Albania is a kind of nations that will get brushed apart when planning journey to Europe. Most vacationers not within the know would suppose what’s even in Albania and decide as a substitute of Greece or Croatia. I’m right here to say that there’s undoubtedly no purpose to skip via Albania anymore because it affords a few of the most numerous landscapes of any nation in Europe!
I spent three weeks touring across the South Balkans visiting Albania, Macedonia, and Kosovo. I spent the vast majority of my time in Albania as a result of it has probably the most to see. From dramatic mountain ranges to stunning blue seashores, Albania has every part. To not point out the cultural range amongst its folks is shocking with Albanians, Montenegrins, Greek, and Macedonian all residing throughout the borders.
Albania is sort of a various nation and Tirana is inconveniently positioned in the midst of the nation. It’s divided into two elements, the north and the south and whereas I’ve visited each, it could be an excessive amount of to do each except you might have at the least 1.5 weeks to dedicate.
The place I went in Albania
I noticed most of all of the highlights of Albania throughout my journey there. In whole, I spent about 10 days visiting the nation which I feel is sufficient. Nevertheless, you probably have two weeks, you’ll be capable of see every part I feel.
Should you solely have per week, then I’d advocate splitting the journey into itineraries both for the southern a part of the nation or the north.
Here’s a map of my itinerary:
Hire a automotive
For this itinerary to work within the allotted time, then you could hire a automotive. Whereas public transportation is broadly out there and there are buses that join Tirana to areas everywhere in the area, it simply is just not as environment friendly as renting a automotive.
As well as, plenty of the attraction in these nations is visiting smaller cities that aren’t properly linked or a mountain viewpoint over the Adriatic or Lake Ohrid.
Renting a automotive may be very low cost within the area. I began my journey in Tirana and a rental automotive may very well be had for as low cost as €10. I ended up paying about €18 a day for full insurance coverage protection and from a extra respected firm.
The roads within the these nations are loads good if you’re on the principle freeways.
Ought to I see the north or the south of Albania?
Albania has a really numerous set of landscapes. The north is characterised by big mountain ranges which are dramatic and beautiful. These mountains actually remind me of the Italian Dolomites that are probably the most stunning mountains in my view. The south has extra of the normal villages in addition to a gorgeous shoreline the extra you method Greece.
It actually will depend on what you wish to see and what you’re searching for. Are you after sunny seashores or epic mountaineering? There are simply too many variables. Simply brainstorming the professionals, I can consider these:
South Itinerary:
- Lovely seashores
- Epic drives alongside the coast
- Lovely medieval villages like Berat and Gjirokaster
- Plenty of Greek and Roman ruins
North Itinerary:
What would I do?
If I had to decide on between these two, I’d most likely take the north itinerary. As stunning because the Albanian coast is, I feel you’ll be able to see much more stunning locations in Greece like Kefalonia close by. I feel the north is especially distinctive and also you don’t see mountain ranges like that usually. As properly, the Lake Koman ferry is simply breathtakingly epic.
As Tirana is positioned in the midst of the nation, you’ll have to select which space to go to for those who solely have per week. You probably have two weeks (and even ten days), then it’s possible to not must resolve and be capable of see every part. I’ll break down the itineraries on the finish of the put up for those who wish to get an concept plan a visit on the subject of which a part of the nation.
For the aim of this put up, as I noticed each the north and the south, I’ll write about all of the areas that I went to and what number of days I spent there. Afterwards, I’ll embody concepts on construction your journey relying on the period of time you might have!
Albania Journey Abstract
All journeys in Albania will probably begin in Tirana. From Tirana, I spent two nights exploring the capital earlier than driving south to the previous metropolis of Berat. From Berat, I drove south additional to discover the coast the place I stayed three days in Himare. I used Himare as a base to discover close by seaside sights like Butrint Nationwide Park, Dhermi, Gjipe Seaside and extra.
From Himare,, I drove to Gjirokaster to see the previous metropolis the place I stayed one night time excessive up within the city. This gorgeous a lot summarizes the southern a part of the journey. Fortunately, Albania is just not too massive and driving from the south to the north may be completed in brief time.
From Gjirokaster, I drove subsequent to the city of Shkoder the place I ready for the well-known north Albania hike circuit that traverses via Valbona and Theth nationwide parks. This takes about 4 days in whole to finish earlier than lastly ending again in Tirana.
Begin in Tirana – Days 1&2
Tirana is hands-down one in all my favourite cities within the Balkans, stuffed with unbelievable eating places, cafés serving up good espresso for lower than $1, funky museums, fascinating open-air markets, and vibrant road artwork.
Spend your first day in Tirana getting acquainted with the world round Skanderbeg Sq., visiting Bunkart 2 and/or the Home of Leaves, trying out the socialist mural on the Nationwide Historical past Museum, visiting the newly renovated Pazar I Ri market space, and strolling across the hipster neighborhood of Blloku which was once the middle of Communist rule throughout Enver Hoxha’s murderous reign.
This can be a nice space to exit at night time: I strongly advocate Colonial Cocktail Academy for ingenious mixology, Radio Bar for chilled-out drinks in a cool vintage-inspired settling, Nouveau Obscure for some of the photogenic terraces in Tirana, and Kino for a stunning summer season backyard and fabulous combined drinks.
Berat – Day 3
From Tirana, the primary cease on this epic street journey is to the previous city of Berat. Whereas Tirana didn’t have actually any “previous cities” to talk of on account of Communism, Berat is strictly what you’re pondering of in the case of previous European villages.
Having spent plenty of time in Albania, I feel Berat might be probably the most spectacular conventional city within the nation. Often called town of 1000 home windows, this previous city was closely influenced by the Ottoman empire and you may see the identical architectural prowess as you do in sure elements of Turkey.
Picturesque stone homes with darkish mahogany stucco roofs are constructed alongside the hillside. Don’t overlook the fortress on the high of mentioned hill simply so as to add perspective. The city is extremely photogenic and you’ll get a few of your greatest photos of the nation right here.
For the very best views, go to the brand new bridge and take the picture head on. As well as, the views from the principle city sq. that’s adorned with quite a few cafes is superb.
Final however not least, for those who simply have one night time right here like I did, ensure to completely go eat dinner at Home made meals Lili positioned proper within the previous city. The proprietor is extremely energetic and I’ve by no means seen a happier soul. Coupled with a few of the greatest Albanian meals you’ll discover and this can be a should go to.
The place I stayed in Berat
There are numerous locations to remain in Berat and all for very reasonably priced costs. I stayed at Guesthouse Arben Elezi which had snug rooms and trendy finishings. Nevertheless, the very best a part of this guesthouse was its rooftop terrace with useless on views of Berat’s previous city. Having breakfast right here with these views was an absolute deal with.
Himare and the Albanian Riviera – Day 4-6
After one night time in Berat, I drove south in the direction of the Albanian coast to get pleasure from seashores and sea. The Adriatic shoreline of Albania is completely underrated in my view. It combines dramatic mountain peaks with that lovely Ionian sea you can’t get sufficient of. Driving down the coast jogged my memory of Crete in some elements, combined in with Kefalonia, Greece at others. It’s spectacular and to not be missed!
There’s a steep ascent up the mountains however because it dips all the way down to sea stage, the views of the mountains towering over the ocean is breathtaking.
There are numerous cities and locations to go to on the coast. The principle cities of curiosity are:
- Vlore
- Appollonia
- Dhermi
- Himare
- Sarande
- Butrint Nationwide Park
- Ksamil
There are numerous smaller villages which are additionally stunning however these are the principle ones. It’s not so massive of an space to cowl so I’d advocate to only select a city and base your self there for a number of nights.
After studying plenty of blogs, I settled on Himare which is usually in the midst of the southern coast and is understood to be a bit extra laid again however with stunning views. Dhermi is subsequent door however gave the impression to be a spot that specialised in excessive finish lodging which wasn’t what I used to be after. Sarande within the very south is an even bigger seaside city that had a really Southern California OC vibe (in addition to Vlore). In the long run, I used to be very proud of my choice of staying in Himare.
Drop in on the Appollonia Ruins
On the best way from Berat to Himare, you’ll cross via the previous Greek ruins at Appollonia. Right here you’ll discover a small acropolis sort of constructing with breathtaking views of the close by valleys. There’s a small entrance price right here however it’s a good little cease alongside the best way to the coast.
Go to Gjipe Seaside
All of the Albanians I met advised me a go to to Gjipe Seaside was a should. It’s one of many nicest seashores within the coast and I must agree. Positioned between Dhermi and Himare, this seaside is a little bit of a mission to get to. It includes driving down a small street (it’s paved at the least), parking your automotive, and strolling 20 minutes down rocky roads to the seaside.
It’s not troublesome by any means however simply take into accout it would be best to pack plenty of water for this journey. In the long run, the seaside is totally stunning and has all of the qualities of an Ionian sea seaside you’ll be able to anticipate.
Having visited in late April, I used to be capable of get pleasure from stunning climate (25C+) and nil crowds. Nevertheless, in the summertime months, anticipate this seaside (and each different one) to get tremendous packed.
Go to Butrint Nationwide Park
Butrint Nationwide Park is positioned south of Sarande and is a UNESCO World Heritage website that’s house to maybe the least crowded Greek and Roman ruins you’ll discover.
The Amphitheatre right here was utterly empty and I used to be capable of simply chill right here on my own for fairly a while. There may be additionally a really properly preserved fortress with views of the encompassing bay.
After getting your historical past in, ensure to have lunch in Ksamil. Guvat Bar and Restaurant is positioned proper on the seaside with beautiful views of the turquoise water beneath. As this area is so near Greece, anticipate scrumptious Greek meals which is my favourite European delicacies.
Staying at Beleri Home
Beleri Home in Himare was an incredible choice to remain! It was proper in entrance of the seaside and had nice ocean views. The city of Himare is far more chilled and an ideal place to base your self to discover the close by areas.
Gjirokaster – Day 7
After a really enjoyable few days in Himare absorbing the solar and sea, it was time to proceed onwards to Gjirokaster, which is one other stunning medieval mountain city within the heartland of Albania. The drive from Himare to Gjirokaster is sort of scenic and simply over two hours.
Blue Eye of Sarande
Alongside the best way, cease on the Blue Eye of Sarande which is a pure pool with extremely clear water coming from depths of fifty meters beneath. It’s potential to swim in these waters and it’s a well-liked vacationer attraction.
Gjiroskaster City
Upon arrive in Gjirokaster, you may be undoubtedly greatly surprised by the pure fantastic thing about the city. Like Berat, there may be an previous city and a brand new city however after all, you’ll wish to keep the night time within the previous a part of the village on the hills.
Gjirokaster is named the stone metropolis and is one other stunning show of Ottoman metropolis planning. It’s related but additionally not that just like Berat, regardless that each cities share the identical historical past. Each cities are extremely stunning and I’d say Gjirokaster is as stunning as Berat. Each cities are completely price visiting.
Gjirokaster feels a bit extra touristy than Berat as its important streets are crammed with outlets that promote souvenirs and eating places. Nevertheless, visiting in late April throughout COVID meant neither city felt touristy in any way.
The place I stayed – Stone Rooms
I discovered a lodge referred to as the Stone Rooms on the high of Gjirokaster with full panoramic views of town for 20 euros an evening. It was a little bit of a mission to get right here however the views have been completely price it.
Shkoder City – Day 8
Shkodra is far more chilled out than Tirana. It’s some of the bicycle pleasant cities in Albania which is a far cry from the chaos of Tirana.
It has an ideal pedestrian walkway with plenty of fantastic espresso outlets which is a straightforward place to whereas away half a day. I like to recommend renting bikes and heading out to Rozafa Fort, the place you will get phenomenal views over Lake Shkodra, and for those who’re additional formidable you’ll be able to even bike to the shores of the lake and sunbathe there for a bit and even go for a dip.
You may as well take a look at the outstanding images museum there, the Marubi Nationwide Museum of Pictures, the gorgeous central mosque, and the previous bazaar.
Valbona and Theth – Day 9 to 12
From Shkoder, it’s time to begin the notorious Valbona to Theth hike.
The journey to the alps is a little bit of a course of however each step is price it. The primary of these steps is taking probably the most epic ferry trip you’ll ever have.
Koman Lake Ferry
Significantly, you can’t depart Albania with out at the least happening this ferry trip.
Image towering Norwegian fashion Fjords on all sides of you as you sail throughout a turquoise river. It’s one thing particular and no photos do it justice!
From Shkoder, it’s a 1.5 hour drive to the port city of Koman. There may be nothing right here actually besides some eating places and this ferry. The ferry runs as soon as a day between Koman and Fierza (spherical journey). The price is just €6 per individual and about €40 for a automotive.
The ferry trip is just two hours however you’ll want it lasts longer. After arriving in Fierze, it’s a straightforward drive to Valbona.
I wrote in regards to the Lake Koman ferry trip intimately so ensure to learn that if you’re contemplating this journey!
Valbona to Theth Hike
It’s completely beautiful in its magnificence and the dramatic rocky peaks will convert any lowland decrease. One of the crucial well-liked issues to do in Albania is to make the Valbona to Theth hike. Valbona and Theth are two nationwide parks positioned subsequent to one another in Albania’s north. Valbona to the East and Theth to the west. They’re solely linked by foot which means there aren’t any roads connecting these two nationwide parks. Subsequently, many vacationers make the trek by foot and it’s some of the epic hikes you are able to do.
Nevertheless, that is solely potential in the summertime months as snow usually blocks the best way. This 6-7 hour hike can solely be completed between the months of Might-September. I visited in early Might and sadly, the cross was closed. Subsequently, I went straight to Valbona from Kosovo as a substitute of doing the everyday “route” for this journey.
In case you are visiting and the cross is certainly open (simply message one of many guesthouses in Valbona to know in regards to the circumstances), then that is the itinerary you’ll observe:
- Begin in Shkoder (in a single day)
- Within the morning, your guesthouse or lodge will organize a transport to the Koman Lake Ferry, which is in itself extraordinarily epic (extra particulars on this shortly)
- Take the 2 hour ferry trip from Koman to Fierza
- From Fierza, take one other transport to your guesthouse in Valbona the place you’ll spend the night time
- The subsequent day, make the 6-8 hour hike from Valbona to Theth, spend the night time at your guesthouse in Theth
- The next day, take a transport to Shkoder
For the above itinerary, you’ll be able to depart your rental automotive in Shkoder for the three days no downside. You’ll be able to’t take the automotive with you on this journey as a result of there isn’t a strategy to get again to Valbona after you end your hike except you wish to stroll again! Subsequently, it’s a lot simpler to only do that journey with out your rental automotive.
Valbona Nationwide Park
Since I couldn’t do the above hike, I made a decision to only spend a while in Valbona with out going to Theth. Whereas the cross was closed, there are nonetheless hikes to be completed with out a lot difficulty. The Maja e Rosni hike is the one which many individuals do. It’s 2600m to the highest and takes about 7 hours spherical journey. Nevertheless, it’s solely about 1600m to get to the primary viewpoint which affords you panoramic views of the valley.
That is what I ended up doing and it was extremely stunning. The views stretch for a lot of kilometers down the valley as you get the identical jagged peaks that I noticed within the Dolomites. It’s really breathtaking right here.
Staying at Margjeka Lodge
The most well-liked guesthouse that I examine was Margjeka. It’s positioned on the very finish of the street in Valbona and it’s positioned on a hill which provides it views of each mountain surrounding it. The rooms are snug and the meals was scrumptious. Most significantly, waking as much as these views was one thing particular.
I’d extremely advocate staying right here!
Daily breakdown of Albania
Here’s a day-to-day breakdown of my itinerary:
Day 1: Tirana
Day 2: Tirana
Day 3: Berat
Day 4: Berat to Himare
Day 5: Himare (discover Butrint Nationwide Park)
Day 6: Himare (Chill out at seashores)
Day 7: Gjirokaster
Day 8: Gjirokaster to Shkoder
Day 9: Shkoder to Lake Koman Ferry to Valbona the place you spend the night time
Day 10: Valbona to Theth Hike, keep in Theth
Day 11: Keep a second night time in Theth
Day 12: Theth to Shkoder
Day 13: Flight out of Tirana
One Week Itinerary for Albania
Should you solely have one week to dedicate to Albania (7-8 days), then I’ll break down my day-to-day play for you right here.
Once more, since Tirana is within the heart of the nation, I’d select to both do the north or the south as a part of my one week journey. I’ll break it down accordingly:
South Albania for One week
This journey will give attention to locations south of Tirana and is the longer of the 2 journeys. It’s centered round seashores and previous cities.
Day 1: Tirana
Day 2: Tirana
Day 3: Berat
Day 4: Berat to Himare
Day 5: Himare (discover Butrint Nationwide Park)
Day 6: Himare (Chill out at seashores)
Day 7: Gjirokaster
Day 8: Gjirokaster to Tirana
North Albania for One week
This journey will give attention to locations north of Tirana and is the shorter of the 2 journeys. It’s centered round mountaineering via the alps (and naturally having fun with the views). Notice that this itinerary is admittedly solely potential in the summertime months between Might and October because the cross between Valbona and Theth is not going to be coated in snow. Whether it is snowed in, you won’t be able to do that well-known hike.
Day 1: Tirana
Day 2: Tirana
Day 3: Shkoder
Day 4: Shkoder to Lake Koman Ferry to Valbona
Day 5: Valbona to Theth hike
Day 6: Full day in Theth
Day 7: Theth to Tirana
Proceed Studying:
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