Travel, Uncategorized

Discover Albania: Top Activities for an Epic Road Trip

Posted by Niranjan on

6 min read…

Albania is an underrated gem in the heart of Europe, bursting with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and budget-friendly adventures. I recently embarked on an unforgettable 5-day road trip with my friends, which was epic! Our journey was packed with fun, warm weather, and incredible experiences.

We did everything from soaring up the mountains in a cable car in Tirana, rafting the wild waters of Vjosa, soaking up the sun and crystal-clear waters in Ksamil, to speed-boating in Vlore. Join me as I share our adventure and hopefully inspire you to discover the magic of Albania for yourself.

5 Days in Albania Itinerary

Day 1: Warming up in Tirana

Our adventure began in Tirana, the vibrant capital of Albania. We started with an impressive cable car ride up the Dajti mountains, spending a few hours enjoying the park at the summit, complete with a café and mini-golf. Back in the city, we strolled through the serene Grand Park of Tirana, with its woods, walkways, and lake.

As evening falls, Skanderbeg Square comes alive with bustling restaurants and the iconic Tirana Pyramid, offering unique views of the city, and we ended our day with a delicious seafood dinner in the trendy Blloku district. We skipped the BunkArt museums, but there’s always next time!

A tall, modern building with a textured façade, reflecting light against a dark sky.

Day 2: Rafting in Vjosa

  • Morning: Quick stop at Belshi Lake (optional)
  • Noon: Berat (Lunch)
  • Afternoon: Rafting (2.30 pm)

Day two kicked off with an early start for a long drive. After a quick stop at the Belshi Lake, our journey continued to Berat, the picturesque City of a Thousand Windows, known for its charming Ottoman houses. After a delightful lunch amidst this historic backdrop, you can spend more time in Berat, exploring the fascinating Berat Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

However, we headed to the rafting centre for the day’s highlight: rafting in the Vjosa River. This unspoiled gem, stretching 270 kilometres, offered a thrilling adventure with its gorgeous canyons, serene sections, and exhilarating rapids. The Vjosa’s wild beauty and adrenaline-pumping rapids made it an unforgettable experience, perfectly blending Albanian wilderness and excitement.

A group of friends in rafting gear posing together by the river in Albania.

Day 3: Thermal bath, exploring Gjirokaster, and sunset in Lekuresi Castle

We started the day early with a visit to the Benja thermal baths, where natural sulfur springs bubble up through deep tectonic cracks. The scenery around the baths is exquisite, and visiting early allowed us to avoid the later crowds. After this refreshing start, we set off to explore Gjirokaster, Albania’s ‘Stone City’. The UNESCO Old City was mesmerising with its shimmering silvery beauty, open-air bazaar, and fortified Ottoman-era houses.

Post-lunch, we visited the Blue Eye, a stunning water spring in Southern Albania where the clear blue water is visible from over fifty meters deep. Although swimming is prohibited, it’s great for leisurely walks or renting an e-scooter (€4 per hour, overtime costs double). We concluded the day with a beautiful sunset at Lekuresi Castle in Sarande. Overlooking the Ionian Sea and the Greek island of Corfu, this hilltop castle offers the best seats to enjoy a picturesque sunset.

Day 4: Discovering Sarande and Swimming in Ksamil

We dove into the coastal wonders of Sarande and Ksamil, starting our morning with an exploration of the underrated Butrint National Park – an archaeological site that deserves to be mentioned alongside Athens’ famous ruins. It’s a must-see for history buffs.

In the afternoon, we headed to Bora Bora Beach in Ksamil, where we spent the rest of the day swimming, playing in the water, and unwinding. Since it was the shoulder season, the beach was blissfully uncrowded. With numerous restaurants and bars lining the shore, it was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the day.

Friends enjoying in beach

Day 5: Speed-boating & shooting in Vlore

Our final day took us to Vlore for an unforgettable boat trip. The drive from Sarande to Vlore is astonishing, with eye-catching cliffs and beaches. But the boat trip surpassed all expectations. We enjoyed a high-octane ride to the Haxhi Ali Cave, followed by a few relaxing hours at Sazan Island. The return ride was equally thrilling, filled with music and party vibes.

To cap off our trip, we visited Poligoni Kondi for a unique shooting experience. This state-of-the-art facility offered a chance to try different pistols, with safety ensured by the attentive staff. At just €1 per bullet, it was the best way to end what was a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Collage of Vlore boating trip with friends

Where to eat in Albania?

Our culinary journey through Albania was just as unforgettable as the sights.

  1. Tirana – Migo’s Bistro & Lounge and Era Vila (with a trendy outdoor setting)
  2. Dinner in Te Culi, Permet, for traditional, slow-cooked Albanian food, and outstanding hospitality (after rafting).
  3. Gjirokaster – Taverna tradicionale Kardhashi, a heartwarming experience, more like a family lunch than a restaurant meal.
  4. Sarande- Natyra. The best of the lot! With its perfect blend of ambience, food, and service, it became our go-to spot in the city.
  5. Ksamil – Malibu is the perfect beachside retreat, serving an array of cocktails with good music and great vibes.
  6. Vlore – We accidentally stumbled upon Cafe Del Mar, and it turned out to be a delightful surprise.
Collage of foods from Albania

Useful information for your trip to Tirana

  1. Local SIM Card: Buy a local SIM instead of relying on Airalo, as the reception can be poor.
  2. Tipping: Tipping is recommended but not essential.
  3. Local Currency: Carry enough local currency, as most places (95%, including attraction ticket kiosks and restaurants) do not accept cards.
  4. Benja Thermal Baths: Visit the Benja thermal baths on weekdays to avoid crowds. Regardless of the day, go as early as possible (they’re open 24 hours at the time of writing).
  5. Scenic Drive: The drive from Sarande to Vlore via Dhermi and the Llogara Pass is a beautiful roller-coaster experience. Allow yourself extra time to enjoy it.
  6. Road Safety: Most roads are narrow; practice extra caution and stay vigilant.
  7. Rafting: Buy your own water shoes for rafting. You may also need them at some beaches as they’re rocky.
  8. Vlore boat trip: The restaurants on Sazan Island are closed during the off-season. Carry your own food.

Albania is a hidden gem that waits to be explored. With its remarkable landscapes, rich history, and welcoming locals, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone. As tourism continues to grow, now may be the best time to enjoy all that Albania has to offer before the crowds start to pour in. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a taste of Albanian culture, this beautiful country has it all. Don’t miss your chance to discover the magic of Albania!

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