Itinerary - Albania 360°: Tirana, Butrint and Lake Koman

Flights to/from the UK are not included, giving you the freedom to choose your preferred departure time and airline. Upon arrival in Tirana, we'll check-in at the hotel and dive into exploring the colourful city. Let's find a delightful spot to taste our first Albanian dinner, perhaps trying the mouthwatering Tavë Kosi, a lamb, egg, and yogurt quiche. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey in Albania!

Let the second day of our Albanian adventure begin! Today, we'll kick off the day by picking up our rental cars and hitting the road. Our destination? The Albanian fjords! Okay, they may not be Norway's fjords, but the breathtaking views along Lake Koman will make you believe otherwise. This narrow and winding lake, surrounded by sheer cliffs and occasional cascading waterfalls, will leave you in awe.

Despite being artificial, the beauty of Lake Koman is truly astounding. Interestingly, the three hydroelectric plants built here supply around 70% of Albania's electricity needs. Impressive, isn't it?

We have the entire day to explore this hidden gem, perhaps even by kayak if we're up for it. On our way back to Tirana, we can even decide to treat ourselves to a delightful dinner at a nearby farmhouse. It'll be the perfect ending to an exhilarating day. Get ready for unforgettable experiences and surprises around every corner!

No time for rest! Today, we hit the road again and head south towards our final destination, Himara. But first, we can't miss the charming town of Berat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along the way. As we drive through rural Albania, we witness the authentic and simple way of life. In Berat, we explore the ancient castle, with its inhabited houses, restaurants, and remnants of churches and mosques. We then wander through the historic districts of Gorica and Mangalemi. From there, we continue our journey to Himara, where we're greeted by the incredible sight of the sea. Get ready for a perfect blend of nature, history, and beach time!

Oh, the sea at last! And what a sea it is! Himara is renowned for its stunning beaches, often regarded as some of the most beautiful in Albania. Today, it's time to put that reputation to the test. Are you ready for the first dip of our trip?

But lazing around on the beach isn't really our style—though we wouldn't mind it either, there's just so much to see! So, without wasting a moment, we hop on our private boat and set sail to discover the Pirate's Cave. Get ready, crew, for an exciting adventure on the open seas!

Today, our journey takes us further south, all the way to Butrint—an extraordinary archaeological site dating back to the Greek era. Prepare to immerse yourself in the ancient history of this country that shares borders with Greece. You'll be amazed at how close we are to Corfu, as if we could reach out and touch it! Here, the traditions of Albania seamlessly blend with those of its neighboring countries. Before making our way back north, we'll have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Ali Pasha Castle, overlooking the sparkling sea. Our final destination for the next two nights is the vibrant coastal town of Saranda. Get ready for some exciting nightlife experiences tonight!

Get ready for a day of pure bliss as we soak up the sun and dive into the crystal-clear waters of Saranda. This vibrant coastal town is a beloved destination along the Albanian coast, especially adored by young people— and guess what? We've arrived!

Saranda derived its name from the ancient monastery perched atop the "40 Saints" hill and has always been a hub of energy and excitement in Albania. From June to September, the city comes alive with a plethora of restaurants, bars, and clubs, offering an unforgettable nightlife experience.

Of course, the real gem of Saranda lies in its stunning beaches, and we won't miss a single one. We can either spend a leisurely day aboard a boat, exploring the coastline, or simply relax and unwind on the shore. Today is all about embracing a laid-back pace to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of this coastal paradise.

And tonight, get ready to party like never before!

On our last day in Albania, we bid farewell to the stunning beaches of Saranda and hit the road back to where it all began, the capital city. While the journey may be long, we have a cultural stop planned at Apollonia, where we can step back in time and explore the fascinating archaeological site near the Vjosa River. As it's our final stretch on the road, let's soak in the captivating Albanian landscapes along the way. We'll arrive in Tirana around lunchtime, check-in at the hotel, grab a bite to eat, and then embark on a discovery of the capital city, known as the "Land of Eagles." In the afternoon, we'll have ample time to explore Tirana, a city with ancient roots dating back to the Paleolithic era. Today, the city blends both modern and historical influences, showcased in its diverse architectural styles. We can also squeeze in some last-minute shopping for souvenirs to share with friends and family back home. As the evening approaches, we'll gather for our final dinner together—a perfect moment to reminisce about the incredible days we've spent traveling side by side.

We say goodbye and look forward to the next WeRoad adventure!