11 days in Albania Itinerary

Tirana, the largest city in Albania, represents one a lively and fast-paced metropolis.

On the 17th (Mon), get a dose of the wild on a nature and wildlife tour. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the next day: don't miss a visit to Skanderbeg Square, get engrossed in the history at Muzeu Historik Kombetar, then steep yourself in history at Durres Amphitheatre, then make a trip to Durres Castle, and finally explore the historical opulence of Kruja Castle.

To see other places to visit, maps, where to stay, and other tourist information, refer to the Tirana online attractions planner.

Helsinki, Finland to Tirana is an approximately 10.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of ferry, bus, and train. The time zone difference moving from Eastern European Standard Time (EET) to Central European Standard Time (CET) is minus 1 hour. While traveling from Helsinki, expect warmer days and somewhat warmer nights in Tirana, ranging from highs of 39°C to lows of 21°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 18th (Tue) to allow time to drive to Gjirokaster.

Along with the central Albanian town of Berat, Gjirokastra serves as a striking World Heritage Site known for its Ottoman architecture.

On the 19th (Wed), admire the striking features of Skenduli House, don't miss a visit to Gjirokastra Bazaar, and then brush up on your military savvy at Gjirokaster. On the 20th (Thu), you'll have a packed day of sightseeing: take in the architecture and atmosphere at Kisha e Labovës së Kryqit, steep yourself in history at The Cold War Tunnel, and then steep yourself in history at Zekate House.

To see where to stay, ratings, more things to do, and other tourist information, refer to the Gjirokaster online trip itinerary builder.

Traveling by car from Tirana to Gjirokaster takes 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus. You'll lose 1 hour traveling from Tirana to Gjirokaster due to the time zone difference. Traveling from Tirana in August, Gjirokaster is a bit warmer at night with lows of 25°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 20th (Thu) early enough to drive to Himare.

You'll enjoy a bit of beach vacationing at Dhermi Beach and Borsh Beach. Your inner history buff will appreciate The Castle of Himara and Ali Pasha Castle. Go for a jaunt from Himare to Palase to see Palase Beach about 36 minutes away.

For reviews, where to stay, photos, and more tourist information, read Himare driving holiday app.

Traveling by car from Gjirokaster to Himare takes 2.5 hours. Expect a daytime high around 39°C in August, and nighttime lows around 25°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 23rd (Sun) so you can drive to Saranda.

A popular summer destination for its inexpensive accommodation and stony Mediterranean beaches, Saranda has become a favorite of both Albanian and foreign travelers.

Your itinerary includes some good beach time at Lukova Beach and Santa Quaranta beach. Deepen your sense of the past at sights like Butrint National Park and Lekuresi Castle. Change things up with a short trip to Blue Eye in Vlore (about 32 minutes away). There's still lots to do: kick back and relax at Pulebardha Beach and relax and rejuvenate at some of the top local wellness centers.

Inspirock's itinerary builder makes planning a Saranda trip simple and quick.

Getting from Himare to Saranda by car takes about 1.5 hours. Other options: take a shuttle. Expect a daytime high around 39°C in August, and nighttime lows around 25°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 26th (Wed) to allow enough time to travel back home.