Albania is one of Europe’s last hidden gems, a country of rugged mountains, clear blue beaches, historic cities, and warm, welcoming people.

This five-day trip is best for travelers; the plan includes culture, adventure, and stunning views that will make for an unforgettable road trip in Albania. This road route is ideal for first-time visitors because it goes from the busy streets of Tirana to the untouched wilderness of Theth, the calm waters of Lake Koman, and the white-sand beaches of Ksamil.

Let’s hit the road and explore what makes Albania so special.

Day 1: Welcome to Tirana, Albania’s Vibrant Capital

We stated our journey began in Tirana, the heart of Albania. After a long journey from Dubai to Albania (around 6 hr), take a break after picking up our rental car from sixt and checking into our hotel. Then, go out and see the capital’s bold mix of old and new.

Skanderbeg Square is the main landmark in the city. It is surrounded by important sites like the National History Museum and the Et’hem Bey Mosque. This landmark is a wonderful place to start learning about Albania’s cultural revival.

Blloku District: This area used to be off-limits during communist times, but now it’s full of cafes, cocktail bars, and boutique shops. It’s the best place to eat or drink late at night.

Grand Park (Parku i Madh): A peaceful green space where you can walk around the fake lake at sunset.

Day 2: Tirana to Theth: Nature and Adventure in the Albanian Alps

After breakfast, we started our three-hour drive north to the quiet mountain village of Theth in the Albanian Alps. In the fall, all the trees change color, making it look like a picture of the mountains on both sides in fully orange and brown shades. The drive is truly breathtaking as it winds through beautiful valleys and mountain passes.

Theth will feel like a trip back in time when you get there. There are stone houses surrounded by green meadows, rivers rushing through deep gorges, and cool mountain air.

Things to do in Theth:

Trek to the Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër): A strenuous two-hour trek brings you to an incredibly blue natural spring. It’s freezing but refreshing, so bring water shoes!
The village is the starting point for a short hike to the breathtaking 30-meter-high Grunas Waterfall.
There are many trails in Theth National Park that offer views of the Accursed Mountains (Bjeshkët e Namuna) for experienced hikers.

End the evening with a hearty mountain meal at a nearby guesthouse; try byrek me hithra (nettle pie) or homemade cheese with honey. Stay overnight under a starry sky with no light pollution.

Day 3: Theth to Shkodër – Lakeside Charm and History

Enjoy that crisp morning mountain view from your Theth balcony, then hit the road for a two-hour drive to Shkodër, northern Albania’s main gateway. The oldest city in the Balkans blends Venetian history with a serene lakeside atmosphere.

Must-see spots:

Rozafa Castle is located on a hill that offers stunning views of Lake Shkodra and the surrounding valleys. The Rozafa legend, “Woman Sacrificed to Make the Walls Stand,” gives it that eerie charm.
Lake Shkodra: Kick back by the water or stroll the promenade past lakeside cafés.
Old Bazaar (Pedonale Street): A colorful walking street with crafts, bakeries, and street music, perfect for photos and grabbing a snack.

Dinner at Fishart Restaurant: their lake fish is fresh, and the vibe’s cozy. Crash in Shkodër before heading south tomorrow.

Day 4: Shkodër to Koman: The Fjords of Albania

This morning, drive about an hour and a half to Koman, where adventure meets tranquility. The highlight here is the famous Lake Komani Ferry, one of Europe’s most stunning boat journeys.

Lake Komani Experience:

The ferry ride lasts about three hours, winding between towering cliffs and emerald waters that resemble Norway’s fjords.
Bring a camera; every minute reveals a new postcard-worthy landscape.
For travelers seeking a deeper experience, stay overnight near the lake to enjoy kayaking or short hikes in the surrounding areas.

Dinner options are limited here but authentic; think homemade bread, grilled trout, and local raki by the fire.

Day 5: Koman to Ksamil: The Albanian Riviera Dream

Wake up early and start a road trip from Koman toward Durres for a quick coffee break along the Adriatic coast. From there, continue south to Vlorë for lunch by the sea; the seafood here is fresh and delicious.

The SH8 coastal highway takes you past stunning cliffs, turquoise bays, and cute coastal towns like Himare and Dhermi as you drive further down it. By night, you’ll be in Ksamil, one of Albania’s most beautiful seaside villages.

Things to do in Ksamil:

Relax on Ksamil Beach, renowned for its soft white sand and clear water, ideal for swimming.
Island Hopping: Take a small boat or kayak to the nearby Ksamil Islands. They are untouched and great for snorkeling.
Butrint National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is only a short drive away. It has ancient ruins and beautiful views of marshland.

For a dinner you’ll remember, go to either Guvat Restaurant or Apollonia. Both have seafood and views of the sunset. Spend the night and let the waves rock you to sleep.

Day 6: Gjirokastër & Return to Tirana

Drive from Ksamil to Gjirokastër, the “City of Stone,” a UNESCO-listed stone city, before your journey is over.

With breathtaking views of the Drino Valley, Gjirokastër Castle is one of the biggest in the Balkans.

The Old Bazaar is a lovely neighborhood with cobblestone streets, artisanal trinkets, and welcoming residents.
Traditional Lunch: Before returning to Tirana, sample some trilece (Albanian milk cake) or qifqi (fried rice balls).

Before leaving, take some time to think back on your Albanian adventure during the three-hour drive back through picturesque countryside.

Traditional Albanian Foods

Albania’s got some seriously good eats: hearty stuff mixing Mediterranean flavors with Balkan heartiness. Here’s what to hunt down:

Tavë Kosi: the national dish. Lamb (or chicken) baked in creamy yogurt sauce with rice and eggs. This dish epitomizes comfort food at its finest.
Byrek: flaky pastry stuffed with spinach, cheese, meat, or pumpkin. Grab it for breakfast with yogurt.
Fërgesë: Tirana street food. The dish, consisting of roasted peppers, tomatoes, onions, and feta, is quite spicy. Dip bread in it.
Qofte: simple grilled meatballs from beef or lamb. The dish is served with onions and ajvar on the side.
Speca të Mbushur: peppers packed with rice, herbs, meat, or veggies, then baked soft.
Sarma: vine leaves wrapped around spiced meat and rice in tomato sauce.
Qifqi: Gjirokastër’s fried rice balls with herbs and garlic. Crispy outside, soft inside.

All made with fresh local ingredients: yogurt, olive oil, and whatever’s growing nearby.

Travel Tips for Albania

Roads are getting better, but mountain ones stay narrow: drive slow and carefully.
The locals usually speak some English or Italian and are super friendly, too.
Best months: late spring or early fall, lovely weather, not too crowded.
Fall tip: Rain sometimes falls every other day. Check forecasts before drives/hikes, and pack a light jacket.

Albania mixes mountains, culture, and beaches and feels real, not touristy. This 5-day plan shows you the best of it.

For more detailed city guides, travel tips, and custom itineraries, explore Albania travel content on Next Destination AI.