The Ultimate Albania Road Trip
The Ultimate Albania Road Trip
Albania still feels like one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. A place where time slows down in stone-built villages, where ancient castles watch over untouched valleys, and where the coastline unfolds into some of the most stunning turquoise beaches in the Mediterranean. I’ve recently spent one week exploring Albania, and I felt in love with this destination. That’s why I want to share the ultimate Albania road trip to discover one of the Balkans’ most beautiful hidden gems.
Located in Southeastern Europe in the Balkans, this relatively small but beautiful country has borders with Greece, Kosovo and Macedonia. It has also an impressive coastline along the Adriatic and the Ionian Seas. From the rugged peaks of the Albanian Alps, and Ottoman-sttyle villages perched in the mountains, to the sun-drenched shores of Himarë and Ksamil, it offers a great and diverse option for an Albanian road trip.
Historically, the country has been shaped by Illyrian origins, Roman and Byzantine influences, and centuries under the Ottoman Empire, followed by a long period of isolation during the communist era.
Despite having become in the last few years very popular amongst visitors from around the world due to its dramatic landscapes, historical towns and pristine beaches, it still remains surprisingly raw and authentic. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the nice Mediterranean weather, I recommend to visit Albania out of the peak season, from May to June or from September to October.
Exploring the country by road is the best way to experience its contrasts. That’s exactly what I’ve done. I rented a car at Tirana airport and I drove more than 600 quilometres around the south of Albania. From UNESCO-listed cities such as Berat and Gjirokastër, where history feels remarkably intact, to the crystal-clear waters of the Albanian riviera, my Albania road trip was the perfect way to discover this part of the country at my own pace.
In this ultimate Albania road trip travel guide, I will share the different places I’ve visited during my journey around the country and the experiences you should not miss in the South of Albania. I hope you have an incredible time in this amazing Balkan’s destination and enjoy it as much as I did.
Exploring the historic streets of Berat, Albania's city of a thousand windows
I began my Albania road trip in Berat, a beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage site in south-central Albania, renowned for its remarkable Ottoman architecture and centuries of history. Known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” Berat feels like stepping into a living painting. White Ottoman houses cascade down the hillside, their countless windows catching the changing light and quietly watching over the Osum River and the valley below. It was one of those places that captured my heart from the very first moment.
The best way to experience Berat is simply walking around. I’ve lost myself in the narrow cobbled streets of Mangalem, the city’s historic quarter with flower-filled balconies, traditional stone houses and hidden alleyways. I’ve crossed the Suspension Bridge over Osum River, from where I’ve experienced the most iconic views in Berat to the picturesque white facades of Mangalem perched above the hill.
At the other side of the river, Gorica quarter offers a different, but equally charming side of the city. It is also connected with Mangalem by Gorica Bridge, one of the most remarkable architectural landmarks in the country. Originally constructed in wood, it was rebuilt in stone in the 18th century. I’ve spent some time also wandering around the charming and peaceful streets of Gorica quarter.
No visit to Berat is complete without visiting the imposing Berat Castle, one of the largest continuously inhabited fortresses in the Balkans. Unlike many medieval castles, this historic citadel is still home to local families who live within its ancient stone walls, alongside centuries-old Byzantine churches, Ottoman mosques, and small artisan workshops. The panoramic views over the red-tiled rooftops of Berat, the surrounding mountains, and the winding Osum River below are absolutely stunning.
Stepping back in time at Apollonia Archaeological Park
Visiting Apollonia Archaeological Park was completely unplanned, but it turned out to be a great add to my Albania road trip. I was driving from Berat to Himare when I saw the signs of an archaeological park along the way. As I love history, I quickly researched it and I decided to make a stop. It was totally worth it.
The Ancient City of Apollonia is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Set amidst rolling hills and olive groves, it seems to emerge naturally from the Albanian countryside. Founded around 600 BC by Greek colonists from Corfu and Corinth, the city flourished throughout the centuries becoming one of the most important cities of the Mediterranean world. It served as an important and bustling trade and cultural hub, before it was largely abandoned after an earthquake in the 3rd-century AD.
Nowadays it remains exceptionally preserved and wandering around its weathered columns and stone pathways feels like stepping back in time. The undisputed highlight is the Temple of Apollo, whose elegant remains stand as a timeless tribute to the Greek god who gave the city its name.
Unwinding along Himarë's turquoise coast and hidden beaches
Himare was my first contact with the famous Albania’s coastline, after exploring historical Berat and Apollonia Archaeological Park. Nestled between the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea and rugged mountains, this charming seaside town was one of the highlights of my ultimate Albania road trip.
Its pebbles beach with crystal clear warm waters invites to relaxing days by the sea enjoying the laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle of the Albanian Riviera, or simply washing the fishing boats arriving at the harbour. The lively water promenade is lined with hotels, terraces and cafes. It comes alive at the end of the day, creating a great atmosphere for a walk before dinner in one of the many restaurants offering seafood and typical Albanian cuisine.
Himare is also the perfect place to be based while exploring the hidden coves and spectacular bays of the region, considered one of the jewels of the country. Driving the Albanian Riviera is indeed one of the most unforgettable experiences in Albania, so I recommend to drive along the winding coastal road and get surprised by its numerous secluded beaches or breathtaking viewpoints.
One of my favourite spots in the area was Porto Palermo, a picture-perfect bay with clear waters surrounded by olive-covered hills, and facing the historic Porto Palermo Castle. It’s worth to stop and slow down, just admiring the scenery or enjoying the Ionian Sea waters.
Relaxing on the crystal-clear beaches of Ksamil
Widely known as the pearl of the Albanian Riviera, Ksamil is one of the most famous destinations in the country and it’s easy to understand why. Located in the far south of the country, its crystal-clear turquoise waters and soft white beaches makes it the perfect summer getaway. On sunny days, the Ionian Sea glows in an almost unreal palette of blues and emerald greens, creating a landscape that rivals some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. For that reason, Ksamil is even called the Maldives of Europe.
I’ve spent a couple of days embracing the relaxed rhythm of coastal life and enjoying the beach life. Ksmail beaches are not concentrated in a single long strip. Instead, they are spread around a series of small bays and coves along a relatively compact stretch of coastline. It’s worth to do some beach hopping and go to Poda, Bora Bora, Lori or Puerto Rico Beaches where rows of sun loungers overlook calm and transparent waters. Some of the beach clubs offer platforms with net sunbeds over the water.
I’ve also stopped at the iconic Hand of Ksamil, one of the most photographed viewpoints which is literally in the form of a hand, facing the coastline and the surrounding islands. One of the best ways to experience Ksamil is from the water. It’s possible to join a boat tour to explore the nearby islets, secluded coves, and hidden beaches that are only accessible by sea.
As the sun goes down, I sat in one of the many terraces at the shoreline and watched the sunset transform the Ionian Sea into a canvas of glowing gold, pink, and orang. This was certainly one of the most unforgettable moments of my Albania road trip. At night, the atmosphere completely shifts. Stylish beach clubs, waterfront bars and lively restaurants fill with visitors tasting tradicional cuisine and fresh seafood overlooking the sea. The perfect day in Ksamil ends high above the coastline, enjoying a cocktail and dancing on a rooftop terrace overlooking the sea in a warm Mediterranean night.
Ksamil is also an excellent base for exploring southern Albania. Just a short drive away lies Sarandë, the region’s largest coastal town and home to the ferry terminal connecting Albania with the Greek island of Corfu. With regular ferry crossings taking less than an hour, it’s easy to combine an Albania road trip with a visit to Corfu, making the most of your time in this beautiful corner of the Ionian Sea.
Discovering Gjirokastër, Albania's enchanting stone city
Often referred to as the “Stone City,” Gjirokastër is one of the most captivating destinations on any Albania road trip. Perched on the slopes of the Drino Valley, this beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its steep cobbled streets, distinctive Ottoman-era architecture and timeless atmosphere.
Exploring Gjirokastër is an experience best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. I wandered through its quaint, picturesque lanes, where centuries-old stone homes, colourful wooden balconies, and hidden alleyways reveal a postcard-worthy scene at every turn. I took some time on the artisan shops filled with the traditional woven tapestries and embroidered textiles. Between exploring, it’s worth to stop in one of the town’s charming restaurants to savour authentic Albanian cuisine.
Beyond its Ottoman heritage, Gjirokastër also offers a glimpse into Albania’s more recent past. Beneath the city’s historic streets lies the Cold War Tunnel, an underground bunker built during the communist regime, which offers valuable insights into one of the most isolated periods in Albania’s history.
Towering over the city is the impressive Gjirokastër Castle, one of the largest and most important fortresses in the Balkans. Dating back to the 12th century and expanded during the Ottoman period, the castle played a crucial defensive role for centuries. Today it hosts a military museum, a communist-era prison, a Cold War US Air Force jet, an Ottoman clock tower and a massive stage used for the National Folklore Festival. Its ancient stone walls offer breathtaking panoramic views over the city, surrounding mountains and the valley below.
Escaping to the wide sandy beaches of Durrës
Durrës coastline was the last chapter of my Albania road trip. I decided to stay in San Pietro near Durrës for one night before my flight back home, due to its location – less than one hour’s drive from Tirana’s international airport. I was happy about my choice as it was the perfect opportunity to slow down after more than 600 quilometres of self-drive around the south of the country.
This region has a charm on its own and offers a completely different beach experience from the coastline along the Albania Riviera in the south. Its vast stretches of soft golden sand provide a sense of openness, contrasting with the pebbles secluded coves and dramatic rocky bays of Himare and the white sand beaches of Ksamil.
I truly enjoyed my time at San Pietro Beach, where the shallow Adriatic waters gently lap against a wide shoreline framed by fragrant pine forests. This almost endless sandy beach is perfect for long walks and lazy afternoons by the sea. It gets especially magical towards sunset, as the sun slowly sinks into the Adriatic and the sky becomes a masterpiece of warm oranges and golden hues.
For some more travel inspiration about Mediterranean destinations, visit my articles “Exploring Milos, the Perfect Greek Getaway” and “Ultimate Montenegro Bucket List“.
