10 Days in Albania: Mountains, Beaches, and More
Planning 10 days in Albania and not sure how to fit everything in?
After three years living in the Balkans (and multiple road trips through Albania) we’ve figured out how to balance mountain adventures, hidden beaches, and mouthwatering meals without wasting time on tourist traps or confusing transport.
Albania is full of surprises. Rugged peaks in the Accursed Mountains, quiet Ionian coves, and family-run guesthouses where meals last hours.
This itinerary gives you our tested route for 10 days: where to stay for the best value, the restaurants actually worth seeking out, and the experiences that live up to the hype so you can enjoy your trip stress-free.
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A 10 Day Albania Itinerary
With 10 days in Albania, you’re in for a seriously rewarding trip. Albania has a little bit of everything: snow-capped mountains, clear turquoise seas, charming old towns, and ridiculously good food.
This itinerary is designed to balance must-sees with off-the-radar favorites, with enough breathing room to soak it all in – no rushed checklists here.
👇 Our Route 👇
- Day 1 & 2: Tirana
- Day 3 & 4: Theth
- Day 5: Berat
- Day 6: Gjirokastër
- Day 7 & 8: Himarë
- Day 9 & 10: Sarandë
Day 1 – Tirana – Settle In to Europe’s Coolest Capital
Start your journey in Tirana, where most international flights land.
It’s easy to get here from neighboring countries (like Montenegro or North Macedonia), and flights from further away are usually affordable.
Settle in, grab some food, and take it easy today – especially if you’ve had a long travel day.
Day 2 – Tirana – Explore Tirana’s Quirky and Complex Side
Spend the day getting to know Albania’s vibrant and layered capital. Tirana has a fascinating recent history, colorful buildings, and plenty of relaxed cafes to soak it all in.
A Mini Guide to Tirana
Where to Eat in Tirana
- Qebabtore Gjakova – Basic but super flavorful kebabs served with sauce and veg. Cheap and satisfying.
- La Nocciola Gelateria Italiana – Perfect for dessert. We still dream about the biscoff and fig ricotta flavors.
Where to Stay in Tirana
- Red Goat Hostel – Central location and chill, greenery-filled common areas. Great for meeting other travelers or just decompressing in the city buzz.
Top Things to Do in Tirana
- BUNK’ART 1 or 2 – A Cold War-era nuclear bunker turned museum. Expect eerie halls, weird mannequins, and an eye-opening look at Communist-era Albania.
- House of Leaves – Albania’s former secret surveillance center turned museum. Small but packed with context.
- Pyramid of Tirana – Climb it for city views, stay for the weird, brutalist architecture and local hangout vibes.
Day 3 – Theth – Head to the Albanian Alps
Take a guided tour or self-drive up to Theth (we recommend a tour unless you’re confident driving rough mountain roads).
The journey is a big part of the adventure – twisting roads, dramatic scenery, and remote villages.
NOTE: If hiking isn’t your thing (or you’d just prefer more time to relax in each place) you can skip Theth.
In that case, we recommend adding an extra day to both Gjirokastër and Berat to make the most of your 10 days in Albania.
Day 4 – Theth – Waterfalls, Churches, and Mountain Charm
You’ll explore more of Theth today: hike to the Blue Eye, admire Kisha e Thethit, and maybe even zipline through the valley if you’re feeling brave.
If you book the tour, you’ll spend the night in Tirana and head to Berat the next morning. If you’re driving yourself, you can either go straight to Berat or take it slow with a night in Tirana too.
A Mini Guide to Theth
Where to Eat in Theth
- Bujtina Polia – A generous spread of traditional dishes for a set price, plus adorable dogs to keep you company.
Where to Stay in Theth
We break down our top picks for where to stay in Theth + everything else you need to know here. If you just want some quick recommendations, these are our favorite places:
- Guesthouse Kujtimi – WE STAYED HERE – It’s a little further from the center, but 100% worth it for the food, comfort, and warm mountain hospitality.
- Guesthouse “Gjin Thana” – One of the very best in Theth. The on-site restaurant is amazing – both the food and the views from the dining area – and the hospitality is even better.
Top Things to Do in Theth
- Blue Eye – Cold, crystal-clear spring water surrounded by lush green forest. Yes, you can swim.
- Theth Church – Quintessential photo spot. You’ll climb a ladder over a fence to access the field (yes, that’s allowed).
- Theth Zipline – 1.2 km of epic views and adrenaline. Great if you want to switch things up from hiking.
Day 5 – Berat – UNESCO Old Town & Epic Sunsets
Leave early from Tirana this morning and travel back south to Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Albania’s most charming towns.
The Ottoman architecture here is incredible, and the vibe is super mellow. Sunset is magic.
A Mini Guide to Berat
Where to Eat in Berat
- Eni Traditional Food – Riverside location, reasonable prices, and top-tier stuffed peppers.
Where to Stay in Berat
- Ana Rest House Hostel – WE STAYED HERE – Family-run, friendly, and has dreamy views from the balcony. Plus, the FREE breakfast is amazing. Both dorms and private rooms are available here.
Top Things to Do in Berat
- Xhiro – Join the locals for an evening walk along the boulevard. It’s Albanian culture 101.
- Free Walking Tour – Daily at 11am & 6pm in high season (we recommend Bruno on GuruWalk). Hits all the main sights, including Berat Castle, Gorica Bridge, and the Old Town.
- Iconographic Museum – Inside a historic church with great icon art and a peaceful setting.
💡 Related: Get our complete guide to Berat for everything you need to know about visiting!
Day 6 – Gjirokastër – Stone City with Serious Views
From Berat, your next stop is Gjirokastër, another UNESCO town. After checking into your accommodation, take a stroll through the lively bazaar and appreciate the breathtaking hillside scenery that surrounds you.
It’s a steep town, so bring shoes with grip!
A Mini Guide to Gjirokastër
Where to Eat in Gjirokastër
- GLIKO Snack Bar – Try the oshaf, a creamy fig dessert made with sheep’s milk. You won’t find it many other places.
Where to Stay in Gjirokastër
- Friends Guesthouse & Hostel – WE STAYED HERE – Killer terrace views, a €5 grandma-cooked breakfast, and cozy dorms.
Top Things to Do in Gjirokastër
- The Bazaar – Wander cobbled streets and check out local artisan goods. We loved the embroidery by Vjollca Mezini.
- Gjirokastër Castle – Hilltop fortress with sweeping views and a slightly odd military museum inside.
- Obelisk – A short climb with big rewards: panoramic views of the old town and valley.
💡 Related: You can read everything we recommend to do in Gjirokastër here!
Day 7 – Himarë – Welcome to the Albanian Riviera
Head west to Himarë, a chilled-out beach town that feels refreshingly low-key. Congrats, you’ve made it to the Albanian Riviera.
Settle into your guesthouse or campsite and grab a seaside dinner.
Day 8 – Himarë – Beaches, Castles, and Hidden Coves
Enjoy Himarë at your own pace – sunbathe, swim, hike, or all of the above.
🏊 Wondering where to swim? We cover all of our favorite beaches in Himarë in this guide!
A Mini Guide to Himarë
Where to Eat in Himarë
- Pastiçeri Delight – Strong coffee, sweet pastries, and fresh byrek for budget breakfasts.
Where to Stay in Himarë
- The Sea Cave Camping – WE STAYED HERE – A relaxed camping experience with all the gear provided. You’re sleeping near cliffs above the sea. Total immersion in nature (without schlepping a tent around).
Top Things to Do in Himarë
- Spile Beach – Clear waters and plenty of space for those who don’t want to rent loungers.
- Himarë Castle – Hilltop ruins with killer views and old frescoes. Worth the short hike up.
- Aquarium Beach Hike – From Livadi Beach, hike to a tucked-away cove. Bring a picnic and enjoy it all to yourself if you time it right.
Day 9 – Sarandë – Coastal Finale with a Modern Twist
Head down the coast to Sarandë, a larger beach town with a lively promenade and access to Ksamil and Butrint (optional detours).
Day 10 – Sarandë – Beach Time + Optional Excursions
Spend your final morning soaking up the sea breeze, then make your way back to Tirana.
If you have extra time, add a stop in Butrint National Park or some hot springs in Permet.
🔍 Looking to explore more of South Albania? Check out our 1-week South Albania itinerary for beaches, castles & hidden gems (including the hot springs!).
A Mini Guide to Sarandë
Where to Eat in Sarandë
- Taverna Erjoni – Tasty seafood with harbor views. The family who runs it is lovely.
Where to Stay in Sarandë
- Private Studio Airbnb – WE STAYED HERE – This one’s a hidden gem with a garden and homemade coffee from your hosts.
- If you want to stay closer to town, you can browse city center accommodation here.
Top Things to Do in Sarandë
- Mucobega Beach – Quiet, sandy, with cocktails and sunbeds. Great for a relaxing final beach day.
- Coastal Walks – Follow Google Maps to “Big Bay” for coastal hiking and lesser-known coves.
- Boat Tour – Explore coves and caves around the Riviera by sea. Lots of affordable group options available in high season.
FAQs for Visiting Albania
Is Albania Safe?
Albania is VERY safe! Practice your typical travel safety like you would anywhere else, but as two queer women we never felt unsafe.
When Should I Visit Albania?
You should only visit Northern Albania between June and late September if you want to hike. Any other time of year the mountains are too cold and are likely to have snow.
The best time of year to visit South Albania is May to June and September to October. While the summer months are amazing for the beach, the Albanian Riviera is VERY hot and busy.
If you want to swim, we recommend visiting South Albania in September for the best experience!
Do I Need a Car in Albania?
You do not need a car to travel in Albania. If you want to visit more remote areas, you will need to rent a car in Albania, but the bus system is very well connected for the average trip.
🚘 Renting a Car? Check rental car prices for Albania here
🚍 Taking public transport? Read our guide to Albanian buses
Find details on both regions to help you decide where to go:
🥾 Hike in the mountains of the north
🏖 Soak in the warm waters of the south
