rural roads. Drive cautiously, especially in mountain areas or at night — headlights are essential. Locals tend to drive assertively, so stay alert and patient.

Speed Limits

• Urban areas: 40–50 km/h
• Outside cities: 80 km/h
• Highways: up to 110 km/h
• Speed cameras are increasingly common, so stick to the limits — fines are immediate if stopped by police.

Car Rental & Insurance
You’ll find rentals easily at Tirana Airport or in the city center. Go with a reputable company that includes CDW insurance and allows cross-border travel if you’re exploring the Balkans. Always take photos of the car before leaving the lot.

Navigation & Apps
Google Maps works well in most areas, but Maps.me and Waze are great offline backups. Mobile coverage is strong along the coast and in major towns, but weaker in the mountains.

Gas Stations & Payment
Gas stations are frequent on main routes — look for brands like Kastrati or Elda Oil. Most accept credit cards, though it’s smart to keep some cash (Albanian Lek).

Best Time to Go to Albania
April to October is ideal. In summer, expect 77–82°F (25–28°C) along the Riviera, while spring and fall are perfect for mountain drives.

Parking & Safety
Paid parking lots are common in cities; avoid leaving valuables inside. Many hotels and guesthouses include free parking — always confirm when booking.

Albania Border Crossings
If you plan to continue into Greece, Montenegro, or North Macedonia, check your rental company’s policy and bring green card insurance for cross-border travel.

FAQs About Driving & Traveling in Albania

Final Words

There’s something magical about driving through Albania — every bend reveals a new scene, from coastal cliffs glowing at sunset to mountain valleys where time seems to stand still. Over seven days, you’ll experience the country’s true soul: friendly smiles, homemade olive oil, the rhythm of traditional music drifting through old towns, and beaches that feel like your own private paradise.

An Albania road trip isn’t just about the route — it’s about the freedom to stop where the view steals your breath, chat with locals over coffee, and discover a Europe that still feels raw and real.

So pack your curiosity, charge your camera, and get ready to fall in love with a country that welcomes every traveler like family.