The Ultimate 10-Day Albanian Riviera Itinerary (By Bus Or Car)
If you’re looking to explore a coast lined with crystal clear beaches, cozy towns, and lively cities – The Albanian Riviera is just the place for you.
As one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, Albania is a budget-friendly choice for many international travelers – And for Americans, it can feel like a dream bargain. Whether your hobbies include hiking, laying on the beach, embarking on outdoor adventures, or eating a ton of amazing food – This beautiful country has you covered.
Where do we begin?
Now that we’ve decided to head off to the Albania… Where does one kickstart their Albanian Riviera adventure? Well, the answer to this question is simple – A result of the one and only public airport in the country – You’re catching a flight to Tirana, Albania!
If you’re like me and yearning to be near the sea as soon as possible, save the obligatory one-night stay in the city of Tirana and hop on a 35 minute bus from the Tirana Airport directly to your first stop – Durres, Albania.
In this scenario, you will be saving Tirana for your last stop in the country as you head back to the airport. In which case – We will discuss this unique city later in the itinerary.
Before we get into the day-to-day of the trip, be sure to check out this Guide to the Cost of Travel in Albania for the full rundown of what this trip will cost and where you can save money!
Day One: Arrive to Tirana Airport + 30 Minute Estimated Drive to Durres
You’re here! Welcome to Albania! After a warm greeting from the humble energy of Albanians, we’re heading straight to the coast using one of the following transportation options:
Transportation Options:
1. Bus: 35 Minutes; Departs every 2 hours from Tirana Airport -> 400 LEK ($5)
2. Taxi: 28 Minutes; Official Airport Taxi Service -> 2500-3000 LEK ($27-$32)
3. Car: 20 Miles; Car Rental starting at 1500 LEK ($17) / Day + Gas 500-800 LEK ($6-9)
It is commonly recommended to rent a car in Albania, likely because they are fairly affordable and give you access to some of the most beautiful and less crowded beaches in the country. However, this itinerary is built for a low budget 10 day trip, meaning we will plan under the assumption that you will primarily be using buses for transportation.
If you do choose to rent a car, you can absolutely follow this itinerary, and possibly add a few hidden beach stops on your travel days! Beware – Driving along the coast can be a little scary as a result of the winding cliffside roads. Buckle up!
Whichever you choose, you’re likely arriving in Durres towards the end of a long travel day, so let’s save the tourist activities for tomorrow and head straight to the beach for some relaxation and killer seafood.
Beaches in Durres
The two main beaches in Durres are located on complete opposite sides of the city, so there will likely be a choice that is clearly more convenient. In my opinion – There is also a choice that is clearly more beautiful and lively, and that would be the Northern Aragosta Beach.
Whichever beach you choose will have great dinner options. However, in my experience the restaurants at the Southern Beach of Durres were lower in price and more consistent.
So which beach should you hit on day one? This would probably be the best day to choose the beach nearest your accommodation.
Day Two: One Full Day In Durres
Today we are hitting all of the must-see tourist spots in Durres! Compared to other major cities on the coast of Albania, I’d say there is quite a bit to see here aside from the gorgeous beaches.
Here is your list of to-do’s – You can complete them in this order for the most efficient experience! However, the sites are located within a few blocks of each other, so whichever order you end up completing them in will be just fine.
Durres To-Do List:
– Durres Amphitheatre (300 LEK / $3)
– Venetian Tower of Durres (500-600 LEK / $6-7)
– Fatih Mosque (Free)
– Sfinksi (Free)
The Sfinksi is right next to Aragosta Beach, so pack a bag if you’re planning to end your day in the sand! Stay for a gorgeous sunset and grab some dinner on the boardwalk!
For Dinner – I recommend an authentic Albanian meal at Mema House, which is less than a 5 minute walk from the beach.
Day Three: Traveling from Durres to Vlora
I’m not going to sugar coat it – This was the most complicated journey throughout my time in Albania. Considering Durres is such a busy city and so close to the capital, you would think the transportation system would be more organized…
One thing I’m certain of – There IS a bus from Durres to Vlora. Where does that bus take off from? Another story. My advice is to ask your Airbnb host or hotel/hostel concierge what you should do, and hope their advice is up to date. The good news is, regardless of which bus station you hope to leave from, someone will likely help you find a route. Albanians in general, and ESPECIALLY Albanian bus drivers, are very kind and helpful.
Once you find your bus, the drive will be about 2 hours and will cost about 500 LEK ($6).
Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which will cost around 9600 LEK ($107).
Welcome to Vlora!
Turning the corner from the city towards the boardwalk of Vlora is one of my favorite memories of the trip… It’s always the simple moments, isn’t it? My personal travel routine involves very little research, which leads to shocking moments like this. Boy, did I not know what I was in for upon arriving to Vlora.
In this itinerary, we are all about resting on arrival day! So where would you guess we are heading upon arrival to this insanely gorgeous city? You guessed it… Let’s go to the beach!
Take a sand nap, watch the sunset… Should I keep repeating this everyday? It’s important, right?
While we’re talking about sunset, Vlora is a fantastic place for sunset cocktails – Don’t be afraid to find a spot on the boardwalk before pink and purple take over the sky!
If you’re a foodie, which I assume you are if you’re reading this blog… You’re in luck! Vlora is home to some of the best food in Albania. If you’re hoping to eat somewhere along the boardwalk, visit this Vlora Restaurant Guide for all the best spots!
Day Four: First Full Day In Vlora – Choose Your Own Adventure
One thing about this city – You will find boat trips, tour guides, and opportunities for adventure on every corner! If you are traveling in the busy season (May-August), you may want to consider booking this experience a couple weeks prior. Alternatively, you may find local businesses promoting their services along the boardwalk upon arrival.
Because there are so many day-trip opportunities in Vlora, we will call this day “Choose Your Own Adventure!” So hop on GetYourGuide and find what suits you.
If you want my personal recommendation, jump on a speed boat and check out some of the nearby islands! I highly recommend this speed boat tour, in which you can see Sazan Island, Haxhi Ali Cove, and Karaburn.
Day Five: Second Full Day In Vlora – Sightseeing & Exploring Old Town
The Old Town of Vlora is small but precious – The perfect place to spend your morning before heading back to the beach or checking out some local sights!
A few options for your “Sightseeing Day” –
- Muradie Mosque
- Independence Monument
- Ancient Wall Ruins
- History Museum
- House of Eqerem Bay
If you have a car or are willing to hike, another great stop to add to the list is Kuzum Baba, where you can have a bite to eat and enjoy a view of the entire city.
Day Six: Traveling from Vlora to Saranda
Good news! Transporting from Vlora to Saranda will not be nearly as challenging as your last travel day! Hop on the Albanian Bus Website and book a ticket; I recommend at least 24 hours prior. There are usually 2-3 departures per day, so you will want to book early to ensure your spot!
Hopefully at this point in the itinerary, you can conclude what is going to happen next… Time to relax and wander! Saranda’s coastline goes on for miles, so you can spend the afternoon walking along the Hasan Tahsini Boulevard and exploring the different beaches, enjoying a cocktail at Saranda’s first ever cocktail bar, Jericho, or shopping the boardwalk market for a souvenir – You are nearing the end of your Albanian adventure, so this would be the perfect time to do so!
Days Seven & Eight: Two Full Days In Saranda
Depending on what time you’ve arrived in Saranda, you may wake up ready for a day trip. Luckily, Saranda is smack dab in the middle of some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Albania, which means the day-trip options are endless!
Some of the most popular day trips from Saranda include:
- Gjirokastra Stone City
- Blue Eye
- Ksamil
- Turtle Cave
- Lekursi Castle
Visit Get Your Guide to easily book whichever adventure your heart desires!
After a day of exploration, you will likely be exhausted and hungry – Head to one of the following restaurants for a delicious meal before hitting the hay.
Must-Try Restaurants in Saranda:
The Nomad Burger & Steak
I wouldn’t typically recommend any restaurant with “nomad” in the name while traveling in a new country, but once I saw a photo of these burgers it was a done deal. The patties here are big, juicy, and flavorful. The fries are crispy and perfect. The only downside? No wine.
Marini in Sarande
Another family owned and operated gem, Marini in Sarande is the perfect place to enjoy a night of fresh seafood and wine. The menu is simple and classic Albanian, from seafood pasta dishes to casseroles. While I came here for dinner, the reviews often mention this being the best breakfast spot in the city!
Nana Fusion Restaurant
This was my favorite meal of the trip – I’m not sure whether it was a result of tasting the best soup I have ever had while coming down with a cold or the complimentary cake and ice cream that was brought to my table after I licked every plate clean. Or maybe it was the chef coming around to check on every guest? This restaurant goes to show that in Albania, the restaurants you stumble upon outside of google maps are some of the best and most surprising.
Day Nine: Traveling From Saranda To Tirana
Are you ready for the finale? It’s time to head away from the coast and back to Albania’s capital of Tirana! For this trip, we will use the same service as the last – Albanian Bus Website. From my experience, this was one of the more crowded buses, so I recommend booking the night before to secure your spot! The trip is a little over 4 hours and will likely include a lunch stop about halfway through.
Once you arrive to Tirana Bus Station, you’ll be about 15 minutes from the city centre. The arrival will be quite chaotic as taxi drivers fight for your attention. The lowest price for a taxi to the centre will be around 1500 LEK ($16 USD). While a few drivers accepted cash, many did not, so I would have a few LEK on hand for this.
After a long day of travel, you will likely have only a few hours to spend in Tirana. I recommend wandering the city as you make your way to the Pyramid of Tirana for sunset!
As the capital of Albania, Tirana is home to many highly-rated restaurants that I personally did not have the chance to try. In such a large city, I’m sure you will find a delicious way to end the trip near your accommodation. I would love to hear in the comments what you find!
Day Ten: One Full Day In Tirana + Fly Home
Time to head home! The bus from Tirana City Centre to the airport is located in Skanderbeg Square behind the Palace of Culture and departs every hour beginning at 7AM. The cost is 300 LEK ($3.24) and the travel time is around 30 minutes.
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I hope this helps you in navigating your Albanian Riviera adventure! Which day trips did you choose? Any additional stops added? Did the country live up to your expectations? Share your story in the comments; I would love to hear about your trip!
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