Self Drive: Albania North to South

A Complete 11-Day Discovery

Beach Historical Mountain Culture

Self Drive: Albania North to South - Photo principale du séjour

Self Drive: Albania North to South - Photo 2 du séjour

Self Drive: Albania North to South - Photo 3 du séjour

Self Drive: Albania North to South - Photo 4 du séjour

Self Drive: Albania North to South - Photo 5 du séjour

Embark on an immersive self-drive journey through Albania, a country of striking contrasts where rugged mountains, UNESCO-listed cities, and crystal-clear coastline unfold at your own pace.

Description du séjour

This 11-day self-drive itinerary is designed for travelers who wish to experience Albania independently while enjoying carefully selected accommodations and a thoughtfully paced route. Beginning and ending in Tirana, the journey takes you from the dramatic landscapes of the Albanian Alps in Theth to the historic charm of Berat and Gjirokastër, and finally to the relaxed coastal atmosphere of Saranda. Along the way, you will discover traditional villages, Ottoman-era architecture, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, while enjoying the freedom to stop, explore, and personalize each day according to your interests. The combination of mountain scenery, cultural heritage, and the Ionian coastline ensures a comprehensive view of Albania’s diverse character. Ideal for curious and adventurous travelers, this itinerary provides a well-rounded snapshot of the country in just under two weeks, capturing Albania’s essence through authentic encounters, scenic drives, and moments of both exploration and relaxation.

Hébergement

3-4 star hotels, authentic guesthouses

Programme du séjour

jour 1
Airport - Tirana
Your self-drive agent will meet you at the airport for pick-up and transfer to the hotel. You will receive a tour briefing, along with the gadgets and car. Arrive in Tirana, settle into the hotel, and take a walk in the New Bazaar (Pazari i Ri) area.
jour 2
Tirana - Shkoder - Theth
Along the way to Theth, stop in Shkoder for a visit. Explore Rozafa Fortress and enjoy its history and 360-degree views of the mountains, Skadar Lake, and Shkodra town. Transfer to Theth, where, en route, you can stop in the mountain village of Boge and at Thore Pass, surrounded by mountains. Enjoy lunch with a view at Thore Pass.
jour 3
Theth
Today, spend it hiking towards a refreshing bath and lunch at the natural pools of Nderlysaj. Be amazed by the Blue Eye of Theth after hiking through stunning scenery (30 minutes of hiking from the Nderlysaj pools). Return via local transportation to the center of the village.
jour 4
Theth - Durres - Berat
On the way to Berat, stop in the ancient seaside city of Durres. Visit its main boulevard, the Roman Amphitheatre, and the Archaeological Museum. Enjoy an ice cream at Gelateria Cela. Reach Berat, get settled in the hotel, and visit Berat Castle/Citadel, the Iconographic Onufri Museum inside the castle, the Mangalem quarter, the Gorica Bridge, and the Medieval Center.
jour 5
Berat
Today, drive toward the start of the “hike” to Bogova Waterfall. The walk to the waterfall is a 30-minute walk along a well-marked path by the stream. Enjoy bathing and the natural beauty in the pools of the waterfall.
jour 6
Berat - Apollonia Archaeological Park - Gjirokaster
Drive to Apollonia Archaeological Park for a visit. Explore the park and discover the history behind the Temple of Artemis, the Odeon, and the Triumphal Arch. Drive towards the UNESCO town of Gjirokaster. Visit the Castle of Gjirokaster, its “Neck of the Bazaar,” and the Skenduli House – former Ethnographic Museum. Enjoy dinner in one of the small restaurants, such as Edua or Kujtimi.
jour 7
Gjirokaster - Permet - Gjirokaster
Drive to Permet, the “town of flowers” and the birthplace of the Albanian slow food movement. Enter the House of Congress, where the first Communist government was established in 1944. Hike to the “Stone of the City” via a nearby iron staircase for great views. Head for a swim at the Benje Thermal Pools under the Ottoman Kadiu Bridge, and explore Langarica Canyon. You can also go rafting in the Vjosa River.
jour 8
Gjirokaster - Blue Eye Spring - Saranda
Along the way to Saranda, stop to visit the karstic natural spring of the Blue Eye and check out the different shades of blue in the spring and the surrounding nature. Arrive in Saranda, get settled into the hotel, and enjoy the evening in this seaside town.
jour 9
Saranda - Butrint National Park - Saranda
This morning, reach Butrint Park (UNESCO) for a visit to the ancient archaeological site. Spend the day at Ksamil Beach. On the drive back to Saranda, stop and visit Lekursi Castle, which overlooks the town of Saranda, for a golden sunset.
jour 10
Saranda - Porto Palermo - Llogara National Park - Tirana
On the way to Tirana: - Visit the triangular fortress of Ali Pasha on the peninsula of Porto Palermo. - Stop for lunch at Panorama Restaurant in Llogara National Park and enjoy the Riviera from above. Reach Tirana in the afternoon and get settled in the hotel.
jour 11
Departure Day
Our team will transfer you to the airport. Have a safe flight home!