Tirana, Albania’s energetic capital, is a great jumping-off point for exploring the country’s rich history, stunning scenery, and charming towns. Here are some of the top 20+ day trips you can take from Tirana:
v Kruja old town: A historical gem located just 40 minutes from Tirana, Kruja is famous for its imposing castle, the Ethnographic Museum showcasing Albanian life, and the Old Bazaar, a great place to find souvenirs.
v Gamti Mountain and Bovilla Lake: Escape the city and enjoy the fresh mountain air at Gamti Mountain. Hike to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, or visit Bovilla Lake, a serene spot perfect for a picnic or a refreshing swim. Gamti Mountain and Bovilla Lake are a 1-hour drive from Tirana.
v Mount Dajti and Cable Car: Take a cable car up Mount Dajti for stunning panoramic views of Tirana and the surrounding area. Hike to the top of the mountain for even more impressive vistas, or enjoy a meal at a restaurant with a view. Mount Dajti is a 30-minute drive from Tirana.
v Durres old town and beach: Albania’s second-largest city boasts a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC. Explore the Roman amphitheater, the Venetian Tower, and the Archaeological Museum. Durres is also a popular beach resort, so you can relax on the Adriatic coast after your sightseeing. Durres is a 30-minute drive from Tirana.
v Cape of Rodon: Explore the scenic Cape of Rodon, a peninsula offering stunning views of the Adriatic coast. Visit the ruins of the castle of Skanderbej, hike along the trails, or relax on the beaches. Cape Rodon is a 45-minute drive from Tirana.
v Shkoder old town, castle and lake: Albania’s historic northern city offers a glimpse into Ottoman and Venetian influences. Visit Shkoder Castle, the Rozafa Castle perched on a hilltop, and the impressive lead-domed Al-Rahman Pasha Mosque. Shkoder is a 1.5-hour drive from Tirana.
v Shala River and Lake Koman: Experience the beauty of the Albanian Alps
on a scenic boat trip on Lake Komani. The ferry ride from Fierze to Valbona is
a highlight, offering breathtaking views of the mountains, villages, and
dramatic cliffs. You can also hike and swim in the pristine waters of the Shala
River. Lake Komani is a 2.5-hour drive from Tirana.
v Lezhe
old town ruins: Learn about Albania’s Roman history at Lezhe, the ancient city
of Lissus. Visit the Roman amphitheater, the mausoleum, and the museum. Lezhe
is also known for its Venetian castle
v Theth National Park hikes: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of
Theth National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike through the dramatic
canyons, visit the cascading Gruni Waterfall, and explore the traditional
villages. Theth National Park is a 4-hour drive from Tirana.
v Berat old town and castle: Nicknamed the “City of a Thousand
Windows,” Berat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its white
Ottoman houses cascading down a hill. Explore the historic Mangalem and Gorica
quarters, Berat Castle, and the many mosques and churches. Berat is a 2-hour
drive from Tirana.
v Apollonia archaeological park: Step back in time at Apollonia, an ancient
Greek city founded in the 6th century BC. Explore the ruins of the theater, the
odeon, the temples, and the city walls. Apollonia is a 1.5-hour drive from
Tirana.
v Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island: A day trip to Karaburun Peninsula and Sazan Island from Tirana is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Albania’s coastline
v Gjirokaster old town and castle: Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gjirokaster is known for its Ottoman-era houses with distinctive stone roofs. Explore the Gjirokaster Castle, the Ethnographic Museum, and wander the cobbled streets of the old town. Gjirokaster is a 3-hour drive from Tirana.
v Blue Eye natural Spring: Hike to the Blue Eye, a natural spring known for its crystal-clear turquoise water. The spring is located near Theth National Park, so you can combine a visit with a trip to the park.
v Albanian Riviera, Butrint and Sarande. The Albanian Riviera, Butrint, and Saranda are all must-see locations for any trip to southern Albania. Relax on one of the Albanian Riviera’s many beautiful beaches, such as Ksamil, Borsh, or Palase Beach. Butrint is an archaeological site with ruins dating back to the 8th century BC. Explore the ancient Greek city, Roman theater, and Byzantine basilica.
v Permet city and Vjosa river: Natural Beauty and Historical Charm. Nestled in a valley between the mountains of southern Albania, Permet is known for its stunning natural beauty, historical sites, and thermal springs.
v Vjosa River national Park, Rafting Experience also known as Albania’s “Wild River”, is a perfect destination for an exciting day trip from Tirana. Here’s what you can expect on a trip to Vjosa River and rafting from Tirana.
v Korçë old town and bazaar: Cultural and Historical Escape
Korçë, Albania’s “City of Music,” is a cultural and
historical gem located 135 km southeast of Tirana. It’s known for its
French-style architecture, a legacy of Albanian intellectuals who studied in
France in the 19th century.
v Pogradec city and Ohrid Lake (Albanian side): Located on the shores of
Lake Ohrid, Pogradec is a popular resort town offering stunning scenery and a
relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy swimming, boating, and hiking in the surrounding
mountains. Pogradec is a 2-hour drive from Tirana.
v Ohrid old town and lake: Nicknamed the “Jerusalem of the Balkans” due to
its numerous churches and monasteries, Ohrid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
boasting stunning natural beauty on the shores of Lake Ohrid, one of Europe’s
deepest and oldest lakes. Explore the charming Old Bazaar with its cobbled
streets and traditional shops, visit the imposing Samuel’s Fortress for
panoramic views, or relax on the lake beaches.
v Skopje old town and
bazaar: As the capital of North Macedonia, Skopje
offers a unique blend of Ottoman, Byzantine, and Austro-Hungarian influences.
Visit the imposing Kale Fortress, wander through the bustling Old Bazaar for
souvenirs and local crafts, or take a stroll along the Stone Bridge, a symbol
of the city.
v Prizren old town and bazaar: Explore the
crown jewel of Kosovo, Prizren, a picturesque town known for its Ottoman
architecture, cobbled streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Immerse yourself in
history at the Prizren Fortress, marvel at the beauty of the Sinan Pasha
Mosque, or stroll across the iconic Old Stone Bridge.
v
Pristina, Kosovo’s young and vibrant capital, is a great destination
for a day trip from Tirana. Here are some of the best ways to spend your day in
Pristina: Explore Pristina’s City
Center: Pristina is a walkable city, so you can easily explore its main
attractions on foot. Start your day in Mother Teresa Square, the city’s main
square, dominated by a large statue of Mother Teresa.
v Tour of Montenegro: Budva & Kotor: This is a popular option for a weekend escape that allows you to experience two of Montenegro’s most charming towns in two days. Budva is a beautiful coastal town with a medieval old town, beaches, and a vibrant atmosphere. Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning bay, Venetian architecture, and defensive walls.
