Itinerary
- Day 1
Tirana
After collecting your rental car at Tirana airport, drive into the city center and start with Skanderbeg Square, where you'll see the Clock Tower and Et'hem Bej Mosque up close. The Pyramid of Tirana is worth a look too if you're interested in the city's more contemporary architecture. Grab some street food at Pazari bazaar in the afternoon, then head to Rruga Murat Toptani later for an evening walk where live music fills the streets.
Optional Activities
- Explore Skanderbeg Square
- Visit the Clock Tower
- Visit Et'hem Bej Mosque
- See the Pyramid of Tirana
- Browse Pazari bazaar for street food
- Evening stroll on Rruga Murat Toptani
Landmarks/POIs Skanderbeg Square Et'hem Bej Mosque Pyramid of Tirana Pazari bazaar Rruga Murat Toptani - Day 2
Berat
The drive to Berat takes you through rural Albania with small villages, rivers, and green fields creating a nice contrast to city life. Once there, walk up to Berat Castle on the hillside and wander through the Mangalem district with its historic architecture. By evening, find a restaurant or bar along Bulevardi Republika for dinner and drinks.
Optional Activities
- Visit Berat Castle
- Explore Mangalem historic district
- Typical Albanian dinner at Bulevardi Republika (payable locally)
Landmarks/POIs Berat Castle Mangalem Bulevardi Republika - Day 3
Ksamil
Head south from Berat toward the coast, driving through scenic countryside until you reach Ksamil. The water here is turquoise and the beaches are white sand with small islets scattered around. After checking in, find your spot by the water and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or swimming in the clear water.
Optional Activities
- Relax on Ksamil beaches
- Ice-cold frappe (costs extra)
Landmarks/POIs Ksamil Beach - Day 4
Butrint
Just a short drive from Ksamil, Butrint is an ancient archaeological site right by the water. Walk through moss-covered ruins including an amphitheater, old city gates, and temple remains. The lagoon views from the site are nice, and you'll return to Ksamil with plenty of daylight left.
Optional Activities
- Explore Butrint ancient ruins
- Walk through amphitheater and temple ruins
- View the lagoon
Landmarks/POIs Butrint - Day 5
Ksamil
This day is yours to organize however you like. Walk to hidden bays tucked between rocks with soft sand, or take your rental car and drive along the coast to explore different areas. If you want more activity, rent a pedalo and paddle out to the small islands, or simply spend the day reading with the sea and sun for company.
Optional Activities
- Explore hidden bays along the coast
- Paddle a pedalo to mini-islands (payable on top)
- Beach relaxation and swimming
Landmarks/POIs Ksamil Beach - Day 6
Durrës
Drive north along the coast and then inland to reach Durres, Albania's port town. The city has Greek, Roman, and Byzantine ruins scattered throughout, including an amphitheater, a Venetian tower, sections of the old city wall, and a Byzantine forum. After exploring the historical sites, head to the sandy Adriatic beaches for a swim.
Optional Activities
- Explore Durrës amphitheater
- Visit Venetian tower
- See old city wall
- Visit Byzantine forum
- Swim at Adriatic beaches
Landmarks/POIs Durrës Amphitheater Venetian Tower Byzantine Forum Durrës Beach - Day 7
Durrës
Spend time on the Durres promenade, which is lined with palm trees and cafes, then stop for ice cream or photos while taking in the sea views. The mix of maritime and urban life here is interesting, with local shops and street activity throughout. For dinner, try freshly caught grilled fish at a restaurant overlooking the water.
Optional Activities
- Promenade stroll or bike ride
- Hire a bike (pay locals on site)
- Ice cream and café stops
- Freshly caught grilled fish dinner (costs extra)
Landmarks/POIs Durrës Promenade - Day 8
Departure
Return your rental car to the airport and head out, wrapping up your time in Albania.
