7 Days in Albania: The Complete Itinerary
September 24, 2026 · 6 min read
A week in Albania is the dream length for a first visit. Seven days let you pair the dramatic northern Alps with the sunny southern coast, weaving in Ottoman towns, ancient ruins and mountain lakes along the way. Here is a well balanced route that shows off the whole country without ever feeling rushed.
Day 1: Tirana, the Capital
Start in the lively capital. Walk around Skanderbeg Square, learn about recent history at Bunk'Art, and ride the Dajti Ekspres cable car for views over the city. Enjoy dinner and people-watching in the Blloku district, where cafes and restaurants stay busy into the night.
Day 2: Shkodra and the North
Head north to Shkodra, one of Albania's oldest and most cultured cities. Explore Rozafa Castle above the lake, cycle the flat, friendly streets, and enjoy a relaxed evening by Lake Shkodra. This is your gateway to the mountains.
Day 3: Theth and the Albanian Alps
Drive up to Theth, a beautiful village cradled by the peaks of the Accursed Mountains. Walk to the Grunas waterfall, visit the historic stone church and old tower, and breathe in some of the cleanest mountain air in Europe. Simple guesthouses here serve hearty, home-cooked food.
Day 4: The Komani Lake Ferry
Enjoy one of Albania's most unforgettable experiences, the ferry across Komani Lake. Steep green cliffs rise straight from emerald water in a landscape often compared to the fjords. It is a slow, scenic day that stays with you long after.
Day 5: Berat, the City of a Thousand Windows
Return south and visit Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the white Ottoman houses of Mangalem, climb to the living castle, and enjoy a glass of local wine with dinner in this laid-back river town.
Day 6: Gjirokastër and the Blue Eye
Continue to Gjirokastër, another UNESCO gem of stone houses and a mighty castle, exploring its old bazaar and hilltop views. On the way, stop at the Blue Eye, a mesmerising spring of deep blue water surrounded by forest.
Day 7: The Riviera, Sarandë, Ksamil and Butrint
Finish on the coast. Relax on the clear waters of Ksamil, explore the ancient city of Butrint among its lagoons, and enjoy fresh seafood in Sarandë as the sun sets over the Ionian Sea. It is the perfect, sunny farewell.
Practical Tips
A rental car makes this loop smooth and lets you enjoy the scenery at your own pace, though private transfers can cover the longer legs if you prefer. Pack layers for the mountains and swimwear for the coast, start drives early, and keep some cash in Albanian lek for villages and small cafes.
FAQ
Is 7 days enough for Albania? Yes, a week is ideal for a first trip. You see the northern Alps, the historic towns and the southern beaches with a comfortable pace.
North or south first? Either works. Doing the north early, while you are fresh, then finishing on the beaches is a lovely way to end the week.
When is the best time? June and September are perfect, warm on the coast and pleasant in the mountains, while midsummer is hotter and busier.
If you would like, tell us your dates and interests and our team will happily fine-tune this 7-day route for you, free.