Albanian Riviera: The Ultimate 7-10 Day Itinerary (2025 Guide)

Bywahbi

Stunning view of the Albanian Riviera with crystal clear turquoise water and dramatic coastline

Alexandra Meridian travel blogger

Hello, I’m Alexandra Meridian! After visiting 40+ countries, I’ve made it my mission to uncover affordable yet stunning destinations that aren’t on everyone’s radar. The Albanian Riviera completely stole my heart during my three-month Balkan adventure last summer. Now, I’m sharing my detailed itinerary so you can experience this Mediterranean paradise without the crowds or sky-high prices!

💡 Pro Tip: The Albanian Riviera offers the same stunning Mediterranean beaches you’d find in Greece or Italy, but at less than half the price! I spent a month exploring this coastline and was blown away by the value, hospitality, and untouched beauty.

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Alright, get ready to explore the Albanian Riviera, reimagined in my signature style! Think of it as trading those crowded European beaches for hidden gems, authentic culture, and prices that won’t make your wallet weep! Ready for a step-by-step guide to the best beaches and villages? Let’s dive into this unforgettable journey together!

❤️ Personal Experience: My first swim in Ksamil’s crystal-clear waters literally brought tears to my eyes. I couldn’t believe such pristine beaches existed in Europe without massive crowds. The moment I knew I’d discovered something special was when I paid just €8 for a fresh seafood pasta with a glass of local wine while watching the sunset over the Ionian Sea.

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Quick Jump

Why Choose the Albanian Riviera?

Empty pristine beach with turquoise water in Albania compared to crowded Mediterranean beaches

Seriously, why shouldn’t you choose the Albanian Riviera? I mean, picture this: pristine, uncrowded beaches where you can actually hear yourself think. Charming villages like Qeparo where you can peek into traditional Albanian life. And the best part? It’s way more affordable than those usual Mediterranean hotspots like Greece or Croatia!

❤️ Personal Experience: In Saranda, I booked a beautiful apartment with a sea view terrace for just €30 per night in June. The equivalent in Santorini would have cost at least €150-200. And the sunset views were just as spectacular!

But wait, there’s more!

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites: History buff? You’ll love exploring ancient cities like Butrint and Gjirokaster. I spent a whole day wandering through Butrint’s 2,500-year-old ruins without battling crowds or paying extortionate entrance fees.
  • Delicious Cuisine: Fresh seafood? Yes, please! And at prices that’ll make you smile. I regularly enjoyed multi-course meals with wine for under €15.
  • Safe and Welcoming: The Albanian people are known for their warmth. You’ll feel right at home! I’ve lost count of how many times locals invited me for coffee or raki (the local spirit).

Honestly, Albania is safe, welcoming, and ready to bust any preconceived notions you might have.

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Planning Your Trip: Essential Tips

Map of Albanian Riviera with main attractions and beaches marked

Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of planning your Albanian Riviera itinerary. Trust me, a little planning goes a long way!

Best Time to Visit

Aim for May to September for the best beach weather. Or, sneak in during the shoulder seasons (May-June, September) for fewer tourists and still-pleasant temps. I visited in early June and it was perfect – warm enough to swim but before the July-August peak season crowds.

💡 Pro Tip: Late September might be my favorite time to visit. The water is still warm from the summer sun, prices drop after the peak season, and you’ll have many beaches almost to yourself!

Getting There

  • Fly into Tirana International Airport (TIA) for a direct route. Then, rent a car or hop on a bus to the Riviera.
  • Or, get fancy and fly to Corfu, Greece (CFU), then ferry over to Saranda for a scenic entrance! This was my preferred route and it saves you backtracking if you’re planning to visit Greece too.

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BOOK YOUR CORFU TO SARANDA FERRY

Transportation within Albania

  • Rent a car! This gives you the freedom to explore those hidden beaches and remote villages. Just a heads up: local driving habits can be a little… spirited. I rented a compact car for €25/day and it was the best decision for exploring at my own pace.
  • Buses are budget-friendly for getting between major towns. Just double-check those schedules with your hotel, because online info might be a bit unreliable.

⚠️ Important Note: If you rent a car, be prepared for some mountain roads with hairpin turns along the coast. The scenery is spectacular, but drive carefully and allow extra time. Some of the most beautiful beaches require short dirt road detours or hiking to access.

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Packing Essentials

  • Light, breezy clothes. Albanian summers are hot!
  • Swimsuits, towels, and SPF. You’ll be beach-hopping daily.
  • Comfy shoes for exploring ruins and villages. I wore my hiking sandals almost daily.
  • Cash (Albanian Lek), because small places often don’t take cards.
  • A local SIM card or eSIM to stay connected. Albania has surprisingly good 4G coverage.

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Accommodation

  • Everything from hostels to fancy hotels. I found the best value was in locally-owned guesthouses and small apartments.
  • Book ahead, especially during peak season! I learned this the hard way when I spontaneously decided to extend my stay in Ksamil and had to settle for my third choice.

Safety & Culture

  • Albania’s safe, but keep your wits about you as you would anywhere.
  • Dress respectfully at religious sites and embrace “Albania time” – things might not always run on schedule.

❤️ Personal Experience: I traveled solo through Albania as a woman and felt completely safe. The biggest “danger” was overeating from all the delicious food locals kept insisting I try!

Ready to map out your adventure? Let’s get started with a 7-day Albanian Riviera itinerary!

7-Day Albanian Riviera Itinerary

Scenic coastal road of the Albanian Riviera with car driving along turquoise waters

Alright, let’s get into this Albanian Riviera itinerary! This is where we turn those planning tips into a real, unforgettable adventure. Get ready to discover some amazing Albania vacation spots!

Day 1: Arrival in Tirana & Coastal Transfer

  • Touchdown at Tirana International Airport (TIA).
  • I suggest you grab a pre-booked private transfer directly to the coast. This saves you a day and gets you straight to the good stuff!

💡 Pro Tip: If your flight arrives early, consider spending this first night in Vlore to break up the journey. It’s a vibrant coastal city with a beautiful promenade and saves you some driving time.

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Day 2: Saranda & Butrint

Ancient ruins of Butrint UNESCO site with sea views

  • First up, Saranda! It’s a bustling hub perfect for your first taste of the Riviera. Wake up with a coffee along the promenade, watching fishermen bring in their morning catch.
  • Stroll along the Saranda promenade and soak up the vibes.
  • Next, it’s time for Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through ancient ruins with a history stretching back centuries. I spent 3 hours here and could have stayed longer – it’s like stepping back in time!
  • In the evening, treat yourself to fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant. I recommend Haxhi restaurant – get the grilled sea bass with a side of roasted vegetables.

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Day 3: Ksamil & Gjirokaster

Beautiful Ksamil beach with small islands visible offshore

  • Hit the road to Ksamil, where you can relax on the beaches or explore the Ksamil Islands. This is what Mediterranean dreams are made of – crystal clear water and white sand beaches!
  • Then, head to Gjirokaster, another UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique stone architecture.
  • Explore the Gjirokaster Bazaar – perfect for picking up handmade souvenirs and local crafts.
  • Visit the Gjirokaster Fortress for panoramic views that will make your Instagram followers jealous.

❤️ Personal Experience: I hired a small boat in Ksamil (€20 for an hour) to visit the tiny islands just offshore. The owner dropped me at each one and picked me up when I was ready. Each island has its own tiny beach, and I had one entirely to myself!

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Day 4: Himare & Coastal Drive

Coastal view of Himare with beach and mountain backdrop

  • Drive along the scenic coastal road from Gjirokaster to Himare, enjoying the views of the Albanian Riviera. This is one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever taken!
  • Stop at Ali Pasha Castle in Porto Palermo Bay – a fascinating historical site with stunning sea views.
  • Explore Himare, and relax at Gonia Beach. Enjoy a meal at Lefteri’s Tavern – their grilled octopus is to die for!

💡 Pro Tip: The drive from Gjirokaster to Himare is stunning but winding. Plan to make several photo stops along the way and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the journey.

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Day 5: Beaches near Himare

Gjipe Beach with dramatic cliffs and crystal clear waters

Explore the diverse beaches near Himare:

  • Gjipe Beach: Hike to this secluded beach known for its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The 20-minute hike deters many tourists, so you’ll have plenty of space to yourself.
  • Jale Beach: Relax on this beach known for its clear water. It’s a bit more developed than Gjipe, with beach bars and restaurants.
  • Dhermi Beach: Enjoy the scenery at one of Albania’s most famous beaches. The village of Dhermi above the beach is also worth exploring.

⚠️ Important Note: For Gjipe Beach, wear proper shoes for the hike down and bring all the water and supplies you’ll need, as there are minimal facilities once you’re there. I recommend packing a picnic lunch!

Day 6: Llogara Pass & Vlore

Dramatic mountain views from Llogara Pass with the sea visible below

  • Drive the Llogara Pass, ascending through the mountains and reveling in the views. Stop for lunch at a restaurant along the pass – the mountain lamb dishes are incredible!
  • Continue to Vlore, explore the Vlore promenade, visit the Independence Monument, and enjoy the sunset over the Adriatic Sea.

❤️ Personal Experience: At Llogara Pass, I had lunch at Restorant Panorama where they serve traditional mountain cuisine. Try the roasted lamb with mountain herbs and local cheese – the perfect fuel after all that beach time!

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Day 7: Return to Tirana

Ancient columns at Apollonia archaeological site

  • Optional stop at Apollonia, an ancient archaeological site near Vlore, if time permits. This lesser-known ruin site was one of my favorite historical discoveries!
  • Drive back to Tirana for your departure flight or continue your journey to another Balkan destination.

Sounds amazing, right? But, if you’re anything like me, a week is never enough! So, let’s extend that trip and dive even deeper into the Albanian Riviera!

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Extending Your Albanian Riviera Itinerary (10 Days)

Panoramic view of Berat - the city of a thousand windows

Alright, let’s keep this Albanian Riviera party going! You know I’m all about soaking in as much as possible, so let’s look at how to stretch this Albanian Riviera itinerary into a full 10-day adventure.

💡 Pro Tip: With 10 days, you can travel at a more relaxed pace and incorporate some inland destinations that showcase Albania’s incredible diversity. The contrast between the coastal and mountain regions will give you a much fuller picture of this fascinating country.

Ready to slow down and really savor Albania? Here’s how to stretch that 7-day trip into a blissful 10-day escape:

  • Beach Bum Bliss: Spend more time relaxing on the beaches of Ksamil or Himare. Honestly, who could say no to more turquoise water and sun-soaked shores? Grab a book, find your perfect beach, and just chill.
  • Hidden Cove Hunting: Explore more of the northern Albanian Riviera, discovering hidden coves and charming coastal villages. This is where that rental car comes in handy! Get off the beaten path and find your own secret paradise.
  • Inland Adventures: Visit other inland destinations in Albania, such as Berat or Permet, for a deeper cultural experience. Trade the coast for a day and discover Albania’s rich history and traditions.

❤️ Personal Experience: I added three days to explore Berat (the “city of a thousand windows”) and it was magical! Staying in a 400-year-old Ottoman house in the old town was a highlight of my entire Balkan trip. Don’t miss the hike up to Berat Castle for sunset!

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Bonus Activities to Sprinkle In

Small boat navigating between Ksamil islands with passengers

Looking to add a little extra oomph to your Albania Tirana holidays? Here are a few ideas:

  • Island Hopping: Take a boat trip to explore the islands near Ksamil. Each one has its own unique charm and stunning views. I paid just €25 for a half-day boat tour that included snorkeling equipment!
  • Hiking Heaven: Lace up those boots and explore the trails around the Llogara Pass. The views are seriously epic! The hike to Caesar’s Pass took me about 3 hours round trip and was well worth the effort.
  • Raki Tasting: No trip to Albania is complete without trying the local firewater. Find a cozy taverna and sip like a local. Just pace yourself – this stuff is potent!

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Back to Tirana: Squeeze in a City Day

Colorful buildings in Tirana's city center with Skanderbeg Square

Before you head home, carve out a day to explore Tirana itself. Trust me, it’s worth it! Albania’s capital is colorful, quirky, and full of fascinating contrasts between its communist past and vibrant present.

  • Skanderbeg Square: Soak in the energy of the capital’s main hub. People-watching here is fantastic, especially in the evenings when locals come out for their traditional xhiro (evening stroll).
  • Bunk’Art Museums: Experience Albania’s communist past through art. These museums converted from actual bunkers are powerful and thought-provoking.
  • Climb the Sky Tower for panoramic views of Tirana’s skyline. Seriously, the perfect spot for that final Insta pic! The rotating bar at the top is a fun place for a farewell drink.
  • Discover the unique architecture of the Pyramid of Tirana, a relic of the communist era. It’s a wild piece of history that’s currently being renovated into a youth and tech center.

💡 Pro Tip: Book a hotel near the Blloku district for your Tirana stay. Once reserved only for communist party elites, it’s now the trendiest neighborhood with great restaurants, bars, and boutiques all within walking distance.

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Some Quick Tips for Visiting Albania

Albanian Lek currency notes and coins on display

⚠️ Important Note: While most establishments in tourist areas accept euros, you’ll get better rates using the local currency (Albanian Lek). I recommend withdrawing some cash from ATMs in major towns as you travel.

  • Is the Albanian Riviera safe for tourists? Yes, the Albanian Riviera is generally considered safe for tourists. I traveled solo and felt completely at ease everywhere I went.
  • What currency is used in Albania? The Albanian Lek (ALL) is the official currency. While euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, you’ll get better prices using the local currency.
  • Are credit cards widely accepted? While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, it’s advisable to carry cash, especially when exploring smaller towns or rural areas. I found myself using cash about 70% of the time.
  • What should I pack for a trip to the Albanian Riviera? Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a hat. Don’t forget a good beach towel and water shoes for rocky beaches!
  • What cultural customs should I be aware of? Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as mosques or churches. Albanians are incredibly hospitable – if someone invites you for coffee or a meal, it’s a genuine gesture of friendship.
  • What is the best way to get around the Albanian Riviera? Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the Albanian Riviera at your own pace. The coastal roads are well-maintained but can be winding – perfect for those Instagram-worthy views!

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