It was Spring and Summer and I wanted to be in a place that had the mountains and the ocean without dealing with crowds or breaking the bank.

I had heard stories of how Albania was the true jewel of the Balkans, completely underrated. In fact, some part of the mountain scenes can even rival places like the Dolomites and Swiss Alps.

It is also being slowly discovered — tourist arrivals have nearly doubled since 2023 as word got out quick at how amazing the nature is over here!

You have the Accursed Mountains (where I even spent the entire 9 days doing the Peaks of the Balkans hike), and you also have gorgeous beaches from Saranda to towns like Gjirokaster.

If you have time, I would dedicate atleast 7 to 10 days to Albania. Here’s the ultimate Albania Itinerary for 7 to 10 days

10 Days Albania Itinerary

here’s the ultimate albania itinerary for 7 days or 10 days — spotted in doberdol mountains in albania

🏞️ If you’re coming from Montenegro, you can start from Shkoder towards the mountains.

⛱️ If you’re coming from Greece, Corfu you can start at the beaches towards Ksamil and make your way to the top.

Day 1-2: Shkoder
Day 2-4: Theth National Park
Day 4-6: Tirana
Day 6-8: Berat
Day 8-10: Saranda & Ksamil

You’ve the option to extend your trip should you wish to do the whole Peaks of the Balkans trail, or even explore more of the in-between towns like Gjirokaster

Albania Travel Tips

For a solo female traveler: I found the region safe to travel in although more women may be met with stares as they’re still not used to solo travellers
Currency: The currency used in Albania is the Albanian Lek (ALL). While some places might accept euros, it's best to have some local currency for smaller purchases and transactions.
Language: Albanian is the official language, but you'll find many people, especially in tourist areas, who speak English, Italian, or Greek.
Transportation: Public transportation in Albania, especially in major cities like Tirana, is fairly reliable and inexpensive. In Shkoder, it was easy to explore by a bicycle and you can even call private taxis to take you to anywhere you need for a small amount like 3 euros sometimes.
Food and Drink: Albanian cuisine has influences from Mediterranean and Balkan cuisines. In fact, you’ll find amazing Italian food in Albania. Also, try raki, a traditional Albanian alcoholic beverage.
Weather: Albania has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June), summer (July to August) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.

Possibility of Albania Road Trip?

It is possible to do a complete road trip starting from Tirana and choosing the mountains first like Theth National Park and then heading down to the coast.
You can book your car here on DiscoverCars.com

10 Days Albania Itinerary

Day 1-2: Shkoder

a bird-s eye view of shkoder on my albania travel itinerary

cycling through the streerts of shkoder albania

If you want to go back in time and experience a city that’s charmingly quaint, Shkoder, Albania is the place. The city is completely bike-friendly which means it’s easy to rent a bike for 1 or 2 euros and just travel around.

Albania has opened up in recent times and don’t be afraid if you see people staring at you — until recently, they were not used to solo travellers or tourists in general.

This is the gateway to the Albanian Alps and a stopover before heading into the Accursed Mountains. Shkoder, Albania is also interesting in its way as it is influenced by the Romans, Ottomans and Illyrians.

There’s a booming cafe scene and an interesting Shkoder Lake that you can cycle to as well to see the Muslim side of Albania.

Also Read: Of Strolls & Cycling: What To Do In Shkoder, Albania

What to see and do

Visit Rozafa Castle to see the impressive ruins of the 14th century castle
Cycle to Shkoder Lake towards Shiroka town, a sleepy seaside village
Cycle or drive to Mesi bridge, the largest bridge that remains from the Ottoman period in Albania
Have the best fish at Rozafa Seafood
Savour the best desserts at Kanelle Cafe
Explore the Schkoder History Museum

Where to stay

Day 2-4: Theth National Park

This is the gateway to the Accursed Mountains and the most dramatic settings with jagged peaks in Albania.

The best way to spend time here is atleast two days, you get to take day hikes to the Theth-Valbona pass, see the Blue eye of Theth and trek to the Grunas waterfall.

The main town may look like nothing much with construction happening but once you take a 20 minutes walk and stay at Guest House Rrashkadoli, you’ll enjoy the slower pace of life and be able to listen stories from people.

Stargazing and enjoying the quiet beauty of the mountains are some of the best things to do Theth.

Also Read: Theth National Park, Albania: The Ultimate Travel Guide to The Albanian Alps

What to see and do

Visit the 19th century church in Theth
Stay in Guest House Rrashkadoli just for the views and hospitality
Walk along the Theth river
Do mini hikes to Grunas waterfall and the blue eye

Where to stay

Guest House Rrashkadoli (Hands down one of the best place to be at if you love the views and local hospitality!)
Polia Guesthouse

Day 4-6: Tirana

The teeming neighbourhood of Tirana is a welcome change from the mountain sceneries.

The city's transformation in recent years is nothing short of remarkable, with urban spaces being reimagined into lively hubs of creativity.

Skanderbeg Square, the heart of Tirana, boasts a stunning mix of architectural styles, including the iconic Et'hem Bey Mosque and the National Historical Museum, providing a glimpse into Albania's rich past.

Tirana is not only a city of history but also a culinary haven that will tantalize your taste buds.

The Blloku district, once an exclusive area accessible only to the political elite, has now transformed into a trendy neighborhood filled with chic cafes, vibrant bars, and delicious restaurants.

What to see and do

Explore Skanderberg square, the historical center with iconic landmarks
Blloku District where trendy area with cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Visit Bunk'Art 2, the Cold War museum in a former nuclear bunker.
Visit Albania’s Grand Park where relaxing green spaces for walks and picnics.

Where to stay

Day 6-8: Berat, Albania

Known as the "City of a Thousand Windows" for its stunning Ottoman-era houses that cascade down the hillsides, Berat has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Strolling through the cobbled streets of the historic Mangalem and Gorica quarters, you'll find yourself transported to a bygone era.

The iconic white-washed houses, adorned with wooden facades and colorful shutters, create a picturesque scene that feels like a living museum.

What to see and do

Wander through the well-preserved medieval castle on a hill called Berat Castle
Stroll through cobbled streets lined with Ottoman-era houses at Mangalem and Gorica Quarters
Visit historic mosques showcasing Islamic architecture - White Mosque and King Mosque

Where to stay

Day 8-9: Saranda, Albania

the gorgeous waters of saranda on our albania travel trip

Saranda's laid-back charm, coupled with its vibrant cultural scene, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration on the Albanian Riviera.

The city boasts a series of picturesque beaches, including the popular Mirror Beach and Pasqyra Beach, where pristine sands meet the turquoise sea.

The Ionian coastline beckons sun-seekers to unwind on the shores, partake in water sports, or explore nearby coves accessible by boat.

What to see and do

Relax on Mirror Beach and Pasqyra Beach with pristine white sands.
Visit Lekuresi Castle for panoramic views of Saranda and the Ionian Sea.
Visit the Monastery of the 40 Saints, an ancient Orthodox monastery.
Venture to Borsh Castle, one of the most significant castles along the Albanian Riviera.

Where to stay

Day 9-10: Ksamil, Albania

ksamil albania — the last leg of our 10 days itinerary in albania

The Albanian riviera is truly underrated and Ksamil belongs in that category of the best beaches in Balkans.

Ksamil isn't just a paradise for beach lovers; it also boasts a rich history and cultural heritage.

The most famous feature of Ksamil is its trio of small, interconnected islands just off the coast.

Accessible by boat or even by swimming for the more adventurous, these islands boast secluded beaches with powdery white sands and inviting emerald waters.

What to see and do

Take a boat trip to the three Ksamil Islands for secluded beaches.
Discover nearby beaches on the Albanian Riviera, such as Mirror Beach and Pasqyra Beach.
Hop between coastal villages like Himara and Dhermi for diverse landscapes.
Try local specialties like grilled octopus or seafood risotto.

Where to stay