One Week South Albania Itinerary: Beaches, Castles & Culture
South Albania is where turquoise seas meet snow-capped mountains, ancient ruins sit beside sleepy villages, and you can enjoy fresh seafood for less than your morning coffee back home.
After living in the Balkans for 3 years, we created this 1-week South Albania itinerary to help you discover the hidden gems most tourists miss.
You’ll explore UNESCO towns, soak in mountain springs, and enjoy local wine – all without needing a rental car.
Inside, you’ll find a flexible day-by-day itinerary, transport tips, a budget breakdown, and everything you need to plan your dream trip.
Where to stay? We’ve included hand-picked spots with easy booking links so you can plan as you read.
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you book or buy something through them – at no extra cost to you. We only recommend things we’d actually use ourselves. Read more in our Privacy Policy.
1-Week South Albania Itinerary
This is a whirlwind tour in one week if you want to see all of the best parts of South Albania, but of course feel free to use this guide as a flexible template – you can stay for as long as you’d like in each place.
Note: The easiest way to travel around Albania is by car, but it’s very possible to follow this itinerary by public transport (we did!). If you’re going to rent a car, book through Discover Cars (most reliable).
Otherwise, we’ll tell you when you’ll need to hire a taxi or book a tour if a place we recommend isn’t accessible by public transit. Ok, now onto the itinerary!
Exploring more of Albania before or after heading South? Make sure you visit Berat, Theth (our FAVORITE place!), and the rest of Northern Albania!
Day 1: Arrive in Vlorë – Gateway to the South
Start your Albanian adventure in Vlorë, a breezy port town that acts as the unofficial gateway to the southern coast. It’s an easy bus ride or drive from Tirana.
The Lungomare promenade (or shesh, if you want to speak like the locals) is perfect for easing into the rhythm of the Balkans: lots of cafes, plenty of people-watching, and sunsets that seem to last forever.
For a first-day activity, head out to Zvernec Monastery, a peaceful island retreat surrounded by pine forest and a wooden footbridge. It feels like something out of a fairytale, or at least a very niche indie film.
Accommodation is affordable, and you’ll find budget guesthouses and small hotels near the waterfront.
Grab dinner at a local taverna, toast with a glass of local wine, and breathe in the salty Adriatic air – you’ve officially arrived in South Albania.
If you have some extra time to spare, a boat ride out to Sazan Island and Karaburun National Park is one of the best things to do here.
Spend the day snorkeling and swimming in caves and the clear blue water Albania is famous for.
WHERE TO STAY: Book your stay at Apartment Barden right on the beach.
✅ CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE.HOW TO GET THERE BY BUS: Bus for €7 from the Tirana South and North Terminal. Buses run frequently to Vlorë – most will have the bus destination in the front window.
TRAVEL TIME: 3 hours by bus or 2 hours by car from Tirana
TOP TIP: Gjirafa travel is a legitimate site to check bus routes and times in Albania (and Kosovo). It’s not always 100% accurate, but it will give you a good idea of frequency and price.
THINGS TO DO IN VLORË:
- Explore Vlorë Old Town
- People watch along the the shesh
- Swim in caves and snorkel in Karaburun National Park
- Sunbathe at Plazhi i Ri
- Visit the historic Zvernec Monastery
Day 2: Drive the Llogara Pass & Stay in Himarë
Today, hit the road for what might be one of the most scenic drives in Europe. The Llogara Pass twists through pine-covered mountains before revealing a jaw-dropping panorama of the Ionian Sea.
Think hairpin turns, goats, and sea views that might make you forget to keep your eyes on the road (so, maybe don’t be the one driving if you’re easily distracted).
We’ll forever remember this drive as one of the moments that confirmed our obsession with Albania.
Stop in Dhermi and Palasë for quick dips or coffee breaks (if you’re road tripping) before rolling into Himarë, a laid-back beach town perfect for one night (or more).
Himarë has a chilled, backpacker-meets-family-vacation vibe. It’s the kind of place where you can get sunburned, eat gelato, and chat with a local grandma all before noon.
We loooooved Himarë and plan to spend a lot more time here in the future!
Note: There are plenty of beaches in Himarë accessible by foot, but if you want to get off the beaten path a bit, you’ll have to hire a taxi (or make friends with a car) to get to some of our other favorite spots.
WHERE TO STAY: Check availability at Sea Cave Camping (our fav spot) or Natasha Rooms for a mid-range apartment in town.
✅ CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE.HOW TO GET THERE: Bus from Vlorë bus station. The bus (or minivan) may have a sign showing it’s arriving from Elbasan, or heading toward Sarandë. Just confirm with the driver.
TRAVEL TIME: 2 hours by bus and 1 hour 15 minutes (direct) by car
THINGS TO DO IN HIMARË:
- Beach hop around the town (walk, hike, drive or boat trip – your choice!)
- Visit the ruins of Himarë castle
- Xhiro (evening stroll) along the main street and Himarë Beach
- Kayak or Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) along the bay
- Eat your way around town
Day 3: Beach-Hopping to Sarandë
Time to lean into beach bum mode. From Himarë, head south along the Riviera, stopping at Jale Beach (for party-ish vibes) and Gjipe Beach (for a bit of hiking adventure and a more secluded feel).
If you’re a castle enthusiast or just enjoy pretending you’re in Game of Thrones, pop into Porto Palermo Castle. Built by Ali Pasha, it’s part fortress, part romantic ruin.
End the day in Sarandë, a coastal city that’s a bit louder and livelier than Himarë, but still offers good food, great views, and affordable stays.
You’ll stay two nights in Sarandë, as it’s also your base for tomorrow’s adventures.
F.Y.I. We usually don’t recommend hostels that lack key amenities like bed curtains, female-only dorms, or great common areas – but in Albania, those top-tier options can be hard to find. If you’re after more comfort or privacy, booking a private room is often your best bet.
WHERE TO STAY: Book this amazing locally-owned Airbnb (30 min walk from the city center) or at Sarandë Backpackers to be right in the center of town by the beach.
✅ CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE.HOW TO GET THERE: By minivan for €8 from the main street in Himarë. Check with your accommodation or at bus agencies in town to confirm timings.
TRAVEL TIME: 1.5 hours by bus or 1 hour (direct) by car
THINGS TO DO IN SARANDË:
- Eat a fancy lunch and rent a sunlounger at Mucobega Beach (hidden out of the center)
- Take a coastal walk. On Google Maps, follow directions to Big Bay. You’ll notice a green hiking path on the map. Walk as far as you like, admiring the coastal views of the Albanian Riviera as you go.
- Take a boat tour to secluded swimming spots away from the busy city and crowds. We absolutely recommend this tour!
TOP TIP: Converting currency is easy if you are from Europe (or use the Euro). 100 Lek (Albanian currency) is about equal to €1.
Day 4: Butrint & the Blue Eye
Start the morning with a trip to Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage site that combines Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins all in one leafy, lakeside park.
Even if you’re not usually into ruins, Butrint might surprise you – it’s got that magical overgrown jungle vibe.
Next up: A trip to the Blue Eye spring. The water is glacially cold and insanely blue, perfect for a quick plunge and a reality check.
If you are traveling by public transit, you’ll want to book a tour for today as taxis will be very expensive to get to both of these spots.
Our recommended tour: A full-day tour from Saranda takes you to the UNESCO-listed ruins of Butrint, the mesmerizing Blue Eye spring, and the beaches of Ksamil.
You’ll also visit Lekuresi Castle for panoramic views and learn about the region’s history from a local guide.
Even if you do have a car, we still recommend this tour as you’ll have a guide to share the history of the area (and give you a break from Albanian roads).
Day 5: UNESCO Stone Streets in Gjirokastër
Leaving the coast behind, head inland to the stone city of Gjirokastër. The town is all cobbled streets, Ottoman architecture, and curious cats (and dogs).
Wander the bazaar, duck into traditional houses like Skenduli House, and take in the views from the massive castle. Don’t miss the Cold War tunnel – a leftover bunker system that’s now open to the curious traveler.
Gjirokastër is a great place to slow down. The guesthouses are often family-run, meals are homemade, and the mountain air gives everything a crisp edge. Plus, the views are absolutely breathtaking.
WHERE TO STAY: Stay at the super friendly Friends Guesthouse and Hostel in Old Town Gjirokastër (the breakfast and rooftop terrace are amazing).
✅ CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE.HOW TO GET THERE: Minivan or bus for €4.50 from the Sarandë bus station (actually just a street in the city center). The bus station in Gjirokastër is a 20 minute, uphill walk to Old Town.
TRAVEL TIME: 1 hour by bus or 50 minutes by car
THINGS TO DO IN GJIROKASTËR:
- Climb up to Gjirokastër Castle for amazing views
- Wander around the Bazaar in Old Town
- Learn about Albanian food at a locally-run cooking class
- Visit the Cold War Tunnels and the Ethnographic Museum
- Explore Skenduli House, a traditional, preserved Albanian home
Day 6: Soak in Benja Thermal Baths in Përmet
Next, make your way to Përmet, a charming mountain town that feels totally different from the coastal buzz. This is definitely off the main tourist path in Albania, but you won’t regret a stop here.
Your main goal here? Soak in the warm waters of the Benja Thermal Baths, right next to a stunning Ottoman stone bridge.
Bring snacks, a swimsuit, and your best “I’m pretending I live here now” attitude (that’s what we did).
If you’re feeling active, you can also explore the Langarica Canyon to go white-water rafting with a local agency.
If not, settle in for a hearty Albanian meal and a glass (or three) of homemade raki. Përmet is known for it’s local food, so don’t skimp on restaurants here.
WHERE TO STAY: Check availability at Gogo Moustache Guesthouse – great name, great guesthouse.
✅ CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE.HOW TO GET THERE: Bus or minivan from the Gjirokastër bus station
TRAVEL TIME: 1 hour 15 minutes by bus or 1 hour by car
THINGS TO DO IN PËRMET:
- Soak in the Benja Thermal Baths
- River raft in the Langarica Canyon
- Spot wildlife like wild horses and birds in Fir of Hotova National Park
There are quite a few very well-rated tours for different adventure activities to do around Përmet, so you can check them out for yourself here.
Day 7: Return via Tepelenë to Tirana or Beyond
Wrap up your South Albania trip with a scenic drive north through Tepelenë. You can stop at Ali Pasha’s castle or just admire the winding Vjosa River along the way.
Whether you’re returning to Tirana or catching a bus elsewhere, take one last look at those mountains and vow to come back before Albania gets wildly popular (because it’s coming).
WHERE TO STAY: If you need a night in Tirana, stay at Mandarine Hostel.
✅ CHECK AVAILABILITY HERE.HOW TO GET TO TIRANA: By bus or minivan for €12
TRAVEL TIME: 4.5 hours by bus or 3 hours 15 minutes by car
South (ish) Albania Add-Ons If You Have More Time
If you have a few extra days, tack on Berat or Apollonia for a dose of wine and ancient ruins.
Or head into the Zagoria Valley for hikes and village life that time forgot. South Albania’s charm lies in its pace, so adding a slow day or two will only deepen your love for it.
Map of Your South Albania Route
We’ve created a Google Map that you can save for yourself so you always know where to go in South Albania! Everything is organized for you:
- The main itinerary is orange pins
- Things to do are green cameras
- Places to visit by car or taxi only are black cars
- Itinerary add-ons are purple stars
- Where to stay is pink beds
- To save this map to your Google Maps, simply click the star icon next to the title.
- Use the screen icon in the top left to open or close the different sections
- Check or uncheck any of the boxes to show or hide them (if you only want to save the main itinerary but not anything else, for example)
How to Get to South Albania
How to Get from Tirana to South Albania (Bus or Car)
The most common way to reach South Albania is by flying into Tirana International Airport (TIA).
From Tirana, you can take a bus or rent a car to head south – expect a 3–5 hour journey depending on your destination (e.g., Saranda, Gjirokaster, or Himara).
Direct buses run daily from Tirana to most major towns in the south.
🚍➡️ Related: Find more tips on Albanian buses here.
How to Travel to South Albania from Greece (via Corfu or Ioannina)
Ferries run between Corfu and Saranda multiple times a day, making this a popular route for island hoppers.
You can catch direct buses from Ioannina or Athens, or drive across if you have a rental car.
There are also several border crossings into South Albania. The Kakavia and Qafë Botë crossings are the most convenient for reaching Gjirokaster or Saranda.
How to Get to South Albania from North Macedonia (via Lake Ohrid)
From Ohrid or Skopje, you can cross into Albania via the Qafë Thanë border point near Lake Ohrid.
From there, head toward Korçë and then south to Permet or Gjirokaster. Buses run less frequently on this route, so a rental car is a more flexible option.
We did this by bus during off-season (don’t recommend) and ended up going from Ohrid, to Elbasan, to Gjirokastër. In the high season there will be more options to get around.
🏞➡️ Related: Read about the best things to do in Ohrid here.
Other Ways to Reach South Albania
You can also reach South Albania from Central or Northern Albania (e.g., Berat, Durres, or Shkoder) by bus or car. The drive through the mountains can be long but incredibly scenic.
⛰➡️ Related: The 8 Best Things to Do in Shkoder, Albania.
If you’re traveling along the Albanian Riviera, buses and furgons (minivans) connect towns like Himara, Dhermi, and Saranda – just be prepared for winding coastal roads!
How to Get Around South Albania
Driving Around South Albania
Renting a car is by far the easiest way to tackle this itinerary, giving you the freedom to stop for donkeys on the road, sunsets, and spontaneous photo ops and coffees along the way.
Tips for Driving Around Albania:
- The roads can be rough, especially around Gjipe (Himarë region) and in more inland areas, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
- Google Maps works well, but if something seems off, don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions. They’ll be happy to point you in the right direction and might even offer insider tips!
👉 Compare rental car prices in Albania here 👈
Using Public Transport in Albania
Public transport is available but can be unreliable – furgons (minibuses) connect major towns, but they’re not always on time and rarely go to the more remote beaches.
If you’re planning to explore South Albania (or all of Albania) by public transport, make sure to leave yourself plenty of time between travel days and any pre-booked flights or buses.
Flexibility is essential for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
👉 Don’t miss our full guide to public transport in Albania – packed with first-hand tips and things we really wish someone had told us! 👈
South Albania Budget Breakdown
South Albania is a solid budget destination – though prices can vary depending on where you go and what kind of experience you’re after.
Coastal towns like Sarandë and Himarë tend to be pricier (especially in summer), but inland gems like Gjirokastër and Përmet are much more affordable.
You’ll find everything from basic guesthouses and glamping sites to high-end resorts that are still budget-friendly compared to similar beach destinations just across the border in Greece.
TOP TIP: Lek, the Albanian currency, is a closed currency. This means you can’t exchange it outside of the country, so make sure you don’t have any physical bills left before you exit Albania. Learn from our mistakes!!
Example day in South Albania:
- Breakfast: €1.50 (byrek + coffee)
- Lunch: €4–6 (seafood or veggie plate)
- Dinner: €6–10
- Accommodation: €12–30
- Transport: €5–10
On average, we spent around €30 to €35 per day, per person in South Albania. We stayed at hostels for the most part and often made at least one meal per day ourselves.
Travel Tips for South Albania
SIM Cards & Connectivity in Albania
SIM cards: Get one from Vodafone or One Albania in Tirana or Vlorë before you head south.
MONEY SAVING TIP: For short trips, consider an eSIM like Airalo (code JULIA1616 for $3USD off) to stay connected for maps, buses, and accommodation comms.
Using Cash & ATMs
Cash is king: ATMs are common, but bring cash for smaller towns.
Language Tips for Travelers
Language: Learn a few words (hello = “Përshëndetje (per-shen-det-eee-yay)”; thank you = “Faleminderit (fal-a-min-dare-it)” – “chao” is also very popular to say goodbye.
Understanding Albanian Culture
Albania is kind but conservative. Respect goes a long way, and hospitality is a given.
What to Pack for South Albania
You can generally wear whatever you like in Albania, especially in cities and coastal areas – it’s not considered disrespectful.
That said, if you’re visiting more inland or conservative towns, women may want to avoid crop tops or very short skirts and shorts, as they can attract unwanted attention.
Men can wear pretty much anything without issue. Overall, pack light, breathable clothing that keeps you cool – think flowy pants, skirts, and anything you feel comfortable in during a hot summer.
Best Time to Visit South Albania
The prime time to visit South Albania is between June and September, but be prepared – it’s also the hottest and busiest period of the year.
Albanian summers are intense, and if you don’t claim a sunbed with an umbrella early enough, you might end up sunbathing on a rocky beach (whether that’s a bonus or a setback is all about perspective).
We visited South Albania in both late May and late September, and each time had its own charm.
- Late May: The temperatures are mild, the crowds are smaller, and there’s a chance of rain. If you’re more about soaking up the atmosphere than hitting the water, this is a great time to visit.
- September to Early October: The sea is still warm, but the summer crowds have thinned out. This is the sweet spot if you want warm weather, a comfortable swim, and more space to enjoy it all.
TOP TIP: Schools in Albania start the first week of September. If you visit after that, you’ll dodge peak-season prices, crowds, and the worst of the summer heat.
🌍 Got more (or less) time in Albania? Whether you’ve got 5 days or 2 weeks, find the perfect itinerary for your trip…7-day and 10-day options included!
Navigating South Albania as a Queer Traveler
Albania isn’t exactly the queer mecca of Europe, but in our experience, it’s more curious than hostile.
Most locals won’t blink if you’re traveling with a same-gender partner – especially if you keep things relatively low-key.
Bigger towns and coastal areas tend to be more relaxed, while small villages call for a bit more discretion.
Stick to inclusive hostels and guesthouses (look for LGBTQ+ ally notes on Booking.com and Hostelworld), and trust your gut – you’ll likely be met with the same warm hospitality as any other traveler.
That said, we fully acknowledge we’re speaking as two white women who can “pass” as straight when needed.
Folks who are more visibly queer may attract more attention, but in general, Albanians tend to look the other way when it comes to foreigners breaking cultural norms.
Hidden Gems That No One Talks About
While Ksamil (which we recommend avoiding) and Himarë get all the attention, there are loads of quieter spots worth your time.
Upper Qeparo is a sleepy hilltop village with winding alleys and no tourists. Lukovë has wide, empty beaches and very little development. The back trails of Langarica Canyon feel like a set piece from The Witcher.
Ask locals for suggestions – some of the best places don’t even show up on Google Maps.
Sustainable & Responsible Travel Tips
Traveling sustainably here is easy if you keep a few things in mind.
- Stay in locally owned guesthouses and eat at family-run restaurants to support the local economy.
- Bring a reusable water bottle – tap water is safe to drink in many areas.
- Avoid contributing to over-tourism in places like Sarandë during peak season by checking out quieter alternatives like Qeparo or Borsh.
- Be respectful in rural areas and at religious sites – cover your shoulders and always ask before taking photos.
South Albania Travel FAQs
Is English widely spoken in South Albania?
In major tourist areas and by younger Albanians, yes. But in rural towns, it’s helpful to know a few Albanian phrases.
Can you drink tap water in South Albania?
In many cities, yes. But in remote areas, it’s safer to ask locals or stick to bottled or filtered water.
What currency is used in South Albania?
Albania uses the Albanian Lek (ALL). Euros are accepted in some tourist areas but not universally.
Is South Albania safe for solo travelers?
Yes, generally. South Albania is welcoming, but like anywhere, use common travel sense – especially in nightlife spots or isolated beaches.
Are there vegetarian/vegan options in restaurants?
Albanian cuisine is meat-heavy, but you’ll find some vegetarian options, especially in cities and tourist towns. Learning a few food words in Albanian helps.
South Albania vs Northern Albania
Albania’s north and south feel like two very different countries in the best way – and both are absolutely worth your time, depending on the kind of trip you’re after.
South Albania
South Albania is all about beaches, Mediterranean vibes, and laid-back coastal towns.
It’s where you’ll find the famous Albanian Riviera: places like Himarë, Ksamil, and Saranda, plus inland gems like Gjirokastër and Permet.
If you’re craving sunshine, seafood, and a swim in shockingly blue water, this is your spot.
The south is also more developed for tourism, with a wide range of accommodation – from budget beach hostels to affordable boutique resorts.
You’ll find a few more international visitors here, and in general, a more relaxed vibe toward queer travelers (outside of Tirana).
🔎 Read our guide to visiting Tirana here.
Northern Albania
Northern Albania, on the other hand, is a dream for mountain lovers, hikers, and off-the-beaten-path explorers.
The Albanian Alps (yes, that’s a thing!) are rugged and stunning, especially around Theth, Valbona, and Lake Koman (our favorite place in Albania!).
The north is more traditional and remote, but you’ll be rewarded with some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the Balkans, plus warm hospitality in family-run guesthouses.
Just keep in mind it has fewer tourist amenities, so some extra planning (and flexibility) goes a long way.
Heading to Northern Albania? Find the perfect guesthouse in Theth for your trip.
TL;DR?
South = sunshine, beaches, cocktails, historic towns, and chill coastal energy.
North = mountains, hiking, epic views, and a more rural, adventurous vibe.
If you’ve got the time, we say do both using our extensive itinerary. You can swim in the sea and hike the Alps in the same trip. Albania’s small enough that it’s totally doable.
