The Albanian Riviera 🇦🇱
"Europe's last hidden gem with stunning coastal passes and affordable luxury."
With your budget, you can stay in the most exclusive resorts in Dhërmi. The Llogara Pass provides a breathtaking mountain drive that drops directly down to the crystal-clear Ionian Sea.
A perfect blend of high-altitude mountain passes, ancient archaeological sites, and the most pristine turquoise beaches in the Ionian Sea. This road trip takes you from the bustling capital to the upscale beach clubs and hidden canyons of the south.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Capital Culture and Vibrant Bunkers
Morning — Arrival in Tirana. Start with a walk through Skanderbeg Square and a visit to the Et'hem Bey Mosque.
Afternoon — Explore the trendy Blloku district for lunch, then visit Bunk’Art 2 to learn about Albania’s history in a former nuclear bunker.
Evening — Sunset cocktails at the Sky Tower followed by a traditional dinner at Oda.
💡 Download the 'Gjirafa' app for local bus schedules, though taxis are cheap here.
Day 2 · The Scenic Drive to Dhërmi
Morning — Pick up your rental car and begin the drive south. Stop at Vlorë for coffee by the Adriatic Sea.
Afternoon — Continue the drive through the Llogara Pass, stopping at the panoramic viewpoint before descending into the turquoise waters of Palasa Beach.
Evening — Check into your resort and enjoy fresh seafood at a beachfront taverna in Dhërmi.
💡 The Llogara Pass road is winding but paved; drive slowly to enjoy the views.
Day 3 · Canyons and Hidden Coves
Morning — Breakfast overlooking the Ionian Sea. Relax on the white pebbles of Dhërmi Beach.
Afternoon — Rent a boat or hike 45 minutes to reach Gjipe Beach, a hidden gem tucked inside a massive canyon.
Evening — Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Old Dhërmi Village for a more traditional atmosphere.
💡 Gjipe is best reached by boat if you want to avoid the steep hike in the heat.
Day 4 · Porto Palermo and Sarandë Nights
Morning — Drive south from Dhërmi, stopping for a swim at Himarë or the secluded Llamani Beach.
Afternoon — Explore the Castle of Ali Pasha at Porto Palermo, then continue to Sarandë to check into your hotel.
Evening — Walk the Sarandë Promenade (Xhiro) at sunset and dine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the harbor.
💡 Visit the Castle of Himarë for sweeping views of the coastline.
Day 5 · Ancient Ruins and Turquoise Isles
Morning — Short drive to the UNESCO site of Butrint. Explore the ancient Roman and Greek ruins in the forest.
Afternoon — Head to the Ksamil Islands. Rent a kayak or pedal boat to reach the smaller, uninhabited islands.
Evening — Enjoy a final luxury meal at a beach club in Ksamil before returning to Sarandë.
💡 Arrive at Butrint at 8:00 AM to beat the heat and the cruise ship crowds from Corfu.
Day 6 · The Blue Eye and Stone City
Morning — Visit the 'Blue Eye' (Syri i Kaltër), a stunning freshwater spring with vibrant blue water.
Afternoon — Drive back north towards Tirana, stopping in the 'Stone City' of Gjirokastër for lunch and a visit to its massive fortress.
Evening — Final dinner in Tirana or near the airport before your flight.
💡 The road from Sarandë to Gjirokastër is well-paved and offers a beautiful mountain backdrop.