Albania looks tiny on the map, but once you start driving, there’s actually so much to see. Mountains, coastlines, wine country, big cities, small forgotten cities. If you’ve got the time to slow-roll through an Albania road trip, you’ll see just how varied it is.
Here’s the suggested route my Albanian friend gave me.
Shkodër – A Gentle Northern Kick-Off
Start in Shkodër, a walkable city near the Montenegro border. Cute cafes, bars, and a famous photography museum, the Marubi National Museum of Photography.
Tropoja & Valbonë – Mountain Village + National Park
Next, drive northeast to Tropoja, my friend’s home region, and it comes highly recommended.
Valbonë, inside Valbonë Valley National Park, is the star area. Alpine meadows, icy glacial rivers, and famous for its clean air. A must for those who love hiking.
Syri i Kaltër – The Blue Eye
Head south to Syri i Kaltër, aka the Blue Eye, a natural spring so clear and turquoise it barely looks real. Touristy? Yes. Overhyped? Maybe. But it’s also genuinely beautiful. If you’re brave, take a dip, just be ready for the cold.
Jalë, Dhërmi & Himarë – The Albanian Riviera in All Its Glory
The Albanian Riviera is a stretch of beach towns that is both stunning and chill.
Dhërmi beach is the most polished stop. It’s small (about three kilometers long) and reminds me of a tiny Cabo San Lucas. Think luxury beach clubs, straw umbrellas, bamboo details, and an upscale bohemian vibe. It’s perfect if you like your Albanian Riviera luxury beach clubs curated.
Himarë beach feels more relaxed and lived-in. The beach is larger, there’s more movement, and the town has plenty of boutique hotels and casual spots. It’s still popular, just less stuffy and easier to settle into.
Jalë is even smaller and, for now, the most fun. The waves are strong and playful, and there are maybe five beach clubs, some with hookah and loud music. Give it a few years and resorts will take over. Right now, it still has personality.
Drive all the way down to the southern end and you’ll hit Ksamil Albania, easily the most beautiful, and also the most crowded. The turquoise water is unreal, and the islands are right there within view.
Honestly, you can pick almost any spot along the Albanian Riviera beaches and end up somewhere good. That’s kind of its magic.
Want to slow down on the Riviera? I spent three weeks living in Vlorë, and I wrote all about what it’s really like.
Korçë – The “Paris of Albania” Without the Pretentiousness
Back inland to Korçë, a city Albanians call “the Paris of Albania” because it’s so romantic. When visiting Korçë, be sure to stop by the Resurrection of Christ Orthodox Cathedral, a landmark Neo-Byzantine church that is one of the most impressive religious sites in Albania. This iconic church is a highlight of any Albania road trip, showcasing the city’s religious heritage.
Gjirokastër – Castle City Frozen in Time
Southwest of Korçë lies Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like stepping straight into history. With its cobblestone streets and imposing hilltop castle, this stone city is remarkably well-preserved, and just really dreamy.
Berat – The City of a Thousand Windows
Finish your road trip in Berat, famous for its hillside stacked with white Ottoman houses. It’s very cinematic. The nickname “city of a thousand windows” isn’t an exaggeration.
Bonus: the local food scene is wildly underrated. I had some of the freshest, richest homemade dishes at a winery here. Also, WINE COUNTRY.
Why This Albania Road Trip Works
You get mountains, rivers, springs, beaches, and ancient cities. Albanians have deep pride in their country, and after touring for three weeks, I can say I do too.
I love this place and can’t wait to return!!!
Albania feels like one of Europe’s best-kept secrets, and every corner of it tells a story worth discovering.
Keep Exploring
- Living in Vlorë, Albania: What It’s Really Like on the Albanian Riviera
- The Best Cafés in Vlorë, Albania
- Albania Is About to Blow Up: Cost of Living, Culture & Why I’d Move Here
- Day Trip from Sarandë (Albania) to Corfu (Greece)
- All Albania travel guides