Sea & pebbles: The Ionian coast

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per person

Arrival at Mother Teresa Airport in Tirana.

Meet and greet at the airport. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a city tour of Tirana.

Overnight in Tirana.

Heading south, I recommend stopping in Durrës, perched on the shores of the Adriatic Sea of the Adriatic Sea. A popular tourist destination, Durrës is not only a key commercial port but also a city steeped in history.

Explore the magnificent 1st-century amphitheater, the largest in the Balkans, then visit the Durres Tower, formerly part of an ancient castle. Wander the surrounding streets and enjoy the coastal views. If you wish, you can also visit a local olive producer, enjoy a wine tasting, or uncover other hidden gems near this coastal city.

In the afternoon, continue to Vlora, the starting point of Albania’s famous riviera. A vibrant beach town with historical significance, Vlora is where Albania declared its independence on November 28, 1912. Visit the Independence Museum or the Ethnographic Museum for a dose of history.

In the evening, take a leisurely xhiro (stroll) before sitting down to savor delicious seafood. Enjoy the sunset and soak in the start of your vacation.

Overnight in Vlora.

Durrës

Today, head to Dhërmi, a small town in the south made up of several districts. Explore the old part of Dhërmi with its cobbled streets, a monastery, and stone houses. Relax on the crystal-clear beaches or join a beach club. For an added adventure, take a boat trip to the famous Gjipe Beach.

Overnight on the coast.

Dhërmi

Spend the day discovering a variety of stunning beaches. From Drymades to Vuno, Jale, and Livadh, the beaches are abundant, each more beautiful than the last. Some require a bit of effort to reach, either by foot, boat, or kayak, making them all the more rewarding.

In the late afternoon, head down to Himara for a relaxed evening. Enjoy an ice cream on the esplanade at sunset, or if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, head up to the old hamlet for stone-paved streets, traditional houses, and panoramic views.

Overnight on the coast.

Continue heading south towards Saranda and Butrint. Saranda is a bustling hotspot, popular with both Albanians and international visitors. You can choose to stay and enjoy the city’s wide range of amenities or venture to nearby Butrint. Visit Butrint National Park and explore the UNESCO-listed archaeological site, the lake, and Ali Pasha’s castle (accessible by kayak or boat).

The archaeological site is a treasure trove of history. Discoveries made after World War II include Roman baths, a theater, a chapel, and a basilica. Excavations between 1994 and 1999 also uncovered Roman villas and an early Christian church. The medieval fortress, built in the 14th century, now houses a museum. If you’re visiting during the high season, it’s best to visit the site early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Alternatively, you might consider a trip to the Greek island of Corfu.

Overnight in Saranda.

Saranda

On this day, head north to discover more gems along the way. Stop in Qeparo, a village perched 300 meters above sea level with breathtaking views. The lower part of the village offers easy beach access.

Next, visit the Venetian fortress at Porto Palermo for stunning views, or stop by the beach for a refreshing break.

Overnight on the coast

After a final swim, begin your return journey to Tirana. Stop at Llogara National Park to hike, enjoy the spectacular sea views, or recharge in the peaceful, cool atmosphere. For those seeking adventure, paragliding is available with unparalleled views!

After about an hour and a half of driving, make a stop in Apollonia. Established in 550 BCE, Apollonia was once an influential port on the Adriatic Sea. Discover a beautiful medieval church dedicated to St. Mary and a museum housed in the monastery. Despite many artifacts now residing in Tirana, the site still offers a fascinating look at ancient history.

Option: visit a vineyard for a wine tasting.

Arrive in Tirana in the afternoon or evening.

Enjoy some free time to explore the capital.

Overnight in Tirana.

Llogara

Petit-déjeuner à l’hôtel, puis selon vos horaires de vol, visite libre avant de vous rendre à l’aéroport de Tirana pour le vol retour.

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8 days / 7 nights

For travelers who wish to immerse themselves in the heart of the country.

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17 days / 16 nights

Combining discovery and adventure, this road trip will thrill the most adventurous travelers.

starting from

8 days / 7 nights

For those who want to explore the preserved nature of northern Albania.