Itinerary Overview

D1–D2 Tirana → D3 Berat → D4–D5 Saranda & Ksamil Coast → D6 Gjirokastër → D7 Butrint or departure. Driving is most convenient, with decent roads and scenic views; non-drivers can take intercity buses or join local day tours to connect the stops.

D1–D2 Tirana

• D1: After arrival, explore Skanderbeg Square and the National History Museum, admire the colorful buildings and old town streets, then experience local life over coffee or dinner in the Blloku district in the evening.
• D2: Take the Dajti Cable Car for panoramic city views, visit the controversial Pyramid building and its surroundings in the afternoon, then stroll through the New Bazaar and Art District. End the day with traditional grilled meat and raki.

D3 Berat: The City of a Thousand Windows

Head to the UNESCO-listed town of Berat in the morning. Its hillside is lined with white Ottoman houses stacked with numerous windows, earning it the nickname “City of a Thousand Windows.” In the afternoon, tour the castle area, the Church of the Holy Trinity, and the riverside Gorica neighborhood. Watch the lights across the river from the stone bridge in the evening.

D4–D5 Saranda & Ksamil

• D4: Head south to the coastal city of Saranda. Spend the afternoon strolling along the Ionian coast, swimming, and watching the sunset.
• D5: Visit Ksamil, known as the “Maldives of the Balkans,” with its white-sand beaches and nearby islets. Relax on the beach or take a boat ride during the day, then return to Saranda for seafood in the evening.

D6 Gjirokastër: The Stone City

Travel to the UNESCO-listed Gjirokastër in the morning. This mountain town, built from gray stone and known for its slate-tiled roofs, offers a strong sense of Ottoman mountain life. Visit the castle, the Weapons Museum, and the old bazaar.

D7 Butrint & Departure

On the way back, visit the Butrint Archaeological Park in the south. Layers of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Venetian ruins make it a key site for understanding Albanian history. Exit via Saranda or Tirana, depending on your itinerary.

Tips

• Book coastal accommodation well in advance for July and August. Shoulder seasons offer better prices and fewer crowds.
• The southern coastal mountain roads have many curves—drive cautiously, especially at night.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water when visiting heritage sites and ancient towns, as the sun can be strong.