7 Days in Albania: The Perfect 2026 Itinerary | Incredible…

The perfect one-week Albania itinerary for 2026, from Tirana and Berat to the Riviera, Ksamil and Gjirokastër, with routes, timings and travel tips.

Seven days is the perfect amount of time to experience the best of Albania, moving roughly from north to south. Start in the lively capital Tirana with Skanderbeg Square, the Dajti cable car and the colourful Blloku district, then on day two head about two hours south to Berat, the city of a thousand windows, to explore the Mangalem quarter, the inhabited hilltop castle and a traditional Ottoman guesthouse.

On day three, cross the spectacular Llogara Pass to the Riviera and settle into a village like Himara or Dhërmi, then dedicate day four to relaxing on the coast, swimming in crystal-clear coves and beaches such as Gjipe, and enjoying fresh seafood. Day five takes you to Saranda and nearby Ksamil, famous for its tiny islands and clear water, with an evening stroll along the lively promenade as the lights of Corfu twinkle across the sea.

On day six, visit the UNESCO archaeological site of Butrint in the morning, then drive inland to Gjirokastër, the city of stone, with its castle, old bazaar and slate-roofed mansions. On the final day, return north toward Tirana (three to four hours), stopping at the Blue Eye spring if time allows. A rental car gives the most freedom, but intercity furgon minibuses connect the main towns affordably, and late spring or early autumn offers the best weather. With 10 days you can add the north, including Shkodra, the Koman Lake ferry and the Theth to Valbona hike.